Morethingsihate.com by Jason T. Berggren || Because Positive Momentum Begins with Negative Tension

QUESTION: What are some rules your parents and teachers taught you growing up?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:44:00 GMT

A Question(s) for you:

What are some rules your parents and teachers taught you growing up? Remember a time when you got caught breaking one? What did you do when you got caught? What were the consequences? Why did they have that particular rule?

I'm sure you have a few answers. I know I do.

There was the time I got a police ride home at 5-yrs-old. Then there was the time it happened again at 7-yrs-old again. But that's a story about growing up with a single parent in a white-trash neighborhood...

Or the time my Dad gave me money for a haircut--and I got a mohawk. His response? What the H#LL is THAT?!

These are some of the types engaging conversations that the new Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity is filled with. Don't worry, it is also filled with more potent questions that will inspire and guide a healthy examination of the foundations of the Christian faith.

***ALERT! Enter coupon code "free-dg" at checkout when ordering this and anything else and get Discussion Guide TOTALLY FREE!***

News I Hate This Week

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:06:00 GMT

*Every week I delve into current affairs for 1 day. I let the itemsspeak for themselves. But they emphasize the3 basic pillars of mypolitical views, which also contain the solution to most problems:limited government, family values, strong defense.

New York City Officials looking to make SALT illegal.

Because of US debt and spending, Canadian dollar will soon be worth more than US.

New federal fine for airlines of up to $25,700 per passenger for delayed flights. Airline solution? Cancel flights. Go government meddling!

VIDEO: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi actually says we have to pass legislation first, BEFORE we (you) can know what's actually in it.

New GOVT welfare benefit: Wireless internet.

Anyone wondering how we can afford 99 weeks of unemployment for everyone?

One effect of FREE LOVE=1 in 6 people have herpes.

In UK, confidential medical records go online without patient consent.

No more public fishing in many oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams which kill tons of jobs...and fun.

President Obama and Democrats launched a campaign to vilify insurance companies in the final stretch of their health reform effort.

Sean Penn says reporters and journalists who call Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez a dictator should be put in jail. Go freedom!

Study reveals that California climate policies will kill jobs and slow growth (article reported in UK, by the way, not US).

In the UK, man dies from thirst as nurses in NHS ignore him.

Carbon trading scheme making people richer than ever on what you exhale.

Get ready to get body scanned (pictured naked) on your next flight.

VIDEO: Senator Harry Reid says 'only' 36,000 people lost the jobs.

Federal government pays WAY more than private sector jobs. Guess who pays for this? The private sector.

Spy chips hidden in 2.5 million trash cans in the UK to make sure no one is throwing out too much trash.

To increase tourism President Obama signed bill to charge fee to tourists.

Strongarm Named In Top 10 Best Bands Of Last 30 Years

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:49:00 GMT

For most of you reading this, it will sound like a washed-up-never-was-been waxing on about the good-old-days. You've been warned!

Back in the first half of the 90's I used to be in a band called Strongarm (you can listen to some songs here, watch a video here, see tattoos inspired by the band here, or even read how it is the reason this couple got married here).

Anyway, this week I stumbled upon a list compiled by www.noisecreep.com (a BIG heavy metal music site owned by AOL Inc.). The article starts with:

"Noisecreep has compiled a list of 10 bands from the Christian side of the metal world that everyone should check out."

The range runs from bands like Stryper to Zao (one of my favorites). It's quite a blend. You may not like (or even know) the bands, but they are all good in their own right--something about them stands out.

And smack dab in the middle coming in at number five is...Strongarm! The article goes on to say:

"While they weren't exactly headbangers, Strongarm's inventive yet always vicious take on hardcore had metal in its DNA. They were only around for a handful of years (1993-1998) and made just two full-length albums, but their influence on the current Christian metal landscape is irrefutable. Strongarm's chaotic guitar outbursts aren't far removed from a band like Burn and the late, great Deadguy. A lot of the bands currently rocking out on the Tooth & Nail label learned a lot about their craft from this Florida wrecking crew..."

Wow! That's amazing. I can't even believe it. More importantly, Strongarm was my first experience in pursuing a passion.

I sang (often described as screaming) and wrote the lyrics. It is where I first began to try to write down the frustration and difficulty of trying to live in the intersection of real life, simple faith, and raw emotion (as described on the back of my book now).

So it is a great honor. It's nice to now things you did as a stupid kid had a positive impact.

Thank you Noisecreep!

*You can read it all here.

Was Jesus Gay?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:27:00 GMT

According to Elton John, Jesus was a gay lord. That's what the acclaimed musician and songwriter said a few weeks ago in an upcoming US interview (sourced here).

He said to Parade magazine:

"I think Jesus was a compassionate, super-intelligent gay man who understood human problems."

Hmmm.... There are so many questions I have. No, they aren't things like Does Jesus like show-tunes or drive a Subaru?

I'm not the kind of guy who gets enraged at statements like this. I wonder where Elton gets this. I'm sure it's not based on his extensive seminary research or studies in church history.

There is often a temptation to personify and contextualize Jesus based on ourselves. It's why so many American churches have portraits of Jesus as white, blond, and blue-eyed. Each ethnic group does the same thing--everyone tends to do it.

And that's what Elton has done.

The more important question for me (as a follower of Jesus) is:

Am I like Jesus? Do I personify him?

Sure, it's easy to throw the guy who sang the Circle of Life into the ring of fire. Or we can use the tension in our lives for something positive.

And so I wonder what Jesus would say in an interview with Parade magazine (theoretically speaking, of course), were he to describe me:

"I think Jason is a..."

What would he say about you?

VIDEO: What the heck?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:30:00 GMT

Time for some Monday morning humor to get the week off right.

Ever wonder what the Korean Police force was like? Me neither. But by the end of this video, three officers are dancing and one is sleeping on company time.

Enjoy!

Book Review: One Million Arrows by Julie Ferwerda

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:04:00 GMT

I was recently contacted and asked to review One Million Arrows by Julie Ferwerda. It is not something I would normally read, which is why I agreed. It’s always good to change your routine to get fresh perspectives.

Let me first explain what “One Million Arrows” means.

This is an expression that was coined by the subject of the book, M.A. Thomas (known as “Papa”). Papa is well into his 70’s these days. He has spent his life trying to meet the vision that gripped his heart nearly 50 years ago in his home country of India.

As a young man and college graduate, Papa could not bear seeing child after child in his home country of India being orphaned, murdered, or sold into some from of servitude (often sexual). As Westerners, we often wonder how children could be treated so horribly. It is unimaginable. But this book gives some insight into why that happens. I’d heard it before. This time it finally clicked.

We might call it karma.

Many in Indian culture are plagued by certain destructive superstitions. It is thought that if you are born into a life of hardship, be it physical deformity, disease, or poverty, it is because you are being cursed by the gods due to some sort of evil(s) you perpetuated in this life (or a past one). As an onlooker, it is your responsibility to let this curse take its course in the life of the other person—even if that person is a child—or you will bring that curse on yourself. Furthermore, the cursed person’s ‘spirit’ will never enlighten themselves out of the curse if you get involved. That is why millions of children are (and have been) so neglected without conscience. It is almost seen as a duty to do so.

Borrowing the expression from an ancient Hebrew Proverb which describes children as a blessing, Papa made it his life’s mission to rescue one million orphans. Or as he says, “One Million Arrows.”

Staying in India, he dedicated himself to do whatever he could to house, clothe, and educate all the children he could afford to until they were either adopted or grown. In addition, he spent his life telling them how much God loved them, that he created them for a reason and with special purpose, and that they had value. In Papa’s heart, this passion was inspired by the teachings of Jesus—something the children also learned throughout their lives. With the help of many generous people and organizations, he has had an amazing impact and has been recognized with many humanitarian awards in India and all over the world.

One Millions Arrows tells Papa’s story. It also tells the story of other people, particularly parents, and what they do to accomplish similar positive goals (both practical and spiritual) in the heart’s and lives of their own children. The author sets out to communicate a high value on how we treat and raise our children, all they while laying out the potentially bright future if we do.

Arrows is a positive and encouraging book that you will find illustrated by story after story of why we should sacrificially love our children: never forgetting that God loves them, that he created them for a reason and with special purpose, and that they have value best communicated in the life, teachings, and example of Jesus Christ.

CHECK OUT MORE HERE

News I Hate This Week

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:16:00 GMT

*Every week I delve into current affairs for 1 day. I let the items speak for themselves. But they emphasize the3 basic pillars of my political views, which also contain the solution to most problems: limited government, familyvalues, strong defense.

Remember Live Aid in 1984 to raise money to help the poor in Africa? Woops! It helped them get killed because money went to buy weapons for rebels.

Restaurants start charging hidden health tax on your meal to pay for health care costs.

The government is stealing over 10 million acres from states from Montana to New Mexico.

Gas must cost over $7 a gallon in order to meet government's greenhouse emissions desired mandates.

Another financial crisis might be coming because of the 'rescue' government did actually made things worse.

President to push Congress to use the nuclear option to pass health care legislation.

The UK planning a DNA database of citizens while stepping up CCTV monitoring of them.

ACORN in New York is cleared.

Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, says a Bill doesn't have to have bipartisan votes to be bipartisan.

UK proposing a competence test before you can own a dog. No word yet on becoming a parent.

New Bill on the Hill proposed to give President control over internet in an 'emergency.'

More tax money going to Fannie Mae.

Government website E-verify doesn't actually verify well.

Government to tell private lenders how to run their business and ban foreclosures.

Clinton admits US deficit a national security risk.

VIDEO: Olympic Curling+Heavy Metal+Team Sweden=PURE AWESOMENESS!

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:35:00 GMT

It's a little strange. Here's some bad metal mixed with, perhaps, the least respected Olympic sport: curling. Still, I find it IMPOSSIBLE not to watch the whole video. Happy Wednesday...and ENJOY!

Why do bad things happen?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:57:00 GMT

You know the scenario. I'm sure you've experienced something similar. The guy in the cubicle next to you is a liar and a jerk. He takes credit for other people's work. He's always talking smack about co-workers. His nose is always brown. Plus, he doesn't even work hard (or do a very good job).

You, on the other hand, work hard, give credit when it's due, and don't kiss butt. You're never late and you don't exaggerate your hours. And you won't even take a pen home from the office supply closet.

So what happens?

The jerk gets promoted and becomes your boss. To make matters worse, that same week your spouse gets diagnosed with diabetes.

He's a wretch. You're a good person. Life is awesome for him. Life sucks for you.

We've all wondered in these times:

Why is God letting this all happen? Why do bad things happen to good people? And why do good things happen to bad people?

These are the types of engaging conversations the brand-new Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity is geared toward. It is for people at all levels of spiritual interest and facilitators at all levels of experience. This small group resource can help the spiritually curious, new followers of Jesus, and seasoned Christians struggling with disillusionment.

From a coffee shop of just a few, to a classroom full of learners, this discussion guide is sure to keep the conversation interesting and flowing. Be ready for a healthy examination and exciting journey through the foundations of the Christian faith and spirituality.

So if you have a chance, please take a look at it here. I even have a FREE GIFT for you on my site (click here).

*Coming Soon: additional resources to help group leaders--like how to approach the 5 different personality types in your group and how to navigate the 5 most difficult issues.

Am I Going to Hell?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:52:00 GMT

Who's going to Hell? Why do bad things happen to good people? Does praying work? Are miracles even happening today?

Why not leave the same old boring fluff in the dust and try something new?

The 10 Things I Hate About Christianity Discussion Guide is the premiere tool for small groups, college classes, reading clubs, or Bible studies looking to talk about something out of the ordinary. Geared to help all types of people explore and work through the frustrations of faith, it is an excellent resource for young adults, the spiritually curious, new followers of Jesus, and seasoned Christians struggling with disillusionment.

This 10-week discussion guide contains 10 talking points for each week, introductory tips before you start, and helpful hints and background information on each week. This insider information is meant to assist any facilitator (at any level of experience) focus the group toward the desired dynamic--ranging from the very conversational to the more studious. For the facilitator's convenience, discussion questions are also included in the order as a separate file for the group participants.

From a coffee shop of just a few, to a classroom full learners, this discussion guide is sure to keep the conversation interesting and flowing. Be ready for a healthy examination and exciting journey through the foundations of the Christian faith and spirituality.

Includes subjects like:

    *Faith
    *Prayer
    *The Bible
    *Sin
    *Rules
    *Love
    *Hell
    *Answers (to difficult questions)
    *Church
    *Christians
    *The Problem of Evil and Suffering
    *Pluralism and Relativism
    *Premarital Sex
    *Homosexuality

*Be sure to check the package deals and leader tips coming soon for all your group needs.

*This is a companion guide based on the book 10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith

CLICK HERE TO ORDER NOW!

Quote of the Week On Endurance

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:35:00 GMT

"Whenever you do something with positive spiritual ramifications, therewill be more things than you can imagine to thwart your efforts. See itthrough and don’t give up. You won’t regret it."

-quote from Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity. Available for pre-order now and arrives March 1st (next Monday). Get a FREE gift now.

News I Hate This Week

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:23:00 GMT

*Every week I delve into current affairs for 1 day. I let the items speak for themselves. But they emphasize the 3 basic pillars of my political views, which also contain the solution to most problems: limited government, family values, strong defense.

Hospital in UK Universal Healthcare system (NHS) is responsible for up to 1,200 deaths due to neglect.

Up to 25% mortgage holders owe more than their home is worth.

US is spending $1 BILLION on new foreign embassy in London.

GM (owned by tax-payer and bailed out by them for bad business practices) is paying Congress-appointed ex-CEO $60,000 a month to consult.

New home sales hits new 20-year low.

Killer whale kills a trainer during show--for the 3rd time.

Chinese have engineered a pollution-fighting fish and are going to release it into lake. Haven't they seen Godzilla?

Canadian Premiere getting heat from Canadian Press for coming to US for heart surgery, because Canadian Universal Health Care system isn't so awesome.

Senator Harry Reid says "Men, when they're out of work, tend to become abusive." So when he loses his next election, will he?

More taxes for Illinois.

Senator John McCain says he was misled on supporting bank bailout.

Woops! Climate scientists admit seas may not be rising.

The Dalai Lama gets escorted out the back door of the White House near the trash.

School spied on students through cameras on school-issued computers (at home).

More homeless people now than under President Bush.

Police want to search for your location based on your cell phone without a warrant through new legislation.

Obama spending more than DFR ever dreamed.

Turning Regret Into Positive Momentum

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:42:00 GMT

Right now I'm finishing up the Discussion Guide for my book. Not to unload, but it's got me doing a lot of thinking.

Seems like I often reflect on the regrets I have: bad decisions, mediocre decisions, no decisions. I'm a firm believer in learning from the past. So that's what I try to capture in the things I write down. And with the discussion guide, I want create an avenue for people to do that with regard to their faith and spiritual musings.

Wondering what I (or we) can do differently next time is so valuable. It is an important regular exercise.

But on a lighter note, here are some awesome tattoo blunders that will yield a lifetime of regret. They are quite hilarious. And be warned: they are PG13. Here's one to wet your appetite. And ask yourself while perusing:

What will you do with your mistakes?

10 Things I Hate About Christianity Named #1 Book of 2009!

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:45:00 GMT

It's crazy. My book 10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith was named the #1 book of 2009 over at Should Be Reading.

I didn't prepare an acceptance speech for this great honor. But let me just say:

"I'd like to thank God for still putting up with me, my wife for supporting most of my crazy ideas, my children for still think I'm cool, and Should Be Reading for giving me this most prestigious award.

And I would also like to mention that I have assembled a Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity that will be released on the 1-year anniversary of my book. (by the way, it is available for pre-order right now!). It will have all kinds of tips and background information to help facilitate a discussion through the frustrations of faith.

Thank you to everyone!"

Here's more about the Discussion Guide:

Are you bored? Wondering how faith applies in our modern context?

The 10 Things I Hate About Christianity Discussion Guide is the premiere tool for small groups, college classes, reading clubs, or Bible studies looking for something out of the ordinary. Geared to help all types of people explore and work through the frustrations of faith, it is an excellent resource for young adults, the spiritually curious, new followers of Jesus, and seasoned Christians struggling with disillusionment.

This 10-week discussion guide contains 10 talking points for each week, introductory tips before you start, and helpful hints and background information on each week. This insider information is meant to assist any facilitator (at any level of experience) focus the group toward the desired dynamic--ranging from the very conversational to the more studious.

From a coffee shop of just a few, to a classroom full learners, this discussion guide is sure to keep the conversation interesting and flowing. Be ready for a healthy examination and exciting journey through the foundations of the Christian faith and spirituality.

Includes subjects like:

    *Faith
    *Prayer
    *The Bible
    *Sin
    *Rules
    *Love
    *Hell
    *Answers (to difficult questions)
    *Church
    *Christians
    *The Problem of Evil and Suffering
    *Pluralism and Relativism
    *Premarital Sex
    *Homosexuality

*Be sure to check the package deals and leader tips coming soon for all your group needs.

*This is a companion guide based on the book 10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith.

VIDEO: Christian Band?

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:25:00 GMT

Okay, I now I'm not supposed to make fun of people (you know, because I'm a Christian and all). Sometimes I just can't help it. One, because it's funny and we all need a little humor these days. And two, because there might be a teeny-tiny lesson in the process.

I pose the question in my book: What exactly is Christian music? (By the way, Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity NOW AVAILABLE here!)

I used to be in a band (called Strongarm--check out links on left of page for more on that) so this question is, and always has been, close to my heart.

Does that mean it's about Jesus and stuff?

Or does that mean it has a certain level of quality and excellence, thereby representing Jesus at the level he deserves?

For example, if you hire a roofer who says (during the estimating process) that his is a 'Christian' company. You give him the job, but the roof soon leaks after completion. He then proceeds to try to repair the leak, only making it worse each time.

So is that really a 'Christian' company?

So what is Christian music? Is this video below Christian music?
*By the way, I only made it about 1 minute in. Also, feel free to comment on my bald chubby self. It will make me feel better about highlighting this video.

Enjoy "Shine" by Final Placement:

BIG NEWS! And the Quote of the Week On Leading...

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:33:00 GMT

"Think of yourself as a facilitator rather than a leader, and a guide rather than a teacher."

-taken from the OFFICIAL Discussion Guide for 10 Things I Hate About Christianity.

*Available March 1st but you can read details about it here or PRE-ORDER now!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER NOW
*All orders will automatically be sent on the release date.

*COMING SOON...Leader Tips and FREE Shipping on Package Deals for your group.

News I Hate This Week

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:14:00 GMT

*Every week I delve into current affairs for 1 day. I let the items speak for themselves. But they emphasize the 3 basic pillars of my political views, which also contain the solution to most problems: limited government, family values, strong defense.

Senator Barney Frank says partisanship is out of control in Washington while giving a hyper-partisan solution to the problem.

Divorce rulings pushing limits as parents are told what church they can bring kids to. This poor guy going to jail for bringing daughter to his Catholic church.

Another radical appointed to a government position by Congress.

World demand for US treasuries drops dramatically and China sells a bunch. This means our dollar is getting weaker due to our government spending.

Canadian doctors are backing euthanasia--to 'help' of course.

US census is wasting MILLIONS of dollars.

TSA makes crippled boy take off leg braces for airport scanners.

San Francisco committee appointed to decide on proper shade to sunlight ratio in public parks.

More global warming data in which UN based it's findings causing countries to spend TRILLIONS of dollars to off-set the effects is mysteriously missing.

The President is planning to push the limits of Executive Power and circumvent the balance of power and will of the people.

UK planning for a 20% VAT tax bombshell to pay for debt, which will create more debt.

VIDEO: Kids talk about how stupid their parents are for not initially voting for Obama.

Cambridge, MA, home of Harvard, proposing new tax to make people eat less meat.

New study finds that tofu more harmful to environment than meat.

Recycling in Berkley, CA costs the city more than not recycling.

Abortion clinic told teens who got pregnant by sexual assault to keep quiet and lie about it.

Federal Reserve planning on increasing inflation.

School district proposed giving away free ipods to parents to reward them for doing a survey--with tax-dollars of course.

President okay with raising taxes on middle class.

Another snow-throwing assault charge.

Iran may be more nuclear than we thought.

Government planning to track your location through your cell phone stating that citizens should have "no reasonable expectation of privacy" with regard to this.

Get ready to pay a global bank tax.

Heavy Metal Match-Making: A Sort of Strongarm Tribute

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:58:00 GMT

I recently got one of the most amazing emails ever!

If you didn't know, a long time ago in a galaxy far far away, I used to be in a band called Strongarm. Here is a free song, the video, and some tattoos inspired by it. The important thing to know is that I ~~sang~~ screamed and wrote the lyrics.

What's amazing is that I still get emails from people even though I quit back in 1996 (I think that was the year).

For example, I met a guy at a function last weekend and spent the better part of an hour talking movies. He is a High School teacher and was trying to figure out how to incorporate some classics in his lessons (like Hitchcock's Rear Window). Later in the week he emailed me and asked, "Have you heard of the now defunct band Strongarm?" It was totally unexpected. I told him I'd heard of it somewhere. Just kidding! I told him that I was in it etc. He said my name sounded familiar and this was his way of not appearing too nerdy while confirming if I was THAT Jason Berggren.

The emails I get express gratitude for the contribution to the 'scene' I made. I've heard:

*Strongarm is the reason we started a band.
*Strongarm is the reason I got this tattoo (with the lyrics).
*Strongarm is the reason I didn't commit suicide.

Truth be told, I was just doing something I loved. But it is a wonderful honor to be told these things.

A couple of weeks ago I got one the best emails regarding the band, ever.

Here's what it said:

"My husband, Jay, and I were talking the other day about how we met. We thought it would be cool to tell you that you're the reason that happened.

We met on a chat program back in '97. It wasn't a dating site or anything, just a little text-based chat program on telnet. Anyway, we were able to set "sessions" on there. Sessions were just a topic someone could set and others would comment on it.

His session had something to do with Strongarm. I can't remember exactly. It may have been lyrics. I commented, we started chatting, and now we're married. Neat, huh? --Lori"

Strongarm is the reason we got married? I've never heard that one! What an endearing thing to be told. It is hilarious and amazing all at the same time. I expressed gratitude for sharing it (and permission to do likewise).

I also recommended a reading of my current book, saying that it will perhaps inspire a child (oh yes I did!).

What's the lesson? No, it's not that you should necessarily use heavy metal to woo a woman into dating you. There just aren't that many female fans out there. If a love-connection is your goal, it'll probably take a while.

Here's the real lesson: when you use your gifts, experiences, and passions for good (and God's purposes), it's never in vain.

There is often a lot of crap and fighting (with the process or the people) involved in whatever you're doing. That's why it's called a labor of love. And it may take a long time before there are any measurable results. In fact, you may never observe any measurable results. Is that okay with you? If you believe your efforts are never in vain, then it will be.

A mark of maturity is the ability to pursue a goal off in the distance regardless of the surrounding circumstances.

Can you?

*And by the way, I do weddings.

On the RADIO at 1 PM EST Today--Listen Live

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:46:00 GMT

I'm on the radio today at 1 PM EST. Listen live here: http://www.alongthewayradio.com/newsite/?page_id=1060

Quote of the Week On Responsibility

jason@berggrenwired.com (Jason T. Berggren) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:16:00 GMT

"Part of getting a second chance is taking responsibility for the mess you made in the first place."

-Jack Bauer, 24, Season 1