Ye Old Guitar Guy!

Fight the Good Fight

2011-08-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

One of my greatest concerns (lately) is that I will lose my passion for the things of God. I have been greatly challenged in my faith in God. I believe that God has given me dreams that are beyond my human ability to achieve. But with God all things are possible. I don’t want to lose my hold on what God is doing in my heart at this time of my life.

I never want to go back to the way things were. I used to muster up all the effort that I could to spend a brief 10 or 15 minutes in the morning attempting to pray. I would then read no more than one chapter of the bible per day. Then I would go on with my day and totally forget any time that I had spent with God. That would be the last that God would hear from me until the next morning. I also lived a double standard, saying that I believed something to be true but not standing upon that truth. Or saying that I believed something to be evil, but later finding myself involved in that thing that I claimed to be evil.

These last few months I’ve been spending quite a bit of time in prayer and in His word. I have come to greatly enjoy His presence and do not want to lose this blessing in my life. I’ve come to this conclusion about my life; that I must not lose my passion for God, His word, prayer, outreach, evangelism, ministry, missions, and my calling to go into the mission field. I must push forward, fight the good fight, and strive to obtain the prize for the high calling of God in my life. I’m sure that you will agree that in this present evil age we all need to fight the good fight, to press forward, and strive for the things of God.

True Joy Verses Happiness

2011-05-29T03:17:00.001-07:00

True joy does not come from getting everything we want out of life. It doesn’t come from owning homes or properties or bank accounts. True joy comes from serving God. Our joy is not based on the circumstances of our life. It’s not based on what we have. It’s not based in who we are, but in Who we serve. We experience joy by doing the will of God.

I believe that I would be more content serving the Lord on the streets of India, reaching lost souls, than I could ever be if I were a wealthy (yet self-centered) individual fulfilling all of my wants and desires.

Happiness is based on circumstances. Joy is a gift from God, a fruit of the Spirit.

Luke 12:15 Beware! Keep yourselves from covetousness, for a man's life doesn't consist of the abundance of the things which he possesses.

2010-12-30T13:48:00.000-08:00

And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Wherefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. --2 Cor 12:9-10 (ASV)

Sin Exposed

2010-12-30T10:27:00.001-08:00

As I was in prayer on December 24, 2010, I saw (in my mind) what appeared to be layers of my skin being peeled back to expose the sin in my life (that I already knew to be there). I was able to see roots (like tentacles)sinking deep into my flesh (muscle, sinew, etc.). I felt that God showed me that these things could be plucked out by the roots, for the purpose of showing me even the deeper things (unknown sins) underneath.

I prayed that, as I again go through the 12 Steps next year (specifically Step 4), that I would have totally defeated the sins and issues I am now dealing with. And I prayed that, seeing beneath the current issues of my life, I would be able to delve deeper into those things that I currently don't even realize are there.

I acknowledged my sin unto thee, And mine iniquity did I not hide: I said, I will confess my transgressions unto Jehovah; And thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. – Psalm 32:5

A Wonderful Christmas

2010-12-27T13:06:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful Christmas, probably one of the best ever. I didn't receive any big expensive gifts, nor was I able to give much. But I was able to have all of my daughters and grandchildren over to the home and it was such a great time. Usually, we are so wanting to begin to unwrap gifts that we just jump right in as soon as everyone arrives. This year, we started by singing a few Christmas Carols, and then (after I led in prayer) we began to testify of what Jesus had done in this past year. My youngest daughter accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior this year and I am so grateful for that. He will sanctify each of my daughters for His own purpose.

I'm looking forward to a great year (2011). This year has had it's ups and downs. My marriage is better, yet our financial situation is not as it should be. But then I know that when I am weak, He is strong! We may end up having to move from our government housing complex in Orange. Our lease expires in March and usually every year (by this time) they have had us fill out forms for re-qualification. In fact we are usually about to sign a new lease by this time of the year. I went to talk to the landlords about re-qualifying and they informed me that we would receive a letter about the first of the year. That corresponds with 60 days before the lease being up. I am concerned about all of this but maybe without reason, they could possibly just be behind in paperwork.

It's been a better year for work so maybe there will be a better raise in store, and a bonus which we did not receive in the year 2010. Since I am learning to lay down all things for Christ, I believe He will bless my family.

I thank God for His continued deliverance and forgiveness of sins in my life. I praise God that I am a joint heir with Jesus in the Kingdom of God. He has shown me many things this year by His spirit. And greater things await me in the year 2011.

Weird

2010-12-21T14:56:00.001-08:00

Well this is weird! When I tried to reply to my sisters comment in my blog, I could only seem to type in some sort of "Arabic"? language!

Praise God!

2010-12-21T11:57:00.000-08:00

I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high. -- Psalm 7:17

When Has God Interrupted My Plans?

2010-12-16T12:50:00.001-08:00

Last night, Pastor Ted asked the question "Has God ever 'interrupted' your life?" To that I had to reply yes, that God had stopped me from studying the classical guitar. But like usual, i wasn't quite sure that I had made clear what I had intended to say.

For the last three or more years, I had attended classical guitar classes at Santiago Canyon College. I also studied through private lessons with my college instructor. I thought (or actually had talked myself into believing) that this was the course that God had laid out for my life. I had told myself that this was a "tool" that could be used for ministry. I thought that it could be used to draw people and then to have an opportunity to share God's word with them. I had even talked myself into believing I would pursue this for the rest of my life--to the point of becoming "professional". But there was a downside to all of this. I would be secluded for hours on end inside my office after work, and in my living room at home practicing technique and music. I would occasionally challenge myself and ask the question "Am I really doing what God would have me to do with my life?" But I would quickly put that thought aside.

About 2 or 3 months back (I can't even remember how, whether through a message, the Bible itself, or prayer) God spoke to me through the story of Moses. When Moses had complained that he was not gifted in anyway to be able to go before Pharaoh and command "Let my people go", God asked Moses..."What is that that you have in your hand?" Of course God was referring to Moses' staff. God spoke to me and asked me the same thing. I realized that what he was telling me was that I had a gift that could be used right now to reach people, and that gift was singing and strumming the guitar. I was wasting time on pursuing a skill that would take years to develop.

"My plan" was to become a "professional" guitarist with a Christian influence. It was God's plan to use me here and now with what talents I currently possess. In this way God interrupted my plans. And I am thankful He did so.

How Fear Impacts my Life

2010-11-27T16:26:00.001-08:00

As I continue on with Step #4 of the 12 Steps to Recovery I discover that fear is a great moral concern in my life. The Word of God tells me that fear is the opposite of faith, and this is sin.

The following is a list of the many diverse ways that fear controls my life:

1) One thing that I fear most is getting to know people in general. Meeting people for the first time that I do not know is a very frightening thing to me. This single aspect of fear strips me of the blessing of meeting many new friends who could become supporters in prayer and eventually co-partners in any future ministry that I might have. I am also stripped of the privilege of my being able to be a blessing to others through what I can offer to them.

2) Fear causes miscommunication and misunderstanding between me and my neighbors (and others within my life). It robs me of being able to reach out to them with God’s love.

3) Fear hinders me from being able to speak the truth in love and share God's good news and my testimony with others. It steals away many spiritual blessings of being able to send "treasures" into eternity (through soul winning).

4) Fear impedes the spirit of “adventure" in my life. It keeps me from being able to gain experience in many different things and in many different areas of life, and keeps me from getting to know God on a deeper level and experience a deeper faith in God.

5) Fear keeps me from being able to resolve certain issues that I face, or might face in my life. It keeps me from being open to leadership by an intimidation of those who seem more spiritual than I am.

6) Overall, fear is a crippling agent sent by the Devil himself to hinder me from becoming all that God would have me to be!

Step 4- We Made a Searching and Fearless Moral Inventory of Ourselves.

2010-11-20T09:36:00.001-08:00

12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults.13 Keep your servant from deliberate sins! Don’t let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin.

Psalms 19:12-13 (NLT)

This is conformation of what we have been studying in Step 4 of the 12 Steps to Recovery [Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves]. The only way to truly be free of guilt and shame is to apply both Step 4 and verses 12-13 of Psalms 19, being brutally honest with ourselves and with others. We must confess and ask God for help! I thank God for what I am learning from the 4th Step. I would encourage anyone who is struggling with an addiction to find your way into a spiritually based 12 step recovery program.

Superiority Complex

2010-11-06T19:09:00.001-07:00

I’m sitting here at home this evening, going through my notes and materials for the 12-Step Program. We are beginning to work through the 4th Step which is “We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves”. As I begin the steps of writing about my resentments (people, organizations, and concepts) I am beginning to realize one major issue of sin in my life, one that I didn’t even realize was residing in my heart. I suffer from a "Superiority Complex”. I am seeing that I have considered myself as being superior over others, despite the fact that Gods world says we are all created equal…and that He loves us all the same.

One of the biggest things that has allowed me to see this is the hatred that I have for driving (a resentment about how other people drive). I started to think about that one person who passes me doing about 95 miles-per-hour while cutting me off, without even the slightest concern for my safety and the safety of others around me. I considered my resentment and anger toward these people. Why do I resent them? Well it’s because the are self-centered, non-caring, “king-of-the-hill” people. In thinking about all this, I came to realize that I have the feeling that I am superior to them (above them) because I do care about the safety of others on the road, and about obeying the laws of the land in general. BUT THIS IS NOT RIGHT THINKING ON MY PART! I am not superior…I am a sinner, just as they are (but set apart for His glory by the grace of God). God loves that person who does 95 MPH, who has no other care whatsoever for anyone other than themselves, just as much as He love you and me!

Just one more thing to pray out of my life and get the victory over!

Awesome Weekend!

2010-11-01T13:26:00.001-07:00

This last weekend was awesome! It started out with leading worship at the 12-step program on Friday night. We had a incredible time in worship. I deeply felt Gods anointing as I played guitar and lead in worship. I’m looking forward to this Friday night because I believe there is something that God is doing in my heart, which I need to share with the group.

Saturday morning, my youngest daughter Ariana and I attended the Missions 101 Training Course at our church. Sister Donna Neville (from our fellowship) was the guest speaker. She spoke on the importance of “being sent verses self sending”, that we don’t want to move independently of what God is doing, or of the fellowship. She listed all of the things that a pastor looks for in those who feel that they are called to missions.

Saturday afternoon my daughter Ariana and I went out with a small group of adults and children to share Gods love at two local convalescent homes. The children passed out cookies and the adults spoke with the folks there in the home. I was able to lead them into worship with guitar and singing.

Then Saturday night, my daughter Ariana went with me to the Orange County Rescue Mission. She came along for the ride. But as we were rehearsing and getting ready for worship, the team asked Ariana if she sang. When she answered, “Yes”, they invited her to sing with us on the platform. What an awesome occasion, being able to share in worship with the team and with my daughter Ariana for the very first time.

Pursuits in Life

2010-10-19T16:30:00.001-07:00

Lately, the Lord has been dealing with me (big-time) about the direction that I have taken in life. I am constantly reminded as I feel more pain in my body, and have had to deal with certain health issues that I have very little years left compared to the years that I have lived. I love classical guitar, and for the past 3 years of my life I have pursued classical guitar with a passion. I have spent three years, practicing on average about 1-1/2 hours per day.

In and of itself, there would appear to be nothing wrong with the pursuit of classical guitar. But what God has been showing me lately has been radically change my life. God has dealt with me on such questions as:

1). What am I really doing for Jesus?
2). Am I fruitful?
3). Have I made any impact on anyone’s life in the last three years?
4). Am I really pursuing the path that God has for me?
5). What is my calling?
6). How many times have I declined an opportunity to reach out because “I had to practice?”

I began to question myself as to why I am really pursuing classical guitar. I keep telling myself it is “for ministry”, to use as a platform to draw a crowd and then have the opportunity to share my faith and testimony. But deep down inside, I know better.

I have come to realize that rather than invest year upon year trying to perfect a skill that is not natural to me that I should be attempting to improve upon skills that I already have. God has given to me natural talents and abilities that I can use HERE AND NOW.

When Moses complained to God that he had no skill or ability to deal with Pharaoh, God asked, “Moses, what is that that you have in your hand?” God did not ask, “What is that that you plan to have in your hand 5 years from now?”

I’ve put a lot of prayer and thought into this and I’m ending my pursuit of the classical guitar. As I said, there is nothing morally wrong with this pursuit. But what is wrong is the pursuit of this goal without God’s blessing or direction, all the while fooling myself about my motivation for the pursuit. God has given me a wonderful singing voice, a love for singing and praising Him, and also the ability to back that up by strumming some chords. That’s all I need. This is “what I have in my hand”.

Bug Dream

2010-10-12T09:57:00.001-07:00

I had a strange dream last night. I cannot remember all of the details other than I remember seeing huge bugs in various places on the ground (most of them outdoors). This dream could be due to the fact that when I came home from work last night my two younger daughters where watching a movie that involved snakes in someone’s house. Many people fear snakes. I fear huge bugs, such as beetles. In my dream, the bugs where unusually large.

I remember that every time that I would see one of these insects that I would smash it with my feet. This is an atypical reaction for me. I usually try to get away from such creatures.

I don’t necessarily believe in the worldly interpretation of dreams. However, I did look this up on the web and found that such a dream could be interpreted as destructive influences at work within my life, or (in my case ---seeing roaches and beetles) some form of uncleanness in my life. But the fact that I was suppressing my fears and stepping on these bugs to kill them would indicate to me that I was victorious at defeating those destructive forces or the uncleanness in my life.

I choose to take the latter as the interpretation. I know that there are areas of sin in my life which must be dealt with. And I know I have some destructive habits such as overeating, and eating the wrong foods. There are also many fears in my life, which hold me back from becoming all that I could be for God. I believe that God is showing me that I will be victorious!

Missions 101

2010-10-09T15:28:00.001-07:00

I certainly enjoyed the MGH 101 Class this morning at Praise Chapel Christian Fellowship. Cultural differences were discussed. The need for International churches was also spoken of.

One thing that was mentioned is that we can sometimes get into a nation with a legal status of teacher or as some other professional with nothing but a high school diploma. Indeed, this was interesting to me because it is exactly what I had envisioned doing, someday going into another country as a music teacher. This gives me hope for the future.

Pastor John gave an interesting demonstration by having those who like to preach, teach, lead worship, work with teens, handle the finances, teach children, work with recovery groups, and so on stand up. About 20 individuals stood up. He looked around and then mentioned the fact that those standing made up the foundation of an International church that could be sent as a team into any nation. But the downfall is that it would be costly for a mother church to send a group of 20 individuals and fully support them. The Apostle Paul’s “tent-making” career was discussed (the idea that each one of those 20 individuals could go into such a nation as professional workers with legal status and be self-supporting.

I am excited to see what God will do over the next (remaining) 4 weeks of this course. And even though she will probably never read this…I want to thank Christy (might be Kristy with a ‘K’) for introducing herself to me. She is a young woman who has a genuine burden for Vietnamese people. I expect that we may have the opportunity to work together some day. I look forward to a deeper friendship with her.

September 29, 2010

2010-09-29T15:37:00.001-07:00

Work has been crazy as of late. I haven’t been able to even hardly take a breath. The phones are ringing off the hook, mike is out of the office, and I’m leaving on vacation and have so much to get done before I go.

What is driving me nutz the most is that I have several projects to do and can’t seem to get them done. I have to revise a report for a cell phone site noise analysis completed about 2 months ago. I took the ambient noise measurements yesterday but am waiting for the client to send back the signed budget augment agreement so that I can finish the revision and get it off to him and to the City of Santa Clarita. I have noise measurements which need to be completed for LBA in Irvine (at Park Place). They had me go out there last weekend on Saturday night to measure cooling tower noise and they exceeded the noise ordinance limits. I’ve called the woman (my contact) and am waiting for her return call, but have heard nothing yet. Then tomorrow, I have to complete a party wall noise test, and on Friday morning write up the report for that. I also have a “pro bono” job for a place called “Laura’s House”, a home for battered women and children. I have to attempt to complete an air conditioner noise analysis for an architectural firm by Friday afternoon. Add to all of this the phones, the fact that I am responsible for maintaining and tracking the noise meters in the shop (where they are at all times, and their annual calibration and certification. I feel like I am going insane! Why can’t clients simply reply when I call or email with the requested data or information that I need. It’s always hurry-hurry on my end but for them, they can take all the time they want.

I had an excellent conversation with a friend last Sunday evening at the church leadership meeting. He works the same industry which I came out of before entering the field of noise consulting. He informs me that they are very, very busy in their die shop. He even stated that they may need to dismiss one of their current CAD guys and may need another. He hinted that he may call me if that happens.

On a brighter note, I am looking forward to a vacation with my sister and brother. I am also looking forward to a week from Saturday when I will be attending “Missions 101” sponsored by Global Harvest and Praise Chapel. This is a 3 hour per session 6 week course on missions. I will not be able to attend the first of these sessions but look forward to sessions 2-6.

Manha De Carnval

2010-09-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

See my video of me playing "Manha De Carnaval".

Driving Habits

2010-09-07T11:41:00.001-07:00

I think that a lot can be said concerning people and their driving habits that tells us much about today's sociological and spiritual condition condition.

Do you ever get irritated (as I do) when on the freeway (while obeying speed limit laws in an outside lane), you look in your rear-view mirror only to find that you can’t even see the headlamps on the car that is following you because they are below the line of site to your rear bumper? Well, for all of those who aren’t aware there is such a thing as a 3-Second Rule of Distance that determines how closely we should follow the vehicle in front of us. When the vehicle you are following passes a reference point on the highway…begin counting to three. If you pass the same point before you get to the number 3, you are following too closely. This should be common sense, but unfortunately common sense is something that most drivers don’t seem to exhibit.

Or, how about those drivers who use every inch of the on ramp to insure that they will not end up being behind anyone else? Or, those drivers who refuse to lift one finger of their hand to flip a turn-signal on in order to inform other drivers of their intentions.

When we are in church (or the workplace, or out-and-about at the mall), don’t we do things like open doors for others, let the other person speak without interrupting, or stand aside when we feel that we might be in someone else's way? I know that I strive to do these things and more when in public. But what is it about driving that tends to make us self-centered, pushy, illegitimately born people (I’d use another word, but I am a man of God), who think ourselves invincible?

I personally think (and I include myself here) that driving brings out the very worst and sinful parts of our nature. We end up treating everyone else on the road as if we were the only ones who really mattered. We are king, everyone else is subservient. We show that we care nothing about the safety of others on the road when we neglect to signal a lane change, weave in and out of lanes, drive at excessive speeds, and tailgate to the point that we would not have time enough to break in an emergency situation. We must begin to act differently!

I had the above bumper sticker produced for my car. I am growing very weary of people who do not obey traffic laws. I feel that it shows what kind of respect (or lack of respect) that they have for all laws. I know that some will be angered when they come up behind me and read this bumper sticker, but…so be it!

A Father’s Heart

2010-09-04T11:17:00.001-07:00

Being the father of four girls, I am better able to understand God’s heart than those who have no children.

I have four wonderful daughters. But unfortunately, they all must live within this wicked society. Each of them have a unique personality. Each are at a different plateau in their spiritual journeys. Each has had an opportunity to hear the gospel. But not all of them are living for God, at least not to their full potential.

I have recently been able to experience the joy of one of my girls coming to Christ. She, like the others, was brought up in church. I had been very concerned about her walk with God. There was a time that I would proudly watch her worship God with hands raised high and a look of complete serenity upon her face. But like all young girls of her same age, she became distracted by a relationship. She stopped going to church, and was no longer active in the youth group. But praise God, she has returned to her Savior whom she first received many years ago.

I’ve seen each of my daughters go through ups and downs. I’m heartbroken over one who seemed to be serving God with her whole being and is now far from Him. Another, has me concerned about her future because of certain addictions, and the power of those addictions that she is working so hard to break.

My point is…that I understand how God feels when I become fickle, or lukewarm concerning my faith. I know that our God is a God of grace and mercy. Yes, He has said that “The wages of sin is death”. But he also dealt with sin through the precious blood of His Son Jesus, not by any works that we ourselves could accomplish.

I will be the first to admit that I don’t always fully follow the teachings of my Lord Jesus Christ. Just like the daughter I mentioned above, I sometimes get distracted by work, hobbies, interests, friends. But I also know that I love all four of my daughters very much, despite the sin, the addictions, the bad choices in life, etc. I would not trade any one of my daughters for another. Each daughter is the “apple of my eye”.

Controversy

2010-08-28T13:17:00.001-07:00

I think that I may have offended some on Facebook recently. If I have, please forgive me, It was not my intention to do so. I love to blog (write), and to express my thoughts and ideas. My writings are actually helping me in the workplace as I do quite a bit of technical writing, and those skills seem to be improving.

But to be honest, sometimes I think that a little controversy can be a good thing. I feel that it stimulates our thinking. Get’s us to think about how we feel about certain things. It certainly helps me to stop and sometimes re-evaluate my thoughts. I appreciate feedback, even if we do not come to an agreement.

There is so much to say about legalism verses freedom. I find myself defending both ends of the spectrum. I am very legalistic when it comes to driving. Be thankful that I am not a law enforcement officer…you would be busted! But we also have a certain freedom in Christ. He understands our humanity, after all He walked the face of this planet as a man and He faced every temptation that we face except that He was without sin.

Was Jesus controversial? You bet He was! Matthew 9:11 (KJV)) says, “And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?” The Pharisees did not like the idea of Jesus intermingling with sinners. One of my favorite stories is that of Jesus and Zacchaeus. Jesus actually seeks out this notorious sinner (a tax collector) and invites Himself to dinner at Zacchaeus’ home. I’m sure that this stirred up the religious folk of the time. Jesus did things such as heal people on the Sabbath day, something that was a definite “no-no” in the religious society of the day.

Jesus said, (Luke 12:51) “Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to bring strife and division!” He went on to say that families would be divided over Him.

We may never come to see everything eye to eye on every subject. But if we have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and we are striving to know and to love God to the best of the ability which is placed within each one of us, then we will be accepted of God.

Favorite Musical Quotations

2010-08-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

"Music, the greatest good that mortals know, And all of heaven we have below." -- Joseph Addison

Favorite Musical Quotations

2010-08-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

"When I hear music, I fear no danger. I am invulnerable. I see no foe. I am related to the earliest times, and to the latest." -- Henry David Thoreau

Now This is Ridiculous

2010-08-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Now this is ridiculous. I lost a receipt for a baggage check at Delta for the last time that I flew home (from Hailey, Idaho). I had it emailed to me originally, and through a series of unfortunate mishaps. it was deleted from both of my computers. I went onto the Delta Airlines website and found that they would require 4 to 5 items off proof to verify that I had flown that day, and $20 for a copy of the receipt. Baggage check-in fees are only $23 online!

Noise…Who Would Know That It Creates Jobs?

2010-08-24T11:39:00.001-07:00

I have a friend (online) who has requested that I begin to post a blog about what I do for a living. She seems to find it very interesting. Doesn’t seem very exciting to me, but I will blog anyway (I do love to blog). I will create a page on my Blogger site that will mirror this post, where I can post updates from time to time about my work. (Who knows, maybe it will bring more work my way).

I am an Analyst for a noise consulting firm (I will not name names or locations). I study noise and the impacts of noise on residential communities from airports, vehicular traffic, mechanical equipment (such as cell tower equipment, generators, air conditioning equipment), and other various types of noise. I present my findings in report form.

TRACT STUDIES:

I work both in the office, and out in the field. The most interesting part of my office work is that of performing track studies. Tract studies involve researching traffic volumes and speeds of highways and roadways that are adjacent to a tract of land, and projecting the noise levels from the traffic at the sites property line. I am then able to determine the location and the height of any noise barriers that would be required to meet the exterior noise standards. These standards must be met in the backyard, or balconies/patios of housing units. Using these exterior noise levels, I am able to calculate the interior noise levels and then make recommendations as to the types of windows and doors that should be installed in the homes. When uninterrupted, I enjoy this kind of office work the most.

CELL PHONE EQUIPMENT NOISE ANALYSIS:

This is one of my favorite types of noise studies. It involves determining the noise levels of various kinds of equipment such as standby generators, power supply cabinets, and HVAC equipment. I then project the noise levels from this equipment to each property line and the nearest residential areas, and recommend noise mitigation methods to meet the city or counties noise ordinance criteria. Each city or county has it’s own noise level for day and night which must not be exceeded.

Cell phone equipment noise analysis require site visits. I am able to take a day (or at least a few hours) away from the office to take ambient noise measurements on and near the site. I get to see some beautiful areas. I do many of these studies for the City of Santa Clarita, and I enjoy working in the area.

PARTITION TESTING:

Another job function that I perform quite regularly is that of partition testing. This involves setting up an amplifier in one room, and using pink noise (at 100 decibels), measuring the noise levels in both the source room (where the amplifier is located), and measuring the levels in the receiving room. From this, I can determine the noise reduction for the wall or floor/ceiling assembly and find that it either passes or fails state requirements.

Each state has it’s own requirements which must be met. For the State of California, both IIC (Impact Insulation Class) and STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings of 45 must be achieved. Impact noise is also called “footfall”. This is the noise generated by someone living above you and walking on the floor above. STC is airborne noise transmitted through a partition (such as the sound or a radio or television receiver.

NIP (NOISE INSULATION PROGRAM):

To be honest, this is the least favorite job function for me. It involves a lot of travel. And can be physically tiring and monotonous work. NIP is done nearby airports and is primarily for the purpose of determining building upgrades to limit aircraft noise inside a home, office, school, or other public facility. A speaker is suspended from a crane (or placed on a tripod) and amplified pink noise is projected directly at the surface of a building. Noise measurements are taken inside and out in order to determine the noise reduction of each building element. My function is to take physical room measurements, photo documentation, and note it’s acoustical characteristics, as well as to assist in setting up and breaking down the equipment.

NOISE ORDINANCE COMPLIANCE:

Lastly, I am linked with compliance to city municipal code by performing ambient and special event noise monitoring. This can be interesting and boring at times.I’ve had to travel to other cities and states to monitor the ambient noise conditions prior to the start of a specific study. I did such work in Novato (Northern California) which I enjoyed, and in Idaho, which I did not enjoy quite as much (mainly due to the dangers and difficulties we faced in the monitoring itself).

I’ve sat on the side of volcanoes, sat on walking trails, chained noise monitors to tree trunks and branches, and stood in residential backyards for hours.

My Father’s Business

2010-08-22T13:35:00.001-07:00

I’m sitting here on a Sunday afternoon, meditating and praying about my vision to someday travel (as a musician and guitar teacher) the nations of the world . And I’m realizing that I must have a change of heart!

I have a passion for music. To become good at what I do (or hope to do) I must have passion. But yet, as I meditate about this, I realize that I need to have a passion for souls. And that passion for souls must outweigh my passion for music and the guitar.

I can’t say that I have arrived at that point as of this time in my life. But I know that this is the direction that my life must take. My passion to do God’s work, to be about my Father’s business, to serve His Son Jesus Christ in fulfilling the great commission in my life…these things must take precedence over music!

The Gift of Music

2010-08-21T13:25:00.001-07:00

My musical training began at age 12 with the clarinet. I was “forced” to take music as an elective in middle school. I chose to take the beginning winds course. The music instructor asked me what I would like to play, and like just about any other 12-year old I said, “I want to play the drums”. My instructor looked at me and said, “You are not a drummer. Let me see your hands”. I showed him my hands and he said, “You are a clarinetist”.

So, off I went to learn the clarinet. I didn’t like it at first. But after about 4 to 6 months, I began to enjoy playing the clarinet. My hero at that time was Benny Goodman. I continued my study of music for the next 6 years through middle school and high school. In high school I was a member of the marching band, concert band, and choir (choir was another story).

At about age 17 I was given a guitar. I got hold of some guitar books and from that point in time began to teach myself to strum the guitar. I quickly learned all the basic chords. Two of the very first songs I taught myself to play were “American Pie” by Don McLean, and “Annie's Song” by John Denver.

During my last two years of high school, I fell in love with all kinds of music from rock-and-roll to classical and everything in between. I started an album collection and would shut myself in my room and sing to “Chicago Transit Authority” and “The Moody Blues”. I thought nothing of it until I was told by a friend of mine that I had a good singing voice.

Prior to my salvation, I played in a guitar ensemble for a Catholic mass at a nearby Catholic church.

After my salvation, I attended a Baptist church, where I joined the church choir, and assisted in Sunday evening worship for the younger people. From there, I got married to my wife Pam and moved to Orange County where (after a few years) I lead worship at a community church in Fountain Valley, California.

After a brief (misguided) move to Colorado, I returned to California and began to attend Praise Chapel Christian Fellowship of Orange County. After about 2 years, I was placed on the Sunday morning worship team as a guitarist and background vocalist. About 6 or 7 years ago, I was asked to lead worship every Wednesday night. Since that time, I have assisted with Wednesday night worship, and have led worship at small group bible study settings, beach parties, etc.

I study classical guitar under the direction of Mike Giraldin, and attend classical guitar courses at Santiago Canyon College from time-to-time. I hope to someday be accepted for the Applied Music Program at Santiago Canyon.

WHERE DO I PLAN TO GO FROM HERE?

With my “new-found” love for classical guitar, I hope to progress to the point that I can both perform at guitar recitals, and teach the guitar. My plan is to take this skill to other nations where it may otherwise be difficult for the average Christian missionary to go, and to teach this skill, thus being able to build relationships in places where it might by other means be impossible.

At first, I may (under God’s direction and if it be His will) make short visits to other countries to share in music, worship, and testimony. But, as I grow older, I hope to be able to spend more and more time at these locations. I have a strong burden for Southeast Asia.

Will God Lead Us Into the Wilderness?

2010-08-19T14:15:00.001-07:00

I learned something new (not really new, but somewhat of a revelation to me) from the Word of God at mid-week service and bible study last night.

We are studying from the book of Luke, and we are beginning the fourth chapter. This is where, after being baptized by John, and filled with the Holy Spirit…the Spirit of God leads Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted of the Devil. After this temptation, the Devil left Jesus for a while until another opportunity would arise. From there, Jesus went on to begin his powerful ministry of healing and deliverance.

The point being brought out was this; “Why should we expect things to be any different in our lives?” Why are we surprised when we face various trials and temptations when Jesus had to face them? If God led Jesus into the wilderness to be “tested”, wont he do the same with us? And this testing is not to destroy or to hurt us in anyway. It is so that (like Jesus) we will come out of the trial victorious.

Jesus went into that wilderness armed with two things, the Spirit of God, and the Word of God. We have the same two things inside of us. Shouldn’t we be able to have the same results if we do as Jesus did, and being filled with the Spirit use the Word of God in every difficult situation? I need to seriously consider this portion of Gods Word (Luke 4, below).

Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit to go out into the wilderness, where the Devil tempted him for forty days. He ate nothing all that time and was very hungry. Then the Devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, change this stone into a loaf of bread. “But Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, `People need more than bread for their life.' "Then the Devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. The Devil told him, "I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them-because they are mine to give to anyone I please. I will give it all to you if you will bow down and worship me."

Jesus replied, "The Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the Lord your God; serve only him.' "

Then the Devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, "If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, `He orders his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you with their hands to keep you from striking your foot on a stone.'"

Jesus responded, "The Scriptures also say, `Do not test the Lord your God.'" When the Devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came.

Is it Possible to “Count it All Joy”, Or to Decide to be Joyful?

2010-08-16T16:05:00.001-07:00

I know so many people that are facing difficult situations and circumstances at this time, including myself. I’m writing the following thoughts to stimulate conversation, hoping to be able to help others and myself at the same time. Please, if you have any input, then INPUT.

I know that God’s word says “Count it all joy when you you are facing many trials” (James 1:2). My question is, “How do you "count it all joy" when you're going through it? It's got to be some sort of a decision, just like the decision to love somebody who is difficult to love. Because, I know for sure that when I am going through something, it doesn't seem very joyful.

I guess my question is: "Is it really possible to decide to be joyful?”

I know that our quality of life should not be dictated by what we have (or do not have), or by the circumstances of life. But it's very hard for me not to allow the circumstances of life to get me down at times. I am after all human!

A Concerned Citizen

2010-08-08T11:55:00.001-07:00

It is the opinion of this writer that the City of Santa Clarita be obligated to place a very close watch on the intersection of Copper Hill Drive and Seco Canyon.

I work as an Analyst for Mestre Greve Associates, a division of Landrum & Brown. I participate in many different kinds of noise studies. One type of noise study that I do on a regular basis is to analyze the noise impacts of cell phone site equipment on neighboring communities. This type of study requires that ambient noise levels be recorded on or near the site location, and within residential areas that border the site. For the City of Santa Clarita, both daytime and nighttime ambient noise levels must be noted. I am currently working at such a study for Black & Veatch Corporation that proposes the installation of cell phone equipment at the Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Parish in Santa Clarita. Two air conditioning units are to be installed within a planter area at the back of the church property. The Parish is located at 22508 Copper Hill Drive in the City of Santa Clarita.

While measuring the ambient noise levels at the site I noted that the number of cars traveling east and west bound on Copper Hill did not seem to vary much from night to day. Noise measurements were taken across the street from Keteri Tekawitha Catholic Perish at approximately 5:15 am, 1:00 pm, and again at 10:30 pm. The noise levels varied slightly. They ranged from about 70 dBA (LEQ) to about 72 dBA (LEQ) no matter the time of day.

I also observed that the vehicles driving on this section of roadway were not obeying speed laws. The majority of vehicles traveling on Copper Hill would approach the intersection of Copper Hill and Seco at speeds which seemed to be in excess of 60 miles per hour. I have done some research regarding speed limits along this stretch of roadway and have found that it is of concern to many in the City of Santa Clarita. I am concerned for the safety of pedestrians, and motorists that cross Copper Hill at Seco.

It conclusion, I feel that for the safety of those individuals residing near this intersection, it is the responsibility of Santa Clarita law enforcement to strictly enforce speed laws along Copper Hill drive.

Field Work in Hailey, Idaho

2010-07-25T19:17:00.000-07:00

Arrived Safely in Hailey,Idaho on Sunday July 25, 2010 at around 2:50 PM. Very beautiful up here. I like the area, peaceful!

Concerned

2010-07-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

When i get back from my trip i may set up a doctor visit. I am concerned because i am still experiencing brief memory lapses. Also, i am using a wrist style blood pressure monitor and i want to verify its accuracy. One minute it will tell me my BP is something like 168/105 [yikes!]. Then a minute later i'll be 138/84.

Hailey, Idaho Field Work

2010-07-24T20:54:00.001-07:00

I leave for Hailey, Idaho tomorrow (Sunday) morning at 10:10 am. from John Wayne Airport in Orange County. We will be monitoring ambient noise and weather conditions at Craters of the Moon National Monument. I am not looking forward to being away from home for eight days. But I am looking forward to being away from the office. Other than being away from home, and not getting much time to practice the guitar, the trip should be more enjoyable than many that I’ve recently taken for my job. I do plan to take the guitar with me on this trip. It will be a first for me as far as taking an instrument on a flight.

A Difficult Week

2010-07-23T12:31:00.001-07:00

I’ve had an extremely difficult week. I don’t mean to complain, just to let you know, I am expected to do the work of two people at my job (meanwhile also having to fly-and drive to various locations to perform field work). I still think that my job can be interesting at times. It’s just becoming increasingly difficult. I play the part of Analyst and Receptionist.

I beg of you to pray for me at this chapter of my life. On this last Tuesday morning (July 20th), I think that I had some sort of a breakdown. Whether mental, or emotional, I’m not sure. All I know is that I could not control my emotions. And being a man, this is very difficult for me. I had to go home sick for the second half of that day.

Please pray for me. I need God’s guidance and direction more than ever at this time.

Enjoyable Field Work – Can There Be Such A Thing?

2010-07-19T15:49:00.001-07:00

I finally get to be involved with field work that may not be that unpleasant of an experience at all. I will be heading up to Hailey, Idaho next Sunday morning and will be staying there until a week later, Monday night. I’ve already “spied out” the land and it’s beautiful. I will be monitoring noise levels in and near the national park.

God, or Work?

2010-07-16T17:56:00.001-07:00

I’ve heard people talk about having to leave their jobs because the job takes them away from God. I am afraid that may happen with me someday. It seems (and I could be wrong, I’ve been wrong before) that my job is beginning to interfere with both my spiritual and my personal life.

I was asked to lead worship at the beach on August 21st, something I love to do and would do without pause. But, I find that I am “required” to perform noise measurements with my boss and 3 other technicians on that evening (a Saturday). Again, I was told that I was needed to lead worship the last Wednesday night of this month. And again, I find that I will be in Idaho performing noise measurements for 9 days at that time. My next private guitar lesson had to be cancelled because of field work. My personal life is being greatly disrupted by my work schedule…and I find myself becoming deeply frustrated.

Today at work, I just couldn’t take it anymore. I did not quit, but I did have to leave early because of the stress. The phone was ringing off the hook, even when I was on the phone trying to handle business.

I just hope that I am never asked to make that decision. But I fear it may happen someday.

A Note to Apple

2010-07-15T10:46:00.001-07:00

Recently, I stated that I might buy an iMac as my next home computer. I don’t need one at this very moment, but I do really like my 21” iMac at work. The one single thing that would keep me from buying anything from Apple is an issue I have always faced with the Apple Mac. I really hate the way icons scatter in a window that I have previously neatly arranged. I get the icons (folders, and files) organized just the way that I want them. Then, I’ll go into that folder at a later time only to find that it looks like someone has dropped a bomb smack dab in the middle of my folder. The folders will be on one side, files in the middle and right and left, and so on. This is one issue that I have never faced with Microsoft Windows.

A note to Apple:

Fix this issue, and I will very seriously consider and iMac.

Called to be Faithful

2010-07-07T10:20:00.001-07:00

I think that God revealed a very simple thought to me this morning in prayer. He has shown me that my highest calling is to be a faithful man. When I think of a calling, I’m inclined to think of someone being “called” as a pastor, evangelist, missionary, worship leader, teacher…and so on. I have felt many a time that I am called as a musician, worship leader, singer, and missionary. But in some very quiet and extraordinary way, God merely said “You are called to be a faithful man”.

I’ve seen this displayed in my life in many ways. I am not saying that I am perfect (Like Paul, I have not yet obtained it). But, one very definite example in my life is that of marriage. I am in what many people would describe as a “rocky” marital relationship. (Here I go again, being honest). I love my wife with all my heart. We get along. But we are not very compatible as individuals. We have way too many differences. It has not been easy to hold to my convictions concerning this sacrament. I have spoken with many people who would consider me crazy for “sticking it out”, or (as the world thinks today) even being with the same woman for 32 years.

If this is my calling (and I believe that it is one of many callings in my life) then I choose to be a faithful man throughout all the difficulties of life.

Is Windows Live Dying? Is Microsoft Coming Down With the Flu?

2010-07-05T11:47:00.001-07:00

From now on, I probably will not be around on Windows Live (that is, not very much). I am not impressed with Windows Live, since the last round of updates were imposed upon all of us. I’m not going to close the site. But I am going to begin to use Facebook as my social outlet (although, I am very tired of blue & white). And I have set my Internet homepage back to MyYahoo.com. The add-ons’ at Yahoo work much better for Facebook, and Twitter. You can actually click on the “like” link from Yahoo, and see all the activity at Facebook. It’s just more functional.

Too tell the truth, I’m no longer very impressed with Microsoft. I was once a “Windows” guy all the way. I use both my laptop (Windows 7 Professional), and an iMac at work. I really like my new iMac at work. Next time I get a full blown computer, I just might get a Mac.

One of the recent things that troubles me with Microsoft is that I upgraded from Windows 7 Home Premium to Windows 7 Professional only to find out that there is virtually now difference other than maybe one or two administrative tools. Paid $89.00 to find that one out. And this whole ignominy with Windows Live, well, I think that Windows is on it’s way out unless they sober up about the quality of their product.

Diet Time Again

2010-06-19T15:03:00.001-07:00

It’s time for me to lose weight again! I once weighed 220 pounds, which is quite a bit for a small guy of 5’-7”. I then commuted myself to losing 70 pounds, AND I DID. I looked in the mirror this morning and realized that I had some extra fat on my face I had not noticed before. I weighed myself…202 pounds! YIKES!

I don’t know what it is about me, but I seem to not be able to succeed at something unless I can make it into a project. So, after my private guitar lesson this morning it was off to the store to buy diet food(s). Then I sat down and started to redesign an older version of a “Calorie Journal” and to link it to a food database that I am creating in Microsoft Excel. Last time I dieted, I had gotten down to 150 pounds (and felt great). This time, I’ll be happy if I make it down to 165 and stay there.

Strange Dream

2010-06-18T08:40:00.001-07:00

I had a very strange dream last night. I dreamt that I was on a pair of roller skates (not strange in and of itself because I was once a very good skater). I was on a wooden roller rink. There where all sorts of people with me on this roller rink. Some of the people I recognized from church. There were also people that I did not recognize. At times, I was skating with the flow, and at times I would skate through the crowd against the flow.

As I skated, I realized that I had in my hand a large box of what appeared to be corn flakes. As I passed individuals (many had empty cereal bowls in their hands), I would pour some of the flakes into their bowls. I sensed that the gospel message was written upon the box of flakes, and that it somehow ended up in their bowls as I poured the flakes from the box. This seemed to go on for minutes, then I awoke.

Call It a Miracle, or Call It What You Will, God Cares For Us!

2010-06-12T13:27:00.001-07:00

Over the past few months (actually about a year now), I have been struggling with obedience to paying God’s tithe. I would pull back, hold the tithe in the checking account to cover bills, and release the money at a later date. At times, I would even look at the budget, consider it a helpless cause, and wipe out that number that I had set aside in the “Tithe” portion of my weekly budget, basically starting over. Before this last year (since the year 1985), I had been faithful in tithing and in giving.

I made a decision about two or three weeks ago that I was going to tithe no matter what, and that I would even begin again to add offerings to that. I believe that we truly are not giving to God until we give above the tithe, because the tithe belongs to Him.

I don’t know exactly what has happened (call it a miracle if you will). But I want to testify. I was very concerned about paying some bills over the weekend. I had sworn that I had looked at the situation near the end of the work week and had seen that it would be impossible to pay the tithe, and to pay every bill due, to get some gasoline, and to make it until more money came in. But looking at it now, I have just enough to do it all until the next payment comes into my account. PRAISE GOD!

Dental "Insurance (?)"

2010-06-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder if Dental insurance is just a big scam? I remember the day that I could go to the dentist, get all my work done, and the insurance would cover 80% of the bill. Then, the dentist (if he was respectable) would eat the other 20% and consider your bill "Paid In Full". That's no longer the case. I'm growing very weary with dental bills. Now days, I think (maybe I'm paranoid) that they look out the window and see you coming and then begin to scheme on how they can make the most money from you.

2010-06-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

I've made the move. I've dumped Windows Live! Microsoft is going "downhill". Now I know why Apple has surpassed Microsoft. I still use both (and they both have their pros and cons).

Test

2010-06-10T15:55:00.003-07:00

testing Windows live Writer with blogspot.

2010-06-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

The more I think about it, the more I am seriously considering switching over from Windows Live Spaces. Things are still not working at Windows Live. They have all sorts of help links but they take you to forums and there doesn't seem to be any real help there for what I am experiencing with their website. I'm just not sure if I want to "pull the plug" yet. I have over 500 "friends" at Windows Live. I have about 250 on Facebook. But at least I can honestly say that I personally know (or feel that I know) every one of them. And, I can always build up followers at blogspot.

2010-06-10T13:18:00.001-07:00

Well, here I am checking out this site again. I'm growing weary of Windows Live. They make too many changes and when they do, they look great..but..THEY DON'T WORK. I like to occasionally blog. Sometimes about the guitar, sometimes about life in general, sometimes a spiritual thought or issue. Depending on how this goes, you may, or may not see me here often.

Keith

I Once Had a Friend

2009-10-31T12:20:00.001-07:00

i once had a friend.

i spent Saturday mornings, or afternoons with that friend.
We would spend time eating, and talking, and laughing.
We would send text messages and share thoughts.

i miss that friend. i miss the sweet fellowship...
the sharing, caring, eating, talking, and laughing together.
It hurts, to not have you near.

Please come back friend!

I once had a friend.

I spent the mornings, the afternoons,
and the evenings with that friend.
We would spend time talking, and laughing, singing.
We would share thoughts, and dreams.

I miss that friend. I miss the sweet fellowship…
the sharing, caring, the talking, and laughing together.
It hurts, to not have you near.

Please, come back my friend!

Written by: Keith D. Turner --- October 31, 2009

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