Play Review for:“The Mystery of Irma Vep”

Playwright Charles Lublam

Director Craig Miller

---What do Vampires, Mummies, Werewolves, and Psychotic Maids all have in common? Halloween of course, and what better way to experience Halloween night than enjoying the classic horror stories passed down from generation to generation and what better way to do it than on the theatrical stage? The one and only Texas Repertory Theatre brings to the stage playwright Charles Lublam's exciting, intriguing, and hilarious play "The Mystery of Irma Vep" which grants a horrific night to a scale much more impacting and interactive than any other.

---The setting illuminates and becomes alive transporting the theatre and those within into the home of Lord Edgar Hillcrest or Mandacrest as the other characters tend to call it. It is a vintage home with a set of French doors at the back, a small table and chair, and a fireplace with a mantle over which is a portrait of a woman who is later identified as Lady Irma herself. Near the fire place is a set of chairs and other furniture is about the house including a nice sofa center stage. All about the home and the walls are indications of travel: relics and trinkets of African, Asian, and Egyptian origin. There is also a bookcase full of binders, books, and other small objects of foreign lands stage left. The attention to detail—the stagecraft, the lights, and the sounds—is very delicate and well approached making it that much more believable. The most worthy of note, as far as the lights are concerned, is perhaps the realistic moon which is very simply a light cast in shadow just above the set. Although the theatre itself is small, the illusion of infinite space is achieved as the carefully set lights and the set itself becomes a window into another world.

---Edger, a fragile man yet hunter and explorer of sorts, has lost his love, the woman his entire world seems to revolve, Lady Irma. He now lives with his maid Jane Twisden, servant Nicodemus Underwood, and new mistress, Lady Enid, who all try so hard to rid Edgar of his ghastly past. Although Jane seems all too interested in her cleaning, she strangely walks about making comments of evil and the devils work constantly blaming any type of horrific event on either it or some curse while Nicodemus panders about perversely trying to woo Jane. And Enid, a retired actress still tied to her flaring youth, tries desperately to rid the late Hillcrest from poor Edgar's memories. Although there are mainly these four characters, there are others still including an undead Egyptian, a wolf-man, and even a vampire all revealed as the course of the play continues.

---The conflict, the drama, the initial incident becomes apparent as the truth of Edgar's past reveals little by little a deep and dark secret of something concerning the supernatural. On the case of this great mystery is Lady Enid herself along with her curiosity of Mandacrest's real nature. However, her curiosity may be the end of her entirely. Will she survive the ever so increasing dangerous attempts on her life by terrible creatures that emerge in the night? Will Irma's true identity and even true whereabouts be revealed? Will Edger finally be redeemed of his past?

---As for the Actors performance, it is quite amazing to realize that the entire action of the play is created not by a full cast of six for each character but each character is, in fact, created on stage by only two actors, male actors as a matter of fact: Timothy Evers and Rob De Los Reyes. They are quite impressive and very entertaining gentlemen and quite obviously very energetic; however, one wouldn't blame them for being extremely exhausted after the show. It is also impressive to note that the both of them played rather convincing women as Evers took on the role of Jane as well as Nicodemus while De Los Reyes played Lady Enid and Edgar. Both, of course later would individually play other roles such as the monsters for example. It simply wouldn't be right to comment on the individual actors performance for this writer believes they both very equally shared the glamor of the stage with shear passion and quite simply fun. That is something to note, however, that as long as one can tell that even the actor is enjoying him or herself, one should be satisfied with such a fact to realize that the actors are performing with their heats and not just for the income.

---To conclude, this is a wonderful, hilarious, and must see play perfect for Halloween night and perfect for all ages. Although it is no longer playing at the Texas Repertory Theatre, they may plan on premiering it once again for October 2009. One should definitely make plans on seeing it then for it is simply too enjoyable to miss. Of course, to make the wait even shorter and to get an inside look of what the Texas Rep is like, anyone could walk in to see their many other wonderful shows throughout the year. This Christmas the Texas Rep is playing "A Christmas Story" which this writer most certainly intends on going to see and, of course, enjoy. The Mystery of Irma Vep is an overall experience to "die for."

Vote for the Next Generation and Unity

Rob Oakley
Kelly Yoon
English 1301
24 October 2008

One may define culture as “the integrated pattern of human knowledge, belief, and behavior that depends upon the capacity for learning and transmitting knowledge to succeeding generations” (“culture”). What if that pattern came to an end and what if that knowledge never transmits or even is received? That information would never have transferred over resulting in a possibly defective person or an uninformed and ignorant person; however, would society truly allow this to happen? Would society allow the freedoms of learning, of living, of experiencing life go to waste for the individual mind even solely for its own gain? If so, then where would society be as a whole if all of its members had no understanding? The answer to these questions may be found in the fact that many look to the mainstream media for current news and events, many turn to the media for knowledge to support or even find faith in something (science for instance), and they also allow media to even affect their behavior. On the Contrary, media has its disadvantages. As of now, the media and even this nation is divided and unwilling to transmit the truth that “if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand” (The English Standard Version, Mark 3.25). No doubt knowing this and once the noise of social discussion and the buzzing of the mainstream soften to a deep silence, one may see that something is wrong—something is wrong with the culture and the media. The nature of this world greatly depends upon a transfer of knowledge onto the next generation and it requires unity. Otherwise, the race of man’s future may never take place simply because the dwelling of the now takes too much priority and the segregation in between only produces chaos. This discussion is precisely thus to take measures not because of today’s society but for the society of tomorrow. Unfortunately this cannot happen on its own, this cannot happen without some kind of system that regulates, moderates, and integrates the transfer of information in all of its entirety through and to the populace; wherefore, a form of government comes into play and is required. Of course, a government needs leaders: where those leaders come from is a question with various answers.

Thomas Jefferson, the very first president to start and run in the first Democratic and Republican Party, knew full well the importance of civil rights and the phrase “Fair and Balanced.” Jefferson even wrote two very important documents concerning the issue called the “Declaration of Independence” and the “Bill of Rights.” Jefferson, the first and probably the greatest Democrat, participated in the Revolutionary War, took part in the Louisiana Purchase, and laid out a more concrete foundation for the future of all citizens foreign and domestic. Today, this county’s foundation crumbles because society and individuals are becoming more and more distant with each other and centralized in the preferred post-modern populace which believes they can have what they want when they want it at no cost (“Party”).

Now, the next generation Democrat, Barack Obama, claims a change is on the horizon; however, on what basis does that change lie? It certainly is not the traditions of the forefathers and the traditions of earlier democrats such as Theodor Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy. No, the change is more likely based upon the future American and the post modern socialist world that believes in redistributive wealth, desecrating the sacredness of marriage, and the murder of unborn potential American citizens. Obama’s ideals of “Tax Cuts” truly deciphers into “Tax Credit” and might as well be telling everyone the plan to save the middle class is charging all their expenses on the hard working class’s time and money (Orr). The opinion of marriage is intently between one man and one women as even two thirds of Californian citizens declared when Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger went against the people’s will and invited “same-sex” couples to marry at city hall (Boone). As for Obama’s voting record, Obama is most certainly pro-abortion (“Barack”).

It isn’t enough to appease the pop-culture with suggestions of “quick fixes.” As long as people use a microwave mentality, nothing will ever taste right or last. The recipe of change calls for a crockpot mentality with good reason. Unless an individual is willing to change himself and be patient about it, the world may never change and unify. Although a universal mind set that agrees with everyone will never exist, there still must be balance within the system which is why voting for John McCain is not just the right thing to do but the necessary thing to do. To maintain balance in the system and a government that conserves this nation’s truest and most pure values on both sides, John McCain must be elected in this election or else an imbalance of power will go completely to the democratic party and thus monopolizing not just the Legislative and Executive branches but also the Judicial branch if Obama is elected. Which means nothing but a democratic stand point will arise in almost every public issue. Wherefore, if unity is indeed impossible at the time being, at least vote for balance.

But, in essence, Americans should vote not just for John McCain nor vote for Barak Obama; Americans should vote not for Republicans nor vote for Democrats; Americans should vote not for just the change of today’s world, instead, vote for tomorrow. Americans should vote not for just themselves, instead, vote for their brothers and sisters of society, Americans should vote for their future and their children’s future, finally brothers and sisters, Americans should vote principally for the future of this nation and not its present.

Boone, Pat. “Marriage: One Man, one woman.” SpokesmanReview. 14 May 2004.
The Spokesman-Review. 24 Oct. 2008


“Party History.” The Democratic Party 24 October 2008. The Democratic National Committee.
24 October 2008

“Culture.” Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary 24 October 2008. Merriam-Webster,
Incorporated

Orr, Jimmy. “Obama’s tax plan and the redistribution of wealth” The Christian Science Monitor
14 Oct. 2008 The Christian Science Monitor. 24 October 2008


“Barack Obama on Abortion” On The Issues. 19 Oct 2008 On The Issues. 24 October 2008.


The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, Wheaton: Crossway Bibles, 2001

Stripping the Willow

Eternal Scholar

                                                                                               

By Robert W. Oakley

Available in ways seen and unseen, edification subconsciously yet consciously embraces the mind of the life-long student, the eternal scholar, who considers learning and discovering a constant venture for the vast amount of information is, quite tranquilly, endless with endless rewards given only to the willing and dedicated. The experience of learning novel things and their deeper meanings, their scores of emotions, and their intricate mysteries form the mind. The discovery of unfamiliar worlds and uncovering their complex culture, their diverse nature, and their unknown territory bring a better sense of belonging, meaning, and purpose. The experience of not just learning but also learning to do it well grants satisfaction and advancement. More imperatively, though, the eternal scholar recognizes the experience of learning and the experience of education does not have to favor a strict or difficult life but, rather, has the potential of glorifying and enjoying life for all eternity.

Although the veil of uncertainty often warrants difficulty in obtaining an education, hoping for the opportunity only encourages but seeking for opportunity, finding opportunity, and taking advantage of opportunity unveils a much clearer route to learning. In other words, sitting around waiting for the opportunity won’t do any good; therefore, research is required. Generally speaking, learning from mistakes gains the best experience and the best way to learn from mistakes is to observe the mistakes of others in a controlled environment.  Where is such a place? There are many opportunities that can come and go but only a few advantages to truly pick from particularly universities or even community colleges. Although the many roads of life confuses the thought of the highly acclaimed certificates or diplomas, considering college, in many cases, should not render as a choice but an honor, a not-to-miss opportunity of living a joyous, free, and educated life.

With the constant change of culture, with the constant demands of the world, and with the constant battle for survival within  upper and lower bureaucratic or even chaotic societies, The knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of the complexities, inconsistencies, and anomalies of even the simplest ways of living must utterly equip themselves within the mind. As an explorer uses a compass to find a way through the crashing storm of a raging sea, so should these tools— knowledge, wisdom, and understanding—be used to channel a way around the uncertainties in life. Without these precision tools for seeking out truth, becoming lost, consumed, and even destroyed is of a much higher certainty than a safe passage towards a haven full of bounty.  Truth is imperative to obtain, to know, to understand and one way to achieve such truth, such powerful tools, is to attend a university.

The void of uncertainty produces fear and fear produces chaos. Ignorance terrorizes but understanding conquers.  There are institutions all over the world taking responsibility of providing tools students need to dilute the unknown and decimate apprehension—Institutions providing a knowledgeable and confident life in education or in a future career. On the one side, college can still seem notorious, unnecessary, or nauseating, but once an understanding is established that college intends to prepare a life full of potential, advantage, and prosperity, the opinions should change. The individual, however, must choose to learn. Without the drive, determination, and devotion of the student, a college cannot bear much help nor could any other form of education whether it is an internship or a practical job. In essence, dedication and hard work assures and preserves success. Colleges want to provide exactly that—a successful and joyful way of living. Not that only failure and despair would transcend for not going to college but the mere advantage shouldn’t go without consideration and the overall opportunity must be seized. College, although necessary, is not absolutely necessary. Much knowledge and wisdom can be obtained from experience and such experience can be obtained through peers, elders, and corporations that offer any experience needed to succeed in life. The best place to find these people, of course, is at a university where almost any thinkable profession and all the experience needed to prefect any given trade is available. 

There are many success stories of a life without a college education, there are many successful men and women who have made their way very well in the industry who felt that a form of higher education was not necessary for them to succeed; however, many of them would still encourage it for this reason: knowledge is the key to truth and, thus, success. Once opened, this door unlocks a whole other world of opportunity and is free to whoever enters within the gates, the gates of eternal wisdom. One major purpose of life is to obtain knowledge so that the development of the mind can continue. In essence, the meaning of life is to know truth.  Finding that truth is a matter of dedicated study, a devotion to learning, and the mindset of a life-long student—an eternal scholar. With these tools, with these incredible institutions, with this state of mind, anything is possible.

 

The First Day of Class

I knew it was going to be different, I knew it was going to be strange, and, hopingly, I knew it was going to be exciting. There first day of class was like walking into the workforce of a bunch of busy bees. I felt like a drone lost in the hive not sure where to go. But, of course, and like all nature, I had my unique sense of direction to lead the way, lead my way to yet another awkward position. Getting to math class was no sweat since I was assured early, “all of your math and sciences will be located in one building and one building only… Unless of course it is computer programming, that will be located in the technology center.” This is me shaking my head, “of course, of course” and this is me thinking… “What?”

Thankfully math wasn’t too hard to find and at the same rate it doesn’t look like it won’t be that hard of a class at all. I sat with mixed company. It was the very first time I’ve ever been in a class room as large as it was, but the only real differences I found was that the teacher wasn’t any of my parents, I wasn’t in a room of my house, and there are all of these heads in the way blocking the white board. I sat down with kids and even some adults all seeking a higher education while seeking a better way of life. To my right was a younger lady just trying to finish school and get a degree in business and to my left was an older lady, who is seeking same. Funny thing was that almost everyone I talked to said that there were either getting a degree in business or going into nursing… So far so good and the only thing I have to worry about is making sure I get to class on time, I use a pencil not a pen, and that I have the most expensive calculator because they are the best (just kidding of course).

Class ends right on time and it’s off to English, composition and Rhetoric where are you? Knowing I had very few moments to spare I made a dash to the nearest information bulletin board where every single class was listed in cluster of headache. Determined to find my class looked and I look and I looked but couldn’t find it! I said, “Where is it?!?!” And someone next to me said, “What?”

I said, “Where are the English classes?”

“They’re on the back…”

“O… Thank you”

So I quickly peered over the other side revealing yet another long list of classes, their times, and locations. There were rows and rows of them. “Aw!” I said , “there is Composition and Rhetoric” Now all I have to do is find the time and I’ll have the place. There are several classes and several of them, although the same class, have very scattered locations and could be found anywhere in campus. Although English you would think could be found in the arts center, the paper right in front of me plainly said that it was in the mod buildings conveniently located all the way on the other side of campus… So I ran all the way to one side of the campus to get to class, got there just in time, found a seat, and was told I had to write down a profile of myself then draw a picture of my neighbor while having a conversation. So I'm drawing this picture getting to know someone a little better when the teacher start handing out these sheets. The sheets finally found their way to me and I look down... Then I look up... for the last fifteen minutes I was in the wrong class!!!
I look over to my subject of art then at my neighbor and say, "I'm sorry this doesn't look anything like you, it was nice to meet you, but I'm in the wrong class!" Turns on that there was a Composition/Rhetoric I and II that started at the same time so when I skimmed down the list it was easy for me to find the wrong one... And to top it all off I had to run back other way to the other side of campus!

So that was my first day of class and today I’ll be conquering yet another day of getting to know my professors, find their classes, and getting to know everyone else a little better. I know that everything is going to be just a.o.k as long as I keep my wits, my humility, and pray for wisdom. Of course, I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. As long as I keep my faith in him, everything will be great. Well everyone, Things are looking great and they’re only getting better! Futures so bright, I got to wear shades B^)

Take care everyone!

~Rob aka. The Renaissance--Man

New Beginnings

By Robert W. Oakley

-----The moment I walked on campus, the moment I sat down with a counselor to discuss my future, the moment I was told you’re all ready to go, at those moments I felt a change. What change is this that seems so radical and so daunting and so alien? What feeling is this that seems so wonderful and so horrible at the same time? What new beginning, what new adventure, and what new frontier have I found? College. . . Is that what they call it, higher education? is that where I am, is this my new beginning, and is this the change? I’d expect nothing else after graduating high school but. . . This is so new!

-----Well for those of you who don’t know I am now enrolled into my local community college and I am so excited! I am enthusiastic, I am prepared, and I am ecstatic about this new beginning, this new way of life. For this 1st semester, I will be taking some core classes in Math and English as well as a few other classes which will go towards my degree in Communications which are Intro to Theater, Intro to Mass Communications, and an Acting course which is the only class that won’t transfer; however, I believe the experience and the amount of fun I’ll have will be well worth it.

-----Being a full time student though will be a little rough I’m afraid… So you may not hear from me as often as usual; on the contrary, I am very excited about this school year and am looking forward to keeping most of you as up-to-date as possible.

I still can wait to see the rest of your top ten lists of summer ’08!

Keep in touch,

~Rob aka. The Renaissance--Man

I Be Abcent Minded

Hullo everyone,

Just thought I'd just let you all know I'm still alive. I've just been Uber busy with getting ready for Collage and such which I'd love to tell you more about!

In the mean time you can all get excited about tomorrow's dance I'll be attending! I've been looking forward to it for quite some time ^_^

Pictures to be posted too! As well as some more vidoe ^_^

I know I keep saying that I'm going to post some more videos but I really have been quite busy lately. :(

But don't worry! I'll be back soon ^_^

Peace be with you,

~Rob

I'm Back!!!

Okay, okay…

It has been a very long time… And I’m sorry 
But! I’m going to make up to you by posting!!! Ha, ha, ha!
So here it goes,
So I’ve been out of town (Again!) and just enjoying life! How about you? No, seriously… How have you been?
Just last week I was up in Kansas having a little bit fun which was just sweet! Although the real reason we were up there was because my mom was celebrating a 20th year High school graduation, we took great strides to make the most of everything from visiting the Historical Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma to visiting with old friends and family.
Tada!!!
What’s this???

THE TOP TEN THINGS I ENJOYED MOST ABOUT SUMMER 2008!!!

So here it goes!

10. Not wining the Real Dreams Film Festival!

I learned so much and I touched hearts! Who could ask for more?
9. Road trip!!!

Although I really hate being in the car FOREVER!!! I have to admit that the road trip all the way from home to Mt. Rushmore was defiantly worth it ^_^

8. The Garden of the God’s was Spectacular

I’ll never forget those wonderful God designed red sculptures!

7. Pikes Peak 14,000 Ft Above the sea!!!

Jaw gaping amazing!

6. The rolling green hills of Wyoming!

It was like being in Rohan from the Lord of the Rings

5. Yellowstone National Park

All in all, it was spectacular

4. The Grand Tetons

One of the most beautiful sites I shall never forget. Those were some real mountains!

3. Cody Night Rodeo, the Devils Tower, and Mt. Rushmore

Three things that for number three ^_^

2. An awesome time at Scout Camp!!!

And the top number one thing I enjoyed most about summer 2008

1. Getting to spend time with my wonderful Family for an entire summer!!!

May I never forget!

Hey! You guys should do a top ten!!! I’ll look forward to reading it ^_^

Until then, I have a ship load of videos to put together and post so look forward to that and in the mean time I’ll be thinking about the top ten most things I’m looking forward to this upcoming school year!

Peace Out! ^_^

~The Renaissance—Man

~Rob

14,000 Feet Above the Sea

Pikes Peak and the Cog Rail Way

The glossy red cabins come strolling by indolently challenging our patients. Finally docking up to the boarding steps showing of its gleaming silver name, Pikes Peak Cog Rail Way, we would all soon be on our way towards the next great adventure. “Tickets please!” says our tour guide and off we went. Up, up, up we go slowly but surely to the top of the world, 14,000 feet above the sea.

The Pike's Peak Cog Rail Way

Here are some pics!

A Visit to the Snake Man!

Hey Everyone!

Today was rather interesting...

I mean I can remember just waking up and thinking to myself, "I hope something interesting happens today and that I don't get stuck with nothing to do at home..."

Just then, later that day, Mom got an email saying that the "Snake Man" is in town!

So we admittedly eat lunch got dressed and headed out to see the awesome snakes!

Check out the video!

Enjoy,

~The Renaissance--Man




Peace Out!

The Garden of the Gods

The “Real” Mountains

Colorado Springs, Colorado

-----Gorgeous… Just Gorgeous… That’s the minimum I can say about the divine beauty of the mountains we saw in Colorado and I can rightly say that because truly such a world was created by the divine God almighty. Creation to me is almost holy and can barley be put into words and as for the pictures down below, they simply do not say enough. It was great to be in the Rockies. You can probably tell by now I’ve never been before; however, I’m sure anyone who is reading this and has been before will agree with me to some extent that life in the mountains is magnificent. Unless, of course, you get stuck in a snow storm but that’s when you break out the snow boards and life really begins! I hope to get to do that this fall but it all depends on whether or not it’ll work out, but to get back to the story.
-----We finally arrived to the great and majestic city of Colorado Springs where we would stay the night and begin exploring such a vast alien world my siblings and I have only seen in postcards and Television. They lied… It wasn’t everything we expected—it was so much more. It’s funny how plans and dreams can seem as just talk but now we were actually living the dream and we all hoped that it would last forever.
-----Rising early, we are off to behold the famous and glorious Garden of the Gods which is just awesome to think that such an enormous rock formation so unlike the rest of its surroundings could exist. Winding around the red and jagged garden we all with gaped mouths stood in wonder. Begging to get out of the car we made it to the mighty “Leaning Rock” where we first laid steps on a new world filled with new discoveries. It is so much fun to have younger siblings. Just to watch them learn, explore, and wonder about life is in itself an adventure. I am very pleased to of had the opportunity these last eighteen years to have the privilege of being homeschooled and having the chance so many miss to witness the growth of my family. This is totally worth the experience and has increased my joy of life tenfold. To think we still have so much more to do.
-----After a mere hour or so of exploration, we finial loaded back up the van and headed out to our next stop: the Pikes Peak Cog Railway (say that ten times fast). We would soon travel trough the historical town of Colorado springs and wind our way to the Cog Rail way where we would make our climb up to the top of the world—14,000 ft above the sea.

Working Out!

----So I was trying to hit the weights this week, you know, get back to the "Y" and work out... But instead I got and excellent opportunity to go out and help a good family friend build his house which beat going to the gym any day!

I learned how to put in electrical outlets, door knobs, lights, and I learned all about the pain of being electrocuted (Which I don't suggest trying)...

---All in all, it was an wonderful handful of days absolutely filled with honest hard work. For once I am happy to come home and with a smile on my face I can honestly say, "The work is done and I feel accomplished."

Just as a side note I'm also very happy because I got my XM radio to work again!!!

So...

---I'll be filling in the rest of these Vacation Updates and highlights relatively soon, in the mean time I think I'll take a shower, finish editing my Uncle's Wedding (Which I'll tell you all about soon), and I think I'll also do some brain storming on this storyboard I have to put together for a music video I'm producing.

Until next time,

~The Renaissance--Man

Peace Out!

An Oakley Summer Vacation

An Oakley Summer Vacation

By Robert W. Oakley

Preface

A long hard school year finally comes to an end with a distant haze of memory: an eighteenth birthday, an Eagle board of Review, graduation, and the dreaded SAT. The summer finally arrives over the horizon with unbridled joy causing me to forget about the stress and look forward to a new beginning in an adventure I hope to never forget, my very own Oakley family vacation. After the long day of packing up the bags and double checking the list of important things to bring—Myself, Ryan, Reece, Russell, Madelyn, and Rowan—we would all set out of the comfort of home and into our old yet reliable E-150 Conversion Van. . . We've only owned it for seven years. . . However, it has served us very well. I'm sure the thought of driving all the way from Katy Texas to Albuquerque, New Mexico; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming; to Mt. Rushmore, South Dakota sounds a little absurd but trust me it is well worth the Trip. Imagine cruising through the beautiful red Desert of New Mexico with its endless stretch of highway and round hills and mountains. Imagine the even more magnificent Garden of the God's hugging the mountainous terrain of Colorado. Finally, you make your way toward the immense Pikes Peak, 14,000 ft. above the sea. Even still, the Wonder of Yellowstone lingers on your mind with its beautiful wild life and its mysterious wonders. The infamous faces of our forefathers would soon be next marking the end of such a great adventure; however, with the thought of home now on your mind, you know you'll miss such beauty, such wonder, and such joyous life. I tell you now friends, a trip like this is indeed well worth the while, for these are the adventures of the Oakley Family and these are their stories they wish to tell and have last forever. Amen

Heading Out

New Mexico

It's simple, right? Make a list, pack the bags, check it twice, and head out. . . Well, coming from a large family of eight I can tell you right now it isn't easy but it's always nice to have the extra hands when it comes time to load up the van. I'll save the head ache and move on. Farwell good home and hello open road! Our first stop is El Paso, TX where we would spend the night hoping for more vast sights to see other than flat terrain. Sure enough the very next day our prayers would be answered with the satisfying red mountains of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Madilyn, our sweat and only sister, was so excited to see such a colossal sight she immediately exclaimed, "Look! Look! A Volcano!" Of Course we all held our tongues at the same time finding it rather difficult to keep from laughing. "You've seen nothing yet" is all I could think. We stayed the night in the cool desert city of Albuquerque with the next day guaranteeing the "Real" deal concerning mountains. Apart from driving some of the time (which I didn't really mind), the trip was turning out just wonderful. One interesting experience while driving the endless highways of New Mexico, we managed to come upon the border patrol and border security. I thought I was going to have to get out and sign agreements and show ID, but sure enough as soon as we made the stop to be inspected, the inspector simply stood up to the van, took a look underneath the car, then gave us the A.O.K for departure. . . Not the most exciting experience but it was an interesting one. . . One thing I would consider exciting though would have to be taking pictures and shooting video. I was determined to insure that this trip would forever last in the Oakley archive of vast adventures which will soon lead to my next adventure, capturing and editing over seven hours of tape plus developing over 16 rolls of film. . . Yep, I'm a trooper when it comes to documentary. New Mexico is simply beautiful and I just couldn't get enough on how gorgeous even the desert can be; however, the trip is far from over, in fact, it still has just begun.

I'm coming back :D

Hey everyone!!!

Just thought I'd take some time to say hi to the wind...

Cause that's all that's left...

But hey!

It looks like things are starting to finally slow down :)

Where have I been?

Well, other than school and work...

No where...

Well... That isn't very true :) Man! Do I have some stories to tell :) Unfortunately I don't have time now but I just want everyone to know...

I'M COMING BACK TO MY BLOG!!!

Booyaka!!!

I figured I try and start some new lingo ;)

Booyaka!!!

Say it!

...

Please :(

Peace out!

~The Renaissance--Man is returning!

Aspiration

-----I am standing on a beach peering across a vast sea with a an unnatural purplish blue sky, dark blue clouds, and lighting bursting in the distance; the water is transparent yet thick as blue paint tossing about the wind; and the beach, the beach is a deserted, barren, and an empty thing, and I say thing because it seemed alive. There is nothing behind me but mountains and nothing in front of me but the sea and a dock which extended about 60 feet across the water. As I stared beyond the dark and corroded dock and into the distance wondering why I was there, a strong breeze brushed across my face and a warm glow of green and blue and yellow light shown throughout the horizon. I gazed further to see a figure in white robes. I had this strange desire to go out to him but I was afraid... A voice said, “come” and I ran to the dock and dashed across the planks. No longer could I feel the cool sand nor the harsh wood but the cool water beneath my feet. I was in amazement! I was walking on the water! I increased my stride as my desire to reach this person intensified. CRASH! ROAR! HISS! The wind began to shriek, the waves began to beat against me. Fear consumed and I began to sink! “God NO!” was all I could think then.
-----I couldn’t understand… I knew I was dreaming but all I could do was watch myself drown. I tried with all my strength to swim back up but the sea was just too strong… I just couldn’t do it by myself. As I held my breath in my dream I held it in reality trying so hard to come back up for air but I just couldn’t do it. I felt so alone, so scared, and in such despair that I just couldn’t do anything. My sight began to fade, my life began to fade, and my dream began to fade. When my hope of reaching the surface was almost completely gone, SWOOP! Went a mighty hand, grabbing me by the chest, and out of the water. It was an incredible feeling… I gasped for air and awoke form my dream.
-----It seemed so real. . . It seemed so real was all that I could think. As I pondered such an experience naturally I recalled the same experience Peter had as he walked on water out to His savior. It was a lack of faith and a lack of focus that caused Peter to hesitate and fall but it was Jesus Christ that gave him true strength and ability to do the impossible. It is my prayer that I can cut off my fear of drowning in a world of deep inequity and leap out with faith that God will catch me and never let me go. I want to do what He commands me without hesitation, never losing focus of His perfection, and always looking forward to my chief end--To glorify and enjoy Him forever. Amen

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I Ate Dinner Alone Last Night

-----It’s a curious condition, something we all have, and something I don’t want anymore—human emotion: why bother having it? If it weren’t for love, there wouldn’t be any hate, if it weren’t for happiness, there wouldn’t be despair, if it weren’t for peace, there wouldn’t be any war.
-----It’s been a rare occasion until as of late and there is nothing lonelier then a dinner table with empty seats. As I set my own table, and sat there in solitude, I couldn’t help but think, “For how much longer I will sit alone, for how much longer I will be by myself, and how much longer will I have a place to call home?” I’ve taken so much for granted—every blessing disregarded—because at that moment I was only thinking of myself. Did it occur to me at all that when I leave this wonderful home God has so blessed me with to go on and do my own thing that I won’t be the only one saying goodbye? Did I consider the feelings of those whom I claim to love and how my lack of existence would impact their lives? What would the world be like if I was to suddenly disappear; a better place perhaps? Questions. . . Is that all I can do? The minutes slowly drifted across my little rift of time; I pondered further, to try and come to a close, the last 18 years of my life. . . Was it all worth it?
-----WAKE UP! I cried inside! Don’t you understand that this isn’t the end? You aren’t losing anything but why do you feel and see your world falling apart? Hold on to your emotions! Don’t let go! They make you who you are. . . Why are you in despair? Every bite was bitter sweet, painful, depressing. I couldn’t stand to think of a world without love because I realized that even though there is pain and misery I truly wouldn’t have any other way. It’s the pain that makes me stronger, faster, better. It’s love that I want most. . . But can’t have. . . Because I don’t deserve it. I don’t deserve my wonderful family, my wise parents, my fun-loving siblings, my encouraging friends. Hell and damnation is what I deserve! Lord I cannot fathom why you would love such a monster. Amazing was all that I could think of then. Although I live in a world full of imperfection, lies, deceit , dirty looks, and the things people use to say—it’s the curve that made my confidence crash—I still serve a God who will always love me no matter what and the only thing He asks in return is that I love Him back. I was so selfish. . . This is your life and it’s been all but ordinary; now sit inside your wall of shame leaving what’s forgotten, you make it so hard to find a world, a home, you can call your own.
-----My plate was now empty but the chair in front of me no longer was. I began to imagine my siblings sitting there sharing a coke, my parents sharing their wisdom, and my best friends sharing their dreams. I than understood that I wasn’t alone anymore and that I never was because no matter what my family will always love me and my friends will always be there. If not, I know for sure there is one person who will always be there for me: Christ Jesus, my Lord, my Savior, my Friend. I began to feel the comfort of His spirit within me, and the strength of His words as I reminisced their meanings. No longer was I afraid, no longer did I have doubt, and no longer did I feel alone. I used to feel that my efforts in friendships were in vain, that my involvement in the lives of the people around me was worthless, because every time you say hello that means you’ll have to say goodbye and that’s something I never want to have to do. I guess I still haven’t answered my question. . . Why bother with human emotions?
-----Without love, without joy, without peace, without emotion: we would be nothing more than empty shells and thoughtless machines; however, there wouldn’t be any misery, we couldn’t feel pain, we wouldn’t hate, or go to war. Its human emotion that defines the greatness of God for it is only love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance that comes from Him and not hate, despair, war, intolerants, roughness, disbelief, or a lack of self control. God did not want to make us love Him rather He wants us to want to love Him and without human emotion that would be impossible. Although we would feel no pain, although every mistake in life we made would have no impact, and although every painful memory we may have hidden within would go away, life would have no meaning. Pain makes us bigger, better, faster, stronger, and love makes us the greatest things of all. To love even though there is pain, to live even though there is hate and stupid mistakes in this world, to laugh even though deep inside we are weeping makes us invincible.
-----I use to think that everything I wanted to have, to do, to give, and to say, never really benefited my life; that it all sort of meant nothing because I just couldn’t see beyond myself. Now I realize that the fruit I have produced in the last few years has not only impacted my life but also impacted the lives of others and produced fruit in them; thus, I have discovered much more purpose and meaning to life. May I conclude that human emotion is very important and that I would be lost without it. There just isn’t enough love in the world and sometimes too much pain I guess that causes me to wish away my feelings, but I must always remember that this isn’t paradise (that’s yet to come) and it is in our diverse trials that worketh patients so that one day we will be made perfect and entire wanting nothing.

John 15 12- 27

This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants for the servant does not know what is master is doing; but I have called you friends for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that what you ask the Father in my mane he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: a servant is not greater than his master, if they persecuted me, they will also persecute you, if they kept my word, they will keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account on my name because they do not know him who sent me.

Wow!

Sometimes life is defined with simple letters, symbols, which represents some state of being or thought. It was quite amusing: while working at the French Café, this week I was privileged to open the store for business for the first time in a very long time. Well, we’ve all been there done that, it was very, very slow. No business whatsoever. To illustrate the intense boredom, we literally spelled out the word with the wooden spoons we hand out to customers so that we can locate them when their food is ready. The neat thing about the word too is that if you read it backwards you can see my name : ) So this is how we defined the day and, for the moment, our lives but all in vain for our desire to do something very soon turned into a heavy lunch rush. Other times life defines itself through action, a progressive outcome due to some result of genius or is it slight chance? Was it a work of pure design or just coincidence? It was lunch time! Of course it’s going to get busy. Let’s be honest with each other most who read my little posts profess to believe in a creative design rather than a simple roll of the dice so why then? Why pray, live, or express ourselves? It’s all preordained isn’t it? I mean I was supposed to write this… or was I?

O LORD, you have probed me, you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My travels and my rest you mark; with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, LORD, you know it all. Behind and before you encircle me and rest your hand upon me. Such knowledge is beyond me, far too lofty for me to reach. Where can I hide from your spirit? From your presence, where can I flee? If I ascend to the heavens, you are there; if I lie down in Sheol, you are there too. If I fly with the wings of dawn and alight beyond the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand holds me fast. If I say, "Surely darkness shall hide me, and night shall be my light" -- Darkness is not dark for you, and night shines as the day. Darkness and light are but one. You formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother's womb. I praise you, so wonderfully you made me; wonderful are your works! My very self you knew; my bones were not hidden from you, When I was being made in secret, fashioned as in the depths of the earth. Your eyes foresaw my actions; in your book all are written down; my days were shaped, before one came to be.
How precious to me are your designs, O God; how vast the sum of them!
Were I to count, they would outnumber the sands; to finish, I would need eternity.

That’s why…

What? You don’t see it? Although God knows everything, we do not and even if we could count the things God knows and is doing in our lives it would take an eternity! “But why?” you still ask. We mustn’t really trouble our minds with such incomprehensible inquirers but is such a question really so difficult for one to find an answer for? We just don’t pray because he told us too, we don’t pray because we have too (he already knows what were going to say, right?), we pray because we love too.

God didn’t create robots: he created man with a will to choose to love Him or reject Him; however, God is sovereign choosing his sheep and doing as he pleases (which is a another very good topic). Everything we do for God our father in the name of Christ no matter how small or insignificant brings God joy and honor which is our primary purpose not only to glorify Him but also to enjoy Him forever.

In conclusion, I challenge all who read this to take a moment and consider the importance of just gazing at the stars just how you did when you first saw them so long ago and exclaim with genuine wonder, “Wow!” Don’t make a mess of things and look at life, the universe, and everything as if it were clockwork or some sort of machine, but instead realize that life is wonderful and God is big.

Oakley Audio UPDATE!!! 2008!!!

Happy new year everyone!

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Peace Out!

~The Oakleys