Saturday, November 22, 2008

Emerette











We have ecstatically welcomed the newest member into the Blanton/Farley family. The long awaited arrival of Emmerete Farley can only be described as perfect. She was delivered Friday at 12:35pm with no complications, no NICU, and no inhibitions. She came out kicking and screaming - a welcomed change from last year.

My third niece is happy to be here and the whole family is celebrating in blissful joy. As my sister said last night, there is literally nothing like it in the world.

Although different than Copeland's arrival last year, holding a new born baby reminds all of us of God's gift of life. Just like Copeland, she is his little girl.

Emerette McClure Farley, born November 21st 2008.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Monumental

Regardless of my own political persuasion, today was a monumental event in history. Initially, I have a sense of uncertainty. So much is up in the air right now that there is literally so little I feel I can depend on. Seeing thousands of people erupt in joy about Obama's victory and my own mother cry watching John McCain's speech of concession, there is undeniable transformation occurring on a global scale.

People can say that they don't think it's a matter of race but it is. The US continues to set the standard for capability. In no other country, in no other time could a man from such a modest upbringing such as Barack Obama attain the position he will assume in January. The world can look to the US once again as an instigator of what was once believed impossible.

As time goes on, my feelings of uncertainty turn to comfort. I never once felt fearful about the future circumstances of the executive branch of our country. After all, the same God sits on his throne. Whether or not this turned out the way me or the people I love wanted it to, I am comforted knowing that there is purpose behind it all.

It is fact that everyone resists change. Today, we can rest assured that it is happening right now. I am excited to see what new, great minds can achieve given this incredible opportunity.

In the end, our government has done a good job in ensuring one thing. While the position of President brings with it much responsibility one man cannot change the world without the belief that the God who created him is his ultimate authority.

It is on that fact that I will sleep well.


"There are two educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live."
- John Adams - American, President, Christian

An Interesting Perspective

No, it was not me that did this.

Today on my way to lunch I passed a homeless guy with a sign that read "Vote Obama, I need the money." I laughed. Once in the restaurant my server had on a "Obama 08" tie, again I laughed as he had given away his political preference--just imagine the coincidence. When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama redistribution of wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight. I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful. At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even though the actual recipient needed money more. I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application.