True Winter Solstice

I was just watching Fox News and saw this saying that was posted at the state capital of Illinois. I decided to immediately make a poem of a rebuttal. My idea is that his thinking is backwards, thus I began the poem how he ended it. I sent this poem to Fox News. Please pray God will use this to cause people to think on the absurdity of the Atheist's comments. I posted his saying first and then my poem below it, so you can compare the two...

At this season of
THE WINTER SOLSTICE
may reason prevail.

There are no gods,
no devils, no angels,
no heaven or hell.
There is only our natural world.
Religion is but
myth and superstition
that hardens hearts
and enslaves minds.

And my rebuttal...

At this season of

TRUE WINTER SOLSTICE
May Truth prevail

Your mind is enslaved
Because your heart is hardened
Myth and superstition
Is your religion
There is only our real world
In Heaven or hell you’ll be
With angels or devils for eternity
There are no gods but One
Your reason will fail

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

I'll have a crazy busy week next week and then we'll leave for Michigan Christmas Eve after work. We haven't been to Michigan for Christmas for several years, so we are especially excited.



Have a great week beginning with the Lord's day tomorrow and have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Collateralized Debt Obligation

I couldn't resist posting a link from a blog I follow. He brilliantly compares CDO's to Mr. Potter from "It's a Wonderful Life"...

http://fdralloveragain.blogspot.com/2009/12/cdos-that-disappeared.html

Sorry, you'll have to paste and copy. I can't figure out how to create the link.

True Riches

There has been a lot of talk about gold as of late. The value has increased dramatically within the last several years. Some think we may even see $3,000 gold. Hmm...could be I suppose, but it could also be another bubble such as the tech stocks back in the 90's. At any rate, my mind has been thinking on what is valuable. To some, it's silver or gold. To most, it's money in some form or fashion. Solomon taught that true riches are knowledge, understanding and wisdom and should be sought as hidden treasure. If I told you there was a pile of gold hidden somewhere within a 10 mile radius of a particular area and that the value was over 10 million dollars, how hard would you search? Also, what if I guaranteed you could have the 10 million all to yourself if you but only found it? Would you not devote all your efforts tirelessly to find such a treasure?
Our Father is rich beyond all imagination and He has offered these riches to us if we but ask, seek and knock. Oh some see this as asking for selfish desires and that our Father will delight in giving us whatever we want just like a spoiled child. However, we are a child of the King of the Universe and we have all things. What kind of pull then does worldly riches have to a King's son? He has learned the value and reality of what true riches are. Knowledge, understanding and wisdom of the God of the Universe are of more value than the riches of a thousand kings. My friend, these riches are available to us! However, we must ask in faith, nothing wavering. We come at the back of our Saviour and thus we can come boldly to the throne. Our Father does indeed give us what we ask, but always in accordance with His will. He will give us the desires of our heart. Those God-given desires will cause us to seek and pray for the true treasures. God will give good gifts to His children. Has He not given us His Spirit? Will He not grant us more of Himself?
Sometimes it seems as if He stops by for a visit and then quickly leaves. The emptiness left is somewhat unbearable the times He seems to leave for good. Yet, I know He will never leave or forsake us. What seems contradictory is a flaw within our own humanity is it not? Doubts arise from our hellish nature. What is the remedy? Surely we see through a glass darkly. Many nights we are in the garden flat on our face begging for strength, our sword barely holding our head above the ground. Blood falls to the same ground where our God and countless saints have fought. This blood is not lost my friend! It's gathered into the bosom of our loving Father. Not one tear goes without notice.
We are in a real battle my brothers and sisters. What then does worldly riches profit? Take a thousand soldiers with all worldly goods and let them face but one soldier who has the wisdom, knowledge and understanding of a thousand wise men and the choice is obvious. Let the thousand come with all there furry. This one soldier will stand upon a mountain. He will pray for it to be moved, for the ground to break open and the lightning to strike. He knows the heart of God and will ask and receive, because he prays according to His will. He comes not with spears or swords, but with the hosts of heaven on his side. He stands not in his pride, but in his knowledge of the Holy.
True riches are to know God. To understand Him (though imperfectly). There is even wisdom in a soldier laying all weapons down and submitting to his foes. When to do this takes wisdom and can accomplish more than the slaying of a thousand enemies.
No matter how much my mind contemplates various needs of my heart, it always comes back to one essential truth...to know Him.

"Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me..."
Jer. 9:23-24a

Truth and Reality

Would I like you if you were famous?
Millions of voices screaming
Pandering for your attention
The span of a football field
Touching down to the crowd
Like a pharaoh with eager servants
And mindless concubines

What are your intentions
For a question like this
Care I not for the heart?
Look I not for Truth?
Truth is all I need
Truth in you
And Truth in me

Would you like me if I were famous?
Center stage with attention
From the masses
Full of pride
Hidden behind sunglasses
Rising to the top
Of your mind
Like a splinter

With scissors you cut
Me from a magazine
It’s what you want
So pin it to your mirror
Scream for sheer joy
For there I am with you
Yet I’m not there at all

Maybe that’s not you
And maybe that’s not me
From illusions let’s be free
I will love you and
You can love me
And together we can
Love the world
For reality is what we see

12/10/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Consuming Thoughts

I hesitated to share this.
Please forgive my self reflection, but I know I'm not alone in this...

I have just had a revelation that may not be a revelation to those who know me. I am very picky (well, I knew that part), but I am picky to the point that I like everything a certain way and when it's not, it really bothers me. I mean, sometimes things not being a certain way overly consumes my thoughts. I try to figure out a way to make everything...and I mean everything the way I would like it to be. When I finally get something the way I like it...then I'm satisfied and can rest my mind.
For example: I looked for a GPS unit for about a year before I finally committed to buying one. I studied and researched and played with them at electronic stores etc...to the point it consumed my thoughts on a daily basis. I absolutely had to understand every GPS out there, including using GPS on a small laptop, phone or a portable media device. I became an expert in a pointless pursuit. I did finally make a decision and felt really good that I got exactly the GPS I wanted out of every GPS available in the entire world (I'm not kidding). I am like this with most everything. The good part is when I find something I like, I'm satisfied and pretty much will stick with it. (I bought 3 pairs of one shoe that I liked). I think this can be a good trait, but the problem I see is the time spent (literal and in my mind) trying to satisfy my every desire. This can be a problem. The temptation is to place this same type of standard on my family and friends. I really only have a few carefully chosen close friends partly because of this reason. Friends should first of all, be without reserve those who are part of my church family. They are my brothers and sisters and God is the one Who chooses them, not me. Therefore, my urge to analyze exactly the type of friend I want is thus unnecessary and even evil. The urge instead needs to be an analytical analysis of how to help my brothers and sisters be more like Christ and not meeting my own selfish desires. AND!..this must first start with myself! Yes, I do this and to the point where I'm over critical...I'm never to the point where I'm satisfied. This is good in one sense, but debilitating in another. My mind can be over consumed with my inadequacies. I know I'm not the only person who struggles with this and thus my comment (lest I be self-indulging). My friends, may we not be over consumed with any thoughts, but with Jesus Christ. Our minds can never think on Him too much and we will never be "satisfied", for we do not have enough years to analyze and understand this God Who died for us. What can contain the intricacies of our God? Can words? Can thoughts? Can this universe? All are contained within Him. Our minds can not grasp this and yet there is a peace. Our peace is in our trusting of Him. Faith in this Infinite God. Faith in our Loving God. Love is Who He is and yet this word does not contain Him. He is ... and I almost tremble anytime I read, write or type His name...He is...I AM. (fall to the ground in your mind and heart)No explanation needed, for He is Who He is and we except by faith He will do what He will do, because of Who He is. One thing we do know for sure...He first loved us and gave Himself for us. Thus we love Him, because He first loved us. Let us rest in one thing...that we know Him and that we will continually know Him. We do not need to look for another! He is our everything. Analyze yes, but with a confidence that He is the very God of the Universe and there is no other. We analyze not if He is the God to follow, but rather how we are to follow this God and to know more of Who our Father is. Thank God for His Word that gives us exactly what we need to know of Him right now. Let us know Him in spirit and in truth. Let us know you oh God! Give us good gifts Father! Give us not a stone! We are hungry and thirsty! Fill us O Lord! We desire not candy, but real food! Thank you O Father that You are Good. You are Loving. You are Merciful. You are All-Knowing and thus we rest our thoughts in You. Consume our thoughts.

Consume our thoughts.

Candy Land

Triple decker chocolate ice cream
Melting from the scorching sun
Moving fast to keep from dripping
Down before you hear the gun

Double dose of sugar candy
Taken from a child of three
Make him move away from danger
Save him from the stormy sea

One shot of vanilla latte
Perk you up for what’s to come
Dodging bullets and escaping danger
You can hear the beating drum

Life is short and so they tell you
Take your pills and resist the need
To fill yourself with fleeting pleasure
will damage your reigning seed

Candy Land is here to save you
Eat all that you want
Gorge yourself with every amusement
This is what this Land will taunt

This is the dream of Candy Land
To obtain your hopes and wants
To spend your life reaching for this feeling
Of the message of the taunts

Just a little more of this
and maybe a little bit of that
You will be fulfilled and happy
You will finally reach your stat

Candy eventually kills my friend
It rots you to the core
Take heed to resist the taunts
of always wanting more

11/18/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I Should Have Been a Ninja

I should have been a Ninja
I like to wear black
I sleep with a sword
In case of an attack

I should have been a Ninja
I got skills with a staff
I am usually quite
Even when I laugh

I should have been a Ninja
I like to wear masks
To hide my identity
So don’t even ask

I should have been a Ninja
But there is one problem you see
I don’t like to kill
I like to make free

If I were a Ninja
I would try to set free
Children from predators
In terror they would flee

If I were a Ninja
I would secretly find
The plans of a terrorist
To kill all mankind

I would copy the plans
On a copy machine
Fax them to the world
For everyone to see

If I were a Ninja
In secret I’d help the weak
Give of my time
Their good I would seek

I would give of my goods
To feed those that hunger
Especially the elder and
Especially the younger

It then hits me
And I finally see...
A Ninja of freedom!
That’s what I’ll be!

11-6-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Those of you that know me well, know the first section is literally true (well, ok maybe not an expert at the bo staff)....the last section....let it be! I think this would make a good children's book. There is actually a lot of meaning to this poem though, if you think about it. The main message here is that many times we dream of being something great (according to our own ideas), yet we can be the greatest by being the least of all. This is true freedom...freedom from self. Let's all be Ninja's of Freedom, devoting our lives to others.

I am vaccinated by your touch
Protecting me from viral love
The antidote for my
Poisonous insecurities
That haunt me like
morphinic dreams

I can’t hide
For you hear my heart
Like a stethoscope
Pressed against my chest

Hold me
Press your lips
Against me
And penetrate me
Like a needle
In my skin of stone

You have a scalpel
That carves out
My stress
Filling the holes
With peace

Peace
but not quite
For your whisper
Gently reminds
Me everyday
I am yours
And
You are mine

11/4/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I am not much of a romantic, but here is my first real attempt at a kind of romantic poem. Allison hates it, but I usually fast forward through any type of romantic moments in a movie. I did give my romantic poem some action to help me make it through...you know needles, scalpels and poison. I haven't written for awhile and out comes a romantic poem tonight...go figure. Maybe I ran out of creative juices and finally submitted to writing romantically. : ) This is rare, but I couldn't think of a title...Nurse?, um Poison Love?...uh Doctor Love...ok I'm kidding, but I really couldn't think of an appropriate title.

Make Believe

Plastic mannequins playing cards
While wax figures melt away
Lego houses with Barbi doll toys
This is the path of loneliness
leading to the path of the crazy
Where has time gone?
Wake up to what’s real
Let time be stole no more

Pain is what separates you
from the plastic soldier
Melt the plastic
Recycle
and rejoice
in the splinters
for you are alive

Now live.

9/29/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved


I really haven't written much lately. I suppose my new position has had my mind overly occupied as of late. This poem may seem a little odd to post. My meditation here is on the trappings of creating "make believe" worlds to give us the illusion of intimate satisfaction. I remember seeing a documentary on Michael Jackson and he had these wax figures and mannequins he would keep in his room. My first reaction was "this guy is a psycho", but then I thought about how sad this was. Here is a guy who had millions of people that "loved" him and longed to be with him. Yet, he was so lonely that he surrounded himself with imaginary friends. From my own perception, I imagine that "real" people are not trustworthy. They cause hurts, disappointments and the like. In this age of facebook, blogs, myspace etc. there can be the temptation to be satisfied with a sort of cyber friendship, while distancing ourselves from those around us. I think these are great tools to enhance relationships, meet new friends or just to keep in touch. Perhaps for most people this has strengthened friendships. I am glad we have these tools, but at the same time let's not lose site of what's real. All that being said, let's not lose site of our One True Friend. Let's not lose site of our families. Another relationship that is critical is our local church. You can't find church online or through sermon downloads. We are instructed to "not forsake the assembling our ourselves together". The local church is what Christ uses to keep us accountable, to establish real, true and intimate relationships. Other relationships are great, but let's not forget the intimate relationships where God has chosen to intertwine us. Here is where people can see the "real you" and maybe therein lies the hesitation.

Sunflower

Wilting Sunflower
From days gone by
Slowly reminding
Of the fall to come

Snow covers
Holding it down
Yielding to sacrifice
of all

What comes forth
Shall be seen…
Spring will
Come again.

10-13-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

A Matter of Time

"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around [the banks] will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered. The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs."
Thomas Jefferson, (Attributed)
3rd president of US (1743 - 1826)


"Banking was conceived in iniquity and was born in sin. The bankers own the earth. Take it away from them, but leave them the power to create money, and with the flick of the pen they will create enough deposits to buy it back again. However, take away from them the power to create money and all the great fortunes like mine will disappear and they ought to disappear, for this would be a happier and better world to live in. But, if you wish to remain the slaves of bankers and pay the cost of your own slavery, let them continue to create money." Josiah Stamp 1880 - 1941


“It is well enough that the people of the nation do not understand our banking and monetary system, for if they did, I believe there would be a revolution before tomorrow morning.” - Henry Ford


"The issue which has swept down the centuries and which will have to be fought sooner or later is the people versus the banks."
- Lord Acton

Just A Whisper

Top to bottom
bottom to top
Let me give
you a tip
You can leave it
or not

Six feet from falling
fresh breath of stale air
Time is tickn’
and there’s no
time to spare

Overcoming the surge
Overcoming the strain
the path of destruction
the path of pain
Take my hand my friend
To my whispers
take heed
I don’t know what you’ve
been through
but I know what you need

See, I’ve been
to the same place
though a different path
I’m sure
but let me tell you this…
I know there’s a cure


Look at your feet
you’re standing on the ledge
You’ll hit bottom
Back away from the edge
You think you can take it
but it’s takin’ you
It’s eating your soul
It’s taken not a few

It will eat like a canker
It will rust you to bone
It will kill your
sense of humor
It will turn you
to stone
It will determine
your movements
Control every thought
Mind over matter…
or so you thought

What can I say
when I speak
to deaf ears?
I will still
only whisper
And you must
face your fears.

9-8-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Why the Cross? (wading through the fog)

What is this SIN
Chains melted to my skin
molded to my bones
Crusted and weathered
Peeling from guilt
Shameless promotion
of filth.

What is the CROSS?
What was the cost?
Blood from GOD
Blood from His Son
Blood from the Spirit
Three in One

Symbol of what?
What hath God wrought?
Little forgiven (so it seems)
Little given
Little
just a jot or tittle
Yet what depths
of despair
Why did He care?

GRASP…?
GASP!
I SPat in His Face!
What place have I?
I denied
I killed
and still
live for thrills

MERCY!
…I’m told
but yet
yet…I’m bold
SIN!
WHY?
Do I believe?
My flesh says
“I can achieve!”

Oh wicked heart
what hope is
there of you?
I will count only
to two
..you fall
you fail
you’re frail

I say to myself
“HOPE IN GOD!”
What is hope?
everything is hazy
maybe I’m lazy
maybe I’m crazy
but just maybe
The answer is
simple
and my mind
is playing defense…

8/20/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved


Written from the perspective of a lost person dealing with the realization of their sin and the Cross.

Till Death Do Us Part

I see the serpent
in the darkness
manifesting as light
The father of lies
fighting for their
minds

I will stand up for them
I will kneel down for them
I will bleed out for them
I will give my last breath
till death
till life
ends

Little minds
so innocent
They’re free from
the filth
of your deceit
of your curse
of your chains

I will stand up for them
I will kneel down for them
I will bleed out for them
I will give my last breath
till death
till life
ends

Turn now
DEVIL
for your doom
is sure
I call upon
the Rock
so Holy
so Pure

He will stand up for them
You will kneel down to Him
For He bled for them
Gave His last breath for them
till death
Resurrected life
Your END

8/20/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

You Wear My Shoes

You wear my shoes
and yeah all kids do it.
But this time it’s different
you look up at me
and I see
I see
me

ME

Who am I?
The question for the
ages right?
I go to the mirror
to see this man
you want to be.
It’s not what I
want to see
for I see
I see
me

Free

I must free
this man
in the mirror
Take away
his fears
take away his
tears
I smear them
on the glass
and write
your name

Break

I must break
this man
My fist
clenches
with all
my might
I punch
the mirror
bleeding
with hope

Carry

A piece of glass
sticks in my
hand
The scar
I carry
always
reminding
me
of what
I saw
and what
I want
to see.

In you

In me

8-1-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Exegesis

I think the problem is of eisegesis
There needs to be more of exegesis
Yeah it rhymes with His name, but that
can be denigrating
flippantly rhyming with
sorry words of explanation…

back to the subject
What’s made public
is sometimes tainted
I mean give me exegesis
Not programmed
interpretations to match
contented feelings
Feelings are fleeting
beating what the heart
decides it needs
upon illusions it feeds
Gorging on junk food
Instead, feed the hungry…

Anyway, back to the subject
Let’s look at the facts
Let’s analyze what’s real
Let’s not base on
what “he says” – “she says”
of what they only feel
Rather kneel
Confess ignorance
and open to blatant
TRUTH
What is truth you ask?
Are you being cocky?
Ah! Ask this question
with sincerity
and then your eyes
will open

This is a good subject
let’s continue on…
TRUTH is plain
to the one who’s naked
Bring nothing
and you’ll be clothed
with what is REAL
Reality will set in
and exegesis
will enlighten
your senses
You will then
have one question
to answer
and you can
rest in peace
my friend.
For there is
one answer
and this determines
your end…

7/26/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Kiss the Son (reposted with spacing and font changes)

God of all gods
I dare not mention
Their names
Why mention a spark
In the midst of the sun
When the sun gives the spark?
Forgive the expression
For nothing describes
Nothing explains
Nothing contains
He is …
The English letters do no justice…
He is…
I AM
Feel it in the chest
Fall back to the ground
Selah.

Holy is His name
All powerful
Everlasting
Without sin
So pure to overcome
The worst of transgressions
Matchless
King of all
Though He tarries
Holy One of Israel
Is still on His throne
Master of all
What king can
Guide affairs as this?
Tell me what ruler
Can bear the sword
In righteousness?
What is His name?
And what is His Son’s name?

You will bow before Him
Oh wicked man
Flee from His presence
Oh wicked one
Where will you go?
Let the fear well up
Let the hate burn
Or else now turn
Forever
You will pay
You’ve denied
The Holy One
You’ve stood in
Wretched unbelief
Your doubtful mind
Has listened to the
Lies of your pitiful master
Break the wicked
Oh Father
For they have
Done wickedly
They have denied
Your only begotten Son
Your precious Gift
They are without excuse

Stand up oh rulers
Stand before your true King
He demands your presence
Only to bow at His feet
Worship Him and Him only
He has brought you here
Bow before Him in fear
Tremble at His name
All creation melts
Satan obeys
There is no other way
What can you then say?
No words can come
As you kneel in awe

He rises at His throne
Causing all mouths to be stopped
All Creation to yield
All molecules to stand at attention
As the pureness and magnificence
of His Voice calls out
And reaches the corners
Of the universe
Causing the stars
To sing
The rocks to cry out
The oceans to flee
The mountains to be removed
The planets to shake in their orbit
Your vocal cords obey
In worship and adoration
To the most High God
The God above all gods
The One true God
The Only King
The King of the Universe
Selah.

Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron;
thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed,
ye judges of the earth.

Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from
the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
Psalm 2:9-12

4-8-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

She Keeps Asking Questions

She keeps asking questions
and I don’t have the answers
I don’t even understand the questions.
She looks at me intently
expecting me to know
or at least figure out
what she’s trying to say.
But sometimes I just can’t
figure her out
I just don’t know what to say.
Maybe it’s me
or perhaps because she’s a girl.
But most likely it’s because
she’s my dog.

7-10-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Crying Rainbows

It’s the way they see me

from a distance
I’m in this box
fake smiles
and botox

I’m crying rainbows

They see beauty
beyond the pain
beyond the fame
beyond the rain
because

I’m crying rainbows

Oh don’t they
hear the thunder?
Don’t they
see the darkness?
To them the storm
is beautiful

I’m crying rainbows

Someday they will see
the storms that plagued me
the thunder that roared
the rain within my soul
The day I stop

Crying rainbows

7-3-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Lately I've been thinking a lot about people who on the outside seem like they have it all to the world, but inwardly they are dying. This is the case with many (maybe most) famous people. There is a gaping hole covered up with applause. But like the applause at the end of an amazing demonstration, so the fleeting satisfaction of their happiness. It lasts oh so short. Perhaps an encore, but nevertheless fleeting. Their inward cries breed amazing accomplishments. Their vice's bleed beautiful rainbows that others enjoy, missing the storm that produced such beauty. This picture really impacted me. I really think the picture says it all.

Famous

In your mind
In my mind
do you mind?
mind your manners
raise your banners
what you thinkin'?
Are you thinkin’
what I’m thinkin'?
Are you feelin’
what I feel?
Doubt it

You see
you are not me
and I am not you
and I can not
be inside where you see
For me to do
what I do
I must think the way
I think
You interpret what
you see
through the eyes of
what you feel

Here take my lenses
I’ll let go of my defenses
stand before you bare
warts and blemishes
make a joke
about my fences
My guard down
removing the face
of a clown
Yeah that smile
was painted
tainted
let’s get acquainted

Fall like an avalanche
quick you better
grab a branch
This rush of pain
you see
will kill you
because It’s killin’ me
yeah I got a problem
but you can’t see
it’s me

I have a dream
look closer
beyond the faults
beyond the noise
even then
you’ll only see
what you see
for you see
with your eyes
and I with mine
so look somewhere else
while I continue on
with this path
I’m trodden on
down the slope
I keep slippin' on
keep trippin' on
keep flippin' on
and on and on

Won’t someone
stop me?

But they see
the exciting motion
of the downhill slope
something they don’t
want to be
but rather see

Makes them feel
better I guess
looking from the bottom
watching me fall from
the mountain.

7-3-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

This Is It

This is it
It’s done
The searching
is over
The long days
no more
The paths now ending

Painful nights
submission to
peace

Foggy daylight
fading
clear

Embracing the end
remembering
forgetting

7-1-09

Is it so great being a Ninja?

Everywhere you go you have to sneak around

You mainly have to work 3rd shift

You’re always dressed in black
…a little gothic don’t you think?

You have to carry around so much baggage
you know…stars, smoke bombs etc. etc.

You never really can reveal yourself to anyone
Also, no one can ever know if you are happy, sad or angry…
you always have the ninja face

If you make one mistake, even just a very small mistake
you could die

When you go to sleep you always have to wonder,
“Is another Ninja mad at me?”

I’m sorry, but this is too much pressure.
Maybe you should think about being a peasant?

(propaganda from a Samurai)

6/23/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

INternal INtervention

Have I influenced
the increasingly
instituted individuals
who have invented
interpretations
not otherwise introduced?

Do they have issues
installed by initiated
self-introspection?
Or perhaps instructions
from implemented ideas
to improve?

Hmm…
This is not about “I”
but rather what’s “in”

Internally true

Show me your true identification
you may need to perform
an internal investigation

Surgery if need be
I’ll pull it out of your chest
show you your heart
See it beat
the music of your
true self

In so much as I can explain
It’s not about me
but it’s about you

Influence can be like
Influenza
Sickening isn’t it?
Catch it if you can
I carry the bug
Does it bug you I care?

I’m not passing the
H1 N1
but more like the
I1 U1
We’re all infected
and it’s not about “I”
but it’s what’s “in”

Internally true

Welcome to my lair
my spare
time

tic toc
tic

before the toc
I stop the clock
and cause you to
wonder
what you are
what you’re doing
this life you’re pursuing

Wallowing in advice
and mellowing out
the drama
whether about Obama,
Osama,
or your Momma

Staggering what’s true
But that’s how you feel
when you have the flu

Take two capsules
call me in the morning
I’m in your head
now meditate in sickness
upon your bed

Reflect upon this sickness
of mine
that points out the sickness
in you.
It’s not about “I”
but rather about
whats “in”

Internally true

So?...before it’s too late.
What’s truly in me?
and my friend…
What’s truly in You?

Tic toc
tic…

6-20-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I usually don't use this type of tone, but I thought the subject matter called for it. I also wanted to do something out from the ordinary...looking back I suppose it has somewhat of a rap tone though. : )

To Death With Lies

You surrounded me with walls
Entangled me with affairs
Tied me down with my flaws
Pointed out the stairs

I took the stairs as a challenge
And climbed to the top
I didn’t listen to the railing
Or the urge to stop

Yet, your words cut deep
Yes, they drew blood
The focus on my faults
Came in like a flood

Knocking me off my feet
And falling to the ground
You drew your sword
Stood upon a mound

High in the air you now
Thrust to kill
Painful words not enough
My blood you will spill

I muster the strength
To move just in time
I grab the handle
This now is my crime

Hold still my destroyer
Don’t you dare move
I now have the power
And I have something to prove

Get down on your knees
And beg for another breath
This is the pain you caused
Let me show you the depth

Hold still now as I carve
Out my pain
For all these memories
You will be slain

The sword draws swiftly
Straight for the neck
He is grimacing
An emotional wreck

The sword cut like butter
And to my captive’s surprise
With all my strength
I had cut through his lies

Yes, I spared his life that day
At the same moment saving mine
His lies are now dead
And I am just fine.

6/16/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Beating the Drum of Doom

He can’t seem to stop
The beating
The continual meeting
Of Doom

He can’t seem to stop
The beat
The defeat
That looms

He doesn’t want to play
That’s what he
will always say
Yet he pounds

Let’s go another round
The sound
Intoxicating
Debilitating

Shocking yet true
He beats
Til he turns blue
Doom

Bang
Tap tap
Bang

Bang Bang
Tap
Bang Bang Bang
Play that thang…boy

“It’s the only thing
You're good at
Keep saying you
Won’t make it
You can’t take it
Beat until you bleed”
The devil said

Why am I listening
To the voice of a fallen
Angel?!
Just then
He took the sticks
And started banging
Upside the devil’s head.

It went a little
Like this…
Bang Bang
Tippety tang tang
Shpot Shpot
Diggety whit whock
Haggedy who hang
Fickety pho shang

And this is the
New song
He played.
He decided to
Beat Doom.

6-12-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Ok this is a little odd to post after my last submission, but hey, once in awhile I need to write something a little less serious.

Precious Death

They nailed the spikes
completely through His hands
As they praised
the flow of His blood
Little did they know
They released (with permission)
the very Power of God
Blood that would cleanse
and would not stain
Blood that pierced man’s soul

Gave life to the lifeless
Took the keys from Hell
Death has no more sting
What then O man
can you take from me?
What can you possibly do?
For if you take my life
I will gladly be
Home with the One you bruise.

My blood unworthy
Yet for Him let it flow
For my Father’s kingdom
Cannot be stopped
Kill (with permission)
Maim without regard
For being a martyr
Cannot be topped!

I am already dead
You see
This life is not for me
He laid down His life
so that I may live
A new life He gave
to me.

I am just a visitor
in a foreign land
You offer a ticket home
Why would I desire to stay
where sickness and sin
on this earth
doth continually roam?

Here’s a knife
Let me sharpen it for you
Or if you prefer
As dull as you want
In fact, take your time
with your plight
So I can savor
What’s precious
In His sight

I am ready to take
My flight.
Yes I am ready to
Take my flight.

After your deed is done
Raise your knife
To the sky
Let the blood
drip to the ground
in celebration
I will be where
No blood is needed
where pain
has been defeated

I will be rejoicing
With you
Raise your voices
With joy!
For you have helped
Further a Kingdom
That has no end
A Kingdom for which
I need not defend
For with a single
Word
All enemies will be
Defeated.

Where does this boldness
Come from you ask?
Fool* What kind of question is this?
If you could only see
This dreadful God
A magnificent Force indeed!
Why would I fear
A worm such as yourself?
When He gives
Your strength to thee?

Father forgive them
They don’t know
What they are doing
Let them see
What made me free
May they kiss your Son
Now
before it’s too late
Please give them passage
To the northern gate.

As I take my last breath
I thank you for the chance
To take part in what many fear
This bravery is not mine
For I am Thine
Your Spirit puts to death
Unworthy fears

Revive your people O God! Awaken dead men’s bones…
to be martyred again. Put to death our childish fears.
Let us boldly embrace our cross with both hands, letting
go of all worldly ambitions. Holding it close as a gift from our
Supreme God, Who does all things to the council of His
own will.
Remembering our Father looks fondly upon the
precious death of His saints.

6/7/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD [is] the death of his saints.
*Psalm 14:1-5 The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good.
The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, [and] seek God.
They are all gone aside, they are [all] together become filthy: [there is] none that doeth good, no, not one.
Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people [as] they eat bread, and call not upon the LORD.
There were they in great fear: for God [is] in the generation of the righteous.



Please understand this is not how I feel every day...embracing pain, suffering and death. When I stay in a right relationship with Him, when I see Him as He is, when I experience His power, His unfailing love, His Holiness...then yes...O Father let me be on the front lines! Like David with a sling what can we possibly fear? Is not our God Master of all? Do you not want to please Him Who sacrificed His own Blood in our place? If He chooses to let us die, then so be it! What an honor to die for the King of the Universe! Ah, but this wretched flesh that we still live in! It balks at the idea. We fall back to it's comforts, it's foolish desires and then we want nothing to do with pain, suffering and the such. God help us! And yes, this is exactly what He does! He does not let us face anything that He will not give us the grace to make it through. We see this countless times when His true worshipers face death. He is more concerned for His name than we could possibly ever be. O Lord, have mercy upon us! Fill us with Your power, Your boldness and Your wisdom. May Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

The Thunder Drowns

Sometimes I wish
I could drown
In the sea of forgetfulness
Swim in the ocean
Of simplicity
Do the backstroke
Over the depths

Yet I hold my breath
As they take me under
Their current is too strong
It’s my undertow
Can’t go against the flow
I row and row
Till I can row no more

Many times they appear still
But it’s the peace before the storm
I see the clouds rolling in
and the water stirring
I hear the thunder
Even before it comes
Drowning all other thoughts

Memories flood
and wash away
the good times
I’m thrown overboard
In the worst of storms
Gulping for air –
I’m drowning

I cry out
Where is my lifeboat?!
I take my last breath
As I’m going under
One last look at the sky
Accepting my fate – sinking…
Just then I see your face
Drowning out the thunder.

5-23-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

My Two Swords

My grandpa’s sword
Rests between my mattress
Ready to defend
if awakened from sleep
This sword defended our nation
Stood for liberty, justice and freedom
Protected the peace

I peacefully rest now
For this sword has won
That right
It’s struck the heart of evil
Pulling out the enemies’
Will to fight
Rest in peace tonight

Another Sword sits beside my bed
Countless
have poured their souls
They fought for peace
of another land
A land of peace they’ve told
Rest in Peace

John and Mary Williams 1839
Killed and their bodies eaten
William Tyndale 1536 burned at the stake
for translating the Sword into English.
Easter Sunday 1066 Alphage was
blundgeoned to death finished off
mercifully with an ax-blow to the head.
Paul the Apostle – beheaded.
Stephen – stoned
The Apostle James – beheaded
Peter – Crucified upside down
Matthew – Pinned to the ground and beheaded
Andrew - tied to an “X”- shaped cross to die a
slow and painful death.
Bartholomew – skin almost entirely removed
with whips, then crucified
Thomas – tortured, thrown into an oven and
stuck through with spears
Luke – hung from an olive tree
Simon – sawn in half
Polycarp – threatened by fire stated ”You threaten me
with a fire that burns an hour and is soon quenched, for
you are ignorant of the fire of the coming judgement
and eternal punishment stored up for the ungodly. But
why do you delay? Do what you want.”
Thousands more martyred
for the Sword
that lays beside my bed.
Rest in peace.

Two swords
For two freedoms
I remember the thousands
who fought for this land
and the thousands who fought
for the land beyond.
As I rest today, I thank you
For your sacrifice.

5-23-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

So You Think You are Something

So you are musical
You can hold a key
Maybe you’re extremely smart
Maybe even artsy

Your thing might be
You are witty
Or perhaps
Unusually pretty

Strength might be
Your claim
Or intellect
Is like a game

You may have more
Power than most
Or have riches
To boast

Maybe it’s your
Popularity
Your unforgettable
Familiarity

Maybe you’re good at
What you do
And you think others
Don’t have a clue

But I have something
To say
For I saw something
Today

The most humble
Person was she
She bent down
On one knee

Held out her
Hand
To someone others
Couldn’t stand

She gave heed
To what seemed
Was worthless
As others deemed

But I tell you sir
She changed a life
She took out of his
Heart a knife

She gave straightness
To a bended back
She gave him
What he did lack

What person though famous
He may be
Could change a life
To now be made free?

Most all are out
For their own
Please them
They are on the throne

But give me this woman’s
Compassion
Not the world’s idea
Of fashion

For this is the power
That will
Change the world…
Love for the broken
Love for the faint
Love for the hopeless
Love without restraint

I tip my hat to you sister
For you have something
Most will never see
For they may never
Dare attempt
To bend the knee


4-25-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

THE GRACIOUSNESS OF UNCERTAINTY

It doth not yet appear what we shall be.

Naturally, we are inclined to be so mathematical and calculating that we look upon uncertainty as a bad thing. We imagine that we have to reach some end, but that is not the nature of spiritual life. The nature of spiritual life is that we are certain in our uncertainty, consequently we do not make our nests anywhere. Common sense says - "Well, supposing I were in that condition . . ." We cannot suppose ourselves in any condition we have never been in. Certainty is the mark of the common-sense life: gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life. To be certain of God means that we are uncertain in all our ways, we do not know what a day may bring forth. This is generally said with a sigh of sadness, it should be rather an expression of breathless expectation. We are uncertain of the next step, but we are certain of God. Immediately we abandon to God, and do the duty that lies nearest, He packs our life with surprises all the time. When we become advocates of a creed, something dies; we do not believe God, we only believe our belief about Him. Jesus said, "Except ye become as little children." Spiritual life is the life of a child. We are not uncertain of God, but uncertain of what He is going to do next. If we are only certain in our beliefs, we get dignified and severe and have the ban of finality about our views; but when we are rightly related to God, life is full of spontaneous, joyful uncertainty and expectancy.

"Believe also in Me," said Jesus, not - "Believe certain things about Me." Leave the whole thing to Him, it is gloriously uncertain how He will come in, but He will come. Remain loyal to Him.

1 John 3:2

Oswald Chambers - My Utmost For His Highest


I haven't read My Utmost for quite some time now. I am glad I recently started again. Rare is the writing that captures my attention as his material. I could post a daily reading from Oswald Chambers and never bore. At any rate, I will post a link that I found where you can read a daily quote.

The Song I'll Never Forget

I sit here again
Waiting for the words to come
My hands are frozen
And my head is numb
Come to me my fairest
Reveal to me your plans
Spill out on this paper
Give me your demands

I sit here motionless
Tired from the day
Words have been used up
I’ve got nothing to say
Because the dam is backed up
They were tugging my chain
Kicking me in the butt
Saying I was to blame

I sit here broken
Flat out depressed
Then you whisper
My love, my dear, I am hear
Sit upon my breasts
Her fingers through my hair
As she begins to sing a song
The angels surround me
They were there all along
But she has that voice
That calls them by name
They all sing in chorus
Tis the reason they came
She leads the choir
And this is what they sang…
Rest in peace my dear
You have nothing to fear
Hold my hand my love
And listen to what I speak of
The heavens declare His glory
His mercies new every morning
This day will pass
And it will not last
Tomorrow you’ll see
That you’re indeed free
And if it should take longer
If you can’t let it go
Come back to my lap
More love I’ll bestow
For this love of mine
It has no end
I will be here forever
My time with you to spend
For you’re the one I’ve chosen
I’ve nothing more but thee
I give myself to you
All of it for free
Rest now my love
Close your eyes and sleep
I will be here in the morning
I will count your sheep
Drift now my love
To the land so fair
Where there is no pain
And where there is no care
This is what she sang to me
And I’ll never forget
For it was the most tender caress
A man could ever get
And thus the words spilled out
They flowed without restraint
Because of her devotion
Beautiful words it did paint


4/17/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

This is dedicated to my wife, who plays with my hair, rubs my back, or even my feet after a long day, even when she is tired. She rises early many times to serve me before I head to work, always asking "what do you want today?". She treats me far better than I deserve and this encourages me to love her as Christ loves the church and gave Himself for it. (from which I fall absurdly short) She doesn't tell me so much with words, but everyday she reminds me with her actions. I don't say or show this nearly as much as I should, but I love you hun.
The song "Something That We Do" is a song I'll never forget...I played it in my truck as my wife and I drove to our honeymoon destination the day after we were married. I jokingly sang the part "I remember well the day we wed, I can see that picture in my head...". (she chuckled and that was the first of many dry humor moments she would experience through these many years). I still sing it to her from time to time (and still think it's funny).

The End is Near

It’s almost midnight
The end is coming
You’re drinking your tea
(or whatever vice grabs you)
But this night is like no other
Like a thief he comes
And there’s nothing
You can do
Remember your lies boy
Those colluded thoughts
You’ve got debts to pay
And they’ve come due
Surely you knew
This day was approaching
Your sins have accrued
Change your mood
Time is tickin’ dude
And you’re running out of time
Pull up a chair
Watch the show
Your gonna pay for your crime
Maybe spend some hard time
And if you’re not ready…
You better file an extension.

4/15/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Kiss the Son

God of all gods
I dare not mention
Their names
Why mention a spark
In the midst of the sun
When the sun gives the spark?
Forgive the expression
For nothing describes
Nothing explains
Nothing contains
He is …
The English letters do no justice…
He is…
I AM
Feel it in the chest
Fall back to the ground
Selah.

Holy is His name
All powerful
Everlasting
Without sin
So pure to overcome
The worst of transgressions
Matchless
King of all
Though He tarries
Holy One of Israel
Is still on His throne
Master of all
What king can
Guide affairs as this?
Tell me what ruler
Can bear the sword
In righteousness?
What is His name?
And what is His Son’s name?
You will bow before Him
Oh wicked man
Flee from His presence
Oh wicked one
Where will you go?
Let the fear well up
Let the hate burn
Or else now turn
Forever
You will pay
You’ve denied
The Holy One
You’ve stood in
Wretched unbelief
Your doubtful mind
Has listened to the
Lies of your pitiful master
Break the wicked
Oh Father
For they have
Done wickedly
They have denied
Your only begotten Son
Your precious Gift
They are without excuse
Stand up oh rulers
Stand before your true King
He demands your presence
Only to bow at His feet
Worship Him and Him only
He has brought you here
Bow before Him in fear
Tremble at His name
All creation melts
Satan obeys
There is no other way
What can you then say?
No words can come
As you kneel in awe
He rises at His throne
Causing all mouths to be stopped
All Creation to yield
All molecules to stand at attention
As the pureness and magnificence
of His Voice calls out
And reaches the corners
Of the universe
Causing the stars
To sing
The rocks to cry out
The oceans to flee
The mountains to be removed
The planets to shake in their orbit
Your vocal cords obey
In worship and adoration
To the most High God
The God above all gods
The One true God
The Only King
The King of the Universe
Selah.

Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron;
thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed,
ye judges of the earth.

Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from
the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
Psalm 2:9-12

4-8-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Point 19

I copied just a few paragraphs from an article. For some reason I couldn't put a link here, but if you want to paste and copy... http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/comment/ambroseevans_pritchard/5096524/The-G20-moves-the-world-a-step-closer-to-a-global-currency.html
A whole lot of things have happened within the last 6 months or so. It's amazing how fast things are changing. We are in the midst of an historical time (for multiple reasons). And there is God...in the center of it all...moving the hearts of kings and men as He so chooses.
I am not too smart on exactly how the dollar affects us and how intertwined it is with the rest of the world. It is interesting that Russia and China are pushing for a new currency...to not be so dependent upon the dollar. (I think they are right, by the way) It seems to me that we will be in big trouble though if the dollar was no longer the standard. It seems to me that this would be the final blow to knock us from being the one world power? I have read that China will replace us as the number one superpower within several years anyway. I am sure there must be some news articles about this issue, but I have not seen any. If any one knows of a good article on this issue (replacing the dollar as the standard) Please post in the comments for all to see. These are just some of my thoughts. I have nothing to substantiate. If anyone is knowledgeable in this area, I would love to discuss.
Here are portions of the article..

A single clause in Point 19 of the communiqué issued by the G20 leaders amounts to revolution in the global financial order.

"We have agreed to support a general SDR allocation which will inject $250bn (£170bn) into the world economy and increase global liquidity," it said. SDRs are Special Drawing Rights, a synthetic paper currency issued by the International Monetary Fund that has lain dormant for half a century....

The Russians had hoped their idea to develop SDRs as a full reserve currency to challenge the dollar would make its way on to the agenda, but at least they got a foot in the door.

There is now a world currency in waiting. In time, SDRs are likely evolve into a parking place for the foreign holdings of central banks, led by the People's Bank of China. Beijing's moves this week to offer $95bn in yuan currency swaps to developing economies show how fast China aims to break dollar dependence.



Ambrose Evans-Pritchard - Telegraph.co.uk

Center

What can I say but Thee?
What can I feel but You?
Where will I hide
Where you can’t abide?
You are the center of my will

What are these feelings I feel?
What about the things I’ve seen?
Where have I been?
Where will I go?
You are the center of me

What of the love received?
What of the pain relieved?
Friends forsaken
Family forgiven
You are the center of my fill

What is this way I take?
What of the path I forsake?
Guide me along
Fill my heart with a song
You are the center of my way

What can I then do?
What can I then choose?
The strings are attached
Yet the door is unlatched
You are center stage

Though all prosper or fail
Though all come or turn
It doesn’t really matter
For all is contained
You are center we see

What can we possibly say?
To You we pray...
Do as You please
To our knees we then fall
You are the center of all

Again to our knees we fall
For You are center of all

Forever to our knees we fall
Forever You are center of all

"For of Him, and through Him,
and to Him, are all things: to
Whom be glory for ever. Amen."

4/5/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Prize God in Himself

I have been meditating on the fact of God being our supreme cause of contentment. Thus, the following excerpt spoke to me...

Take heed of confining thy welfare to outward means, as if thou couldst not be happy without such an estate, without so many hundreds in the world; beware of binding up thy life and contentment with the creature, for when we come to part with it, we can as soon part with our lives. The children of God resolve, 'Though the fig-tree do not blossom, and the labour of the olive fail, yet to rejoice in the Lord,' Hab. 3.17, 18. This should be a Christian's resolution, not to trust to the creatures, but in God, though all these things are gone. This is a holy independency, when our hearts are taken off from the creature. The men of the world have only a candle which is soon blown out, an estate that may easily be blasted: but the children of God have the sun, which can stead them without a candle. The Lord saith, Hosea 2.11,12, 'I will cause their mirth to cease,' speaking of the carnal Jews. Why? 'I will destroy her vines and her fig-trees.' All the wicked man's happiness is bound up with the vine and fig-tree, with his estate. Consider, your happiness doth not lie within yourselves, nor in any other creature, but in God alone. God in himself is much better than God in the creature; now carnal men, they prize God in the creature, but not God in himself. And therefore the first thing we must depend upon is that God is an all-sufficient God in himself; not God in friends, not God in wealth, but God in himself. We cannot see how it can be well without friends, and wealth, and liberty, therefore our hearts are glued to them. Oh, take heed of this. All these things are but several pipes to deliver and convey to us the influence of the supreme cause; therefore still prize God in himself before God in the creature.

Thomas Manton - A Treatise of Self-Denial

Explain

Words that are deep
So must I explain?
But how do you express sorrow and pain?
If it could be understood
Then why write it down?
Here is the brush
Paint the red town
The town is red because it bleeds
With sorrow, death, pain and greed
All words have been used so what can you say?
There must be a different way
A cavern of thoughts a pictores mind
Is this how to express what we find?
Can not understand? Maybe that’s the point.
For it is your mind I exploit
Make it dig deep
For words are cheap
Your mind is worth more
Open the door
When you think with thoughts
And not just words
You’ll think like a scholar
And not like a bird

3/8/08
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I have been very hesitant to share this poem, but please read the explanation under "Rainbow" and hopefully this will be less of a blow. My main concern has been that this poem could seem prideful. This was basically a forceful way to cause one to think. By the way, I made up the word "pictores". I was not satisfied with any words in the English language and thus created my own.(fitting for the intentions of this poem I suppose) I just found out though that Pictor is a constellation and the genitive form is indeed "pictores". However, I have to disagree. : ) Ok...from now on, I will try not to explain anything. Hopefully you can just enjoy a poem without me ruining it with comments. Please just always read with a pictores mind. : ) I have just explained a poem that begs not to be explained...

Make Me

I will not do it
You can’t make me
I am my own person
I am certainly free

Free to do as I please
My own decisions
Are what make me
I need no revisions

Revisit what I say
But I will not change
I am stone
Don’t think it strange

Strangers don’t understand
I stand my ground
To my way
You are bound

Boundaries are foreign
Chains will not hold
I will resist
I will not fold

Bend you must
I will never turn
I will never change
I will never ever
Never break
Twist my arm
Pull my teeth
Gouge my eyes
Punch my gut
You will have to
Break my back
Or my neck
You’ll never
Break my will
Unless…
And only if…
You say Please.

3-26-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I just felt like writing something fun the other day.

Rainbow

I hear the thunder and I feel the breeze
smell of the atmosphere, movement of the trees
It’s obvious the storm is coming
But I drive to the rainbow

The rain begins and there is nothing I can do
The atmosphere is changing, a different view
I obviously don’t want to be here
But I drive to the rainbow

My hair stands on end, noise in my ears
I am still alive, face my fears
It’s obvious someone has it out for me
But I drive to the rainbow

Water is rising rapidly over the way
It would be much easier to just stay
Is it obvious, where to turn?
But I drive to the rainbow

Water floods the view and cannot be
wiped away so it is plain to see
The choices are not obvious anymore
But I drive to the rainbow

The destination reached or so I thought
Now it’s gone, for this I fought?
It’s only obvious from far away
The rainbow was driving me

3/14/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I normally don't like to explain a poem, but I feel inclined in this instance to expound on the purpose. Some of my poems can leave you feeling somewhat lost, but my intentions are always to cause one to think. This is something I hope to teach my children - to not just except something at face value - to look deeper to what are the possibilities behind a message. (Although we must be very careful also about reading into things too much, this will also be just as damaging) For example: Commercials many times portray a particular message, but there is a reason behind the message...I notice truck commercials usually try to make a man feel like he has to have that particular truck if he is a real man. I especially saw these types of commercials in Texas..."Texans chose this, or Texans know that" etc. They are selling a "tough man" image, but the intentions are to get you to buy a truck. In this poem I am selling the rainbow, but my purpose is for one to buy into the fact that it is not about the rainbow or the storm. Everything always comes back to one thing...Him and Him only. Our eyes must remain on Him. We look around as the disciples did in the boat, when He is right there in the boat with us. What is more intriguing than the One Who is in the boat with us? I struggled with adding additional verses to explain this, but I wanted the impact of "the rainbow was driving me".

Economy Overview

This is the best article I have read so far on an unbiased overview of the current economy. The layout is done very well and answers most every question in very clear and understandable language.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/ECONOMY_WHERES_THE_BOTTOM?SITE=NYBUE&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

Original Beginning of Dream to Dream

I thought it might be interesting to share some notes I typed when I started to write "Dream to Dream". I usually don't write notes or outlines, but I wasn't exactly sure how to write what I was meditating on. I really like the first sentence below, but as you saw how the poem came out, it definitely took a different turn. I do hope to finish a more serious poem someday....

From dream to dream I build bridges
Over land and seas My thread for stitches

no hurts feelings in dreams
shots from guns etc.
end with this is how reality should be…no hurts from feelings…since we are dead men
may our dreams become reality

She Cries

She keeps her dreams in glass bottles
Throws them against the wall when alone
Picks up the pieces barehanded
Blood stains the shards
The pain brings release
Because inside she’s screaming
What she was expecting
The opposite has been perfecting
Glass is coming out her pores
Continual beating of waves on the shores
What seems beautiful to most
This same beauty Is her evil host
It’s love if I must spell it out
The true definition of which
She has never known, never shown
And she will never tell
The only love she has known
Is a living hell
Yet you pass her by
Can you hear her cry?
Don’t deny
What others feel
Don’t avoid
The love that can heal
She needs you
She needs a friend
She doesn’t need money
She doesn’t need men
Show her true love
She has never known
Show her Jesus

3/7/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Silent Killer

You’re about to faint
Breathlessness
Heart beats faster
You have the information
Your finger on the trigger
Surroundings fading
Like looking through a scope
Your hair stands on end
You are the captors hope
Trained for this moment
Silence is tempting you
but screaming to come out
Mesmerized by the moment
Shackled by the costs
One for a thousand?
A million for one?
I decide the denomination
Crucified for the nations
Destinies determined
By one allocation
The right translation?
The proper duration?
Correct observation?
..Now perspiration
Why this vocation?
Should there be a declaration?
What are the implications?
Freedom of thought
But you do what you were taught
You must adhere
No emotions or fear
It is out of your hands
Fulfill your demands
Blood at your feet
They say you’re elite
Back home discreet
The reason for scars
are kept in jars
that break at night
in your dreams where you fight.

3/5/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Interest

In the beginning there was interest
Time goes by and the interest fades to disappointment
The disappointment turns to disgust
Disgust brings regret
Regret causes self interest
Time goes by and self interest fades to disappointment
The disappointment turns to disgust
Disgust brings regret
So the cycle passes to all generations…
Unless the interest is in Him
2-27-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Dream to Dream

I had intended to write a deeply meditative poem about living in a "dream state". However, something totally different came out on paper as I began to write. I am on vacation, so maybe it was time to write something a little more relaxed. There is a time for everything I guess ... have fun.


Last night I was shot two times in the chest
No blood or wounds.
Wasn’t even wearing a vest

The night before I flew over my neighborhood
Saw two thieves
Knocked them out with a piece of dogwood

The tree began to bark
I realized the irony – threw down the stick
And it became a shark.

Good thing there was a surfboard beside me
I rode the waves barely escaping
Landing on a table – I sat down and had tea

The queen said “cheers” as she tipped her cup
I spilled it on my pants
And then woke up

It’s still dark - I shall close my eyes
Phew…My pants aren’t wet
Maybe this time I’ll work with spies

It wasn’t long then before I drifted to sea
I had ten seconds
It was them or me

I had to decide what will I do?
I decide to
Use the gun in my shoe

Pow! I got kicked upside the head
From the biggest shoe
With the weirdest tread

It left an imprint in my face
It was the coordinates
To save the human race

How will I inform - what is my plan?
When I have no phone
And I am in Iran?

“How” said the Indian as he smoked his pipe
Use this blanket, start a fire…
Do whatever I type

It was the smoke that day that saved the world
Later I found out the message was...
“I have a dream for the white, black and swirled”

2/17/09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

I walk in the day.
My shadow behind me
My shadow beside me
My shadow before me
as the sun sets on my life.

2-14-09
Copyright © 2009 Brian Jackson All rights reserved

Hunger...next night

My oldest son Caleb (7 yrs old) came down stairs tonight and said he wanted everyone to pray together. He said sin has come to this house and Satan is right here -well not right here next to me, but here he exclaimed - trying to get us to sin and I think he is doing it. He said we need to pray that we will obey God's Word and not sin. I asked him if he thought of this on his own and why. Caleb said that we (the children) aren't doing what momma says. I don't do it, Josiah and Abigail and especially Korban since he is a baby. He said momma is sinning too and maybe you too I think...well I am not sure, but I think so (maybe a little shy to tell his own dad that he sins too). Ah! the hunger and thirst for righteousness within my son! Thank you Lord! Give my family this hunger and thirst! Raise my firstborn son on meat and drink from Your table. Let him crave Your feasts. Let my children taste of the finest, so they will not be satisfied with any other. Our children Father, have mercy on our children. We have sinned Father, lay it not to their charge. Raise up a generation who are nourished daily from Your table. Children come, your Father calls and He always gives the best. I am wicked, but He is always good. He always gives good gifts. He will never fail. Everything will work together for good if you love Him first. Taste and see that He is good.

Hunger

I am reading in Matthew 5 tonight and read the verse "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Immediately I cried out to God "Give me this hunger and thirst!"... I am not desperate to be filled. Lord what an awesome comparison it is to our physical needs. Lord every day I hunger for food. Every day I thirst. I can not curve this hunger or thirst. Every day I have this strong desire that must be fulfilled. Why then do I not have this same desire for Your righteousness? Why then must I many times try to create this hunger? Is there a God-given hunger for righteousness just as there is a God-given hunger for food? A Christian must feed on righteousness to be healthy just as the physical man must eat. There indeed is a natural God-given hunger for righteousness born within the new creature. We are a new creation awakened to the desire for Christ-likeness. What natural man would desire such food? This must be a Spirit - breathed desire. However, has this hunger been filled with other food, so as to stifle the hunger pains for spiritual food? Are we so filled with junk food that we narrowly crave the nutritious? Maybe we have feasted on decent food, maybe even good food. Yet our Father has prepared a table of the finest food and drink that the new creature could ever desire. The full soul loathes the honeycomb. This is the very reason it is painfully hard for a rich man to be saved. Maybe it is time to proclaim a new fast...a fast from pleasurable things...a fast from even good things...to once again obtain the hunger for the best of all things. Maybe it is time to lay aside every weight and gird our armour as a soldier. To take up our cross, forsaking all to gain Christ. Once one has tasted of the finest food and drink, nothing again can satisfy quite as much. Lord I sit at Your table tonight to dine. I hunger and thirst. I invite all my brothers and sisters to join me for a feast. Feed us O Lord. We are anemic. We suffer from malnutrition. Prepare us your best O Lord and nothing else. To eat this food You must revive us Oh Father. Nothing else will satisfy. Prepare us only the purest and the finest of all. Give us You. Let physical hunger be a nuisance. For You so fulfill our every need that all else is but dung. Thank you Lord for postponing my physical rest. Let me rest only in You. Must I sleep? Be my rest O God. Be my food. Be my drink. Be my breath. Be my life. I absolutely cannot be satisfied without You. I have tasted of the finest of all things and nothing else satisfies. Let me rest only in You. May my thoughts be Your thoughts and as I sleep tonight, let my dreams be Your dreams.

Water-Trials. Shark-Enemy. Ladder-Choices. Helicopter-Provision. Bridge-Decisions. Mountain-Highs. Island-Life.

On the same subject...I saw this on another blog I have been following and couldn't resist adding it to my blog.

Ironic

GORE HEARING ON WARMING MAY BE PUT ON ICE
Mon Jan 26 2009 17:59:26 ET

Al Gore is scheduled before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday morning to once again testify on the 'urgent need' to combat global warming.

But Mother Nature seems ready to freeze the proceedings.

A 'Winter Storm Watch' has been posted for the nation's capitol and there is a potential for significant snow... sleet... or ice accumulations.

"I can't imagine the Democrats would want to showcase Mr. Gore and his new findings on global warming as a winter storm rages outside," a Republican lawmaker emailed the DRUDGE REPORT. "And if the ice really piles up, it will not be safe to travel."

(Source: Drudge Report 1/26/09)

Inauguration

"This half-meter resolution image of the United States Capitol, Washington D.C. was collected by the GeoEye-1 satellite on Jan. 20, 2009 to commemorate the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. The image, taken through high, whispy white clouds, shows the masses of people attending the Inaugural Celebration."

You should visit http://www.geoeye.com/CorpSite/gallery/detail.aspx?iid=220&gid=1 and download the high resolution image. Everyone looks like a pile of ants. Amazing...God sees every person, every ant, yet He is aware of the position of every single blade of grass, every movement of a spec of dirt. He knows every thought and guides every step simultaneously. His love abounds for the world and all of it's contents. Yea, His love can not be contained within this universe. He loved us so much that..."He gave His only begotten Son". He was crucified since the beginning of the world. God saw all that was to be and wrote the story to fulfill His glory. "He is before all things, and by him all things consist." From this view I see how insignificant we are. I can stand above an ant hill and see the same insignificance...yet we are the only part of creation created in His image. He calls us by name. What wondrous love is this...That my God would die for me? I pray then for our insignificant President, for our insignificant government, for our own insignificant efforts...but yet for our significant Church when empowered by the Spirit. "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it withersoever He wills." God controls every ant. He is not amazed by an ant revolution. May our Father start a real revolution, a revolution of true love, a revolution not of this world, a revolution that shares with the world where true peace abounds. Even so, come soon King of Kings our Prince of Peace.