Nicolas Peaks

I don't care how many units have been sold. I don't care how "cool" it is.
Touch screen, books, wifi, etc...

I think the iPad is ridiculous.
It's basically a giant iPod.
I can listen to music on my iPod or Macbook.
I can read books on my Macbook (& listen to music).
I can run multiple apps on my Macbook.
I can use a web browser, word processing, listen to music, & video chat all at the same time on my Macbook.

Sure it's cool. Sure it's got some eye candy. Sure there are some features my computer can't do.
Overall,
the "inconvenience" of opening the lid to my laptop isn't worth $500.

Terrible Tuesday - Lost

2010-05-25T12:22:00.000-04:00

For the 13.5 million people, most of which claimed the Lost finale would shatter the television record for most viewers watched for any show or finale, by the way that wasn't even close, this Terrible Tuesday is dedicated to you.

Lost garnered 13.1 million viewers, which is about equal to what American Idol does every week, the series finale record for a TV show is Mash, which was right around the 50 million mark. (never watched that btw)

You pledged 6 years of your life to a mind-bogglingly confusing show.
You were dedicated and resilient.
You, week after week proclaimed your love/hate/anxiety-driven relationship with Abrams' baby.
You devoted your loyalty to 6 years worth of plot inconsistencies the size of Jay Leno's chin.

All for what??
Nobody agrees on the ending of this "phenomenal" program.
Is the island real? Is it fake? Is the alternate universe reality or an alternate universe?
Is the show about purgatory? Is the island purgatory or the alternate universe?
Is it all a dream? Does everyone die or escape the island or is everyone already dead when the plane crashes on the island? What of the hatch, time travel, black smoke monster, the religious dualism & coexistism, the creature from the black lagoon, the morbidly obese guy that doesn't lose 1 pound on a deserted island??

Some people seem to think the writers just began making stuff up as they went along.

I watched 4 episodes of this show ever and this is what I learned.
It's a very interesting show. You are engaged to think and use your brain. I didn't think it was boring per se. I guess I was just fortunate enough not to get sucked in by Matthew Fox's dreamy eyes...and I'm glad.

There is one thing I'm certain of and so are most Lost fans...this show produced little to no answers.

Proof.

I wasted 4 episodes and this blog on Lost, and I have enough of a headache from just doing that.
Lost fans...you have my empathy.

Let the hate mail begin, I'm going to watch something more productive.

Imago Dei 2010: Tonight!

2010-05-20T12:12:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,
My church is hosting our 4th annual worship conference.

It's called, "Imago Dei." This years theme is called, AUTHENTICITY: Breaking the 4th Wall.

The opening meeting is tonight at 7pm. There are workshops all day tomorrow and another meeting tomorrow night at 7pm, and then there are workshops all day Saturday and a morning session too.

Oh yeah, and there's FREE FOOD!

There's a one time $10 registration fee that you can do at the doors tonight, tomorrow, or Saturday. Amazing speakers, amazing people, amazing everything.

For more info, check it out:

http://opendoorchurchworship.tumblr.com/

Terrible Tuesday - Tattoo Edition

2010-05-18T12:13:00.000-04:00

Today's terrible Tuesday is dedicated to Tattoos.
Personally I have no theological discrepancy with Tattoos, however out of all of the ink I've seen through the years, there's only about 1.3% of tattoos that I've seen that are; cool looking, worth it, or something that I'd be comfortable with on my body for the rest of my life.

With that being said...
BOOMSHAKALAKA!

what's wrong people?

this post is brought to you by People of Wal-Mart Dot Com

(parental guidance HEAVILY suggested)

For Sale

2010-05-17T13:00:00.000-04:00

As a strong advocate for 99% of what Apple produces. (1% i'm not thrilled about)
Since 2005 I have owned an iPod Nano, a iPod 30 gig Video, and most currently an iPod touch 32 gig.

The Nano was my introduction to the iPod world & I loved it. I had it for a year and a half, and then upgraded to the Classic 30 gig. Basically the 4 gigs of space on the Nano could only hold about 10% of my music at the time, hence the upgrade.

About a year and a half ago, I upgraded to the iPod touch. Mainly because of its capabilities, a little more space, and a store credit. I love it, my only complaint is, no camera, i need more space, and i wish it was a phone ;)

Anywho,
I'm keeping it, but I am selling the the iPod Classic 30 Gig Video.
I kept it in ridiculously good condition, considering it's over 3 years old.
It works perfectly.
It holds over 7000 songs (when there's nothing else on it.)
It stores and plays movies and videos.
Here's a general list of the specs on it.
And here's some pics of it:

I thought I'd give my friends/peers first dibs on it before I list it on Craigslist and Ebay.
If you're interested please email me:
nicolaspeaks@gmail.com.

-Nic

Imago dei 2010 Teaser

2010-05-13T15:58:00.000-04:00

Same video - updated fonts.
T-minus 1 week!

Imago Dei Teaser from Nic Peaks on Vimeo.

more info here:
http://opendoorchurchworship.tumblr.com/

It's always your fault

2010-05-12T10:24:00.000-04:00

Terrible Tuesday - It's (not) a Trap

2010-05-11T11:21:00.000-04:00

Do to my love of Star Wars, and my greater love of the one and only Admiral Ackbar;
Today's Terrible Tuesday is not so terrible.

observe the greatest website of all time:
http://instanttrap.com/

-you're welcome.

Church

2010-05-10T13:04:00.002-04:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

But If I Can't Swim After 40 Days

2010-05-05T14:15:00.000-04:00

If you haven't heard, my soon to be home of Nashville, TN -- got crazy amounts of rain over the weekend, and compounded with the Cumberland River basically overflowing...Nashville is under water.

Rain and flood records from the 1930s have been completely shattered, and certain parts of the city got over 21" of rain in about a day.

Remember that sweet hotel I stayed at back in March called the Gaylord Opryland Hotel?

Here's a pic I took in March of one of the indoor atriums:

Here's a pic that a friend took yesterday:

This is very sad, and there is flooding and water damage to many parts of the city.
Please continue to pray for the citizens and establishments of Nashville and do whatever you can to help out with relief.
Nashville Red Cross

Kinda Backwards

2010-05-04T19:37:00.000-04:00

Very good article from the one and only Woody Paige on Tim Tebow:

http://www.denverpost.com/paige/ci_15011076?source=rss&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=twitter

Terrible Tuesday - Lebron James

2010-05-04T13:56:00.000-04:00

it's a little blurry. but this is truly terrible.

A long time ago

2010-04-30T14:27:00.000-04:00

George Lucas is kind of a creep. Luke kisses Leia (spoiler alert), who is his sister...Sure these two innocent kids didn't know it at the time, but what went through Lucas' mind when he was writing this stuff? "I'll make the savior of the galaxy have a close incestuous encounter in the name of...a good story?" But I guess the Skywalker's relationships were screwed up from the very beginning...

Drift Away

2010-04-29T11:25:00.002-04:00

Probably my undisputed favorite clip of all time:

Short Little Post Short Little Post

2010-04-28T15:30:00.000-04:00

Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. Never avenge yourself. For vengeance is mine says the Lord.
-Romans 12:17-18

imago dei 2010

2010-04-27T11:19:00.002-04:00

IMAGO DEI 2010 from Nic Peaks on Vimeo.

The Proposal

2010-04-26T13:39:00.000-04:00

Friday March 12th:

545pm: My girlfriend and I go out for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. This was the place where our first "technical date" took place about 10 months earlier. It was a gray, rainy evening that prevented us from going kite-flying at the beach. I apologized for the rain ruining our plans, and also apologized for another "lame night" of just going out to eat and doing nothing.

715pm: Me and my girlfriend finished our meals, got our cheesecake to go, and headed to pickup some coffee, and chill at my house with my brothers for the evening. Again I apologized for the "lameness" of our evening.

805pm: The girlfriend and myself arrive at the house & begin our normal evening in the living room chilling with my bros. I check my email, she checks her fishville, and I go into the kitchen for a glass of water...nothing special. Just a completely boring, yet adequate Friday night.

820pm: I call my girlfriend into the kitchen, insisting that I had to tell her something. She answers my summon, and I then lead her into the family sunroom...which was completely dark and only lit by 150 mini-tin cup candles. She gives me a strange look and I convinced her that we never did anything romantic, and I wanted to do something nice for her. We go in and sit down on my parents old green couch, in which my guitar was lying up against & and I offer to sing and play her a song, since I had never done such a thing in our almost 10 months of togetherness.

830pm: My girlfriend is all smiles after I finished playing her a song. We then hug & kiss, yet she still has no idea what exactly was going on...I slip off the couch onto one knee and surround her hands with mine. I begin to expound on our relationship & how much that I loved her, how much she meant to me & a bunch of other stuff that you'll never know ;). I probably spoke from two to four minutes, but must have seemed much longer to her. Her face was flush red, her big blue eyes were welling up with tears - still not quite, positively aware of what would happen next.

835pm: I reach for my pocket, fumble with the box, open it & asked my girlfriend to marry me and spend the rest of her life with me...On the brink of tears, she confirms with me that this is indeed the real deal, and exclaims yes & embraces me.

836pm: My fiance & I temporarily stop hugging, in which a good friend of ours emerges from the far corner of the room, where he hid under a blanket and a table and took pictures of the entire event without my fiance ever knowing.

If you don't believe me:

Thanks so much to everyone who loves & supports us on our journey.
Big thanks to Danny and Rochelle for capturing our special evening on film. Please check out their website to see more of their fantastic work. I highly recommend them!
http://rnkevents.org/

Hannah Elizabeth Addesa & myself will be tying the knot on September the 4th of this year.

It's Friday

2010-04-23T14:29:00.001-04:00

I'm in love.
This is for my fiance'

A Gift for My Friends & Enemies

2010-04-22T10:59:00.000-04:00

I love you all.

It's good until Sunday. Print it off & go for it.

Bears, Beets, Battlestar Galactica

2010-04-21T11:20:00.000-04:00

one of my favorite clips

Probably Get Some Hate Mail on This

2010-04-19T12:34:00.000-04:00

Twenty-Four

2010-04-16T12:17:00.000-04:00

listen here.

Twenty four oceans
Twenty four skies
Twenty four failures
Twenty four tries
Twenty four finds me
In twenty-fourth place
Twenty four drop outs
At the end of the day
Life is not what I thought it was
Twenty four hours ago

Still I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
And I'm not who I thought I was twenty four hours ago
Still I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You

Twenty four reasons to admit that I'm wrong
With all my excuses still twenty four strong

See I'm not copping out
When You're raising the dead in me
Oh, oh I am the second man
Oh, oh I am the second man now

And You're raising these twenty four voices
With twenty four hearts
With all of my symphonies
In twenty four parts
But I want to be one today
Centered and true

I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
You're raising the dead in me
Oh, oh I am the second man
Oh, oh I am the second man now
Oh, oh I am the second man now
And You're raising the dead in me

I want to see miracles, see the world change
Wrestle the angel, for more than a name
For more than a feeling
For more than a cause
I'm singing Spirit take me up in arms with You
And You're raising the dead in me
Twenty four voices
With twenty four hearts
With all of my symphonies
In twenty four parts.
I'm not copping out.

10:20pm

2010-04-15T22:57:00.000-04:00

James 1.17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

As I'm writing this, there is still sweat dripping down my brow, for I just got back from my run. What prompted me to go for a run at 10:15pm at night? I dunno. I find running to be a stress reliever, a good workout, a thought clearer, and time that I can spend with God.

Back to my question though, why did I go running late at night. I still don't have an answer, but I believe not in coincidences. I was standing in my driveway, took a gulp of water, got my iPod music cued up, and then waited for the time on my iPod to turn from 10:19 to 10:20 - to time my run. The clock struck 10:20 and I began. As I got to the end of my street about 10 seconds into my run, I see a bright flash of light stream across the sky...it was indeed a shooting star (meteor)!

What are the chances that I would even see that. It takes about 1 second for it to happen. Not to mention I hadn't even planned on running tonight, much less at that exact moment.

As I saw the flash of light my heart rate picked up, and I immediately thought of the glory of God. The Creator chose to reveal his beauty to me at 10:20pm on a random jog around the neighborhood.

I know this post is pretty pointless, and kinda just a ramble of mine. However, I realize that this was a gift that was given to me by the Father of Lights.

He was even a couple hours early to give me my gift ;)

God's Will + Our Will = God's Will

2010-04-15T10:48:00.001-04:00

Last night at The Element, we talked about our intimacy with God coexisting with our reverence to God. While I will approach that exact topic in the near future, I want to discuss something else we talked about...God's will.

The equation; God's will + my will = God's will, is the equation that makes the least & most sense in the life of a Follower. I have my will, my dreams, my expectations, and my desires. There are times when my will looks nothing like what God's will for me is.

It should be pretty simple to distinguish the difference between the two. Someone at Bible study last night said, "the closer we get to God's will the more signs we will see, and it will become easier to follow His will."
I think there is some truth to that. But then I thought about Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane on the night he was arrested.

“My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” -Matthew 26:38-39

Jesus himself wrestled with God's will up until his death. Now obviously Christ was dealing with a much greater issue. But to know that our Savior in spite of his purity, his constant relationship with God, and his desire to please God and serve man, still struggled with God's will in his life -- that is quite incomprehensible.

More times that not, our "will" is actually our "want." Surrender that to God. Give your wants and desires to Him, and then you will begin to walk in His will. It's not easy. It's the hardest thing that I struggle with...It was the hardest thing that Jesus struggled with, and that makes it a little more comforting.

This is a prayer that I have made a part of my life when I'm discerning my will and God's will:

"God if this is not your will or plan for my life, then do not allow it to happen. I only want to please you. Lead and guide me in your path, and transform my will to Yours."

2 Minutes of Odor Blocking Awesomeness

2010-04-14T10:41:00.000-04:00

Terrible Tuesday

2010-04-13T11:49:00.000-04:00

As I'm getting into this daily blogging routine, I decided to try to do things throughout the week that either: make you laugh, make you think, or just help you procrastinate your work or school responsibilities.

Today will be the first of (hopefully) many "Terrible Tuesdays."

For today's first Terrible Tuesday I will share the first terrible thing that I remember doing as a kid intentionally.

I was probably at the ripe age of 3 or 4, and I was spending some time with my beloved Aunt Deb after she got off of work. She took me to a 7-11 in Virginia Beach to get us a drink or snack or something, and as she was paying at the check out register -- I saw a couple of containers of candy. Why they would have open containers of candy and tasty treats there in open view...I have no idea. I saw a particular goody that I wanted, but I knew that someone had to pay for it...but I knew that I wanted it. So when no one was looking I grabbed a jaw-breaker, clutched it tightly in my air tight fist, and walked out with my aunt.

It was brilliant! The perfect plan, the perfect escape, the perfect...crime. I knew what I did was wrong, but I don't remember telling my Aunt what I did. I'm surprised I didn't choke or break my jaw on that delicious piece of candy, but I do know that I have never forgotten it.

Unfortunately I have taken things that I thought I was entitled to since then. Call it stealing, call it longterm borrowing. Call it what you want, but it's not right. It's kind of terrible.

Sure I was only a toddler, but the fact that I felt convicted about it at such a young age let's me know that even kids truly know what is right and what isn't.

I want you to share (respond in the comments) something terrible (perhaps funny) that you did as a kid. Obviously, don't get too personal here, but feel free to share one of your not-so-proud moments with me.

The Jolly Green Jacket

2010-04-12T12:37:00.000-04:00

About 15 years ago my dad came home on a beautiful summer day, told me and Jason to come help him get something out of the van.

What we got was our first junior set of golf clubs! We were stoked. Everyone knows that if you are going into the ministry then it's a given that you have to play golf...or at least own clubs.

The one downside of the clubs was that they were right handed, and yours truly is a lefty. I knew that lefthand sports gear, musical instruments, and every other dern thing in this world is fitted for righties, so I learned to golf righty. I stuck with the sport & my brother's kinda didn't. After working at 2 country clubs throughout high school and early college, I really developed a love and appreciation for the ultimate gentleman's sport.

Anyone learning golf in the late 90s-00s knew that there was one player they wanted to be like: Tiger Woods. The MJ of Golf! We all wore red polo shirts and black pants knowing that some of the Tiger magic would rub off on our game.

Through my on-again off-again relationship with golf I have always pulled for two players. One of those was undoubtedly Eldrick "Tiger" Woods. The other was Phil Mickelson, the lefty! (who's actually right handed - click the personal tab)

At the end of last year, when the news on Tiger's infidelity broke, most of us were shocked to hear that he cheated on his wife of 5 years...with at least 14 women! He then disappeared into marriage/sex rehab for a couple months, shows up at the end of February and robotically professed that his family was the most important thing in his life and he apologized for letting down his wife and kids, his mom and deceased-dad, his fans, and Buddha.

I decided to give Mr. Woods the benefit of the doubt. We all fail and we all need second chances. But once he announced a few weeks later, that he'd be playing in the Master's tournament...that's when I knew that he hadn't changed a bit. He was essentially saying that golf was the only thing he really cared about. If you doubt me, then go watch some of the highlights (or lowlights) of his performance and public relations of the past weekend.

Entering the tournament, I was cheering for Phil all the way. On a side note, about a year ago his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and hadn't been to one of his golf tournaments since.

Here we have two men with incredible, personal difficulties in their lives. Tiger's difficulties were self inflicted, yet he still could've salvaged his image somewhat if he'd shown true remorse. Phil's trials were thrust upon he and his wife. Neither he nor his wife asked for cancer, but that was the hand they were dealt.

Many were cheering for Tiger. What a comeback story this would be!

For me, it was Phil's class that carried the day. I'm not saying the guy is perfect. But we do know that he has remained loyal to his wife & kids. He has been nothing but top-notch on and off the course. He even laughed off a missed birdie putt when a fluke pine cone stamen blew directly into his line and caused him to miss the putt. Tiger probably would've decapitated Stevie Williams...

Phil ended up winning the tournament & Tiger played well for not playing competitively in a few months. Tiger, who should've been thrilled just to be playing again, acted pissy throughout most of the tournament & was upset for not playing with his best game and ultimately not winning.

For the last few years, my dad has stressed one thing above all else in life, "Your marriage and family is the most important part of your ministry. If your marriage fails, then your ministry fails."

Regardless of Phil's religious beliefs, right now I'd say his ministry is successful.

addictions

2009-11-05T10:09:00.002-05:00

addiction
probably the first thing you thought about when you read the title was;
“drugs, cigarettes, alcohol.”

immediately we think of things that have a negative connotation, but more times than not we are addicted to things that aren’t necessarily “bad.”

in psychology class this week, my professor said that addiction is a “persistent, compulsive dependency on ___________.” (fill it in).
addiction to me is basically anything in my life that i can’t go without or can’t say “no” to.

in January i made the decision to abstain from soda, or as the Yanks call it, “pop.”
I decided to start with a realistic goal of….one year. One full 365 days without a Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Dr. Pepper, Red Bull, or even Fanta! Sure a year may sound like a lot, but how easy is it for us to “quit” something for a day, week, or month.
A married couple doesn’t celebrate their 6 weeks together, they celebrate their anniversary(ies). In a sense, it’s a number of accomplishment.

It has been 10+ months since i’ve tasted the cool-carbonated-caffeine-filled goodness of a soda. I don’t crave it on a daily basis, but every once in a while if we’re eating pizza or a burger and someone has a chilled glass of Pepsi, filled with ice, and you can see the condensation on the glass ever so calling my name…i go a little weak at the knees and start salivating over the beverage.

Soda is just one small area of addiction in my life. There are countless others that I could name. Some are a daily struggle and some are not. But I came to a greater truth:
addictions are idols.

The first 2 commandments say,
“Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them…”

Confront your addictions, your idols, your gods.

For some it may drugs or alcohol. For some it may be sex. For some it may be movies, music, or Facebook.

Men, do not allow your wives or girlfriends to be your addiction. If you put her before God, then she is an idol.
Women, do not allow yourselves to become addiction to you husbands or boyfriends. If you love him more than you love God, then he is an idol.

Our addictions sneak up on us. They are things we don’t suspect. Heck, they can even be good things in our lives, that have taken precedence over balance and truth.

I am taking a week-long fast of something that I am addicted to. This will be a complete, 100% abstaining acquittance. The thing that I am fasting is not even a sin, but the fact that I’m addicted to it makes it a sin.

make your relationship with God the center of your life.

-Nic
“You won’t relent
Until You have it all
My heart is Yours.”

perfect

2009-09-09T09:40:00.003-04:00

"Christians are not perfect, just forgiven."
this is one of my most hated "Christian slogans."

it usually takes its form on a Church sign or a bumper sticker.

Let's be clear here. This quote, in it of itself, has truth.

Here's the greater truth. Never has anyone, Christian or unbeliever, ever thought that you or I was perfect. I think people spit off this quote when they want to justify their sin. How many times will you catch yourself or someone else saying something along these lines;

"Well I'm not perfect, I'm forgiven."
"I respect your convictions on that, but I see it differently."
"Don't judge me, the Bible says not to."

Just stop. Everyone knows that you're not perfect, so stop trying to use it to your advantage. Sure we all struggle, but that's no excuse for you to live the way you want.

"Be a doer of the word and not just a hearer, for you deceive only yourself."
James 1:22

My Three

2009-08-05T14:16:00.006-04:00

This has been the best summer of my life.

It has been so good that I haven't really blogged much of what's going on in the life of yours truly. Here are my three favorite things right now:

My almost pocket-sized ESV Bible.

Grande, Non-Fat, Unsweetened Double-Shot from you guessed it.

My incredibly beautiful girlfriend Hannah.

She makes me super happy.

She will also kill me for posting that pic of her ;)

Make any of your pics a polaroid by downloading this app.

-Nic

"my heart is in motion for the rhythm inside you"

Think about it

2009-08-03T11:37:00.003-04:00

"Always forgive your enemies; nothing annoys them so much."
— Oscar Wilde

-Nic
thinking deeply

TS 1+2

2009-07-29T09:40:00.002-04:00

If you are as excited as I am about Toy Story 3 next year, then maybe this will fill your appetite, temporarily.

Getting stoked!

-Nic

To infinity and beyond.

balance beam

2009-07-22T12:08:00.003-04:00

A good friend posted this and I think it's incredible and hauntingly true.

Safety is not taking the easy route, it is being confident in knowing who is in control.

House of Heroes

2009-06-17T13:02:00.006-04:00

So I don't usually do promos on my blog, but I got a little update from one of my favorite bands today so here we go.

Every day Amazon.com has a special deal of the day, and today is by far the best deal I've ever seen.

The newest album by House of Heroes (HOH) is on sale at Amazon for $1.99!

2 bucks for a freakin' CD.

Not just any CD, in my blog declaring my favorites of 2008, this was my favorite album. Even better than "Viva La Vida" by Coldplay. That's saying quite a bit considering Coldplay is my favorite band. I paid $10 for the new HOH at a concert, and it's $9 on iTunes and Best Buy. But this is 2 dollars for the hard copy.

Go get it. 'Nuff said. It's 2 bucks. If you hate it, I'll give you the 2 dollars back.

They are seriously the most underrated bands on the market.

If I could some up the sound of this album I'd say; Queen meets Relient K, meets Muse meets the Beatles.

Amazing harmonies, great guitar licks, solid drums, walkabout bass lines, and incredible lyrics.

Favorite songs: "If", "In the Valley of the Dying Sun", & "Field of Daggers."

Halfway through the album "By Your Side" is the single slow song on the album. Absolutely beautiful and moving.

Favorite lyrics;

"And through the cloud of death
We find our way back home
and though I hold your hand
all must go alone
and when you see the face of our Maker
you don't have to be ashamed
He knows the promises we made.

And I'll be by your side, on the other side."

GO BUY IT!!!

-Nic

"if you were mine, i'd have the world.

i'd have the world, if you were mine."

The People Have Spoken: Beard vs Baby Face Part 2

2009-06-13T23:44:00.002-04:00

In an overwhelming response on my blog, facebook, myspace, and twitter,

the people have spoken.

Baby face = 7 votes

Beard = 16 votes

Most of the beard votes said i should clean it up, so I did.

hope she likes it :)

-Nic

17 hours!

Beard vs. Baby Face

2009-06-12T08:25:00.009-04:00

I haven't been blogging steadily lately, so this will be a very in depth writing.

In fact it will be a poll/survey of one question, from me to you.

My decision will ride solely on the will of the people.

For the last 2 & 1/2 weeks my amazing girlfriend has been on a missions trip in Mozambique, Africa. I won't go into the details on how I haven't had any communication with her other than a quick email exchange (more or less). I also won't even begin to tell you about the false accusations that I have been "moping" around for the last 2 weeks. For me to address such matters is a total waste of time, and I have never "cried" myself to sleep, or stuck my head out of my car window and drove down VB Boulevard screaming/sobbing, "Hannah" at the top of my lungs...

Now that's been said here's the situation;

I haven't shaved since she's been on her trip. Whether it's been laziness or an act of solidarity towards her, I'm not sure. Nonetheless my "so-called" beard is getting out of control. Not in the fact that it's long or thick, but more so pathetic, gross, patchy, etc...

I said I'd shave it when she gets back, but some have actually complimented my "beard."

So here's where you come in:

Should I totally shave everything down to my baby face?

Keep the beard, the harryness, the manliness and see what the lady thinks when she gets back?

I also had a week head start of no shaving. Here are 2 pics to help with your decision.

This is at the Coldplay show over 3 weeks ago with a fresh shave.

This is me as of this morning.

You have 24 hours. I will total all the votes from my blog, my facebook, and myspace and the total will dictate my decision.

Choose wisely & Godspeed.

-Nic

less than 60 hours!

2009 Dislikes

2009-06-05T09:32:00.005-04:00

I was inspired not long ago by a friend on facebook who wrote a note depicting things that he was just plain sick of...here's my list. (probably with some stuff I've forgotten)

1. The Jonas Brothers
-For so many reasons; the lack of talent, the lack of creativity, hypocrisy, the squealy voices, etc...

2. Miley Cyrus
(hittin' Disney hard I know)
-She talks like a dude, cannot sing, is 16 and already is on her way to becoming Linsdsay Lohan.

3. Television Cop Shows
-It's the same story every week on a different station, with different actors.

4. Twilight
-It's not just because it's another cheap-o teenage soap opera. Let's start with the lead 'Edward Cullen' played by the "actor" Robert Pattison who's resume' includes one of the Harry Potter films. Not to mention this dude looks absolutely homeless. You got all that money dude, buy some shampoo and a comb. I've heard from the majority of online film sites that this movie has horrible acting, a little better than average TV visual effects, and a plot thinner than Nicole Ritchie. Beyond the movie, I've heard the same negativity about the book series. Reviews by legitimate establishments claiming the absolute shallowness of the characters, the story, and so forth. I catch the most flack from people who say, "You've never read the book or seen the movie, so how can you make a fair analysis?" My response; "I don't have to eat horse crap to know I won't like it."

5. Kobe Bryant (and the Lakers)
I'm not an NBA fan at all really. Ask anyone who knows me. One of the main reason's is due to the selfishness of the players, the lack of team play, and it's just sloppy basketball. As for Kobe Bryant, in time he and Lebron James will be listed as "threats" to Michael Jordan as the greatest basketball player ever. This will never happen. No matter how many championship rings Kobe gets, or MVP awards, or scoring titles, it won't happen. Mr. Bryant lacks the leadership Jordan had. MJ made his entire team better, and was not only a scorer, but also a passer, a rebounder, and he was an excellent asset on the defensive side of the floor. Jordan also held one other trait that few athletes carry on the court today; class. Kobe has none. My dad was watching the Lakers-Majic game last night, and just looking at Kobe's persona was extremely telling. His overly baggy jersey, trashy tatoos, and just a cocky attitude. He has no class, and someone needed to say it.

6. Metrostation
For those who don't know who this is; they are a pop/rock band who has written one song called, "Shake it." Let me just say that I saw these guys about a year and a half ago open up for a band that I went to see at the Norva. I knew nothing about them, but I wanted to give them a chance. Their set was painful to watch and listen to. A band clearly not dedicated to producing quailty music, but rather obsessed with their appearance. I am convinced that this band has absolutely zero talent, and to prove my theory here are the lyrics to the chorus of their hit song, "Shake It";

Now if she does it like this will you do it like that
Now if she touches like this, will you touch her right back
Now if she moves like this, will you move like that (come on)
Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake, Shake It

Some serious song writing right there. So detailed with the "this" and "that". By the way, you can't rhyme using the same word.
Also of note, one of the band members is Miley Cyrus' brother. It all makes sense now.

7. Facebook Creepers
-I understand that Facebook publishes public information posted by people, but all alliteration aside, get a life. Seriously, do you people wake up in the morning and say "oohh I wonder what information I can find out about ________ today?" Some basic rules to make sure you're not creepin' too hard;
1) If someone writes on someone else's wall, do not comment on either person's wall randomly concurring with a posted statement.
2) If someone's status is a generalized statement that has a negative context, do not assume that it's directed at you. Don't flatter yourself. There are hundreds of other people on facebook who could've been the target of the statement.
3) Do not add your friend's friends, unless you have met them or have talked to them.
4) Don't add your sworn enemies. (ex girlfriends, high school bullies, dentists, etc)
5) If you really want to know something about someone's life; ask them...in real life. Don't lower yourself to making assumptions on facebook.
6) Don't poke me...ever. It's just dumb.

8. The Harry Potter Franchise
It's just dumb. How's that for analysis?

9. Jason Statham
A British actor who made his name in "Snatch" (which was a good film) alongside Brad Pitt, and he also played "Handsome Rob" in "The Italian Job" (also a good film). Since then he has been absolutely annoying. His first lead was "The Transporter" a bit over the top for my taste, but not a horrible movie. He ha since made 2 more "Transporter" sequels, and 2 films of the same liking called "Crank" and "Crank 2: High Voltage." He was also in a movie called "War" and "Death Race". He's basically the same guy in every film. He just needs to take a step back, and perhas read a script before taking a role.

10. Condemnationalists
It's not a word, but it should be. This is a person who forces their personal convictions upon other people. If it lines up with the Bible, then I have no problem with it. But when you chose to judge someone for somethings that you don't necessarily do yourself, it is out of place. Please do not take this out of context. If someone is living in sin, then by all means in a loving way call them out. But if it's just some nit-picky thing that you or your family doesn't do, then just keep it to yourself or gossip about it to your friends.

11. Long blogs.
I'm sorry. But you kept reading ;)

-Nic
missing her.

Summer Movies

2009-06-01T09:19:00.003-04:00

So the summer is an exciting time for so many reasons.
One of my favorite things about the summer is the great movies.
The 2 most recent movies I've seen have been spectacular.

Terminator: Salvation was incredible. I'm not a huge Terminator franchise fan, but this movie was rad. The effects, the story, the humanity of the characters; it was all great. I told someone that I didn't think they could have made this movie any better. Christian Bale is one serious mamba jamba, and even though he had somewhat of a meltdown making this film, he's still the man.

Star Trek - expectations were met and actually exceeded. JJ Abrams did this giagantic-nerdy-cult-following franchise a favor...he made is available to everyone. Not just "Trekkies." The visual effects were astonishing, making me believe it all actually happened. Zachary Quinto was flawless as "Spock" and Chris Pine did great playing a young, arrogant James Kirk. I was never an original "Star Trek" fan. We used to watch "The Next Generation" with my dad growing up, but other than that I wasn't a huge fan. This movie was awesome.

Here's a list of the other movies I would like to see while in theaters:
Up
Transformers 2
Public Enemies
Sherlock Holmes

The comedy selection of films for the summer look kinda disappointing.
Most look really cheesy or really trashy. It will be interesting to see if any good ones come out.
I'm sure I'll be seeing a few romantic comedies as well ;)

-Nic
13 days.

Accomplish(ing)

2009-05-12T09:07:00.005-04:00

From 9th grade to 11th grade in high school, I played JV Basketball for 2 years and Varsity for one year. Well that one year I played Varsity, I technically played "the bench", nonetheless I was on the team.

One thing I'll never forget; at the beginning of every practice that I ever had, coach would give us the "thought for the week." Every year he would give the same "thought" for the first week of practice. This quote was from Vince Lombardi, and to this day I still remember it.

"In order for a man to be successful in life, he must be filled with desire and the pride of accomplishment."

I liked that coach took this quote from a football coach, but it wasn't about applying it to football or basketball. It was about making it a lifestyle.

I want to be successful in life. That doesn't mean I have to make 6 figures, or become a rock star, or what have you. I feel as if right now I am successful.

I have desire to improve myself and I have been as of late. I had desire this last semester in school that I had never had before in high school, Bible college, or even that one God-awful semester of community college a few years ago. I am happy with the life that I have and the people that I have in it. I've been taking better care of myself lately and I'm proud of that.

I'm not saying I've made it or reached the top, or that I'm where I want/need to be spiritually/physically/mentally. But I am improving and accomplishing.

I guess this is a random rambling of mine, but I just wanted to let ya'll know how I'm doing.
Things are exciting for me right now. There are some new things in the works concerning people, church, and just life in general. I can't wait for this summer to start, in a way it already has.

That's all.
-Nic

8 days! :)

TOMS

2009-05-04T14:28:00.004-04:00

I have a decent shoe collection. Mainly because I keep really old pairs of shoes, and buy shoes that are on extreme sale. I have my everyday casual shoes, dress shoes, semi formal shoes, athletic shoes, grass-cutting-wear-in-a-swamp shoes, and multiple other pairs that fit into each category. One of my pairs of shoes is over 4 years old. I have once been called a "shoe-pimp" by a friend, probably because I "borrow" shoes from my brothers.

So why am I telling you this seemingly useless information?
Well about a year and a half ago I noticed a pair of slip on shoes that a guy in my band was wearing. The shoes were called, TOMS. I am the proud owner of 2 pairs of TOMS. A black pair and a camoflauge pair. I also got my older brother a pair for his birthday.

TOMS is not just a shoe company. They are more of a charitable organization. Their mission statement and theme is summed up in one line,
"For every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of shoes to a child in need."

This was a small project that started in 2006 when the soon-to-be founder of TOMS noticed that thousands of children in Argentina had no shoes to protect their feet. Since then the company has given away over 140,000 pairs of shoes! Their goal for 2009 is 300,000 pairs.

One of the coolest things about TOMS is their small marketing campaign. Other than Youtube videos, a website, and other online communication, TOMS does no advertising. No billboards, no mailers, not even T.V. This amazing project has been pushed by word of mouth. People at church, school, Wal-Mart ask me all the time where I got my shoes and I tell them the story.

I urge you to visit the TOMS website to read and find out about the entire story.

Recently, TOMS did release their first television commercial in which they partnered with AT&T. Check that out as well. It's a great cause. You get shoes, and someone who actually needs shoes to survive gets them as well.

TOMS SHOES

-Nic
TOMS - shoes for tomorrow.

Extremist

2009-04-27T20:26:00.005-04:00

A fellow coworker and myself were talking about some random stuff today. I mentioned the weather and how hot it was. I like the heat (sometimes). Other times I prefer the cold. I love a nice sunny day, but I also love dark, stormy, rainy days.

I like my coffee hot or frapped on ice. I hate room temp coffee. I like to be crazy, hyper, and annoying. Other times I prefer complete silence and maturity.

I've come to the conclusion that I am an extremist. Most of the time an "extremist" is regarded as a negative title. Whether it be a radical extremist Muslim, or if it's referring to the lack of balance in our lives. i.e. food, alcohol, time, etc...

But as I was doing some research for my last paper of the semester for my English class, I came across something interesting. In "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" by Martin Luther King Jr., King is addressing fellow ministers who basically said he needed to stop being so vocal about his cause. His cause being; justice, equality, and love.

In this long yet profound letter, King mentions two kinds of extremism in the world. He referenced the hill of Calvary on the day that Christ died. King said that two of the men who died that day were extremists of immorality. Then he wrote this:

Jesus Christ was an extremist for love, truth and goodness, and thereby rose above his environment.

Not an advocate for love, truth, and goodness. Not a servant for love, truth, and goodness. He said, "an extremist." It is such a loaded word, but because of Jesus' extremism, he "rose above his environment. Imagine living above the petty arguments you have with your siblings, spouse, relatives, and friends. Living above materialistic, inanimate objects. Living above politics.

Special note to Christians; living above your denominations. God isn't looking for a Baptist Church or a Pentecostal Church. He isn't looking for a Methodist or a Presbyterian Church. He isn't looking for a Catholic or an Evangelical Church.

He's looking for Followers of Christ who live with love, truth, and goodness. God is looking for Believers who rise above their environment. (for the last time the Church in no way is a building)

Embrace Christ's example of extremism, then you will have embraced love and unity.

-Nic

this dern blog has caused me to fall further behind on my paper.

Humanity

2009-04-21T21:43:00.004-04:00

Last summer I was in the drive thru at Taco Bell grabbing some fast dinner when I noticed a commotion on Main Street. Apparently a pickup truck was hauling some lumber, and the driver hit the gas a little to fast and about 20 pieces of wood fell out of his truck and onto the road. I know those of you who do not live in Suffolk find it hard to believe that we have actual paved roads and traffic, but trust me we do.

My first reaction was to park my car in the nearby lot, hop out and run out to the street to help pickup the wood. I also knew that I was hungry and wanted my Mexican Pizza, with a soft taco, and cold Pepsi. Before I could even debate my important decision I noticed the vehicle behind the pickup truck stopped and put his hazard lights on. Then he got out of the car and began to help pickup the wood. No sooner than he got out of his car, another car stopped and began doing the same thing. About 5 seconds later, a car coming from the opposite direction stopped in the emergency lane, got out of his car and began picking up wood and putting in back in the truck.

I was shocked. It was like a scene out of a movie or a Coca Cola commercial.

There are times when I really wonder about people. Seeing stories in the news about the horrible events that go on. Last Thursday was the 2 year anniversary of the VT shooting, Sunday was the 14th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, and yesterday was the 10 year anniversary of the Columbine shootings. When someone doesn't open a door for a woman or someone elderly it bothers me. When I hear on the news about a 12 year old kid who murdered his parents, I am disturbed. When I see some of the user comments on a youtube video, that uses some of the most vulgar and repulsive language I have ever seen, I get distraught.

Politically, our country has never been more differential. As a nation, we are more divided now than we have been in a long time. As human beings, there are countless wars with multiple countries, sex slavery in Africa, labor abuse in China, discrimination of religion in Iran, and the list goes on.

I see and experience these things, and I wonder if there's any hope left for humanity. Are we all animals in a dog eat dog world? Will we always live as "me first, you last"? But then I witness first hand the good in people. Those who stopped and helped pickup a couple pieces of wood, proved to me that there's hope. I wonder how many of those people were Christians, if any.

If we do not embrace the love of God and show it to others, then we cannot live our lives fully as Christians. In fact, if we do not love our neighbor, then we have missed God completely.

-Nic

Monday before class I ran to Wal Mart to get a quick snack. I was cutting it close on time, and I got to the express checkout line with 2 items. I frantically kept looking at the time in fear of being late. The lady in front of me had about 15 items in her cart. She looks at her car, then at my 2 items, the looks me in the eye and says, "Go ahead in front of me." I said, "You sure?" She said, "Yes." I expressed my thankfulness to her, paid for my stuff, and went off to class.

She showed me Christ in the littlest way.

That's why doing stuff 'unto the least of these' is so important.

23

2009-04-16T23:53:00.002-04:00

One of my top 10 favorite songs is a song called, "23" by Jimmy Eat World.

Incidentally a lyric in the song is about being 23 years old.

Go listen to it online somewhere. Go to iTunes and shell out 99 cents.

Favorite lyrics in it:

"Amazing still it seems

I'll be 23

I won't always love what I'll never have

I won't always live in my regrets"

Thanks to everyone for making me feel like a kid.

I'm still in denial. I feel like I'm 18 or 19 still. Hanging on to my last teen years and not yet a real adult.

Goodnight.

-Nic

"we're gonna stay 18 forever"

Cents and Sensibility

2009-04-15T09:32:00.006-04:00

Monday afternoon as I was getting out of my car to go to class, I was approached by a man.

Late 20's, beard, backpack, and he did not appear to be homeless. He came up to me and explained his situation. Basically, he had been registering for classes and he didn't have enough money to catch the bus back to Norfolk. I genuinely felt bad for the guy, but I didn't have a dime on me, just credit cards. I told him this, and that I would offer to give him a ride but I had to go to class, and I couldn't miss it because I had a presentation to give. He shrugged in an understanding way and continued across the parking lot.

No sooner than I turned around, a girl from my class briskly walked up to me. She asked, "Did you give him any money?" I explained to her that I didn't because I had no money. She said that he had just asked her for money for a bus ticket and that it cost $4.25 to get back to Norfolk. She told me that she honestly felt bad for the guy and decided to give him a five dollar bill. As she told me this, she began to get more irate knowing that she had given him enough money for a ticket, yet he continued to bum money off of college students. We both looked up and saw him do the same thing to another student. Then she went off on him; telling him how wrong it was to take advantage of people in that manner, and that he needed to get a job, and she didn't work full time and go to school to give money to jerks like him. (except she didn't say jerk...)

I felt bad for her. I already knew a little bit about her from being in class with her. In one of her speeches she said how tough it was being a waitress when people do not tip properly, especially in our current economy. She was also the daughter of a single mother who raised her and her siblings on almost nothing. I also felt bad for the guy. I didn't know his situation or circumstance. If he genuinely needed money for the bus, or if he was indeed just a "jerk" or scam artist ripping off poor unsuspecting college students.

I know what the Bible says about the poor; feed the hungry, clothe the naked. However, I also know what the Bible says about work and the slothful and the lazy. This is why I approach every encounter that I have with someone who is "in need" or "in want."

I'll probably catch some flack for what I'm about to tell you... A couple weeks ago my family was staying down at the beach, and on the day we were leaving, Saturday, me and Harry hung out with some friends down at the oceanfront. But beforehand I stopped at a 7-11 to get some gas and a drink. As I was walking in I saw a guy, more like a kid, who was no older than me. His clothes looked worn, and he had a backpack. He also had the look of someone who was having a rough day, week, or perhaps life. But he did not appear to be "homeless" or "living on the streets." I looked him in the eyes, and he immediately looked down at the ground in shame. I said, "What do you need man?" He said, "a pack of cigarettes." I responded, "What kind?" He answered, "Malboro Lights." I walked in and bought two bottles of water, a pack of gum, and then did something that I have never done in my entire life. I bought a pack of cigarettes.

I walked outside and found the guy, gave him his cigaretts and a bottle of water. He expressed much appreciation. Then I began to talk to him. He told me his situation. He had been kicked out of his appartment that morning, and his car was broken down and a few other things. I didn't have much to say or a lot of time, but I told him that I understood. We all have rough times and bad days. I then told him that I loved him and cared about him and that cigarettes would not fulfill his needs. As I was leaving I told him I'd be praying for him and God Bless or something generic like that.

I didn't feed the poor or clothe the naked, and he didn't need cigarettes. What did I just do? and Why? I'll probably never see him or hear from him again, and I didn't really help out his situation. Sometimes we do things that we do not understand, and sometimes it doesn't make sense. But I did get to talk to that kid about life, problems, and God. I hope he remembers me not for buying him 'smokes', but for taking the time to talk to him.

I apologize if you are offended by my actions.

-Nic

"one day our wants will be eclipsed by our needs"

True Love

2009-04-12T00:14:00.003-04:00

listen while reading:

True Love

by phil wickham

Come close listen to the story
About a love more faithful than the morning
The Father gave His only Son just to save us

The earth was shaking in the dark
All creation felt the Fathers Broken Heart
Tears were filling Heaven's Eyes
The day that True Love died, the day that True Love died
When blood and water hit the ground
Walls we couldn't move came crashing down
We were free and made alive
The day that True Love died, The day that True Love died

Search your heart you know you can't deny it
Come on, lose your life just so you can find it
The Father gave His only Son just to save us

Now, Jesus is alive

Oh, He is alive
He rose again

One score and 10 years ago

2009-04-08T10:15:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, April 7th was my parents 30th year marriage anniversary.

In our country, about half of all marriages end in divorce. (including Christians)

I believe a huge reason for this comes down to one thing: not love, not romance.

Choice.

There are many times when couples do not love each other like they did on their wedding day. When arguments are happening, and there are money problems, the kids are screaming and throwing food in the back of the minivan, etc...

There are plenty of times when husbands and wives do not feel like loving their spouse.

Whether that means the husband fails to take his wife out randomly on dates to show his appreciation, or the wife doesn't feel like cooking or cleaning the house because she's been working all day, or the husband who neglects his family to sit on the couch and watch the game.

It's hard for me to love and appreciate my friends and family when we are mad at eachother.
It's hard for me to love and appreciate God when things do not go my way.
But when is God not worthy of our love?

Never.

Meaning he always deserves our love and praise.

We approach our relationships completely backwards. The divorce rate is so high, because a husband decided his wife and/or family wasn't worth it anymore. (& vice versa)

Love is not an emotion or feeling.

It's a choice that goes beyond romance and walks hand in hand in covenant.

When has God ever broken a covenant? That's how many times he's stopped loving you.

Congrats Mom and Dad. You're the man!

I love yous.

-Nic

"love bears all things"

Running and Hearing

2009-04-03T23:07:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday I ran for the first time in a long, long time.
I ran again Monday, Tuesday, and Friday (today).
As much as I hate doing it, and have to force my self to do it, I'm doing it.
I'm in a routine, and it feels great. Tonight's run was especially nice because we are
staying down at the beach this week, so I got to run on the boardwalk at about 1045pm.

It's nice when you can run with a cool breeze, hear the waves of the ocean washing up on the shore, smell the saltiness of the beach, and enjoy the moonlight and casual street lamps.

The last night I also went on the boardwalk late, but I just walked, talked, thought, and prayed.
I got to do some of that tonight too, but it's hard to focus when you're breathing heavily and out of breath. haha.

Nonetheless, I've spent more time with God lately than I have in a while. Outside of my daily Bible readings, I've been talking to God a lot throughout the day, but especially at night. The best part that I'm experiencing lately is listening to God. How often do I get caught up with talking to God without listening to Him? Or even giving him a chance to speak?

Have you ever caught yourself in a conversation when you were dominating the dialogue? Or the other person was the one doing all the talking? It's not a good feeling either way.

Let's try to not only talk to God more, but let's listen to Him too. You can't possibly know if you are doing God's will if you never hear Him speaking to you.

-Nic

One of my favorite worship songs, "Running"
I hear the voice, the voice of the One I love,
He's calling my name.

He's saying, come up higher, you'll hear the angels sing.
Come up higher my beloved.
Come up higher and leave this world behind.
You'll find me to be beautiful

I am running, running after You
You become my souls delight
I am running, running after You,
Here with You I find my life.

No April Fooling Here

2009-04-02T21:47:00.002-04:00

About four years ago I was approached by the Pastors (parents) of my church, along with 2 other couples who were in charge of the youth ministry at Open Door. Our youth ministry had taken a beating. We had gone through two sets of youth pastors (both voluntarily resigned) in less than a year and a half, and a few youth leaders as well. I was asked to become a youth leader (at 18 years old, yikes) with these two other couples to oversee the youth group. So I did. Six months later, one of the couples quit and it was just me and Jon-Mark and Jen Menta.

Our first meeting on a Sunday night there was about six kids there. (mind you of all the youth pastors/leaders who came and went) A year later we were averaging 40 students a week at our meetings, and peaked out at our annual Christmas party in 2007 at 62 kids! God allowed some great things to happen, and I am grateful to have been a part of it.

Four years later, here I am. After much thought, prayer, and consultation, I have decided to step down from the youth ministry at Open Door. Everything is fine. All is well, and it's on good terms. I'm so appreciative of the Menta's relentless hard work. They've done so much for those kids, and I pray that God allows them to continue in their great work and reach the vision God has given them.

I saw 12 year olds come in through the doors of our youth center as young middleschoolers, and now they're 16, driving, and much more mature. Some kids are getting ready to graduate from the youth program, and it's unbelievable to see how far they've come.

I broke the news to the students last night, and although it was emotional it was received very well. There were no tears (yet), and most of the kids refused to believe it. Word to the wise: never announce that you are resigning on April fools... :)

I'm staying committed at my church. I will still help when need with certain things. I'm still playing on the worship team. I'm not going anywhere!! Rest assured.

There are some things in the works that I will announce soon enough, so stay posted.

This is bittersweet for me, but I am excited. I will miss the kids dearly, but I'll still see them Sunday mornings. I've seen them grow so much, and myself as well. There were times when I'm sure they hated me for being the "bad guy", but the same ones who were mad at me one week showed up the next week hugging me and joking around.

I will never forget this time of my life. I will never forget the calls that I would get from students at the most random times, including 2am. It's been fun and a blast and I will miss it dearly.

I will give my final message on the 15th and my last night will be the following Wednesday on the 22nd.

Thank you to everyone who supported me and coached me along the way. I now ask for your prayers in this new stage of my life.

Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long. Psalms 25.5

-Nic

"time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go.

So make the best of this test and don't ask why."

Super Short Post

2009-03-30T11:53:00.001-04:00

Love is immeasurable.

He loves us

2009-03-24T15:33:00.003-04:00

Two months ago my band played this event called Blackstone, up near Richmond.

I found this video on my cell phone the other day and totally forgot about it.

The last morning, we played "How He Loves" by John Mark Macmillan, and after we were done the kids kept singing it. It was very powerful. I filmed a few seconds of it after we left the stage.

This is from my cell phone, so it's not great quality.

"So we are His portion, and He is our prize, drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes.

If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking."

Twitter

2009-03-20T13:54:00.002-04:00

I started a twitter account about a month ago.
It's really cool. It's basically just brief status updates. You can share pics or links too.

So go join twitter, follow me, and we'll have a great time.

Twitter

my url is http://twitter.com/npeaks

Have a good weekend.

-Nic

"Friday. Not just a day of the week, but a name also."

Pride, check it at the door

2009-03-17T20:37:00.002-04:00

Last year I was reading Mere Christianity by CS Lewis. I know I'm extremely late.

But somehow I lost the book when I was 3/4th's the way through it, and kinda put off reading it.

Well i found it yesterday and immediately started reading again.

I'm amazed at how easily Lewis is able to get his point across. He was extremely intelligent, yet his readings are very understandable.

Within two minutes of reading, I started highlighting and taking notes.

I felt the need to share this with you.

"For Pride is spiritual cancer; it eats up the very possibility of love, or contentment, or even common sense."

Uhhhh wow. Pride = spiritual cancer.

One of the most feared, deadly, and devastating things in the human race is cancer. In the natural realm it's feared more than just about anything. (saved sharks, clowns, and downtown Portsmouth at night)

Apply cancer to the spiritual realm. Pride is just about the most devastating attributes in a Christian's life. It is pure, absolute selfishness. I've argued the dumbest stuff in the world just to prove I was right. Even if i wasn't. I almost ruined a friendship over an issue that I was too prideful to back down on., and I was 100% right on the issue.

Pride is what causes nations to divide, marriages to split, friendships to ruin, and self destruction to one's soul.

If pride is spiritual cancer, then what is the cure?

-Nic

My Grandpa Peaks (R.I.P), used to get my mom cards for birthday's and Christmas. Every year he spelled her name Cathy with a "C". But her name is spelled Kathy. My dad once told him, "Dad, her name has a 'K' not a 'C' in it." Grandpa responded, "I know, but I spell it with a 'C.'

Creamer? Yes Please.

2009-02-26T11:34:00.004-05:00

This morning on the way to work I stopped by a 7-11 to get my coffee fix.

I usually go to a gas station or place like it for coffee when I don't feel like shelling out the big bucks for Starbucks. I poured myself a small cup of the Bold Brazilian Blend, followed by some creamer. It was the creamer that comes in those little, tiny cups. You know, like the ones that you use to drink when you were a kid at the restaurants.

The creamer is free right? Whether at 7-11, Starbucks, or after a meal at Ruby Tuesday the creamer is free. When I was finished pouring my creamer I decided to do something that may or may not have been stealing. I took about a handful of creamers and put them in my pocket...

Now before you go reporting me to the VBPD, I thought we just agreed that the creamer was free. As I payed for my coffee and got into my car I began to dwell on my decision to take the free creamer. Later in the morning it hit me.

The creamer is free. There's no question about it. I did nothing wrong per se. Yet, I still knew that just because the creamer is free, doesn't mean I'm free to take as much as I want.

Still with me?

God's grace is free. Whenever we need it he provides it. "His mercies are new everyday" right?

But when I'm done using the Grace that God has provided for me and begin to hoard it and take it when I don't necessarily need it, then I'm abusing His grace.

The creamer is free. God's grace is free. The creamer is meant for that cup of coffee. God's grace is for us when we need it. Once we start (ab)using His grace for our want and not our needs, that is when we are stealing the creamer.

-Nic

"Your grace for me is all I need, all I need is here."

Standstill on iTunes

2009-02-20T19:35:00.004-05:00

Quick update.

My band, Standstill, just got our music up on iTunes today!

So if you haven't gotten the CD yet, or you live far away, be sure to go check it out:

CLICK HERE

thanks for the support and let me know if you get it and if you like it.

-Nic

soul skaters

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-15T00:15:00.004-05:00

Single again.

But I'm fine with it. Just waiting for God's perfect timing.

Love is patient.

-Nic

"Love has never been an option, but always a command."

What if I'm not built that way?

2009-02-12T23:50:00.002-05:00

I was watching a movie on TV tonight, and I was struck by a certain conversation between the main character and his wife. She tells him that she's leaving him, because he cannot fulfill her needs.

And here as follows:

Jerry: "What do you want? My soul or something?"

Dorothy: "Well why not? I deserve that."

Jerry: "What if I'm not built that way?"

------------------------------------

He has a complex with the thought of love and a meaningful relationship. He goes on to say that he's a great friend, but is a failure at intimate relationships.

I cannot explain to you how this pretty much hits the nail on the head for me. In any relationship, what is expected from us? Our soul? Our everything? As hard as it is to do, and as much as we think we aren't "built that way", we must realize that relationships of all kinds require much of us. They require our time, our energy, our souls, our everything.

If a friendship fails, it's your fault not theirs.

If a marriage fails, it's your fault not theirs.

If we allow ourselves to believe that relationships can be destroyed on account of our actions, then we admit that love fails.

-Nic

"Love never ends. It endures all things. Faith, hope, and love abide. But the greatest of these is Love."

Meet Me Here

2009-02-10T15:31:00.003-05:00

On Sunday PT a.k.a. Pastor Tony (Dad) brought the word, and when I say 'brought' I mean like little children were crying. just kidding. but seriously...

The title was "Meet Me Here" or something to that extent. I know what you're thinking and trust me it may not sound super profound but trust me this was straight legit.

I feel kinda stupid though, because I forgot my Bible and I never forget my Bible. So I couldn't really take notes or follow along, except on the big screen. However, I did type in some key points into my phone. So for all you haters who thought I was texting, booyah!

Here's some of what I got from the awesome message:
We must ask God to meet us everyday. Did you get that?
We must ask God to meet us everyday.
Picture God.
Now however you pictured Him, imagine that in front of you.
Whether God was a huge bright light, an old man sitting on a cloud, Jesus in the flesh, the cross, etc...
Imagine yourself meeting God everyday.
If that means a still small voice, or in a beautiful sunny day, or in the love that is shown through your relationships.

The only way God will meet you, is if you ask Him to meet you.
Exodus 33.18 - Moses said, "Please show me Your glory."
God showed Moses only a part of him. His back or shoulder in passing. The glory of God was far too great for a man to witness face to face.

I know this post is very scrambled and might not make sense, but just take from it one thing.
Ask God everyday for Him to meet you. Ask Him to show you His glory.

We have to stop picturing God far away up in heaven. He's right here and He wants to be part of our lives everyday. We just have to ask Him.

-Nic

Meet me here.

Guess who eats at Panera?!

2009-02-07T11:32:00.006-05:00

Santa Claus and his wife!!!

I had to use sneaky ninja skills to snag this. :)

This pretty much made my day.

-Nic

What genetic disorder would cause a reindeer to have a red nose that shines?

How to end a text message conversation properly

2009-02-06T09:04:00.004-05:00

here's a text conversation between me and cameron at about 12:30am last night.

we were done and saying our goodbyes.

ME: werd. im out like weed in michael phelps bong!

CAM: hahaha im out like the front right side of Montgo's car

ME: hah. im out like a cat at the carolinos

CAM: hahahaha im out like fires that we try to start

ME: haha. im out like logan leopold in a game of 8th grade dodgeball

CAM: haha im out like brian hrubik in standstill

ME: ooooooooooo. too soon? im out like standstill vs high schoolers in 3 on 3 bball

CAM: hahaha im out like "ch... too soon?"

ME: i was gonna go there. im out like ray charles in a reading contest...too soon?

CAM: hahah im out like standstill at blackstone next year until we get paid for this year

ME: im out like pig pen in king of the mountain mountain mountain

CAM: hahahaha of course. Thats awesome. okay im goin to bed. Love you dude. "Over and out, KSSH....last time i promise!"

ME: "you dont have to make the KSSHH sound!" peace.

-Nic

you hang up. no you hang up.

Say Goodbye

2009-02-05T09:58:00.006-05:00

-Listen while reading:

Well yesterday one of my best friends moved away. Here's some backstory.

In my 8th grade year at Portsmouth Christian School, half way through the year a student transfered to the school. His name Brian Cipcic. Me and Brian struck up a friendship sharing a love for sports and music.

Brian was a Duke fan. I was a Carolina fan. Every year one of us would dread coming into school the day after Carolina and Duke played the first game, because if our team lost then one of us was gonna hear it.

In 9th grade Brian shared with me a language that he and his friend from Western Branch had started. They made the whole thing up. I quickly learned the language and would even become a contributor to it's dictionary. Rabadeepskins!

Our friendship would continue to grow. We always ended up in the same classes. If we were in History class then we would be in the same group project. If it was Physics or Biology, then we would be lab partners. We once even cheated on the same project in a certain class...needless to say we've both changed a lot since then.

We decided that we were going to become Sportscenter anchors for ESPN. It was the ultimate dream job. We played soccer, baseball, and basketball together for the school, we played golf dozens of times together, and went to countless concerts together as well. We had long talks about our lives, future, and God.

After we graduated high school he went off to school at Campbell University in NC, and I stayed and went to TCC. That first year was horrible. I didn't see him much at all. After Freshman year he transferred to ODU and all was well.

Brian and I have gone through some crazy stuff together. We've gotten mad at eachother, almost got in a wreck together, drove to Richmond for a concert and drove back late at night, talked eachother through some rough times, and so forth. We even dated the same girl. (haha)

He's pretty much the only person I have stayed in contact with since high school.

I'll never forget the first time Brian came to my house in which he stole the biggest hamburger off the grill that my dad had made for himself. I'll never forget when we were on the JV Basketball team on the bus on the way back from Broadwater, how we talked the entire two hours establishing our friendship. I'll never forget how we went undefeated our 10 grade year in JV Baseball winning the Season and Conference Championship. I'll never forget how we pulled in late for basketball practice on the day that he was supposed to get called up to varsity. I'll never forget the "crazy walk" on Hole 5 on the Par 3 course at Cedar Point. I'll never forget that me and Brian were sitting next to each other in class on September 11, 2001, not knowing exactly what was going on we wrote that date on the cover of our Bio books.

Brian you are truly one of the best friends that I have ever had. Your friendship is one of value. You are a great person who helped show me many things. You have an amazing work ethic, and you understand what hard work and discipline are. You have become closer to a friend to me, and you have even hung out with my brother when I couldn't. My family loves you and takes you as their own. I am glad that you have been a part of my life.

We were boys when we met, and now we are men as we depart.

I love you like a brother and wish you the best in life. I am thankful that God made you a huge part of my life thus far. I cannot wait for our lives to get going, and I can't wait to see you again.

-Nibboty Naums

Radio? Who needs a radio?

2009-02-03T20:55:00.004-05:00

I get a text at 7:58 from my good friend/bandmate, Jon Carolino, saying "hey man we might get played on the radio this morning!"

After texting back and forth like two giddy 13 year olds with unlimited texting, I found out all the details on the matter.

Jon has a friend who works at The Current, a Hampton Roads based Christian radio station that is broadcast out of Virginia Beach. He was able to do a plug for our band and get a clip from our song, "By A Beautiful Saviour" played on the radio with some free promo.

I was able to listen to the segment at work, and although I they didn't play the entire song it was still pretty cool hearing my band on the radio.

God has allowed us to do some pretty cool things as of late and we are grateful. I hope our gifts will continue to be used for His glory.

In the meantime, feel free to email or call The Current to request to have us played.

Here's the station number: 757.631.7777 and email: info@currentfm.com

If you haven't listened to my band yet then click this.

Thanks.

-Nic

"In my mind and in my car, we can't rewind we've gone to far"

The Three Thousand Dollar Man

2009-01-30T13:13:00.004-05:00

Aloha,

I've got a lot to write about recently, but I'll keep it short due to I have a lot to do.

The last two weeks of my life have been nuts. Those who are closest to me knows what's been going on at work, at home, and etc... Just so the rest of you know;

Eric my boss, church mate, and most importantly friend has been out of work for the last nine days for various reasons. Initially he was out last week because he and his wife, Anne, welcomed in their fourth child into the world, Caroline Grace. Well over the weekend Anne had some complications which has led to emergency surgery, medications, more sickness, x-rays, and the list goes on. She's been in ICU for most of this week and every time she starts making process, something else seems to happen to her. PLEASE continue to pray for the Dye's. Specifically for Anne to have a full recovery and that her body will be healed quickly, for the baby (who is fine) to be comforted not having her mother around to nurture her, for their kids Ally, Dory, and Luca to have eased minds and positive attitudes, and for Eric. Pray for Eric to find peace during this process. Pray for God to regenerate this man in ways only God can do. I hear weariness in his voice when I talk to him. I know he's tired, and I know how uneasy it is to watch someone go through pain knowing you can't do anything about it.

Eric has had great impact on my life, and taught me things in the workplace and off the clock that I will carry with me forever. I have great respect for this man and his work ethic and his integrity. He exemplifies what it means to be a true father.

With Eric being out of the office/studio it has added to my workload and it has also added stress to my life. But I am in no position to complain. I have a great job that I am extremely thankful for, and all of the hitches that have gone off at work, I have been able to handle them with the grace of God. The Dye's situation is much more significant than mine.

With that being said there is one other issue in my life that is causing me a great deal of misfortune. Last Monday (MLK day) my car decided to stop working. It overheated and completely stopped working on my way home. I did some major damage to it by not having it towed as soon as I recognized the problem. My mistake is going to cost me...a lot.

There is another thing that I have learned through the years. Whether it be by someone's testimony or by a miracle in my life. I know that God always provides, and he always knows what's best. Specifically, I remember one time Anne and Eric telling me a story about being specific when you pray. (ask them for the details, it's awesome)

So in this light I am praying specifically for the needs of the Dye's and for my personal need.

I need the money to fix my car:

$3383.10.

And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:18-19.

-Nic

Blackstone 2009

2009-01-26T22:22:00.006-05:00

So all the hype that I've heard the band talk about for the past year...totally lived up to it.

It was so amazing. The kids were phenomenal. They were so cool to talk to and hang out with.

Me and the boys (www.myspace.com/musicbystandstill) did the worship for the event. Four sets 2 and 1/2 days! It was a lot, but it was amazing. There were about 400 kids there, and we got to meet almost all of them. We also released our debut EP titled, "You Are" this weekend.

We sold over 150 copies of the cd at the event, so needless to say the kids were pretty stoked about it.

I met an amazing kid there named, Nick G. He and part of his banned played at the talent show...and they rocked. His whole band is all 12 years old and they totally shred. His bassist Emily used my bass for their song and she rocked it. (the bass was bigger than her) They were pretty gnarly. Turns out they're from VB too and they played at the same exact Relay for Life that we played at last summer. Small world.

(nicky p & nicky g)

A huge highlight of the weekend was this girl that i met at our merch booth. Her name was Jackie, and I was joking around with her about her and her twin sister (or cousin) and whether or not Nimmo was pronounced Nim-0 or Neemo. But this afternoon I got on to check my myspace and she had added me as a friend and sent me a message. Here's an excerpt from the message she sent me:

"i just wanted to say high and thnxs for playing at blackstone. I also have to say that when i got home from blackstone, not more then a half hour after i got home, i let God in to my heart and i have changed. Partly due to your guys music. So thank you so much."

So yeah, basically this put a lot of things into perspective for me. The fact that; I'm in a bit of financial trouble right now, and that work has been extremely stressful due to my boss/friend being out of work for the last week, because his wife (also friend) had a baby and is now having post birth complications, and homework, it all seemed to vanish. I didn't care. Money is money. Work is work. School is school. I took part in something that went beyond all of that this weekend, and the crazy thing is that I and the band has received multiple messages saying the same thing from more kids who went on the Blackstone trip. I know God will provide for my needs, but I also know that a girl from Nimmo VB came to know Christ this weekend, and I played a part in it. I'm thankful to have been a vessel this weekend.

-Nic

post script - I also feel like I connected to my bandmates on a deeper level. A level that goes beyond music. I love those guys and I would do anything for them.

Happy Birthday to Legalized Abortion

2009-01-22T09:08:00.005-05:00

Today is the 36th Anniversary of the passage of Roe v. Wade. Essentially this made abortions legal under the Due Process Law of the 14th Ammendment, declaring a right to privacy.

There's no need for me to outline my view on abortion, because I've given it dozens of times.

Nevertheless, I'll just throw out that about 4000 babies are killed (in America) everyday due to a "women's right to chose" and "right to privacy." If you multiply 4000 by 365 by 36 years, maybe then you'll start realizing how big this really is.

On a positive note my good friends, Eric and Anne Dye gave birth to their fourth child on Tuesday January 20th, 2008 at 2:12pm at 7lbs 6oz & 20" long. Here name is Caroline Grace.

The New Testament translation of Grace is "charis", which means "to rejoice."

Let us rejoice in life, and let us fight injustice in anyway that we can.

-Nic

"Our weapons of war are not of this world." -2 Corinthians 10.4

Please Leave Voice Message for...

2009-01-20T23:00:00.003-05:00

Don't you hate it when you call someone and they do not answer.

And then you call someone else, and they do not answer.

And then hours (sometimes days) go by and they never call you back.

And then the next time they see you, everything seems fine.

I'm getting sick of that bull.

-Nic

I need some help. this week is pwning my life.

T Minus 5 Days...

2009-01-15T12:43:00.004-05:00

until we swear in our next President of the United States.
I will get back to real blogs soon, but until I do check out this video.
I started watching this guys weekly videos a little before the election.
He's very well spoken, and I encourage you to check out some of his older videos to see why he believes what he does.

-Nic

I still can't sacrifice healthcare, insurance, taxes, war, marriage,money, or education above the life of the unborn.

2008 Remembers

2009-01-05T09:45:00.002-05:00

This is a well done montage of those who died in 2008 who were involved in the film industry.
The song is called, "God Only Knows" by Joe Henry.

-Nic

"Well God only knows that we can do,
No more or less that He'll allow.
Well God only knows that we mean well,
And God knows that we just don't know how."

The Best of 08

2009-01-01T11:24:00.005-05:00

Best movies that I saw in theaters:

The Dark Knight

Quantum of Solace

Best Moments in Sports this Year:

Super Bowl XLII - The wildcard NY Giants upset the undefeated New England Patriots in one of the greatest super bowls ever. Giants 17 Patriots 14.

and Michael Phelps wins 8 gold medals in the Beijing Olympics breaking the all time world record. Here was the mens 4x100 event which was considered to be Phelps' toughest event in which he had to rely on 3 other teammates to win. France was quoted before the event as saying "we are going to smash the Americans"

Best Album of the Year:

"The End is Not the End" by House of Heroes.

This was a total shocker. They opened up for Relient K at the Norva in October and they blew me away. I bought the album at the show and I've listened to it more than any other cd I own right now.

Best Quote of the Year:
"Liars go to hell." John 3:16 -Andrew Montgomery

Best Investment of the Year:

I bought a power adapter for my Super Nintendo that has been sitting in a closet for more

than 10 years. I'm reliving my childhood on a gaming system that came out in 92!

Super Mario World is the best game ever. Yoshi changed gaming forever.

Best Photograph of the Year:

There are millions of photos to choose from, and many of them were probably better than this one. But I like what this one symbolizes. This kid's entire neighbor hood was destroyed by the CA wildfires, but he's clutching to his dog like he has all he needs.

Biggest Purchase of the Year:
After dealing with countless issues and displeasure with my laptop, I broke down and bought a Macbook. A little part of me died when the guy at the Macstore swiped my Debit Card, but it was worth it.

Funniest Web Video of the Year:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7-NOZU2iPA8

That's it.

Have a great year.

-Nic

You Otter Be Happy

2008-12-30T15:00:00.004-05:00

No matter how crazy or frustrating or whatever this year may have been for you regarding your family situations, the economy, the election, your sports team, or your spiritual life;

let everything that has breath praise the Lord. -Psalms 150:6

Have you ever noticed that when you are in a good mood how much more energy you have? Or how you are motivated to accomplish more? Or inspired?

When we put into perspective how insignificant things of this earth are in relation to the kingdom of God, sometimes all you can do is smile and let God know it.

"For the Joy of the Lord is my strength."

-Nehemiah 8:10

This Good Night is Still Everywhere to Me

2008-12-24T23:16:00.007-05:00

So it's Christmas Eve, and this is one of my favorite days of the year.

I like it just as much as Christmas Day. I remember growing up it was impossible to sleep on Christmas Eve, the anticipation of opening up presents in the morning.

I love this time of year; the cold weather, the music, the decorations, the smells, the cooking, the gifts, and everyone seems to have the Christmas spirit. Most people seem to be so cheerful.

Whether people are this way because they are happy about their gifts or families or no work or school, I think that no matter what, this time of year is special because of the truth of it all.

If you don't know what truth I'm talking about then read Matthew chapter two.

I sang a song at our church's Christmas Eve service tonight. I chose a song by one of my favorite musicians, Dustin Kensrue. The song I did is the title track on his Christmas album titled, "This Good Night is Still Everywhere to Me".

here's the song and lyrics attached:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L00F4Az1gug

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night.

-Nic

"Chains He shall break, for the slave is our brother. 
And in His name all oppression shall cease. "

53

2008-12-11T22:09:00.004-05:00

I just want to wish a Happy Birthday to a truly great man.

A man of wisdom, leadership, and integrity.

Born in a small town in North Carolina on December 11th, 1955, Tony Ray Peaks entered the world. Having a much harder upbringing than I could imagine, this man has taught me the importance of serving others, hard work, and living a life for God.

Happy Birthday Dad. I love you and I'm thankful that you are my father. You are the best father that I could ever have, and I do not care what any man ever says about you, I love you for who you are.

I hope that one day I can be half the man that you are. You are truly a faithful husband and a loving father, in a day where that is rare I could not be more proud to be your son.

Thank you for not giving up on me, even when I gave up on you.

-Nic

"a father is not a title given to any man. it is a title that is only earned and given to men who have proven their worth."

Hearing God - Part II

2008-12-09T16:05:00.002-05:00

(this was written quick and sloppy and i apologize, i was in a hurry)

(-since most of you responded on facebook, i posted this in a comment on that note)
here's the link to the facebook note and everyone else's response: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/notes.php?id=1574220014

ok a couple of you asked where i was in the mix and wanted my response.i just wanted everyone to have a chance to say what they wanted to say.

i liked some of the answers i got and i didn't know what to think of some others.i just wanted to know basically how YOU have heard from God. If you knew without the shadow of a doubt that it was the voice of God speaking to you some how through whatever manner. I know how we can learn from God, i've read the scriptures on how people heard from God.

Last Friday night me, Ryan, Jason, and Nick H were talking and we had an amazing discussion on the whole matter.But to be brief,I just wanted to say that I know God hears me, that wasn't my question.I think my blog post in a sense was a prayer to God, (without even knowing it) asking for him to speak to me.

Yesterday someone texted me about how they were going through a rough time and they were stressed about things in their life. At the moment I, personally, had nothing to say. I basically texted back, "that's tough, I'm really sorry".

Today when I woke up I was reminded of a scripture to share with them, and i felt a very strong urge to tell them. So i was at work for a while and I kept thinking, "I need to tell them." So I got on facebook and messaged them the scripture and a few words.They responded a little later and told me that the word I gave them was spot on and that I "shifted the lever" on their outlook for the rest of their day. (or something to that effect) They told me it was encouraging hear this and that it was God speaking.

It then just kinda clicked for me.I could not offer any words from my heart to this person that could help them or bring them comfort. It was after I prayed about it, woke up the next day, then God had given me the words to speak, ironically His words.

-Nic

"open up the sky fall down like fire, we don't want blessings we want You"

Hearing God

2008-12-03T19:15:00.003-05:00

How does one hear God?

This is an honest question from me to you.

I know I tend to write a lot and give out my opinion and the (little) knowledge that have, but this is an entirely different blog.

I want to know what you think or what you may know.

How do YOU hear God?

My dad asks me periodically, "What is God saying to you?"

I'm usually like, "Dad it's freakin' 7am, my brain isn't even on yet."

But I think it's a legit question that we need people to ask us.

What is God saying to you? and How do you hear from God?

Romans 10:17 is the main scriptural backing we have on this,

"Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God"

Is this how you personally make your decisions? Do you pray, then read the Bible for your answer or direction? Or do you go by the deep small voice inside of you which could be the Holy Spirit, or it could be your feelings?

Because honestly I have never heard the audible voice of God.

I have never heard, "Nicolas I want you to apply for a job here, and give money to this particular missions project, and this is the person you should marry."

I do not pray enough when it comes to making decisions. In fact, I don't pray enough period.

Those are my questions. Please enlighten me. I want your insight and opinion.

Do you hear God? How do you hear Him? Is it in scripture? In the churning of your soul? Audibly?

-Nic

"Are we so disconnected from God that our animals can hear Him better than we can?"

Thanks

2008-11-27T23:30:00.003-05:00

It's been a week since I last posted and longer that I posted something real and not a movie review, so here we go.

Last week at youth group it was my turn to speak and knowing that we wouldn't have a youth meeting this week, I decided to speak on Thanksgiving. I shared my perception on the word and not just the holiday. This was just about the clearest that I've heard from God when speaking on any given issue in the 3 years I've been teaching in youth group.

Here are my notes:

The Giving of Thanks

What do you think of when you hear the word Thanksgiving?
-Turkey -No School -Traveling

-Football -Christmas Shopping -Family

-Big Meals -Overeating

-The origin of Thanksgiving in our Nation was at Plymouth Plantation in 1621.

-The pilgrims gathered together and had a great feast and thanked God for his provision of land, food, and freedom.

The Holiday

Thanksgiving-an annual national holiday marked by religious observances and a traditional meal including turkey. The holiday commemorates a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621, and is held in the US on the fourth Thursday in November.

Technically it's the first American born religious Holiday in America.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Psalms 69:30 - I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify Him with Thanksgiving.

This passage of David wasn’t about worship like most of his other Psalms. He is in distress.

verses 1-4 : Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in deep mire where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters; and the flood sweeps over me. I am weary with my crying out; my throat is parched. My eyes grow dim with waiting for my God. More than the number of hair on my head are those who hate me without cause; mighty are those who would destroy me, those who attack me with lies.

verse 12 : I am the talk of those who sit in the gate, and the drunkards make songs about me.

verse 13 : But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.

-David chose to give God thanks before God had even brought him out of his distress. That was the time for an “abundance of God’s steadfast love.”

The Story of Job

Job was a man who was blameless and upright. He feared God and turned away from evil. He had 7 sons and 3 daughters. He owned 7000 sheep, 3000, camels, 1000 oxen, and many servants and workers. He was the richest man in the East. His sons would hold a feast and invite all of the other brothers, sisters, and their families. Job would wake up early every morning and offer a burnt sacrifice to God for every child he had for, “It may be that my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” There was a day when the sons of God would present themselves before the Lord, and one time Satan came before God. God pointed out to Satan the righteousness of Job. Job was blameless and upright. He feared God and turns away from evil. Satan told God that the only reason Job served God was because God had blessed Job beyond measure and put a hedge around him to protect him. God then allowed Satan to do whatever he wanted to Job’s life, except kill him.

verse 13-22 (NIV) 13 One day when Job's sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, 14 a messenger came to Job and said, "The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, 15 and the Sabeans attacked and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!"

16 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, "The fire of God fell from the sky and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!
17 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, "The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!"
18 While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, "Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, 19 when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!"
20 At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship 21 and said:
       "Naked I came from my mother's womb,
       and naked I will depart.
       The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
       may the name of the LORD be praised."
22 In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.

This is just the first chapter of Job.
In chapter 2 Job is stricken with large boils all throughout his body. His wife tells him to curse God and die. Later on 3 of his closest friends come and tell him that he is guilty of sin, and that he must have done something to anger God. Later they smeared Job with lies (chapter 13) and mocked him. This went on and on through the whole book of Job until chapter 42.
Because of Job’s faithfulness, God blessed Job with twice as much that he had before, God then gave Job 7 more sons and three more daughters and his daughters were the most beautiful in the whole land. Job lived to be 140 years old and lived to see his great great grandchildren live.

-The key verses in Job are 1:20
and 13:15 - Though he slay me, yet will I trust him. Meaning; even if God takes my life, I will never doubt him.

Knowing what God has done for you should be enough for you to be thankful that you have a life. You have: a place to sleep, food to eat, clothes to wear, clean water and air, a family, friends, a place where you can Worship God without any fear or consequence. We are the richest nation in the world. We have the biggest houses, the nicest cars, the coolest clothes, and the possessions you could dream of, yet we still find ways to complain.

Thanksgiving is the expression of gratitude to God. The realization that if God never did another thing for you the rest of your life, he has already done enough for you. Thanksgiving is not a Holiday that we celebrate once a year, Thanksgiving is knowing that God has provided your every need.

-Nic

If we already believe that God is in complete control, then why are there moments of doubt in our lives?

My Short Movie Review of: "Quantum of Solace"

2008-11-20T08:09:00.005-05:00

It was good. A direct continuation from "Casino Royale." (if you haven't seen Casino Royale yet then "Solace" won't make any sense to you)
Overall I liked Royale better, but both of these are far better than any other Bond movie.

-Nic

Daniel Craig is probably the best James Bond ever.

The Cold Hard Truth

2008-11-13T23:20:00.004-05:00

The cold hard truth is:

I've come to the realization that there are certain things that I can and cannot control.

There are some people in my life that do not need to be in my life anymore.

There are some people's lives that I do not need to be a part of anymore.

The words that I say do not affect everyone. The things that I have shared with some haven't carried the weight that I hoped they would.

Lying doesn't destroy you. Not dealing with lies does.

-Nic

"O that you would change my heart, for it is wicked without Your voice of reason.

Only You can change my life, for the things of this world last for only a season."

Harvey Dent or Two Face

2008-11-11T15:47:00.006-05:00

Sometimes I consider myself to take on the character traits of comic book characters. My favorite series is Spiderman and he is (probably) my favorite character. But my love for Batman has been renewed due to the success of the two newest movies of the Batman series done by Christopher Nolan. The most recent one, "The Dark Knight", which came out earlier this year was fantastic. (as was the first film)

There is one aspect of "The Dark Knight" that I feel is overlooked due to all of the hype surrounding the late Heath Ledger's Joker. Don't get me wrong, I thought that Ledger did an outstanding job that probably won't ever be topped for that role. But I really enjoyed Aaron Eckheart's portrayal of Harvey Dent, the D.A. of Gotham.

I think I am much like this character. I want justice. I stand for morality. I'm a good person and I try to do the right thing. The same goes for Harvey. Many times we do not see the past of a villain. We just always assume they were a bad egg or some dramatizing event changed their life for the worse. But for Harvey, he didn't just become Two Face over night. I mean sure after the explosion, the hospital, and the death of the love of his life, it seemed like he changed pretty quick. But I think his change began long before that.

Harvey was an "on edge" individual. We like the character from the beginning, but do we ever fully trust him. And if we don't fully trust him is it because we already know his fate or is it because there are subtleties that make us think twice about him. He's pretty quick to get angry, and he always leaves important decisions to his lucky coin in which he "creates his own luck."

Two Face was inside of Harvey long before Harvey became Two Face.

I think we can be "two faced" at times. It's very easy to put on a show in front of people, and even to believe that you have them fooled. But have you fooled them, or are you just the fool. Whenever I have lied to someone about something the ultimate reason for the lie never changes; I didn't want them to know the full truth. Sometimes this could be out of love. Sometimes this could be to get out of trouble. I think the same goes for when someone lies to me. The craziest thing is I can usually tell when someone is not being honest with me or not telling me everything.

We allow ourselves to believe the lie. Whether it's an exaggeration, a white lie, or a bold face lie it's all dishonest. It's knowing what is right and doing what is wrong. It can destroy us if we don't fix it.

James 1.8 -A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways.

-Nic

Bruce Wayne was also Batman. He became a different person. He lied every day of his life.

Nic and no one's Infinite Playlist

2008-11-08T23:02:00.004-05:00

I've had some pretty heavy posts this past week, with the election, my dad, and life, so I decided to have a lighter one to end this week.

These are my top 10 songs that I listen to right now. Some of this lists includes my to and from work tunes, my workout/punch people in the face tunes, my Jesus tunes, and my sleep tunes.

10. When It Rains - Paramore

-I love Hayley's voice in this song. It's very simple and soothing. I love to listen to this song especially when it rains. go figure.

-Favorite lyric : "you made yourself a bed at the bottom of the blackest hole, and convinced yourself that it's not the reason you don't see the sun anymore"

9. Stay - The Panic Division

-Heavily driven by synth at the beginning of this song, but it just builds and builds until the bridge and the song really comes to life. A song that has a sense of accomplishment.

-Favorite lyric : "My heart is hung my dearest friend when your life runs dry. Get off your bed cause I've realized that I'm still in love. I'm still in love. You'll stay."

8. With Everything - Hillsong United Live

-One of the biggest songs ever. The music, the lyrics, and the dynamics come together and produce the results that music is defined by. The song is over 7 minutes long, but could easily be sung...forever. The echoing war cry at the end cannot be described by any other word but epic.

-Favorite lyric : "with everything we will shout forth your glory, with everything we will shout forth your praise."

7. Death and All of His Friends - Coldplay

-Last track on the newest Coldplay album. On every album they put out there's always "that one song." Although this song will probably never be a single or on the radio, it is one of their best songs ever.

-Favorite lyric : "no I don't want to battle from beginning to end. I don't want a cycle of recycled revenge. I don't want to follow death and all of his friends."

6. The Weight of Lies - The Avett Brothers

-Folksy acoustic and very mellow. Not just mellow, but melancholy. This song talks about the heaviness, pain, and inescapable reality of lies.

-Favorite lyric: "The weight of lies will bring you down and follow you to every town, 'cause nothing happens here that doesn’t happen there. So when you run make sure you run to something and not away from, 'cause lies don’t need an aeroplane to chase you anywhere."

5. In the Valley of the Dying Sun - House of Heroes

-This is one of the most insane songs I've ever heard in my life. It's up and down and side to side. Anyone who is a fan of innovative music needs to check this song out. At certain moments this song sound like straight rock and roll, then soft & soothing, and then heavy guitars and headbanging moments. However it is the lyrics of this song that brings it it into a full state.

-Favorite lyric: "Like pieces of the sun, Our light burns on and on and on. Like stars in the night sky we shine. I'm living to shine on"

4. Please Come Home - Dustin Kensrue

-Kinda folksy again. An acoustic driven song, with a hint of Jonny Cash. I'm really in love/hate with the lyrics of this song that basically tell the story of the Prodigal Son. And before you get all antsy on me, I know there are a bunch of songs about the prodigal son, but this one is told through the father's eyes.

-Favorite lyric: "I still stand here waiting with my eyes fixed on the road. And I fight back tears and I wonder if you're ever coming home. Don't you know son that I love you, and I don't care where you've been. So please come home."

3. White Man - Michael Gungor Band

- This is indeed a hippie song. It's even got a banjo in it. This song talks about what God is and what he isn't. It's plea for everyone to stop the hating. I really love the concept and meaning of this song. Although I do believe that it can be misinterpreted incorrectly.

-Favorite lyric: the whole song.

2. True Love - Phil Wickham

-A song about what true love really is. Powerful words and the emotion heard in Phil's voice cannot be hidden. This song talks about the breaking of heaven and earth and the pain and joy of sacrifice.

-Favorite lyric: "The earth was shaking in the dark, all creation felt the Fathers Broken Heart. Tears were filling Heaven's Eyes, the day that True Love died, the day that True Love died. When blood and water hit the ground, walls we couldn't move came crashing down.

We were free and made alive, the day that True Love died, the day that True Love died."

1. How He Loves - John Mark MacMillian

-A very long story behind this song can be found here. But basically the song talks about God's unending, unfailing love for us, no matter what. It's not a happy song, and the love described in the song is talking about his comfort and compassion when we go through tragedy.

-Favorite lyric: "We are His portion and He is our prize, drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes, if grace is an ocean we’re all sinking. So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss and the heart turns violently inside of my chest. I don’t have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way...He loves us.

Check out the songs and share your faves with me.

-Nic

I'm looking for Jonathan.

Part Attack

2008-11-07T21:10:00.004-05:00

Thursday November 6th, 2008 just another day...

Not so much.

Everything was fine and peachy keen till around 2:28 (exactly, i just checked in my phone), and that's when my mom called. She proceeded to tell me that dad had gone to the emergency room because he had experienced some chest pains and some possible tingles in his arms. She also said something along the lines of a possible heart attack...My dad, have a heart attack?

My dad is 52 years old, he eats very healthily, and works out every day but Sunday (taking care of his body and observing the sabbath scores great points with God). You can understand why I would be a bit shocked, especially because this kind of thing never happens to you.

I was shocked nonetheless, but I was a bit tied down at work. I mean my dad might have had a heart attack and I was stuck at work, 30 minutes away. Naturally, I was scared, stressed out, upset, and had no details concerning my dad. I don't know what a panic attack feels like, but I think I was on the verge of having one. I finally was able to get on my way to the hospital, and I had two different Pastors call me. Obviously I was sparse on details, so I told them to keep in prayer. My aunt got to Obici Hospital at the same time as me, so we found the appropriate waiting room and was greeted by my mom, Jason, and about five people from church.

I took a seat and no sooner than that a nurse came in with the details of everything so far...

She said one of the arteries to his heart had a 99% blockage. They had to perform an immediate heart catheterization in which they put a stint in the artery to clear the passageway.

She said the procedure went great and that he would have no heart damage and is expected to have a full recovery. She also said if it could have been much worse if he hadn't come in when he did. She then said that we could see him, and that's when the all hockey sticks broke loose.

What I mean is I was about to lose it. I had teared up almost to the point that I couldn't hold it in. The nurse then took us into the room to see my dad, and that's where I lost it. I leaned over the bed rail, face first into my dad's side as he clutched my had, and I lost all composure. The nurses looked at each other in a very confused way, and one leaned over to me and said, "your dad's going to be just fine." I knew he was gonna be fine which was so weird. They said there was nothing to worry about, but that's not why I was crying.

I was crying because the fate of my dad was in God's hands. The fate of everyone is God's hands. James 4:14 says, "you don't know what your life may bring tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while then passes away." Proverbs 27:1 says, "boast not about tomorrow, for you do not know what it may bring." We aren't guaranteed tomorrow, and that never rang so true. We all have those 9/11 moments every once and again. But this was so much more personal.

On the way from work to the hospital my mind started racing....in....slow....motion. I started remembering in bits and pieces of memories of me and dad. I started thinking, "what was the last thing I said to him this morning?" Was I mad at him? Was he mad at me? Did we get in a fight? What if I never get to see him again? What if I blew it?

This all continued in my mind when I was crying like a 10 year old girl who just lost the little miss sunshine competition. I thought about certain times in my life when I would question if I hated my dad. Every single situation with me and my dad was resonating deep within my soul.

As I was still face down in the covers on his hospital bed, Dad put his hand on my head and rubbed it as if I was a little kid again. He said, "Nicolas, it's ok. I'm fine. Everything is fine."

They went on to move him to ICU, and I finally got myself together. If you didn't know I'm a bit of a softy, but most of the time I hide it. I hadn't cried like this since my Papa Jack died just over 3 years ago.

We have had so many people come and visit and call/text/email etc... and we really appreciate it. It's nice to know that people care. My dad has done nothing but serve people for the last 28 years, and yesterday and today we saw real people come to serve and love him. It was amazing. It wasn't a surprise to see. We have a great church with genuine, loving people.

What surprised me was to see many of my closest friends not come or call. Some of my friends I didn't even hear from until today, tonight, and some I still haven't heard from. I know we all have busy lives, and plans, and what not. But in my mind nothing else is more important to me than being there when people need me. I've always made myself available and some people take me up on it and some don't. Unfortunately today it was not returned.

We live and learn. My dad is fine and should be going home tomorrow. I am so thankful that God is in control. Everything else seemed so insignificant from the time my mom called me Thursday afternoon; work, plans for the weekend, the election...none of it seemed to matter.

Again thanks to all for the support and prayers. You are amazing and much appreciated even when it doesn't seem/feel like it. I LOVE YOU.

"You hold the universe, You hold everyone on earth. All I need is you."

-Nic

special thanks and infinite appreciation to a particular individual who spent most of the day keeping me company, helping my family, and just showing how to love and how to live out love.

you are amazing. :)

UPDATE ON MY DAD

2008-11-06T19:32:00.002-05:00

My dad, Pastor Tony Peaks, had a minor heart attack tonight.

One of the arteries to his heart was blocked 99%. The doctors went in and put in a

stint and the artery was cleared. He is expected to have a full recovery.

My dad is in ICU right now and is recovering well. I got to see him twice tonight and he will be in the hospital for a few days. He will be put in a main room tomorrow so visitors will be welcome.

He's sleeping right now and needs to eat and then sleep the rest of the night.

Thank you so much for the calls, texts, emails, and people who came up to the hospital today/tonight.

This was one of the scariest moments of my life and I will discuss it in full detail later on.

Thank you for your prayers and continued prayer and support.

-Nic

slow motion and perspective on life

Results of the Election

2008-11-05T21:45:00.007-05:00

The Scoreboard

Champions:

The President-Elect of the United States - Senator Barack H. Obama (D)

Vice President-Elect of the United States - Senator Joe Biden (D)

Runners Up:

Senator John S. McCain (R)

Governor Sarah Palin (R)

There are many things that I wish to address concerning the election and results thereof.

1) Congratulations to America for voting in the first African-American President of our Country. (you can debate that he's half African and white if you want...) Whether or not you agree with his policies and beliefs, give honor to where honor is due. Congratulations Senator Obama. I can't imagine what this means for the Black community. I'm sure it is very empowering, and I'm glad that many people in this election looked past race when casting their vote.

-I have said for almost 2 years that the Democratic ticket of 2008 would win the election by nothing short of a landslide. I was in no way surprised by the results of the election. This was one of many reasons why I didn't have a complete nervous/psychological breakdown. I didn't cry, curse, or celebrate for that matter.

- Senator McCain showed nothing but class, honor, and dignity in his concession speech.

-I personally did not think that McCain would make a great President, but I thought compared to the competition, he was infinitely better.

2) I didn't watch the election coverage at all. I did end up going online a few times to check on the status of VA, just to see if Mac could pull it off, but watching that was like watching this.

3) I was repulsed by the comments/statuses/wall posting etc... that took place on facebook and myspace after the results of the election. It's kind of expected from the "losing team" I guess, but what was so ridiculous about the whole thing is the way that "Christians" were acting.

Here's some of what I saw:
_____________is packing sun screen and a camera... to live in the down under (Australia that is).

_____________knows that we need God's mercy NOW more than ever!

_____________What the heck! America is going to be run by a terrorist! leave America why u still can!
_____________is going to endure four years of socialism and wait anxiously for Mike Huckabee in 2012!

______________"God is judging our nation".

______________wont call him president.
______________WAS proud to be an American.

______________is dreading Hitler's reign.

______________Obama is NOT my president.

______________wants to welcome America to Hades. You asked for it. You got it.

______________is looking forward to 2012 - Go Palin!

there were about 5-6 more saying that they were going to move to another country, a bunch about 2012, a bunch about socialism and communism, and i think 2 about the Antichrist.

Now I understand that some of these, were jokes. But I think most people were caught in the heat of the moment, and got very emotional (which is what this entire election has been based on) and then locked, loaded, and let it rip.

All I can say is this:

You have officially sunk to their level. Liberals for years have said they would leave the country if Bush (or whomever) were elected. If you're going to move out of the country then please do so. Talk is cheap. We don't need God's mercy now more than ever. We need His mercy all of the time. If I hear one more person call Senator Obama a terrorist, then I'm going to lose it. Although it is very clear that Sen. Obama has socialistic ideals, that doesn't mean he is Hitler and it doesn't mean that we are about to be a communist Nation. If this were the case I would be joining the Armed forces immediately and fighting for my God-given right to live freely. Plus, we do have something called checks and balances. Everyone looking forward to 2012 for Palin or Huckabee or whoever it is you are waiting for, you are wasting you time. I think Huckabee and Palin are great individuals who have great morals, but I do not see them leading this country. The thing that makes me sickest about Palin and Huckabee is that the very same people who called Obama a celebrity and got mad that people idolized him, did the exact same thing. I remember after the Iowa Caucus (which Huckabee surprisingly won) , Christians were going nuts over this guy. A guy (who I think is great as a person and maybe a pastor) who was made up of one liners and a punch line every time he spoke. It was almost the same way with Governor Palin. Although I will say this, she was a selling point for me for the McCain ticket. She was strongly pro-life, fought corruption in her state, lived out what she said, and would have made a fine VP, but not a president. Christians (and non alike) flooded McCain rallies, putting up close to the same amount of numbers to see "Sarah". I understand the excitement of there being a woman VP and I think Palin is extremely sincere and smart, but the same hype that she brought to the Republican base was almost equal to that of the "Obama-rama". Once again, Huckabee and Palin great people, but gees Louise they are just people. Finally the disrespectors; you won't call him your President and "he's not your President." How dare you?! He is your President and there's nothing you can do about it. It our wonderful Democracy we as a nation choose our leaders. Obama won the popular vote by over 7 million votes, and he won the Electoral College vote by more than enough. Recount all the states you want, but he won. Thus making him our President. Although liberals have trashed, cursed, despised, and just flat out disrespected President Bush for the last 8 years, it does not justify you disrespecting our soon President to be. It's hypocritical and tasteless. In my mind, if that is your attitude then you are no better than any of them. He is my President, and I will address him as such, no matter what. Christians are commanded in the Bible to honor and pray for those in authority. When King Saul threw a spear at soon-to-be-king David, what did David do? He politely ducked his head quickly before it impaled his face, and he honored the King. David had 2 chances to kill Saul and the majority Israel backing David, he easily could have overthrown the kingdom that was soon to be his. But he understood God's timing and ultimately he cared, prayed, and respected Saul regardless of spear throwing habits.

With that being said....there were plenty on the other side of the spectrum spewing malicious remarks and "in your face, you republican scum", but there's really no need to touch on that.

I witnessed a lot of hating and a lot of hurt. A lot of "friends" saying mean things back and forth, and over what?? Who's side won? The last time I checked, we still live in a free world. I am proud to be an American, but even more proud to serve a God that's bigger than America. The only One who can actually talk about change and do it. I didn't vote for a savior. I didn't vote for a perfect candidate. I voted. I spoke, and so has America. I will continue to share my conservative views, and I will welcome those who do not agree. I agree with President-Elect Obama about 6% of the time, but I will honor and respect and pray for him; not to fail, but to succeed and maybe change his way of thinking on certain matters. When he makes a mistake or a decision that I don't agree with, I will be vocal about it and I will hit him hard where I see fit, because I voted and that means I can voice my opinion. If you were of age and did not vote, then shut up for the next 4 years. You had plenty of time to get your registration/absentee/early voting stuff ready. If it was important to you, then you would have done it. No excuses. Those of you who agree, feel free to jump on board. Those who are going to loathe in self pity, please do so in orderly fashion in another country.

Goodnight,

-Nic

Michael Gungor wrote a song called "White Man", and I've been telling everyone that the world needs to hear this thing. You can buy it on iTunes or find it on my myspace page or the Michael Gungor Band page. Here's the words that cut so deep:

God is not a man
God is not a white man
God is not a man sitting on a cloud

God cannot be bought
God will not be boxed in
God will not be owned by religion

But God is love, God is love, and He loves everyone
God is love, God is love, and He loves everyone

God is not a man
God is not an old man
God does not belong to Republicans
God is not a flag
Not even American
And God does not depend on a government

But God is good, God is good, and He loves everyone
God is good, God is good, and He loves everyone

Atheists and Charlatans and Communists and Lesbians
And even old Pat Robertson, oh God He loves us all
Catholic or Protestant, Terrorist or President
Everybody, everybody, love, love, love, love, love.

Stop the hating, please just stop the hating now,

'Cause God is love.

-------------------------
I am so glad this election is over.

Endorsement For President of the United States of American 2008

2008-11-03T20:05:00.004-05:00

So here it is.

The countdown ends.

No matter how much the talking heads in the media and talk radio have talked, it ends tonight.

Given our circumstances, this is being called the most important election in our country's future.

There's a lot of emotion involved in this election. It's on both sides of the political spectrum. It involves race and color, age and gender. I think this can be a very dividing election only if we allow it to be.

I have to the conclusion that every major election year, the worst in people are brought out. People's perception change of an individual if said individual is voting for "the other guy."

Before I get on to my official endorsement let me offer a few more musings before tomorrow.

If you vote for Barack Obama, solely on the fact that he is Black, then you have just participated in racism....

I'll say that again. It is racism to vote for Obama because he is Black.

Defined:

Racism -a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others.

With that being said; If you vote for John McCain based on the fact that he is White or Caucasian... then this too is racism.

Another word I like to associate with racism is ignorance.

By the way, Barack Obama is not Black or of pure African Decent. His father was Kenyan (African) and his mother was Hawaiian (American). This would make him mixed; half white and half black. If you were to do some research on the matter you would find out that he also has very strong Arab roots, making his black/white percentage under 50/50.

Everyone knows my stance on capitalism, socialism, abortion, and so on. There is no reason for me to belabor my positions on any of those issues.

The stats for someone who is 18-30 years old is over 60% pro Obama.

For 18-22 year olds the percentage increases for Obama.

Being a 22 year old, I am constantly being pressured on who to vote for. Movie stars, rock stars, celebrities, and all three main news networks are telling (young) America who to vote for.

For 364 days out of the year we are reminded of how screwed up celebrities are. How they are having drug and alcohol problems and are in rehab again. Or how their marriage has failed for the third time. Or how they are having depression problems and are suicidal.

But we are supposed to do what they tell us to do on this one day called, "Election Day."

If I need advice on morality the last place in the world I look is to Hollywood.

So why would I look there for voting advice or spiritual advice for that matter. I say spiritual advice on purpose. After all there is a Spiritual Side to Politics. ;)

Before I get to the big endorsement I want to offer some voting advice to anyone who is still unsure, or maybe someone who already knows who they are voting for.

Know who you are voting for. Know what you are voting for. Know why you are voting for who/what you're voting for. There is no perfect candidate. Jesus isn't running for office. If you can't decide who to vote for because you feel both candidates are morally flawed, then DON'T VOTE. But if you choose not to vote, then don' t you dare complain one little bit over the next 4 years. Another point of interest, there are more than 2 candidates running for President. There's Bob Barr of the Libertarian party, and Chuck Baldwin of the Constitution party. And there are millions of other people you can vote for. You can write your vote in, for ANYONE.

There's another guy that really shook the polls earlier in the primaries and stirred things up online in a revolution sort of way. His name; Ron Paul. Do some reading on that guy.

If you are still with me then I applaud you. You deserve to hear my grand finale of an endorsement.

I'm going against the status-quo . I'm going against the odds. I'm going against the percentage. I'm actually in the minority. I'm doing the uncool thing.

One year ago the top issue in this election was the War in Iraq. The second leading issue was Immigration and Health Care. This summer the top issue was Energy Independence; drilling for oil here and now. A friend of mine on Sunday told me his top issue was Education. Having experienced private school education, homeschooling, and public school; he explained where he stood on the issue. He also aspires to be a teacher one day, so no doubt a big issue.

A huge issue for Christians is abortion. For some this is clear cut. For me, it's not even debatable. However, my view on abortion is a little bit different concerning the candidates.

Some "pro life" Christians who are voting for Obama will say, "abortions under the Bush administration has not been reduced greatly enough, but Obama has a plan to help reduce 'unwanted pregnancies' and abortions."

To me that's a cop out. That's just a way to win the pro life vote, and honestly I'm not sure I buy it.

But the reduction of abortions is not the point. The goal of the pro life movement is to educate people on what abortion is; murder. Murder is wrong. Christian or not that's pretty much excepted by all cultures. I do want to see abortion aborted, don't get me wrong.

But what it comes down to is character and the morale of a man.

If a man is okay with a mothers right to choose to have an abortion, over the protection of human life...

If a man is okay with partial birth abortion...

If a man is against the born alive infant protection act...

......then to me they are unfit to be the President of the United States of America.

This speaks great lengths to the character of a man. Martin Luther King once urged Americans to speak for the helpless and the voiceless.

Our Declaration of Independence states:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

All men are created equal.

All are endowed by God.

All have the right to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

"You can't grant someone the right to liberty and happiness if you do not grant them the right to live."

I will never tell anyone who to vote for, for the decision is a decision that only you can make. It is between you and God and the voting booth. You have the right to vote for whomever you choose. You have the right to not let the media or celebrities tell you who to vote for. You have the right not to vote.

Without further ado:

I, Nicolas Stephen Peaks, do hereby endorse for President of the United States of America for the next four years, save death or impeachment, Senator John S. McCain.

-Nic

I can't wait for the election to be over.

Stop the hating everyone.

99 Balloons

2008-10-29T22:50:00.006-04:00

just click on the link and watch.

99 Balloons.

I was speechless and might've teared up a bit.

I want to trust God with everything that is within me, much like the people in this video.

-Nic

"You hold the universe, You hold everyone on earth."

Jerks, Thursday, Concert, and More Jerks

2008-10-25T00:09:00.003-04:00

"With all do respect..."

If I put that at the beginning of my sentences or blogs, then can I say what I want. Ricky Bobby thinks so, and I kinda agree.

I'll say this instead, "i am human."

Sometimes in my head I think that I legitimately hate certain people.

Thursday was an interesting day for me. There are very few things that can get my "grits cookin" nice and hot and Thursday things got a bit hot. (meaning i got mad)

Throughout the course of the day, I'm not saying when it happened, but sometime between the time that I woke up, to the time I was at work, to the time that I was at the bank, mall, concert, home, and finally to bed....someone said/did something hurtful to me. I have no intention on saying who or when it happened because I do not wish to expose said person to my legions of readers. ;)

But let me say this; it hurt. I took it the wrong way too. I let it eat at me, and the more I thought of it, the more it enraged me and the more it hurt.

I've come to the brilliant conclusion that people are jerks. Thats all there is to it. Whether it be ego or a bad joke, or a witty remark or just the inconsideration of other people, people are jerks.

I say this as a fellow jerk. I know there are things that I have said and done that have hurt other people. I've apologized. I've even apologized for stuff that I did do or didn't realize I did.

But there is one individual in my life who is filled to the brim with pride, arrogance, and haughtiness. They constantly spew their undermining, undercutting, divisive, negative, vernacular to the four corners of the earth. I do not wish to go into detail here so I won't.

The worst part about it is that they do not even realize they are doing this.

I went to the Relient K/House of Heroes concert at the NorVa and it was amazing. House of Heroes is my favorite band of 2008 (which is a pretty serious endorsement from me) and Relient K never fails to put on a good show. And they did the song "Deathbead" which totally shocked me. It's an 11 minute song that is one of the most moving songs that I have ever heard in my entire life. I seriously recommend you go to iTunes right now and buy that song and listen to it in its entirety. Then repeat.

After the concert I came home feeling better. Until someone else reminded me of how much of a jerk people can be.

I give up!

-Nic

"sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will break my heart and dreams."

Quote of the Week - 4

2008-10-21T15:26:00.002-04:00

On a random website I check semi-normally,
I stumbled on a funny quote dealing with failed assasinations...
Here it is, and honestly it's pretty good advice:

"Guns can be problematic. They require training to use well and even then they can still jam or miss. But do you know what never misses? A 1950 Buick filled with dynamite."

-Nic

jack johnson and tom o leary never miss either.

The Light

2008-10-16T09:13:00.005-04:00

Last night I finished a two part series for youth group called "salt & light.

Here's the outline of part 2.

part 02 - light
-Matthew 5:13-16 -You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

-what is light?
Light or visible light is electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength that is visible to the human eye
-travels at over 186,000 miles per second.
- in physics the electromagnetic wavelengths of light are not always visible.
-its purpose
-to provide light
-to provide heat
-an example of both would be the sun, a light bulb, fire of some sort
-light displayed
-the comparison
-You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Just as you would not light a candle and then hide it under a basket or bucket, but rather on a stand so it can provide light for the house.

- In that same way you should be a light unto others, so they can see the good that you do and it will bring glory to God.

John 3.19-21
this is the judgement; the light has come into the world and the people love the darkness rather than the light, because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light for their works would be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his deeds have been done for God.

-the opposite
-Darkness
-Men love darkness rather than light.

Why do you think the majority of crimes and evil doings are committed at night?
-It’s easier to do what you want to do when people cannot see you.

-When your parents aren't around. When your solid Christian friends aren't around.
-Be in the light.
-Be the light.

-Sometimes darkness can overwhelm us.
-Sometimes we try to do what is right, but we fail. We try to live in the light and be in the light, but it seems like we constantly stumble in the darkness.

psalms 23.4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for God is with me, Your rod and staff comforts me and keeps me safe.

-shadow of death
Why is there comfort found in this verse?

-A shadow cannot be cast without some sort of light.
-We have the comfort of knowing that when darkness is all around us, there is a light that is close to us.

-God said he would never leave us or forsake us, we must trust Him at all times.

-It does no good for a candle to be put under a bucket.
-It does no good for you to be influenced by people who love the things of the world over God.

-Let your light shine so that the people around you

will see the good that you do and it will bring Glory to God.

-Nic

Is darkness always the absence of light?

Some quotes

2008-10-11T01:48:00.005-04:00

"Obama is the first African descendant to potentially be the CEO of the U.S. For me, that's incredible." It's a bit emotional to see that our nation is even grappling with a conversation. Twenty years ago, that wasn't even taken seriously. While I historically haven't endorsed any candidate, I'm seriously looking at that possibility."

-TD Jakes - Best Selling Author and Senior Pastor at "The Potter's House" in Dallas, TX with a weekly attendance of over 30,000 congregants.

"I realize this is controversial, that there are many who would rather vote for a pro-life candidate and keep the abortion rate the same, on principle. And like them I believe in the sanctity of life, I simply think we need to begin making progress, and Barack is offering progress."

-Donald Miller - Author of the NY Times Best Selling Book "Blue Like Jazz"

"I believe that Senator Obama is an extraordinary candidate...focusing on critical issues and a new spirit of unity and shared responsibility. But even if Barack Obama were merely mediocre, simply based on the failures of the Republican Party to hold their president and vice president accountable for their lack of integrity (and/or intelligence) over these last eight years, I believe it’s high time for a change."

-Brian McLaren - Prominent Leaders of the Emergent Church and Founding Pastor of Cedar Ridge Community Church in Spencerville, MD.

"I believe that abortion is an unspeakable evil, yet I support Sen. Barack Obama, who is pro-choice. I do not support him because he is pro-choice, but in spite of it. Is that a proper moral choice for a committed Catholic?

-Nicholas P. Cafardi - Prolific Catholic Legal Scholar

We cannot diminish the value of one category of human life — the unborn — without diminishing the value of all human life. -Ronald Reagan

-Nic

Quote of the Week - 3

2008-09-30T13:32:00.003-04:00

At my job I am constantly being updated by the news.
In fact it's part of my job. We have 3 TV's going on in the office; one is on FoxNews, one is on CNN, and one is on MSNBC. This way we are constantly being updated by current events and breaking news. Since it's the political season, about 80% of the news concerns politics. Therefore a lot of the discussion between me and Eric (my boss) and his boss (etc) are about politics.

A few weeks, maybe months ago, me and Eric were talking about something that had happened on the political front. The conversation was all but over and this is what shook:

(turning towards Eric who had focussed in on his computer) Me: Dude, this is crazy.
(half-heartedly giving a crap) Eric: Yeah man. Politics is wierd.

haha. spot on, as usual.

-Nic

Quote of the Week - 2

2008-09-26T15:49:00.002-04:00

Me and my older brother Jason, were chatting on IM, and he asked me how I was feeling.
(I had been sick the day before and a little that day)

Dareyoutomovejp: hey love
Evrythngisaok3: yo
Dareyoutomovejp: how are you feeling
Evrythngisaok3: better. i had explosive diarrhea. a bit redundant i know.
Dareyoutomovejp: ahah. gross.

-Nic

my fantasy team is 0-3 but i'm in 5 place out of 12 in points. :/

Quote(s) of the Week

2008-09-19T14:09:00.003-04:00

Everyonceinawhile,
(that should be one word)
I have been known to have a stroke of genius. When I say "everyonceinawhile", I mean like once every...22 years. Like when i was 10 and I decided to invent a jet pack, unfortunately someone informed me that the idea had been thought up a long time ago and they already had test models in existence....Nevertheless, (that's one word, why can't "everyonceinawhile" be) I think I have come up with another great idea.

I'm going to start another series on my blog page, and it will be known as the:
"Quote(s) of the Week."
In my unique brain and the wide array of personel that I enjoy company with, many brilliant things are said. So I decided to start sharing these brilliant quotes that take place in our conversations or just random things that I say. I realize that most of these will be inside jokes and you won't find them useful or funny, but give it a chance.

Quote of the Week - 1
Scenario: Me, Jon, and Montgo are eating dinner at Olive Garden (few weeks ago).
I make an obvious false statement, and then...

Montgo: "Liars go to Hell, John 3:16!!"

Change We Can Believe In

2008-09-12T09:26:00.003-04:00

“I’m Luke Skywalker, I’m here to rescue you.”

Happy Friday Guys.

-Nic

“Named must your fear be before banish it you can.”

-Yoda

Football and the Fantasy World that Surrounds It

2008-09-04T14:12:00.003-04:00

Summer is over and school is here. Well not for me suckers. Okay summer is almost over, but that means that something awesome is about to happen. FOOTBALL! or as bobby boucher's mother would put it FOOSBALL.

Me and Brian (my best friend from high school) were sports junkies in school. That's all we talked about. Our celebrities were the SportsCenter anchors; Kenny Mayne, Scott Van Pelt, and John Anderson just to name a few. In fact our dream job was to one day become SportsCenter anchors. Or settle for something else in the sports realm. While Brian has continued to follow his sports career dream (you can do it Brian), I kind of fell out of love with sports for a while. Don't get me wrong, I love sports. Just not as much as I did way back then.

One of the few professional sports that I keep up with is the National Football League.
AKA American football. AKA not soccer. (my true favorite sport)
The last 2 years I've been in a "Pro Picks Legue" where basically you and a bunch of friends or strangers pick which football team will when each game. Every week. For about 17 weeks. There's no money involved, just braggin rights.

We'll this year I decided to take a step into the Fantasy Football world.
Here's my team!!!!!!

QB - Tom Brady - more like Tom GAYdy. I don't like him at all as a player or a person. But he's dang good at tossin the pigskin. He was my first round draft pick (yes I sold out), but he'll probably live up to his nickname and do terrible this year.

WR - Reggie Wayne - AKA "the Duke". That was John Wayne's nickname...nevermind. I've got a lot of eggs in that basket. Hopefully Peyton will throw to him all day.

WR - Donald Driver -Favreless. Hopefull the new guy Aaron Rodgers will use Donald to "Drive" for some TD's.

WR - Hines Ward - more like Hiney Ward. haha I just wanted to use the word hiney in one of my blogs. He's one of the most ruthless players in the NFL. Awwww Jeah!

RB - Brandon Jacobs - Although a rival of the Skins, I had to have him. He had a breakout year last year and I'm hoping he'll just improve.

RB - Reggie Bush - He better not stink again this year.

TE - Antonio Gates - If he's healthy, then he'll pay off.

WR - Antwan Randle El - The only reason I got him is because I'm a Skin's fan. He's good for a few TD's and he's on special teams too.

K -Neil Rackers

DEFENSE - The Cowboys. (my dad threatened to kick me out over this)

BENCH:
Jason Campbell
Kevin Walter
Tarvaris Jackson
Kenny Watson
Mercedes Lewis
Ladell Betts

First game tonight!

The Spiritual Side to Politics - Socialism - Part 2

2008-08-30T21:18:00.011-04:00

Universal health care, free school, equal pay for all. Those are just the basic principles of a socialist society. Sounds good, fair, and equal right? Socialism is basically a form of communism. The redistribution of wealth is the root of socialism. In short the government would redistribute the money of the most wealthy citizens of the country in equal amounts to the rest of the people. This would assure that all men are equal and it would also eliminate poverty. Again it sounds fair and noble and albeit, Robin Hoodesque, (i.e. "rob from the rich to feed the poor) but how fair is it?

Without going into excruciating detail I will try to outline the beginning of major communist philosophies. Karl Marx is probably regarded as one of the most outspoken revolutionaries of the communist movement. He is by no means the founder or inventor of communism, but he wrote one of the first comprehensive writings on the matter, known as the Communist Manifesto. Marx believed that communism was the answer to the alternative society, capitalism. In fact, Marx was so against capitalism that he deemed it evil. Marx believed that capitalism encouraged slavery, child labor, and unfair profit. Profit by an individual was considered theft. Somehow there was an "unfair advantage" to those who risked their time, money, and energy on pursuing a life of monetary gain. What Marx failed to realize was that his communist theories actually produced the results that he feared the most in capitalism; things like slavery and child labor. The extreme levels of socialism and communism can be far worse.

Remember that guy, Adolf Hitler? I don't really need to go into detail there. Another figure in History who played their hand in communism was Joseph Stalin. Stalin made his political run at around the same time as Hitler. Stalin would become the dictator of the Soviet Union and push his socialistic agenda without apology. He took land away from farmers and enforced rapid industrialization all throughout the country. Slavery began to take place, any who opposed the government would be deported or executed. Millions were killed and many died from starvation due to their land, possessions, and jobs taken away due to Stalin's extreme actions to take these things and put them into "factory farms."

Look through History and you will find dozens of others who tried similar things in the name of the common good or for whatever reason.

I have two points that I would like to make concerning this issue.

1) Socialism and Communism are presented to make things fair to all people, but this is never the case. The actual goal of Communism is power. Those who are at the top control what happens all around them. They 'dictate' what people should or shouldn't do. The result of Communism is slavery, conformity, death, and it ultimately takes free will out of the hand of the people.

2) Socialism and Communism are not Biblical. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 says those who do not work, shall not eat. God made man to tend the earth and replenish it. Every man is to work accordingly. The government giving money and food (perhaps health care) to those who simply do not work for whatever reason (excluding death or disability) is wrong. Man is to earn what is his. It proves ownership. Verses 11-13 of that same passage goes on to say there are those who are among us who are busybodies and do not work at all. Paul then goes on to say that were are to work in the name of Jesus and eat. (do all to the glory of God) Then it ends says, 'be not weary in well doing.'

"My object in life is to dethrone God and destroy capitalism." -Karl Marx

"Communism is the death of the soul. It is the organization of total conformity - in short, of tyranny and it is committed to making tyranny universal." -Adlai E. Stevenson

-Nic

The Spiritual Side to Politics - Abortion - Part I

2008-08-21T11:56:00.005-04:00

I will start off this blog series with this statement:

I am not a Republican or a Democrat. I'm not a Libertarian or part of the Green Party or Constitution Party. I am not an Independent either. I am a Christian. Any decisions or stances that I have regarding politics are relative to my personal convictions and moral beliefs.

I do not think that God is a Republican or Democrat. As it was once put by a man far more educated than me, "God transcends politics." I believe this to be true in the sense that one cannot label God with a certain political party, because all political parties are flawed in some way or another.

With that in mind, let's get started...

Since the teaser to this series was about abortion I think we should start with that topic.

It is my personal belief that Abortion is murder.
Murder defined -to kill or slaughter inhumanly or barbarously. (dictionary.com)
Abortion defined -the removal of an embryo or fetus from the uterus in order to end a pregnancy.
The argument from the Liberal side is that it is the choice of the mother to decide whether or not she wants to abort the child. It's known as "woman's rights". The political term for being in favor of abortion is known as being "Pro Choice." If you are on the other side of the spectrum, meaning you think that abortion is wrong and the murder of an innocent human being, then you would be "Pro Life." Remember when I said I was neither Democrat nor Republican, but rather a Christian? As a Christian I believe the Bible to be the basis of my convictions. So let's start with the beginning of the Book, Genesis.

"Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth."
-Genesis 1:28

This is the first command that God gave mankind. To multiply and fill the earth. Is this not of the main reasons that God created sex? Sure he made it for the pleasure of mankind within the boundaries of marriage, but one of those reasons is to produce offspring. The last time I checked the only way to have kids is to indeed have sexual intercourse. If God gave man the go ahead to have children and to fill the earth and subdue it, then why would one think that abortion is OK? If abortion is taking away the life of the child, then it is taking away life. It is subtracting from life, not multiplying. So without even going down the "murder path" of abortion, we can find that abortion is just plain disobedience. So I guess you could say that abortion does require a choice. A choice by us to obey or disobey God. A choice by the couple who either is or isn't married to have sexual intercourse, fulling knowing what happens when this occurs. A choice by the man to father the child. A choice by the woman to conceive and mother the child. Ultimately a choice for those who believe in justice and the sanctity of life, to stand up for what is right and what is true and let their voice be heard for those who do not yet have a voice.

"We are called to speak for the weak, for the voiceless, for victims of our nation."
-Martin Luther King

To say that a fetus isn't a human being is not only insensitive, but it is incorrect.
Jeremiah 1:5 says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,and before you were born I consecrated you." Before we ever took a breath, God formed us in our mothers womb. He had a plan for everyone long before we were born. Abortion is in fact taking a life. To say that a fetus in the womb is not a human being is like saying a seed in the ground won't become a plant. You know that if you plant an apple seed it will produce apples. Now their is a chance that something could go wrong in the process. Like it didn't get the proper amount of sunlight or rain, or it didn't adapt to the soil properly. But you aren't going to withdraw the apple seed in advance based on these possibilities are you? No. Because it's purpose is to produce. The significance of human life is far more important than that of an apple.

Some would say that life begins when the child takes it's first breath. Some would say life begins after the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Some would say that life begins at conception. But God said that life begins long before that.

This is only part one of abortion. There are many other aspects on it which will be touched on soon enough.

What are your thoughts? What do you agree with or disagree with?

-Nic

here are some sites on the issue:

www.abort73.com

http://standtrue.com/