AntoineRJWright.com

Monday, April 30, 2007

Just in Check

I am still around, just getting used to using the N95 as my main phone yesterday kept me out of the loop of blogging and email. Its a different device, only in the sense that its a phone and not a communicator. When I get a free moment, and life allows, I'll be back to chat some. Until then, thanks (friend) for the great conversations. I wish there were more too.

Just Stupid

This is a rant about web development and getting to things online. If you don't care for this subject and would rather read the other musings that I write, just move on past this post and do be entertained. But if you are in the field of UX or IA, mobile or desktop website development, please take a listen to this rant, it will do your hands and heart some good.

Ok, so now that you've decided to read a bit more, let me talk a bit about why I think some developers, site owners, and users are just stupid. If the web is all about content, then making sure that one can get to the content as simply and easily as possible should really be the prime factor behind designing and developing anything. Why would you design a program or a service that can only be used by specific tools in closed means, and by (apparently) non-accessible ends is beyond me. And yet, people do it. They develop websites that are littered with JavaScript and tables, and leave it to the browser manufacturers to clean up their mess. Browser manufacturers don't fully support, or even enforce standards so that expectations are not governed by "oooh, that's pretty." Where the heck is the sensibility in all of this, and who the heck makes these stupid decisions?

You do.

I do.

Why is it that I cannot go to 3HMP3 and use Opera to do so? The shopping cart breaks. Opera is one of the most standards compliant browsers you can use (Firefox and Konqueror are the others). Why is it that Blogger cannot use Opera (it breaks in just trying to log in)? What about websites that are not usable on mobile devices, or computer monitors larger or smaller than 800x600? Why are we allowing substandard attention to be given to developing this 'experience' that we call the Web? And what can I, you, we do about?

Become an advocate
Become a designer or developer
Write about it
Just flat out stop visiting the sites that "don't work" and let them fall off the map.

Because, if it is not accessible or usable, then why even give it the time of day.

Labels: commentary, mobile

Mobility

The prevailing mindset of people is that mobile computing is some sort of compromised computing. And while that can be true depending on your paradigm of computing, the truth of the matter is that mobile computing has come a long way, and given a few advances not too far out, chances are that some aspect of a mobile device will become the 'choix du jour, choix de votre vie' for most. So what are these choices that mobile computing brings us, and why highlight it now.

The 'why' should be addressed first. If only because what we consider as computing is changing by leaps and bounds. What was once university and big science computing, is now doable in the palms of our hands. We can take our data on the go and use it to interact with our world in ways that sci-fi only dreamed about 30 years ago. And at the same time, legislation and technology is moving at such a pace that if we do not understand it now, we will be overrun and have the perspective that "the technology is out to take over us.

With that in mind, I'll briefly highlight some areas of mobile computing that directly impact us all: communicators, smartphones, laptops, and web services.

Communicators
These are devices such as Treos and BlackBerries that are designed to keep us within "first-person" interactions with our world. We read and respond to email, text with reckless abandonment, and browse most of the web with relative ease. While these devices are usually larger than most's pockets, they are telephones and PDAs, giving us a measure of control towards how much we want to be engaged at any specific time.

Smartphones
Similar to communicators in that they keep us connected, but different in that they are designed as phones first, and life integrators next. Featuring hig resolution cameras, and non-keyboard form factors, smartphones are the device that catches the eye of a lot of people, yet very few will go forth to take full advantage of them. Thankfully, the Nokia N95 and Apple iPhone have enough reputation to help change that perception of what a "simple phone" can do.

Laptops
I put laptops in here because computing is many times about getting "real" work done. Whether that is being able to present and edit on the go, or view a movie while on a plane, laptops (and their relative the TabletPC) give a closer to desktop form of computing, with mobility thrown in. However, size, battery life, and ease of use always prevent laptops from being more than sit down devices -hence the name laptop and not handtop.

Web Services
Web services are the fast becoming the means by which the hardware as a function that reaches beyond our periphery, and gives accessibility and usability the focus. From photo gallery's, to email, to music sharing, web services are the applications and services that connect us not only to what we want to know, but also to each other. Used within the scope of the aforementioned types of hardware, one can begin to enable different and relational aspects of computing to be further expressed.

So again, why. Why talk about mobile technology - mobility - at this time and in this manner? Simply because this is how the bulk of the world has been moving for some time now. Personal tools matched to persons who want to interact with the world creates opportunity for community. Community development fosters a sense of purpose and being that "just existing" cannot and will never do. And despite the positive and negative aspects of making smaller the world around us, its happening faster and faster. It's up to the to take up the role of understanding that mobile computing - mobility - is not a compromise, but an enablement to enhance today and the days to come.

Labels: commentary, mobile

Representing Him Well

I had another post started before this, but since the day has been long and the thoughts long, I am taking the liberty to address something that at some point in all of our lives that we just have to ask: is what I am doing leaving anything of value that generations down the line and look back upon and be blessed/challenged/encoruaged by? In light of a particular forum I visit...

...I am not so sure.

The question started off as a simple one:

...would you invite a non-believer to HCR as a way of evangelizing and bringing the gospel to them. Is the site up to par as far as the members here, the threads, post and comments? Would HCR be a accurate depiction of true Christianity and discipleship? If we really look at how some of the threads turn out and see the pride, the bickering, some of the languages, would outsides(non-believers) really think that we are being made into the image of a perfect Christ, and blameless Christ? would they look at the topics, the testimonies, the post and be convicted? or would they just leave out the same?

When I took a moment and looked around at the many threads and resulting replies, not to mention that at one time I was a moderator there, my answer was not surprising to me, but did begin to unwrap my heart:

Interestingly enough, If I look at the topic of this thread and its resulting answer, and then ask the question, "if in 100 years, can people look back at HCR and say that it is something Christian and upholding of the Word of God." The fact that so many here can answer "no" leads me to believe that we are NOT doing Christ-like work by being here and would be better following Christ instead of the board.

That aspect of someone in the future coming back to what I have done now and judging all that is left of me (words, images, video, etc.) against Scripture and placing real judgment on my life as to whether I was a Christian or not is something that brings me great pause. It makes me take a longer time at looking at the Word before applying it, and at the same time makes me critique all that I do now and have done in the past. I cannot change what I have done, people I have helped/hurt, but man, that reverb of "what does a Christian look like when culture has changed" comes back and bites me hard here. I am not sure that I would measure up well.

In speaking with my bro last night, I coined the term cultural Christian. Meaning, a Christian that is not defined characteristics clearly defined in the Word, but one who has allowed their worldview to effect how they act and are, and then claim Christianity as the catch-all reason why. No matter how I try to look at it, this is what many Christians that I know do, and we are quite blind that we live Christ in this manner.

In light of these thoughts of an unchanging God yet a changing culture, I've come to ask myself the hard question: am I representing Him well. Am I putting forth something that is God-approved and people-acknowledging that the Word of God is truth and not a lie? or, am I merely so passive in my faith that all the "fruit" that is left is reverbs of a culture looking like light, but dark as a black hole?

This is how I concluded my thoughts on that thread:

...However any of us want to answer it, I do believe that my assertion that the prevailing answer of "no, I will not bring believer/non-believer here (HCR)" speaks to the fact that we cannot even recognize each other as parts of the same Body, let alone anyone who is visiting. It might not take 100 years to throw this entire fellowship against the Scripts and find that we don't look anything like Christ's Body at all, it just might take 10 minutes, and that's a tough pill to swallow in light of "...I never knew you, depart from me, you workers of iniquity."

And honestly, that saddens me, because I would like my fellowship here (and everywhere) to be something that leaves a legacy of following the established truth we find in the Word. But if this or any other fellowship isn't, and I am not confident in bringing someone here because it isn't, then I really should depart. This is a tough thought right now.

I can look and question this case of representation at HCR, but when I look at my whole life, this is something that I also must consider. Am I really representing Him well, or just making myself into culturally religious, yet ultimately irrelevant and viral member of our "body." At the time of this writing, I don't know. But I do know that as a Body, this is something that we have to address and get right if we ever want to be regarded as His.

A Studious Mind

I was reading over at HCR today and there was a thread about a person who critiqued Ray Comfort's Way of the Master (WOTM) methodologies. Besides being the usual piece of nearly heated conversation, it gave me a chance to look at two sides of a discussion on the "how to" of evangelism, and how not being studied in the Scripts can lead to some erroneous doctrine.

In my time being a Christian, I have come across a few major camps of those who want to know more about the Bible. There are those who just want to read the entire Bible, and usualyl embark a few times a year on some kind of plan to do so. There are those who are interested in what God can/has done for them, and concentrate their studies on those applications (usually forgoing hermeneutics or anthropology for the cause of "this verse says this"). There are those that want to get deep and study the ancient manuscripts and languages, usually breaking down the very blatant messages of the Word into something not necessarily as deep, but to them important and intellectual. And I have a few that just want to know what God wants to say. They look at the Word in part as what it said to whom it was written, and then how it can be applied today. These (few) people usually have the most fun in the debates about tradition and the Scripts, and usually, we have those kinds of conversations that end up helping both/all of us see the Word clearer, and live in Him better.

So why do I take the time out of my (very busy) day to highlight something that I read not too long ago about something that I am pretty indifferent about?

Maybe it is in part due to the nature of the Word that I have seen around me. I see a good number of people tote the Word around and carry little integrity as to how it was put together or why it is where it is. I see some who get so deep with spiritual applications that they miss 99% of people who just need to know that the Bible applies to them. And very rarely am I seeing those who take the Word so seriously as they would call out people (myself included) who take the Word as some kind of wand, hoping their life would be better and others would be filled with the wrath of God.

Where is that aspect of holding the Word such that to dishonor it would be a communal embarrassment?

We speak a lot about the Word being appropriate and vital for us and our communities, but are we really studious enough to have the kind of mind that speaks of Him?

So Can I Make It

No, really. I am wondering how long I will be able to make it with my Treo before I want another phone. I just got the Nokia N95 that I have been ranting and raving about (since CES) tonite, and I am having the toughest of decisions of trying to decide when would be a good time to stop carrying both and switching the SIM card, and just do the N95 so that I can get a handle on its usage.

Mind you, I did say that I just got the N95 tonite and I am having these thoughts.

Man, tech is fun :)

Stay tuned to Brighthand as that is where the review of the N95 will be. If you have any questions about the N95 (or the Treo 680, or the Nokia N800 Internet Tablet), ask in the comments below and I will try to include that in my review.

Addressing Privacy and Boundaries

Whenever I sit to think about what to write here, I always consider my words first. I consider whether I want to read this 10 years down the line in the newspaper; I consider the effect of my words on friends and family; I consider God's heart, and whether what I'd write would be something that would speak something of life to someone. I don't know all who read these musings of mine, but I do consider their ears, if only to ensure that what I'd say here, I'd also say in front of them.

Which is why I am addressing the issue of privacy and boundaries here. I received two words from friends this weekend that I have been asked about. Interesting yes, but I considered one of those who were asked about me someone quite close to me, and so for that person to be approached the way that they were, it showed a lack of privacy and boundaries being respected.

Image: cover of the book Boundaries, via Amazon.com

Some of you know that I took about 6 months to read the book Boundaries. One of the things that I can say that it did for me was open me up to many of the reasons why I had been hurt by various relationships in the past. One of those reasons for being hurt was my own lack of respect for that which should be considered privacy. Whether that was friends and info (sorry again yall) or just keeping information out of the hands of those who did not need to, I have learned that what I value as private, other will (usually) value as well.

At least that was my thought before a phone call a bit ago that showed how one's privacy could be impinged.

I wonder if the lack of respect towards privacy has to do in part with my understanding of what boundaries mean. Sure, they can seem like a wall. Something that is meant to be a challenge to be taken over or brought down. But what happens when that wall comes down and that person is exposed in items that were not to be exposed. No rebuilding outside of God Himself can make up for those broken boundaries. And at the same time, needed healing is so much harder to come by when a broken wall (that wound) is constantly picked at.

My ex used to have this thing of wanting to pop the bumps on my face. It was never comfy, and usually irritated me. I had learned something a long time before that, if you let the hole that is there break on itself, the mess is a lot easier to deal with than if you put your hands in it and try to fix it yourself. Respect your skin's boundaries and you gain freedom from irritation and an improved ability to deal with those bumps.

If I were the man I was even one year ago, I would have picked at the bumps and tried to fix things myself. I would have forced my way with medicines and other methods that would seem like they could help, but only hurt the wound more. When looking at esteeming the value of those things private, I must observe those boundaries. When I do not, I end up with scars that never heal.

Back & Rollin

Or something like that. I have finally gotten to getting on a computer and now have set up an email address of mine with the ability to post to. The only issue will be trying to continue the function of breaking posts up... cause who wants to read more than an intro anyways ;)

Thinking about a lot, but nothing that I am ready yet to put here on this public arena. I do feel though that in a lot of respects that I do have a lot of that "swagger in faith" that I used to have coming back. That meant for a lot of challenging and conflicting situations, but nothing that a bit of prayer and fun could not handle. Eek.
Image: Nokia N800 Internet Tablet

I've got a new mobile device to play with, the Nokia N800. I will be covering my use of this over at MMM (have started already talking about it), so if you would like to know something about that, just check out things there.

Thanks pen pal; I needed all that you gave.

There is something of fun to happen, something of nervousness, and a touch of tech. Wouldn't be my life if it weren't ;)

Test Post

Testing things anew
~ ain't that cool ;)

Now at the New Blogger

And I am not sure that I like it one bit. For one, I cannot use Mo:Blog any more. Looks like that aspect of blogging is gone for now. U:Blog and H-Blogger will have to be tried, but I think that I am nearing the end of simple blogging. Sheesh, its horrible.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Being Disapointed in Job Searching Might Not Be You
I know that I have the hardest times when I go to some websites nad have looked for work, and then get quickly discouraged. Being that I develop and design websites, I expect that. But, who know it really could be more than just me?

When I had last read this posting, I had been thinking the same thing. There is a lot of unnecessary things that go into web-based job applications. And even worse with a lot of sites that are "the best" or "for those in graphic design and other web technologies."

What would I change? Personally, I would love to see most if not all of them coded with accessiblity in mind. Not only for those that have disabilities, but also for those that would use a mobile device, or non-standard resolution to look and apply.

That whole process of having seperate logins for each job site is horrible too. If I am going to give them my email address, why then do I need to create an account. it really does get quite unnecessary for the HR person that has to go back and log all those people who have had recently used accounts versus those who don't.

Yea, this is (one) of my rants for the day. Who knows, maybe some one will do something better and change application forms for the better for all things, not just jobs.

Links and Notes, with Leftovers from Last Week

I missed posting the last notes from last week as I was jsut flat out busy trying to roll onto the b-day celebrations. So here is the extra long version, plus a bit of real me at the end.

This seems like a good application for getting people to use the mobile web wwithout really having to deal with browser issues and the like.

This seems to be a pretty good solution in the respect that it address one of my quesions of why people send such large files to those who are mobile; at the same time, it remains to be seen if just reflowing content that was made 8.5x11 on a 2in diag screen is smart or just reaching too far.

Jeff Hawkins talks about brains and where computer technology should go - I love the way Hawkins thinks. By his very nature he challenges conventions and has the gumption to walk out on it. I have been meaning to get his book On Intelligence and think that it just might be time to take a trip into that end of my life travels.

Of course, reading sites that tell me that there are 25 Reasons You Might Be A Hardcore Graphic/Web Designer also knocks me into a side of where I don't get to play but so often.

Slick startup theme for Windows Mobile/Pocket PC

The Nokia E90 Communicator at Howard Forums - Demetri and I talked about this device at the MMM meetup as being something that would be nearly perfect for the way that both of us want to work with mobile devices. I still think that it is a bit too big for me, but it just might work regardless. Maybe I will get to play with this soon as well.

Of course, not everyone is like me, and so do note that there is the new Sidekick ID now available for like $100 after rebate. Its ok if you want to stay hip and all.

From a conversation earlier today:

I prayed before i went into that mtg
Prayed that God would walk with me, that I would not just have his favor, but walk with His attitude as it is Him I rep here
...I think that came across
...I hope that it did
I think that i am finally getting it in terms of the place work has...in terms of working in secular and carrying Christ
There is a balance
But more so there is that holiness that u spoke of earlier today
We either carry that standard, and walk by God's balance...or we compromise oursselves into stress and places of being needlessly stretched
I can rest in God now
It feels good fam

Labels: Links and Notes

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Wishing for Better Mobile Blogging
I don't know if it is my device, or just that the software is just not there. But I really wish that blogging from my mobile was a lot easier than it is. There are so many ways to improve things, and it just seems that no one (who can fix it) is listening.
For example, I blog from my Treo a whole lot. Mainly because it is with me all the time. But the blogger service that I use does not have a neat and usable means to post via a mobile device. Sure, I coudl create an email, but the formatting does not work, and uploading a picture is pretty much out of the question.

Then there is the issue of the software that is supposed to support good blogging, but it seems that nothing work for that either. It would just be nice to be able to attach in the memo pad some kind of plugin to whatever blogger service one uses and then post that way. That would be accessible and quick, and easy. No new software or learning curve needed.

I'd love also to be able to edit my blog template on my mobile device without fear of losing code. I cannot do that on my Treo right now. But man, that would keep me off of the bigger computers if I could.

Sounds more like I need a better mobile device. Maybe Demetri has a good point about the Nokia E90 being a better device for me. I do use these things as communicators, but as life integrators too.

Vessels Of...
Thanks to my friends for the great parties and fellowships that were had over the past two days. I appreciate just the fact that we were able to get together and have a good time. I'll remember not to be so Brittish the next time though - BRILLIANT ;)

I guess then I can go into those other thoughts that keep me up at 2am; yea, its a guy thing apparently too.

I threw out some memories today. I had the thoughts earlier this week that some things/people, I am finally comfortable with cutting off and leaving be. And so I took much of what sits in that place I call a "memory spot" in my apartment, and threw things away. Granted, I won't say all that I threw away here, but it was prettty signifiant - at least it was when I had those things to remember by.

I did that because I am finally coming to grips with the fact that despite the fact that I have realized the season that I am in, I have done a horrible job of not changing clothes. Its like I have been trying to wear sweats in the middle of summer. Sure, they are comfortable, but by no means is it right to live like its winter in the summer. I am personally done with living towards memories. Life has happened, and I've been moving on. It's time - in so many ways - to just continue to move on.

I think about what to write here a lot. Usually, I have the thought of whether I will offend by writing on a subject, and then if it is something that I would want others to read (like prospective employers and those checking out the leadership of MMM). I look at how things could best be said, and then how to say them in person if a response has to be done there. I don't spell check, sorry folks. I do speak honestly. No complexities unless the poem dictates it, but only the layers of who I am that I wish to expose. This here is my vessil of release, and this here I share with you.

And old friend emailed me that his book was finished and I just got it tonite. It really is good, and pending his perrmission, I'll put a link here so that you can order a copy for yourself. It's one of those books that will change the way you think. And its extremely well written.

There is a praise and worship song in my head now called Because of Who You Are by Martha Muzzini. I started to wonder why this song was here, here in my head. But who I am is a worshipper. I cannot help but join in with others who also want to adore our Father. And though I have never met this woman, nor been around the ministry thaht works with her, I sense praise and worship as the moment that should lead me to sleep. A vessel of worship to rest...

yea, I'll end on that note. Thanks for everything yall, and apologies to my friends (I'll figure out that password thingy for individual pics, but doesn't seem possible in this gallery). Shalom.

Thursday, April 12, 2007

The Pastor's Coat
I took today as my day. This day I would either offend or bless, love or push away. Today, I wpould make a lot of life defining statements, and sofar, the day isn't over and I have made quite a number.

I can say that a lot of this started when I woke up at 6am and couldn't make it back to sleep. I stayed in bed, convinced that it would keep me warm. That led to email and prayer, and I made it up at 630 to respond to a few things.

Thanks for the call pen-pal.

I decided the night before how I would dress, the confidence that I would have. And with my 3/4 length coat I did just that. The day started slow and ended in a flurry, with an interesting note thrown in.

One of my co-workers commented that my coat was a 'pastor's coat.'

I've sat on that all day, and it wasn't until a really sat on this Metro tonite that it hit me that I looked different. Not something unrecognizable, but definitely of a different standard than just a guy at a job. I had the look of something greater, the 'God is Greater' look.

And so I left my job today, confident that I was carrying Christ in part today, but in more responsiblity than I ever had before. I've been looked at as a leader, but only took the role when necessary. Now, at 28, that is something that changes. I think I said it last year, and yet with s many needed things taken away and pruned, I see that my heart to please God will (in some places) put me in as a leader.

Nope, I never have been in this place before. But I also never wore this coat to FH before either. What a difference a coat, God's coat, can make.

Here's A Reason to Take a Break at Work

Just take some time (you'll need about 20 minutes) to read this. Forward it if you want, keep it in heart if you want. Just take some time, ok.

After the read more link is a snippet.

...I stand here today... I’m not troubled in my heart about your self-esteem. I’m not troubled in my heart about whether or not you feel good about yourself, whether or not life is turning out like you want it to turn out, or whether or not your checkbook is balanced. There’s only one thing that gave me a sleepless night. There’s only one thing that troubled me all throughout the morning, and this is this. Within a hundred years, a great majority of people in this building will possibly be in hell. And many who even profess Jesus Christ as Lord will spend an eternity in hell.

You say, Pastor, how can you say such a thing? I can say such a thing because I don’t do my Christian work in America. I spend most of my time preaching in South America, in Africa, and Eastern Europe. And I want you to know that, when you take a look at American Christianity, it is based more upon a godless culture than it is upon the Word of God. And so many people are deceived, and so many youth are deceived, and so many adults are deceived into believing that, because they prayed a prayer one time in their life, they’re going to Heaven. And then, when they look around at others who profess to know Christ and see those people also just as worldly as the world, and they compare themselves by themselves, nothing troubles their heart. They think, well, I’m the same as most in my youth group. I watch things I shouldn’t watch on television and laugh about the very things that God hates. I wear clothing that is sensual. I talk like the world. I walk like the world. I love the music of the world. I love so much that’s in the world, but bless God, I am a Christian. Why am I a Christian? I don’t look any different than most of the other people in my church. Why am I a Christian? Because there was a time in my life when I prayed and asked Jesus Christ to come into my heart.

I want you to know that the greatest heresy in the American evangelical and protestant church is that, if you pray and ask Jesus Christ to come into your heart, He will definitely come in. You will not find that in any place in Scripture. You will not find that anywhere in Baptist history until about 50 years ago. What you need to know is that salvation is by faith and faith alone in Jesus Christ. And faith alone in Jesus Christ is preceded and followed by repentance... a turning away from sin, a hatred for the things that God hates and a love for the things that God loves, a growing in holiness and a desire not to be like Britney Spears, not to be like the world, and not to be like the great majority of American Christians, but to be like Jesus Christ! [The audience then erupts in applause].

I don’t know why you’re clapping. I’m talking about you. I didn’t come here to get amens. I didn’t come here to be applauded. I’m talking about you...

Please read the rest of this, or listen to the audio.

All Up In My Closet

Like I said, I'll be pretty much burning up the keyboard blogging throughout the day. Hey, it's my day and I'm so breaking my own rules just for a while to stretch.

So my bro LJ shoots to me a devotional that he just did and it was all up in my closet. I mean really, how come Christ-like cats got to be all up in your prayer closet dealing with the same issues you are :P

So what does that mean for me? Well, that I have and I am putting down a lot of the things that I have wanted and am just letting God run things. This is not at all comfortable (see yesterday's ranting), but if I am going to grow this year and beyond, then I'll have to roll out on this and flow with Him.

Headshots
I am on the Metro now and with only one ear working in my headphones. I a. listening to a woman to my right on the phone. She isn't loud or anything, but I do wonder if anyone ever considers that some people don't want to hear their conversation on the commute.

That being said, it is only an issue for me when my headphones are not on, or in this case not working. Things woud assuredly be different.

And so the question is why I don't just get a new pair? Well, I want wireless ones but and judging if whether I want to have another item to charge when I am traveling. Of course, Bluetooth headphones would serve as my headset, but I like the headset I have and do not want to give up the quality of chat it gives.

If I go wired, I will spend a nice Lincolin ;-) on them. Quality sound is really a must, as is the short but needed isolation headphones allow.

This is just one of those days where I am thinking all over for one reason or another.

Well, I Made It
Another year in the books, and I can say that it has been a rough one. From a new job, to a loss of fiance, this has certainely been a heck of a year. The fun part, I made it thru April 11th so that I could at least talk about what could come next. This has got to be good ;)

I should probably start with my Christian walk and what can happen this year. Well, as the song I am listening to is saying, a better understanding of the grace of God, and continuing to abide in it will be my place to really hone in. I haven't deserved much of it this far, but I am grateful that things have gone this far.

In terms of my family, I expect one major death this year. I don't know why, but I think there could be a shocker this year in my family. I also expect another family member to find a tight and solid relationship with Christ. Of course, I have my hope for that last, one, but that stays ONLY in the family.

In terms of friends, I don't plan to lose any, but it could and will happen. I think that folks such as my bro, pen-pal, and that DC Fiesty one might be some solid ones to hold onto. I don't know how many more friendships I will make in the DC Metro area though. I just don't see that happening as much any more.

In terms of work at FH; I don't plan to be there, but who knows what God will call into play there.

In terms of work with Brighthand; I hope to become a more solid writer and carve out a solid niche amongst the tons of other writers who are out there and get into some "me" kinda articles.

In terms of just being in ministry; wouldn't it be neat if sometthing big happened ;)

In terms of a new phone, who knows. I could have a few more, but will be happy with just the one I have now that I am typing on.

Yea, Psalm 103 folks. I have to get that into my Spirit, make it a part of my thought-life, and live it. To be a living vessel of praise; I wonder if that will become the next title of the poems for next season.

Thanks to all who have wished me a happy birthday, and if you are just now finding out, don't feel bad I really don't tell people before hand ever, but the day of an after I rub it in nicely :P

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Realizing Things
Just leaving work when I am composing this, and after a conversation with a co-worker about my soon to change status, I am again realizing that while my life is not about me, God sure does want to use me in strange ways.

For example, when I ws hired, there was something of a big deal made about my experience in the mobile world. And aside from a newsletter, I have not seen much more in mobile other thn what I have cought by browsing and RSS. Maybe I did not speak on my profciencies enough, but I sure nuff have done something. And with that thouglht the realization was that God does't want me to seek indiviual fame, just to walk in the power of his name.

I spoke with another person about the cultures of women that I like. I was not just impressed with the pride of those comments, but also how God has continually put me in a place where culture can be overcome so aily by walking in Him.

Psalm 103 my pen pal said. Never a more true word today was needed.

When my temper flared, God said to realize that I am a vapor. My emotions cannot cause the winds to blow or grass to grow. My only recourse was to realize that whether here (metro), work places, or anywhere else, His praise should be my focus.

I realize this now. Back to flowing with Him.

Should I Go
No, really, I am debating at this very moment (after having written an email and a post) if I should go to work. Sounds off I know, but I woke up with some negative thoughts about work today, and a bad attitude is something that I'd rather not take in with me.

Have any of you ever had that happen? Where you know that your atitude is not in the best of conditions, and yet you had to be in that place anyways. As I write this, I am remdinded that I really do need to just humble myself and take Christ as my attitude. It's hard. I know that I will be going back into the same place, with the same people, and my same hopes of wanting for them to know Christ. But I know that they will not get that last part if I am not standing as one of his ambassadors (1 Cor. 5:20). It's rough to do this job as an ambassador when your attitude is not on point.

So what have I decided? Honestly, I have to err on the side of going. God's name is at steak, and its for Him that I need to go to this place, not for me.

Links and Notes

Make sure that if you are looking for a job that you see the last post. It's something that will make you look good if you can get on board the web train...

LJ reviewed Flame's new album: Flame - Our World Fallen - I'll be getting that one

LJ called me a tech addict. Well, I am to a degree, but only if it is mobile and relvant to getting things done simply. I am no longer the kinda techie that wants to eek out the last bit of power from his desktop, or try every system and game and have them all on one device. That to me is not productive. I'd rather have something that works, and then understand what doesn't work for me, but might for another person.

No, cannot go withuot my Treo for a week, and neither can this guy.

I talk about it enough, and so here it is in pieces if you don't have a copy of Boundaries for yourself

Now this is what I like to think of when I see that technology shuold not only be great for entertainment, but serve a purpose greater than the fancy side of things.

My headphone that I usually use with my Treo have concked out. It seems that every few months that I go thru another set of headphones. I think that now I will go for Bluetooth Stero headphones, but I am not sure which ones. The key thing is that if I do get them, I will want to have a paid that can last most of the day at work if I am at a desk, and then they need to be able to be charged while at the desk. If I am not mobile, there is no need to not top it off you know.

I'll be getting a few new devices soon and one of the things that I will need is threaded chat support. Essentially, this will make my text messages look like an instant messaging conversation, and its makes it very easy to stay on topic on long posts, and keep history when you need to look back on things said and locations to places.

And this is what I get for trying to be fancy with a project that I am working on. Of course, after looking at this, I do need to mark up my blog a lot better, but I'd need a better blog to do so.

Now this is what I and a lot of folks need - a good resume creation program that keeps things simple - having this I can really play with my resume. If you need a resume done right, use this tool; then find yourself a place where you can get this online so that you can make a business card and refer peolpe there ;)

Labels: Links and Notes

Links and Notes After Easter Edition

As usual, I had some time to write in between projects and a few phone calls. The immediate needs though came when I was settled and had a moment or two of reading the Word and prayer (thanks). Other than that, these were some of the things that passed thru my mind and heart today.

You'd think that I would have had more on my mind today, but things are more or less personal and not so much worth sharing unless its the cold, non-personal, and techie side of things. To those who know, they know.

Psalm 103 and 1 John 1:9 from my pen pal today. Thanks.

A person decides to go a month on only using his Nokia smartphone and just use his computer as storage; now where have I heard of someone doing that before...oh yea, that's me and my everyday life (since March 2006). Gotta love when the tech companies give you a reason to prove their ad slogans right or wrong though. Should be interesting. Stay tuned here as I'll comment on this as the report comes in.

There are more people in China that have a mobile phone than the total number of people that live in the US, and you think I'm silly for wanting to live by mobile phone. A ton of these folks not only do, but they have made all types of businesses out of it without (totally) killing their calmer ways of life. Interesting ain't it.

For a while now, I have had wavering thoughts about this area, sometimes I am usually more happy about the people than the place, but always waiting to sit and think about life a bit before making a decsion. I am at that place again, and for me, I think I'd rather be where life can happen, instead of where death is the only Mo. When you think about it, it was in the largest city at the time where people chose the free death over the person who could free their life. Makes you wonder what it is that we really want.

My bro Larosa just folded his blog into Trailblazin Ministries' website. Check it out and be blessed wtih some strong devotionals and some downloadable mixtapes that will edify/encrouage/correct/instruct you in the ways of Dad.

I think that me doing skins instead of full site redesigns makes this old post pan out really well.

I think that I will ue this site (or something mobile friendly) when looking to do a new theme for my site.

At a dinner party yesterday, one of the women said to me, "you have a positive light, don't let anyone take that away from you." I'm not sure about where that woman was in terms of Christianity, but man, that was something that hit and at the time of this writing (5:22pm) it hit again. Thinking about this place where and whether its the kind of struggle that I need to be in or not. I think not. And yet, I know God has used this time to shine me up a good bit. It's a wonder what all it is He is thinking of me, and walking with me. His ways are very far beyond mine, and yet, so very close.

And finally, my friend might really like this article. Here is a bit of what I posted on a thread about this:

...Students should have a manditory student/business computing essentials class if you are going to make it manditory for them to have them on campus. Teaching them how to get the best use out of it, while also the ethical aspects of it prevents pieces like this from sounding like immature students and misguided school policies...

Labels: Links and Notes

Sunday, April 08, 2007

Mobile Thoughts on Easter
There are a number of things that are running thru my mind today, but in this post I want to talk about some of those things that are more or less based around mobile technology and where I see the current technologies missing the point, or not mature enough to do things that should enchance our lives.

This was the second year in a row, after many years of not doing so, that I followed the "trend" of going to church on Easter. Don't get me wrong, I have no isses with going, but I am not a fan of lines and crowds, and despite the relvancy of Christ, there always seems to be more of an emphasis on the show ratherr than the risen Lord.

And so why am I breaking the thought of this post to mention this? There were a number of things that I noticed that could have made service, and community building, more engaging if aspects of mobile tech were adopted.

For example, my church doesn't (yet) have an email newsletter. The neat thing about email newsletters is that you can design them simply enough that they could become text messages. Imagine subscribing to an announcement message from your church and the day before service, you'd get a reminder to check the website for the latest announcement plus service times.

Another though came when I ran into some people that just moved into the Annapolis area. What would have been neat to do would have been to swap phone numbers within an application that functions like Jaiku (I might have to correct that name and link). That kind applicaiont combines your address books ability to show you who you know, with an ability that is found in instant messaging clients that enables you to see if a person is busy; and can even go further if the person sets up a location setting in showing you if the person is near your area. In meeting new people, you'd always like to say you are available to chat, and an application like this (which should be standard fare on mobile phones and work regardless of device and carrier), would make being approachable a lot easier, and lead to easier lines of keeping one another accountable.

The last thing that I would have liked to see is a Flkr gallery of the art work. My church did a feature where they featured local artists this weekend and their artwork that spoke towards Christ. There was even a person doing a piece during the three services today (three seperate pieces that told one message). It would be great to see that unfolded on a site like Flkr, and then let people know that they can see the pics and save them to their computers and phones as wallpaper, or even use them in showing people what community can bring out of one another.

Of course I have no pics now. I'lll take some tonite of the pieces and then post on my photo gallery.

And so there are some of those thoughts that I have had this weekend. I think it and more is possible to explore. And it is not so much about the mobile, but about how we can take what we know about relating to one another, and not allowing for any thing to be a barrier, but to be a stepping stone towardsd further fellowship. After all, Christ rose to bring people together under Him, not to seperate us into little cells that have no interaction or care for one another.

Happy Easter to you all. And hope that you enjoy the theme, I'll keep it up as default for a while (and make a new one to play with soon enough).

EDIT: corrected that link to Jaiku now. Sorry bout that folks.

Disaster Strikes Brighthand Member

I am pretty late at getting to this news, but it seems that a member of the Brigthhand forums has suffered the loss of everything in a fire recently in Philly.

If you want to lend your support, further information and the contact person is in this thread at Brighthand.

MP, our prayers are with you.

New Skin: Good Friday

In respect to the time of remberance, I have added a new skin to the site called Good Friday. You will notice that it is the default skin, and will be for at least the weekend. There are a few other notes about this after the jump...

I noticed an issue with the comments not being formatted right and have fixed that. If you notice anything going crazy on your computer, just comment to this post and I'll be able to fix things from there. I did do a considerable amount of browser testing, and so things should be just fine, but one never knows. There is no support for mobile devices with this skin, and none is planned.

Here is a list of all the skins for my site that you can choose:
Default
Default Bolded
Emerald
GrandpaHuey
TeaTime
GoodFriday

This listing is on every page and will (hopefully soon) be updated on the portfolio page.

Links and Notes for 4.6

Good Friday in so many ways. I wonder though if it should be one of those holidays where Christians should wear the physical and emotions shaws of mourning, rather than the normal "great, a holiday" thing that we normally do. One's got to think that after listening to a song like this or a movie like this that we would have a more somber approach to this day.

I do think so, and at the same time so many other things have ran thru my head today.

30Boxes: A very neat calendaring application. Browser based, but I wonder how well this could work with a mobile device like a smartphone that can be on and offline at will. It would be great to see some kind of syncing solution between my Treo's built in calendar application and 30Boxes, that would be pretty darn cool. Add somethink like WINK's where you are feature and you have something that's not just a calendar, but a real means to integrate contacts and events really easily

Twitter is the latest phenomena to hit social networking and I AM NOT jumping on this train. Though it does make me happy that there is now an application for Twittering on my Treo

Web Usabilty tool

Wow, excellent picture (its coming back to this site really soon)

April 21th 6:30pm,
9:30pm 2007 —
B. Morr, Self Denial Album Release Party— at
New Life International Fellowship Church 1720 Belmont Ave. UNIT-J Woodlawn, MD 21244

FREE The release of Self Denial

Made this event listing with the hCalendar Creator.

Oooh, a game that takes engaging games a lot further - Refugee is the name of the game but the site is in Spanish, and the game is as well

Despite the closeness to people in the area, sometimes it is just a digital connection that makes things feel a bit better. I am glad for my friends and pen pals that keep things going not just for me, but for each other. It is a fellowship more by the Spirit of God than it is one by having to spend time in each other's faces. To me, its better, because when we do finally get into each other's faces, we are able to connect more genuniely since we've already borne in our writings the heart that we have to see God work in one another. It's just neat.

UX/IA meetup in Alexandria on April 19

It's something (covetiousness or lust or something), but why is it that I want a phone that costs a few bucks more than what I pay in rent for my apt; thankfully, the price will be lower (if you can call $750 lower)

Labels: Links and Notes

Links and Notes

At work still and its 8pm-ish. Think that I've had a lot to think about? You bet.
Interesting, the mobile web does work in some applications better than others

This morning I made it a Cross Movement morning. I don't know how long I'll be able to listen to the same tracks over and over, but its fun and a nice run thourgh the music that I've lives with since I've been saved - "you know we live among tough guys who say they rough ride, but I've seen the meet Elohiem and no more tough side...and so we're caught up, the Savior's got our jaw stuck, we're awestruck cause life's no longer a tossup...and thuogh its got a lotta trouble in it, in compairson it pales like a bucket with a shovel in it, cause one day we'll be the eternal residents, with a usinversal president for whom we represent.." (link to song on 3hmp3)

I need to start paying my cell phone bill using my phone. I know that Cingy does have a service like that, I need to use it and not the website so much. Granted, seeing my bill this time made me glad that I did. I wonder if that new deal that Cingy has with banks will come to BoA. That would be a knock out punch for me, and probably my checkbook application too. If you think about it...u get a sms that you bills is due, then a shortcode that you can use that would pay for the bill via SMS, u get a recipt via SMS and boom, 5 minutes max and u done. That's simple and effective use of simple tech.

CSS Font size reference

It's not so much that he takes pics with the latest Nokia phones, but the ones he takes are really good. I could use some lessons (and that N95).

Learning a bit about Premium SMS services and how they can work in the USA.

Wow!

Snacking on some good cookies right now. You folks should try these, they are quite good. And no, they aren't store bought, these are made fresh with all natural ingredients. Its the kind of cookie that takes the edge off a long day.

After having issues getting email today (still am), I am wondering what is up and found a site that might help me out understand things as they are happening to the data connection from the carrier side - of course, after a call with Cingy and making my bill even more and resetting my phone, things work fine. I so need to get my old data plan back, who wants to pay a lot for the net?

That's all for now. And I can leave work on this note. A full 11hrs after I got here.

Labels: Links and Notes

Right Now...
I am browsing the net on my Treo. Why? Mainly because doing so keeps me out of trouble, and keeps me more or less purposeful about browsing. I do get to some sites where its eassy to get lost in posts or articles, but it doesn't last very long. And doing this kind of browsing has revealed something to me about my browsing/Internet habits, and why they are changing.

You see, I am the type of person that will go too far with this tech, and then reign it in when I feel that too far is, well too far. Its been like that with the computer with me first getting a desktop and spending too much to keep it upgraded. I then got a laptop and things got simpler when all I needed to do on a comp was to got o work.

Its even gotten like this with my PDA. First it was manage notes and contacts, tasks and this and that. Now its, make sure that my tasks list is cut down, answer a call or text message if I feel like it, and gett what info I'd like to get when I want it. There isn't as much of that idle time to browse and play as there used to be. Not to say that I don't sometimes get that time, but now, when I get that time, I am able to put the Treo down and read or sleep.

Looking for news for Brighthand so that I can get some news posts up. I really do need to see about how to make my news grabbing a lor easier of an endavor, without keeping me in my email all the time. I am sure that there is some way, but not really sure.

Thinking about the guys and the humbleness of one of the gusy tonite. I remarked to the Lord in our closing prayer about it and because his meek and humble heart really convicted me on how honest I need to be with God continually. When I am doubting, I need to say so; when I am strong, I need to say so - then step back and show true strength in Him. My brother convicted and encrouaged me tonite, and I don't think I said it but once to him. Well, I'll just have to send him this post, or call and just let him know. It was a blessed aspect of my night.

Ever dressed by the Son?

Links and Notes for 4.4

And so what all did I get a chance to think about today considering that I was (finally) overly busy at work...

B.Morr's CD is coming out soon, see me at the album releae part on the 21st

While you may get me to browse on your website when I am sitting in front of a computer, usually speaking, I am not sitting in front of one, but its in my hands. Why should I have to wade thru complex designs in order to get to the needed areas on a particular page. No, I get to complain about my own website here too (hence I added that search last week), but if it is that the web is about browsing AND info retrevial, both the browser and the content should make that easier than what it is now.

Yup, that's all. Haven't had much time to think with Red Line issues this morning and much work on my plate. Who knows what will happen now that I am late for Bible study with the guys...

Gotta love the downside of the hump.

Labels: Links and Notes

Poem: Sundress

It all started with a mention of such a season real
Innocent and contending by faith's appeal
I spoke to a room hope and joy filled
Remembering that this season was more than just what would be revealed

The day was filled with the Son
Sunlight fallen on me reminded me of allergies
But the lack of the Son's light made the interior a cold place
Weeping and gnashing to get outside
I finally made it and found that peace I needed
The warmth fell subtly against my skin

Appearing back at the ink, faith works in overdrive
Deriving silliness and seeing points in posts
Words unspoken and spoken speak clear in this
Shoved open and opened until the veil is completely lifted
Faith asks me to let in a little more sun
And as I do my fears are heated, and dreams challenged to stand solid

That cold and dark place I mine for hours
Travel long and sometimes wheels get dour
It's impressed on me tonite that I should abide in His power
And I do hear
But occasionally for the lack of Son I do cower
It's been a long while here
And no, happiness has not been the order
Sometimes though I feel it's been winter
And I had been planted before-times in the harvest mentioned
This is the place where I've grown thus far
Yet I know the time to break forth is upon me
Why is it so hard for me to shake my faithlessness in the warmth I have

He shivers at the thought that another dream was deferred
That another year has gone by with no wife
No kids
Not even a successful purr
He marvels at the light displayed both in words and deeds of others
And slowly time ticks for him the same
When the hours read 0:00 and the end of the dash is met
He no longer hopes that he had been famous
Only that somehow in a deferred dream that the Son was met

And then faith speaks as only she can
Proven time and time again to be the arrows to temper this man
Many have tried to do the same
And yet important leaves realize that he's finally been tempered
The rain of faith brings joy and hope
Promise to go up again
And bring word of a blessing good
The substance that makes up this son
Was enough for the Son to start a neighborhood

Despite the moments of shade
He is dressed in warmth still

Labels: poem

Links and Notes

Nice star gazing webstie (thanks DB)
Image: Samsung SGH-i600 Home Screen Carousel/Card Wheel Plug-In, via The UNwired

Now this is how a Today screen becomes more than just an item that shows stuff, via the Unwired - I saw that knowing that this is something (or similar to something) that I really would like for my Treo. Despite what others have suggested that is out there, I am not seeing something that is simple, usable, and functional.

Not that some things are not meant for the front page, but a notable item from me today is the nice weather that is going on. Granted, my allergies are having tehir way with my energy levels and sleep comfort, but I take a bit of rest in knowing that its Spring. Seems like the case for a lot of folks with babies and new relationships making the come-uppins. This is good though, seasons happen all around us, we just have to keep our hearts on God instead of the weather though.

I wonder what the notes will be for tomorrow? Who knows, maybe I'll just go WINK my thoughts.

Labels: Links and Notes

Having a Moment
I think that one of the reasons that I am not always happy with work is because my approach to work is a lot different than the places in which I have worked. Some places are about self-serivce, while others are out looking out for others. Some places are about the almighty dollar, and others just don't care if they make a penny or not (just as long as they aren't operating at a loss).

My aunt pointed me to a site some days ago called The Chief Happiness Officer and as I began to read it, I started to think about my own motivations behind working. Sure, I have bills to pay, and there is some level of freedom in living that I'd like to enjoy. But, it seems that the more that I sit in this metro area, the more that I am seeing that the cost is greater than I've wanted it to be. I've been sleepy because of working and traveling to and from work too long; I've been up and down with eating as the cost of food here has been crazy; and there is this ever living battle to be real in faith, while being honest with what is going on around me. Surely, this is not what anyone ever expects, but we all end up going through.

So it was with that in mind that I listened to the world around me when I took my walk yesterday. I noticed that I did not hear any birds. The only music was that of feet and cars, and the occasional radio. There was such a sense of being restless, that I could not imagine that this type of life is at all what God had wanted for us when he gave way for communities to come about.

No, I'm not at all happy. Content in some respects that I've figured out some of the flow that God hass allowed me to see at this time. But a lot like when I was in college, I am seeking Him in the right places, but being presented with me and an environment that just does not want to flow with Him.

The constant battle between faith and life while at my desk is not at all easily solved with music on my ears. Perhaps the change of scenery that I see is not at all an issue of location, but that of finding the moment that works best with God, and that I can have an easier time being in step with.

Poem: Metropolitan Spring

Where I am from you can tell the seasons change
Because of the change of clothes first
Where once there were woolens and boots
Sun dresses and Polo shirts now run the landscape
No birds are chirping
But the sound of music is nonetheless heard
Not too much in the way of new leaves
But the shade returns with the longer days

Where I am from you can tell the seasons change
By the tone in people’s voices
The insistence on the days being shorter
So that the sunlight can be more enjoyed
Rains are plenty
Yet hold a dry note in this pace
And what is left of birds wings
Becomes successes for another class of teens
No birds are chirping
But the sound of music is nonetheless heard
Sneezing replaces shivering
And plans begin for the season’s warmth to come

Where I am from
You can tell the change of season
For in my metropolitan spring
The urban jungle gives way for life to bloom

Labels: poem

Just Notes

It seems like it has been a really long time since writing here, even thought it has only been a few days. And even at that, I have not had much of a opportunity to just go surfing about on the web. That being said, I have had my share of notes here and there that have come across my mind. A few of those are worth sharing.

Despie the start of Spring being here, I still do feel that a good deal of me wants it to still be winter. I know that I have parts of me that God is screaming for more maturity and growth in, but man am I kicking and screaming on some things.

A hello to my new pen pal. Smiles are indeed awesome.

Heard a great testimony on Sunday from a lady who I believe that I met thru working with the kids at my church. If you want to hear it, you will have to show up at one of the services on Sunday.

Does anyone ever wonder where folks get the idea that "covered in the blood" is such a great thing. If my reading and memory servces me correctly, things that were covered in the blood of the recently slain lamb were fit for sacrifice themselves. Make's ya think a bit doesn't it.

My phone is beside me charging because I didn't take my USB cable with me to work. Now, why charge my phone at work you might ask? Simply because I listen to the music on it all day, and because it does nothing else but sit beside me, sitting getting a trickle charge is great for the battery. I was impressed though that it made it thru the day today (no music till on the way home). I even was able to get a few emails out and keep Bluetooth on. Impressive, especially considering that my older phone was not able to pull that off.

Now if I can only make the Treo's screen show on a TV, I'll be just fine with my phone :) - yea right :D

What's with all the folks now asking a bro if he has Treos? I told yall years ago to get one and you looked at me like I was silly. Now you all want one. Sheesh, I wonder how far ahead with all the other tech thoughts I am considering this latest "revelation of an Antoine-kind."

At some point, I get pics back into the posts. But probably not before I do a new skin to the site. I've got ideas, and something formal will have to be done about it :)

MMM/Inner-Linked

Visit Mobile Ministry Magazine (MMM) to learn and explore about the intersection of faith and mobile technology.

Visit Inner-Linked to learn how I can help you or your c

AntoineRJWright.com

Monday, April 30, 2007

Just in Check

Friday, April 27, 2007

Just Stupid

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Mobility

Representing Him Well

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

A Studious Mind

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

So Can I Make It

Monday, April 23, 2007

Addressing Privacy and Boundaries

Back & Rollin

Test Post

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Now at the New Blogger

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Monday, April 16, 2007

Links and Notes, with Leftovers from Last Week

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Here's A Reason to Take a Break at Work

All Up In My Closet

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Links and Notes

Monday, April 09, 2007

Links and Notes After Easter Edition

Sunday, April 08, 2007

Saturday, April 07, 2007

Disaster Strikes Brighthand Member

New Skin: Good Friday

Friday, April 06, 2007

Links and Notes for 4.6

Thursday, April 05, 2007

Links and Notes

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Links and Notes for 4.4

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Poem: Sundress

Links and Notes

Monday, April 02, 2007

Poem: Metropolitan Spring

Just Notes

Archives

MMM/Inner-Linked