Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Spy Day

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/810680/lh17-6_gangland_to_promised_land.mp3

Listen to this presentation.  It is about 50 minutes total.  After listening, talk about how the author, or speaker, uses literary devices to appeal to his audience.  Then, react to the presentation.  What do you think of it.  At the end of your blog, I want you to list 3 talents you feel you have been given by God.

21 comments:

  1. This guy is awesome. John Pridmore is probably one of my new favorite people in the entire world. His story and witness to the love of Christ is so amazingly moving. His talk was really interesting, and I found myself drawn deeper and deeper into his story and the way he was able to express God's love for us through his past, present, and future.

    Talks like these are always great to listen to. For me, they are reaffirming, especially in the case of this one. To hear the story of an ex-gang member, one who had killed, maimed, and stolen, and how he came to the Lord is encouraging, because it makes me see that no matter how horrible our sins are, they are already forgiven because of Jesus' death on the cross. This is so important for young people to know because we so often find it impossible to believe that our actions could be forgiven, but this talk tells us that it truly is possible.

    The use of anecdotes in this speech is very prevalent. Actually, pretty much the entirety of the speech is an anecdote, or a compilation of them. He tells stories about how he was part of a horrible gang in New York City, went to jail for thieving, and eventually came to God. Now, he goes around speaking to young people like ourselves and showing them the major error in his ways so that we can avoid it, but also to see that God loves us no matter what.

    This man's anecdotes are impactful. Hearing stories, true stories, about a converted ex-gang member is really amazing and awe-inspiring. I mean this guy was a thug. A malicious guy who had come to the point where he no longer worried about killing people. The truth in these stories are what draws people to him. His stories are horrible, yet attractive because they hold the idea of salvation within them. Anecdotes tend to attract people because these are real stories so they do not feel annoyed that someone is trying to convince them of a situation, it is actually true.

    He also used humor in his speech which was really important. If he hadn't have had any humor, the entire talk would have been overwhelming and awkward. Imagine sitting there listening to an ex-gang member/convict, without an ph emotional release. I would be uncomfortable just as anyone else would be. His jokes, most of the time, were seamlessly added into the speech, and there weren't too many or too few. It made the speech have a lighter tone despite the subject material being heavy.

    I think it was interesting how John talked about how his only talent was stealing, and how that was what he had to survive by. Our talents are much more expansive than we know, but we discover them based on our experiences in life. He has many more talents than thievery, such as being an eloquent orator and he is impacting people's lives. For me, I guess my talents would be being able to really retain knowledge, being a very sociable person, and being blessed with creative instincts that allow me to do pottery and other things. God has given me these so that I can help others through them, I just have to figure out how.

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    1. Hannah,
      I really liked how you talked about the anecdotes because after all, the entire thing basically is one; I have to agree with you. Isn't it really fascinating how someone who has done so many bad things in their life and yet they have found forgiveness. It's incredible that we have a God that is so amazing that he can forgive our sins no matter the depth of our downfall from Him. I wish you would have stepped a little bit more outside of the box when you talked about your talents because you have so many! But I agree with every single thing you said and really enjoyed reading your blog. Keep up the good work!

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    2. Hannah,
      I knew you would enjoy this podcast, it is right up your alley. I found the same literary devices as you, anecdotes and humor, but I felt ass if the humor came from the irony of the situation, something you touched on in your blog. You were right in saying that Pridmore's stories were "impactful" because they really give us a perspective on how much God is capable of forgiving. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all forgive like that? I know that I can't - I still have grudges from freshman year! And perhaps that was the purpose of examining our talents. Maybe we were supposed to look beyond our physical capabilities such as creating art in your case and singing in my case and look at our ability to forgive, listen, understand. These were important factors in Pridmore's conversion which leads me to believe they are important in every life. Just some food for thought. Good job, have a happy Easter!

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  2. When asked to react to things such as this blog, I tend to shy away. Don't get me wrong, I love to have my opinion heard, however, I'm terrified of getting something completely different out of a talk, poem, or something of the sort. This blog is no different. It is different in the sense that it's about religion and turning to God.

    Everybody loves a good story about the underdog rising above the odds and coming out on top. I had a huge feeling of that in this talk. The ex-gang member that turned against his stealing and hurtful ways, and centered his focus on God and redound himself in his faith. This is what really hits me. It's weird to understand just how hard it can be to lose yourself and then completely find yourself with the help of God. This is one of the gifts I believe God has given me; the ability to rise up above the hard times and make the best of situations. The best thing to do in horrible instances is to turn to God. I've leaned that this is often what most people do when times get tough.

    The use of language and humor in the speech were rather fascinating. They truly made the speech that much easier to follow along. I'm my going to lie, when I read that the speech was fifty minutes long, I was not the happiest camper. I have a low focus level when it comes to things that are lengthy in time. The odd hints of humor thrown in at all the right moments though made it easier for me to stay focused. This brings me to my second gift I believe God has given me; the ability to have several things on my mind at once and remember. I guess that could also be considered multi-tasting. I think that's something that is also a big part of the the ex-gang member finding God. He had to be able to focus on God while also looking for himself, and trying to stay away from the multiple temptations that were constantly tempting him.

    Talents. Everyone has talents whether they like to think they do or not. The beauty of this is that talents can be anything and do not have to be the typical—knowledge or athletic ability. The ability to work with people, patience to help children, or even the ability to bring people up from a low place in their life. I tend to be insecure and humble when it comes to my talents. I don't like to come out and admit that I'm fantastic about something because, the truth is, I'm not all that great at anything. I'm not degrading myself I'm just saying that I know there is always someone better. However, I know that God gave me my talents and am forever thankful for them. My third talent I believe God gave me is my desire to work with kids. I want to teach them that there is always a way out and that they never have to turn to things like gangs. The fact that the man giving the speech said his only talent was stealing, is a lie. He needs to take a step back and embrace the other multiple talents that God has granted him.

    As much as I was dreading listening to this speech, I'm glad I had the opportunity to. It opened my eyes to other situations people have been through and allowed me to see yet again the work of Christ in real life situations. It amazes me how people can go from such bad backgrounds like being in a gang and end up devoted people following God. Although stories don't have to be as deep and extreme as the ex-gang member, anyone can turn away from satan and sin and return to the risen Lord. Happy Easter every bunny. Pun intended haha.

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    1. Jessica,
      First off, I liked how you incorporated your talents into your blog. You didn't just say them all at the end. And don't say someone is always better. I hate that because, as cheesy as this sounds, no one is more you than you. You're the only one who can make decisions that are best friends you and your life. You're good at a lot of things, dude. I love that you pointed out that Pridmore said stealing was his only talent. I honestly didn't pick up on that at all. It shocks me that he feels or felt that way about himself. I hate when people are brought down by their past actions when God forgives them very quickly. I too enjoyed the humor in this podcast. It was sad, but it definitely made it easier to hear. Good job!

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    2. Jessica,
      Reacting to things is my favorite and least favorite thing all at the same time, so i can understand where you are coming from with that! The topic of religion can be such a hard topic to talk about because so many people have such different views. Talents really are a beautiful, they can and do come from anywhere and everywhere! The best talents are the undiscovered ones in my opinion. I loved how you listed your talents and they are very nice talents to have. I am happy for you that you can recognize them, now you are better able to use them! I am glad that you enjoyed the podcast. I hope you had a nice Easter!

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  3. I was not expecting that at all. I was expecting a kind of revelation since its Easter, but this guy's life is something you would read from fiction. John Pridmore gave a step by step analysis of how he fell into the darkest hole with flames forbidding him to escape. He started when he was just a child telling the audience about the abuse he endured. When he reached to his middle schools years he began to steal. This is because he needed love. He wasn't receiving it at home, so maybe if he got into trouble his parents would have to pay attention and tell him they loved him. It didn't work. He became a person searching for any sort of acceptance. Drugs became his life. The way he describes this certain gang is horrifying. Who would want to be apart of such an abusive group of people? Well, it was the only thing Pridmore knew. In his mind, abuse was love and acceptance. In his heart, he knew there was something better and rewarding. Pridmore brings in some outside sources as well. He uses the Bible, and of course the first time he ever opens a bible it just happens to open to a page that pertained to his life at that moment. I believe it happened, it's just it's a very common thing to happen. That's like God's go to trick. He uses it to ease His children into love. Pridmore also mentions some other stories that are similar to his. One is of a girl who was raped for two years by a family friend. She was seven when they first began abusing her. She wanted her innocence back when she was in her teen years, when she really understood what happened. She asked God for her innocence back, and she felt He gave it to her.

    I love this podcast. It really goes into how God loves everyone and how sins are distancing us. God stays in the same place while we are the ones moving away. I never really thought about it like that. I always thought sins were pushing us both away from each other. It doesn't matter how great of a sin committed, God will always welcome us back into his arms without hesitation. My favorite part is that the girl felt innocent again. I personally don't believe she lost her innocence to begin with, however how could she feel like she hadn't lost it? She didn't allow that family friend to sexually abuse her, therefore mentally she became more innocent that she originally started as. Physically her body had experienced far more than any seven year old should ever know. She wanted that part of herself back, and I think God gave her as much as He could.

    I think it's obvious which three gifts God gave me. I'm so thankful that God gave me something that I can use to make money and a life from. There are a lot of people who have these same gifts and say their determined to succeed. I know it's going to be difficult, but I'm "determined to succeed." I'm a strong, competitive person and I really do think God wanted me to fight for something. I didn't have much to fight for as an only child with great parents. Everyone needs something to overcome to feel a sense of satisfaction and achievement. This WILL be mine. I won't end up back in Elk County like most people want to believe. I'm too restless to sit still and observe the birds. I want to experience and feel pain, as weird as that sounds. I want to change and entertain people through my talents. I know it's possible because it's happened to me. It's happened to every single one of us whether you realize it or not. It would be amazing to be that person for someone else. Plus it's a pretty cool job.

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    1. Kaitlin,
      I like how you tied the theme of needing more into your blog. Not only is that the reason for him becoming a gang member but it is also the reason he turned to God. There is little satisfaction in the material world - we are all searching for feelings and sensations, just as you said in your last paragraph. I don't know why, but this blog made us both express our longing to escape the monotony of where we are now. This made me find your blog really relatable but it also made me wonder if there was a deeper inspiration behind this podcast. I don't really think so, but that is because I did not particularly enjoy this. You did, however, and seemed to get the same emotions and devices as I did. I, too, found Pridmore's personal story moving. I just wish there was not a Catholic motive behind everything because Catholic talks often leave me feeling confined by the predefined boundaries of a religion. Good job with the blog this week, and I believe that you can achieve your goals not only through God's gifts but through your own will.

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    2. Kaitlin,
      As you said on my blog, we always seem to have similar views, and I think that is why I always find myself reading your blog post. Your second paragraph is absolutely spot on. Throughout the podcast I felt like Pridmore was just trying to make us aware of how our sins and the sins of society can put up a wall between us and God. Like Judas, we allow our want of something more to build a wedge that can be quite destructive. Yet at the end of the day, God loves us no matter what, especially if we turn to Him for guidance. As for the talents you mentioned, they are the perfect abilities for you. You never allow anyone to tell you that you can't accomplish something, and I really admire that about you. I think that dance has given this confidence that I hope you never lose. Overall, this was a wonderful blog!

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  4. So, I really don't like Catholic talks...at all. This one did not change my opinion of that, but I have to say the British accent and the literary devices kept me going. The two main devices I recognized were the irony of the entire situation, which he played up with a little humor, and the anecdotes that he built his talk on which showed how even he, an ex-gang member, could turn to God. Stories and talks such as these are important, I suppose, for people who are looking for God but do not believe they are worthy. Maybe we should all feel unworthy of God but that was not what this presentation’s message was. What this speech essentially said was that we all can turn back to God at any point and be saved just as we can seek forgiveness even on our deathbed as his father did.

    The irony of this speech was that this man was terrible – he dealt drugs and did horrible things to people – yet he was able to find salvation through God. Of course, this is an important message around the time of Easter with all of the resurrection symbolism, but I think that this presentation has a very universal theme. Besides repentance, the irony here was the theme of forgiveness. With consequences such as the death penalty we tend to skip over forgiveness and straight to punishment. But what if we were all like the Pope who visited and forgave the man that attempted to murder him? It does not matter whether the worst thing we have done is killed a man or lied to our parents – God is willing to forgive and humankind should be to.

    He basically constructed his speech with his anecdotes and the most powerful one, in my opinion, was one of the first when he spoke about his father. He explains that his father was smart and intuitive and yet he did not know how to express his love. Did that make his father a bad person? No, but it distanced the father from the son. In a reversed way, the son, being the speaker, distanced himself from the symbolic father, meaning God, by sinning constantly. And yet, through his repentance he was able to turn his life around and draw himself closer to God. He could tell us this simply, but the speaker’s anecdotes make his experience more relatable. We, of course, are not all ex-gang members. But the use of stories about things such as his father and his inability to express love give this speech a theme that becomes more universal.

    I suppose God gave everyone many talents, but the only one I have ever correlated with God is my singing because I really just go to mass to sing. There, I admitted it; I am in church for the music, but that is what draws me closer to God, not sermons or speeches or religious rites. Perhaps God gave me other talents, though, that I unintentionally use in his name. My conscious is one because it was developed through God and it helps me not only to discern right and wrong but to act in a way that reflects my Catholic beliefs. Also, I think God gave me the gift of curiosity because He does not want me to spend my life being preached to, He wants me to life, learn, and influence rather than sitting at home and being influenced by others’ lives.

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    1. Ann,
      I'm with you on the whole not overly enjoying Catholic talks of any kind. I think it's because I feel like they're lecturing me or something, I don't know. But that accent. YES. I loved it and it was pretty much one of the few things that kept my interest. I really liked how you focused more on the literary devices. It was completely different from what I did but I guess that comes from your strong disliking of Catholic speeches and what not. I really just go to Mass to sing. Hahaha I can see where you're coming from especially with the beautiful voice you have. As for irony, I'm glad you gave examples like you did. I focused less on the literary devices and examples of things and just let out my thoughts. I'm glad you retained your blog more though. Good job this week!

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    2. Ann,
      I must admit that these talks are not my most favorite thing in the world either, but I find them interesting given the speaker's background. That is just about the only thing that sold me on this once I stayed awake on my second listen. However, my favorite part of your blog was your paragraph on irony. It truly gave me some great insight into the forgiveness that Pridmore sought for his past actions. Also I always forget irony when analyzing text; it always seems to just fly right over my head. In this it no exception I still didn't catch it, so I thank you for pointing out the irony in the presentation. Next I must say that the story about his father was truly unique, for different reasons besides leading up to his gang life. Your analysis of this as him being the sinner pushing his father, God, away is quiet ingenious. It almost seems story like seeing as he never went to church in his youth, but he pushed his father away just the same. The talent I find interesting is your gift of being naturally curious. That explains so much about your character as well as your personality. Your natural curiosity explanation, "me to life, learn, and influence rather than sitting at home", shows why you are inquisitive in literature. So I must say well done and a great blog this week, Ann; I look forward to the next.

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  5. This podcast was something I didn't really expect to enjoy, yet I found myself hanging onto every word said. I was expecting this podcast to be somewhat similar to our last one, but it was completely different. The two different speakers could not have been any more different. They both had completely different tones, accents, speaking styles, and topics. I enjoyed both immensely.

    My favorite part of this podcast was how it opened. I was pleasantly surprised when John Pridmore asked us to remember our confirmation saints and pray to them, asking them to pray for us. I’ll be honest, it’s not that often that I think about my confirmation saint, Saint Rose. When I was in the process of becoming confirmed, I chose my cousin Andrea to be my sponsor. I won’t go too far into detail with it, but some explanation is necessary. I chose her because she had gone through a smilier struggle that I am facing. I picked Saint Rose purely because Andrea had picked Saint Rose. I thought that Saint Rose could help me how she had helped Andrea, although I knew nothing of this Saint. The more I had researched Saint Rose of Lima, the happier and happier I was that I had chosen her. I’m ashamed to admit that I havent been paying much attention to my confirmation saint recently. I am happy that John Pridmore had called my attention back to her.

    Another specific part that I really enjoyed in this podcast was when John spoke of his own life and his own journey as well as the struggles he had faced. One thing he said really hit me hard, “I had everything that the world says makes you happy.” It was right here that I got a bit emotional. Sometimes I struggle. We all do. I often wonder why I’m not as happy as the world says I should be with all that I have been blessed with. I’m not trying to sound spoiled or ungrateful so please don’t think im trying to offend anyone. But, it was kind of comforting to know that John had gone through a struggle with a similar question and thought process and gotten out of it all. Stories like these truly are inspiring to see how someone so broken was fixed by God and now can help others.

    Another thing that I am very excited to respond to is that in the podcast, John had said something about God being thought of as just a story to make you good. Okay, did anyone else think of Huck Finn because I did! I know in Huck Finn one of the most important things I got out of it was God being viewed as a myth. I just couldn’t help but compare these two.

    Now this part is hard. I can be somewhat insecure. It is honestly hard to think of three talents that I have. I do think that I have been given a talent in art. Is helping other people and child care a talent? Because I think that that is a talent I have as well. Some people call it a gift, are gifts synonymous with talents? I don’t know, Im counting it as a talent. I over think everything, to a point thats actually and most likely unhealthy. I think that this is a talent, if I can just control it so I am not over thinking too much I guess. There is the whole “blessing or curse” thing, and I think that all of our curses can be changed into blessings, so I just have to trust in God and try to figure it out. I hope I do soon!

    I hope everyone has a safe and blessed Easter. :) <3

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    1. Felicia,

      Just know his, we all love you. You are a wonderful person, someone I think has much to teach to those around you. Your capacity to love and care is unable to be matched. You are self-sacrificing, putting everyone else before yourself. I rarely ever see you striving to be the center of attention, and often humbly decline any praise. I strive for that. I am sometimes the opposite, not very good, and you do well with being humble. I liked your story about your cousin and your confirmation saint. I think for many of us this is true. I know I eon't pray to Saint Cecilia as often as I should. Just know that you are not alone. We are all insecure, and to not uncommon. Just know that we believe in you. We see your potential even if you can't. And it's limitless.

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    2. Felicia,
      I love the raw truth in your blog. You never hold back, not in writing or person. Promise me that you will never lose this quality about yourself. I really liked the story you told about Confirmation. I don't really know what struggles you were/are having with your faith, but I do know that I am in the process of struggling with my own. It is nice to know that someone else has gone through this. That was also one of my favorite things said by Pridmore. I found it to be true in many aspects of my life as well. I defineitly get what you mean about not being co ole tell happy with the wonderful things in life. Sometimes I just sit and cry because I can't find happiness in the thungs that used to bring a smile to my face. But please know that I love you! I think that everything you have gone through and are currently going through make you a stronger person. The talents that you named are most certainly talents that you should embrace. Some people would not consider overthinking things to be a talents, but I think it takes a person who truly cares and is strong enough to want to make the right choice. Anyway, you are just a fabulous person and I hope you never change.

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  6. Wow, just wow. I usually dislike listening to podcasts, especially ones about our faith, but I actually enjoyed hearing this one. John Pridmore captured my attention from the very start. I was somewhat surprised about what he discussed in the podcast as I expected something a little more serious that would tell us what we are doing wrong in life. It put a smile on my face when Pridmore opened with the simple request to pray to our chosen Confirmation saints. For some reason I have completely forgotten about Confirmation, but I felt like this was a good reminder of the strong faith we should hold.

    The two literary devices that really stood out to me were anecdotes and a little satire. I thought these two elements really complemented each other, as humor is something that can enhance the reason for a personal story. It appeared as though most of the podcast was an anecdote of some sort, but I thought that that helped it flow better. And besides, I know I tend to pay more attention when a true story is being relayed rather than just information being said. I also thought that each anecdote acted as a reminder to cherish our faith. The one anecdote that really stood out to me was the one about the little girl who was sexually abused. I thought it was a major strength in her that when she was older and realized the horrors that happened to her that she wanted to regain her innocence through faith. I think that the most fragile people are the ones who yearn for faith the most and are able to obtain it because they rely on a greater power. Religion can be a light shining through all kinds of darkness, and I believe that these rays of light can resemble the light of Christ, guiding you to a new door. The satire developed throughout the podcast helped me get through the long talk. I thought that Pridmore's humorous comments lightened the mood of some of the more serious anecdotes presented.

    Personally, I find it difficult to see my own talents that God has given more. I lack confidence, and I think that it the reason why I am always criticizing myself. After listening to Pridmore's podcast and looking at the abilities that I have gained over the years, I found three talents that I am quite proud of. The first is my ability to give people advice. Some of my close friends come to me when they have a problem and just need someone to talk to, and I feel honored that I am chosen for that job. Another talent is my ability to be realistic. I tend to decide between decisions by looking at the more realistic option. I'm not usually optimistic, and so this can be a bit more on the pessimistic side, but I think it is good to be realistic when you have to make life altering choices. My third talent is my ability to keep my personal problems separate from other things such as work and school. I usually bottle up my feelings, and I know this is not good, but I can put a wall up so that those issues do not affect my other responsibilities.

    Overall, I was surprised at how much I liked the podcast. I'm not one for discussions on religion, but I thought it was a good choice for the Easter weekend. With that, I hope everyone has had a safe and wonderful Easter!

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    1. Natalie,
      I personally must say that the entire podcast was an anecdote, or a set of anecdotes in succession. Although I don't remember much of the podcast besides my notes I took on my second listen. I didn't hear much satire in his voice or his speech. Yes his humor did help make the long drawn out moments a little more rich, but I only saw it as humor not truly satire. I also wish that you would've explained that point a little further. The one ability I must admit is rare and few is the ability to be realistic. So many people cloud their judgement with solely optimistic day dreams, when in reality nothing works that way. That ability one that you should definitely treasure as you get older, along with your ability to be great council for others.

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    2. Natalie,
      I find it ironic (not in a bad way) that we both pointed out certain points. I think we both have very similar views. We usually agree on the same things. However, I did not point out the satire Pridmore used. My favorite thing was when he told the audience that it was okay to laugh because he was funny. How many times have we heard that from teachers, presenters, etc.? I had to laugh myself, and quite honestly I was unsure if he was joking at that part. I personally love when people are able to make a joke out of something serious. It eases the tension before things get deep. The talents you mentioned are spot on for your personality. I pick up on little things here and there and you are way too hard on yourself. You're a perfectionist, which isn't a bad thing. But like you mentioned with all of your talents there's always a little bit of bad with good. It's just human nature. Great blog!

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  7. First off I hope everyone had a great Easter. Next, I must say that this blog was quite different from what I was expecting. I was truly expecting something more along the lines of Father Ross telling us about how we are to love God from the moment of our understanding. Instead we get this ex-convict/gang member who has done some unmentionable things, and his eventual coming into Christ's loving embrace. I must say he has my highest respects. To come from that kind of background and become a speaker on Christ's forgiving passion truly means a lot.

    The one thing I found truly interesting in his talk was when he talked about the initiation, and his jobs with the "Bloods." What he described is simply obscene and ridiculous, but the reason the initiates do this is understandable. An individual craving for understanding, relief, and conformity will do just about anything to feel like they belong. This idea is often found with people who are looking for acceptance from society. He also talked about the numerous job he held in his "occupation" that is astounding to me just to think of how many crimes he had committed. Then he eventually found "the one thing he was missing", God's love and salvation. That for me is very significant; because it's like me during swim season, I could rarely make it to church, and often I had felt like something was missing.

    During his speech his one device he used to lighten the mood is humor. Although some of his jokes aren't exactly humorous at first, but they grow more apparent the more one listens. Especially when he describes his dark past he tries to lighten the mood with some humor. At one point he even makes it clear that it's okay to laugh at some of his points. I will be completely honest I fell asleep the first time I listened to the podcast, and during my second listen it was near midnight so I didn't note everything. However, the last part of this blog naming three God given talents is a bit harder to contemplate.

    One talent I feel I have is that I'm very mechanically/electrically inclined. For example, whenever I have time or get bored I will take things apart to figure out how it works. I can take things apart easily but putting things back together is another story for another time. I am also very observant individual I tend to see better from a distance than up close. As everyone has noticed I tend to stay back and observe rather than dive in full hearted when we have our seminars. I also tend to see the world through "a different keyhole", to quote my grandfather, than everyone else. Lastly, my mom says I have had a natural inclination to swim. This one I don't see as much as my mom does, to me I put in the work and receive the rewards. My mom once told me that I learned to swim before I learned to walk, which to me doesn't exactly say a lot except that I was a stubborn little brat.

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    1. Devyn,

      I have to agree, actually I think we all agree, this guy is so cool. Hearing his stories and the humor that he uses to lighten the mood when talking about such horrible things. I felt like he was speaking to each one of us personally in his talk, telling us all that no matter how badly we screw up, if we are truly, TRULY repentant Gos will accept us back into the folds of His Love. I like the talents that you picked. You are definitely an observer, and I think that that works really well for you as you like to contemplate things and then form really complete ideas. Also, you last line was hilarious. Great blog Devyn!

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    2. Devyn,

      First of all, I hope you had a nice Easter as well!
      I think that this blog took everyone by surprise. It was really cool to learn about all of the experiences that he had gone through as an ex gang member. I also really liked his sense of humor throughout the podcast as you had explained it in your blog post. Your blog was very thought out and put together and you did a nice job with the quotes you used. It is very good that you are able to regocnize you talents, and they are excellent ones! I liked the examples that you gave for them as well, the "stubborn little brat" part was adorable haha. Don't worry though, I think we all went through that phase!

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