HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESSE!
(That's Jesse on the left. The one on the right is my younger brother, Joel)
I'm also glad that today is February 19th because it is a sign that soon we will have moved on past the month that is February (no offense, bro) towards a month that has the possibility of being spring like. Of course, I know that here in Chicago the whole phenomenon known as "spring" is most an illusion or a cruel trick of Winter to get your hopes up. However, I choose to be an optimist. This year, we're going to get warmth early to make up for how freaking cold it was this winter.
In other news, Karisa and I are on the hunt for a two bedroom apartment. I am in negotiations with our current landlord to try to get a two bedroom apartment. In the past he's been really generous with people. The problem is that I talked to him today and he said he hasn't been having any problem lately keeping the apartments full at full price. So, we'll see if there might be any fruit that comes from our negotiations. He's a softie but since we already have a one bedroom apartment it's not like we can claim no place to live if he says no.
Also, like has been incredibly busy for me at work as we are striving, like every college, to try to anticipate the affects (or is it effects? I don't know how I graduated college or why they let me work here...) of the economic downturn on enrollment. It's an adventure for sure.
Lots is going on at church as well as Karisa and I try to develop the Hospitality Ministries at Resurrection. I really want to work on how to change the ethos. It's one thing to have good systems in place and things running smoothly. (We do need that). But it's another thing to try to make people friendly and willing to talk to strangers. I'm trying to figure out how to tell people, "They're more afraid of you than you are of them." It seems odd, but people are afraid to talk to newcomers, almost as if they are worried about offending them or not being liked. My experience is that when someone is visiting, they love being said hello to. Even if you don't have a great conversation, they really appreciate your effort.
Well, I'm not sure how many people even read this blog so I won't keep rambling. It would probably be more people if I update more often! :) No one to blame but myself.
4 comments:
Yes, update more often Johnmark. Had not checked your blog for awhile. I think that you are right about people being afraid of talking with visitors. "Shy" people are not rude- just afraid. Let me know how you move them out of this. Hope to see you soon.
Cheryl
Really praying for you guys to get a two bedroom and away from Dr. Dan's smoke.
I do read your blog often, JohnMark.
I've known your wife since she was in the single-digits....
I live in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago... you two need to come over for dinner sometime soon.
HI, JM,
I left a message on your e-mail, which you obviously don't read very often. Sorry about being so old -fashioned.
I;m thinking you need to spend a day at Church on the Mall. You;d be talked to death by everyone when you're new or visiting. Maybe it would educate you in how to encourage others to talk to visitors. It really is important to do that: it's what makes people come back.
Hope you find a bigger place.
Luv to you both, GM
Johnmark,
I am finally figuring out this blogging aspect of using the web, so I intend to keep up with reading your blog. So, post more often, please! I love hearing what is going on in your life, and the pictures!
Mom
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