Category: culture

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Haiti Earthquake – Disaster Appeal

It’s a tragedy when one person dies in an earthquake. Hearing the extent of the devastation from the earthquake in Haiti is an incredible tragedy. There are stacks of organisations and charities that are raising money to help with relief. If you need some help finding one, check out Compassions’ Haiti Earthquake Disaster Appeal. Compassion have “…committed 100 per cent of funds raised through the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Appeal to the people of Haiti. Compassion is not withholding ANY funds for administration purposes.” Weep. Pray. Be generous. DONATE NOW.

Picture from Boston Big Picture | DONATE NOW

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Let me introduce you to Miley’s dad, Billy Ray

1992 was a big year for Billy Ray Cyrus. Miley Cyrus, his (now more famous) daughter, was born. But more importantly, he released one of the greatest songs of the 1990s: Achy Breaky Heart. I was shocked today to talk to some younger folk who hadn’t heard of Billy Ray, and only vaguely knew of Achy Breaky Heart. The following film clip is essential viewing for a full understanding of (Country &) Western Society and Culture:

You’ll struggle to name a better song from 1992, or even the whole of the 1990s! Boyz II Men with their 1992 classic, End of the Road, are the only ones who can boast of a better song. Look. If you really want an education, you must watch the video below too:

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Avatar is FernGully

Last night, Row and I went to the movies for the first time since Samuel was born. It was good fun. We got to wear these crazy 3D glasses while watching Avatar. I really enjoyed it, visually quite spectacular. As we left the cinema Row’s assessment was that it was just a more sexied up version of the 1992 Australian movie, FernGully: The Last Rainforest. Check out this mash-up: Avatar trailer audio, with snippets from FernGully.

Here’s the real Avatar trailer | Here’s Rich Beeston’s Fervr review

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Twilight #1 – Team Edward or Team Jacob?

Guest Blogger: Row Miers

As part of the recent “Twilight Saga” journey that I and a number of my friends have embarked on, a topic that has been hotly debated is which team we are on: Team Edward or Team Jacob? Which guy is Bella Swan best suited to?

On the one hand there’s the vampire Edward Cullen, with his smouldering good looks, super human strength, excessive wealth, intelligence, good manners and old fashioned values and his unfathomable love, commitment and protectiveness of his soul mate Bella Swan. Then there’s the alternative, the werewolf Jacob Black, with his powerful and muscular physique, selfless courage, fun-loving disposition, and his enduring patience and loyalty towards Bella.

The argument could go on. A further question that I feel is also up for discussion is, what has Team Bella got going for it? From the books it clear that she has many good qualities: she is generally thought of as being quite physically attractive; she seems to always do her homework; she keeps on top of the cooking and cleaning around the house; she’s keenly aware of caring for the needs of her mother and father and showing due respect to them; she doesn’t speed; and she’s fun and adventurous.

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Best of 2009 – Top 5 Albums on my iTunes/iPod

The year is almost over. It’s time for nostalgia. First up, top 5 albums playing on my iTunes/iPod. This list shows that my musical tastes are somewhat eclectic. It ranges from blues to rap to pop to jazz to pacific islander! Check it:

  1. Mike McCarthy – The Harrowing Account of John William Tate
  2. Kanye West – 808s & Heartbreaks
  3. Katie Noonan – Skin and Blackbird
  4. Richard Maegraith Band – Free Running
  5. Esalaik String Band – Eraniao 1959 (late entry with lots of air play since Vanuatu!)

Check your top played list in iTunes – what’s your number 1 album from the year?

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Entermission – debut album from DJ Official – available now!

I dig the work of Reach Records (I’ve previously reviewed Tedashii’s Identity Crisis). DJ Official released a brand new album today. It’s got some legit rappers and a killer missional message. My homeboy MC Shamrock would call this album dope. Check it.

Here’s the full press release for Entermission from Reach Records:

After producing for over 10 years and serving as travelling deejay, Official finally has the opportunity to reveal the dynamic of his skill-set on one project. The album is purposed to influence Christians to think about the Great Commission (Matt 28:19) and the Great Commandment (Luke 10:27) on a local level. As Christians we have a personal mission field, which consist of those that God has placed in our sphere of influence.

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Tiger Woods, Sexual Sin and Choosing Heroes

Tiger Woods has fallen. I have no intention of having a pot shot at him or removing my sponsorship dollars. Here are two things I’ve been reflecting on amidst the media storm:

tiger woods

  1. Sexual sin is costly. Do you travel* alone for sport, business, preaching, holidays or the like? Count the cost of sexual sin, don’t put yourself in stupid situations and establish accountable relationships. (*This applies even if you’ve never left your home town).
  2. Choose your heroes carefully. Don’t put too much hope in people. Even heroes fall. I remember as a teenager being crushed when some of my heroes were exposed for their shadiness. I’m no longer surprised when a public figure or even a personal friend is exposed. My hope is in the One Man who will never be exposed for corruption or deceit. Trust Jesus – he won’t let you down.