A Book Review

The Hole in Our Gospel

Richard Stearn

The Hole in Our Gospel is a two-fer. The first part is about Mr. Stearn’s transition from a successful corporate CEO of Lenox to leading World Vision, a Christian aid organization that battles worldwide poverty and injustice. Frankly, the first part was more interesting to me than the second. Something about the rhetoric bothered me when it moved into the latter pages, what I felt was the “Scolding and Tut-Tutting” section of the book. Initially, I assumed my annoyance was Spirit-led and that I should take my conviction like a man. But I then realized that, no, I was just annoyed that someone else was trying to guilt me into doing things their way and if I didn’t, well, shame on me. I have no reason to doubt that Mr. Stearn (and World Vision) are doing wonderful things across the globe. What I doubt is that Mr. Stearn has any idea what my church is doing to combat poverty in my home town and in the areas globally that we support through our missionaries. The broad brush of “shame on you, American church” was unfair and offensive. The book has merit and I would recommend it for the fascinating personal story of Mr. Stearn’s journey. Just know that the second part has the ability to inspire or disappoint.

BookSneeze® has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for review.

Meh.

I am sick and tired (and more than a little bit pained) of all the bickering in the world. Everyone is so assured of his or her truth that all there is left to do is yell, cast aspersions and be snarky. No one listens; everyone screams. And they are screaming even when they are calmly "stating the facts." It is so dispiriting. I would love a Pill of Ignorance® that could sweep through my brain and adjust my emotional state to "meh." Which could quickly lead to, "Look! A pony!” And I would run after it giggling like a schoolgirl…

One Year Ago Today...

One year ago today, the band Vera performed their first public show at the Crowbar in Tampa, Florida. I was in attendance (drummer groupie) and videotaped their short set (they were the opener and were allowed to play a whopping 15 minutes—three songs). At the time, the management company overseeing Vera’s progress asked that I not post the videos because they had a marketing plan in place for the band so I was content to keep the videos private and just share them with friends and family.

That was then. This is now.

Although the band is no longer together (R.I.P.), I wanted to commemorate the short but promising career of the band by finally sharing the videos with the world (or at least the few people that this text will cross their path). Rewatching them today I am still impressed with how well they played considering it was their first live show as a band (and that it sounds pretty good even though I was videotaping on a small digital camcorder). I hope you enjoy this little bit of music history and remember what was, no matter how briefly their star got to shine...

Song One: Sound

Song Two: Second Song (It was never given a name and the fact that it was played second during this set meant that it was always referred to as “Second Song.”)

Song Three: Blue, Forever (Still my favorite song of theirs...)

Compare and Contrast

There is a whole lot of genetics going on here...

I was scanning through the pictures my daughter took during Thanksgiving and started noticing something that had previously alluded me. I decided to conduct an experiment and see if I was the only one who noticed. Yes, these are photographs of William J. Colle II and William J. Colle III. I present to you Father and Son: One of These Things is JUST Like the Other.

I Have Returned

Hope and I had an incredible eight days in northern California with my brother Kyle and his wife, Shannon. I posted a bunch of pictures on Facebook (go HERE) so check them out if you care to. I took advantage of the hours on the plane to get a kick-start on a story I have been working on for far too long and, frankly, that was a bit of a surprise. Now if I can just find someone who will fly me around for several hours every weekend I may finish the story. Here are a couple of pictures that didn't make it to Facebook:

This picture is of my brother and me, overwhelmed at a winery that looks like a castle. It was an emotional moment, captured wonderfully by my wife.

And here is the lovely photographer, posing dutifully in the lobby of The Carneros Inn, our lodgings in Napa. The entire resort was truly a Pottery Barn catalog come-to-life. 

Thanks for visiting. More updates to come...

I Love Technology

Technology is my digital friend. It has allowed me to follow through with an idea that I would not have been able to conceive five years ago (maybe even two years ago)—put some of my stories online in digital format for the entire world to see (and purchase and download and read and love). Starting today, I have made available two options, one full-length piece of fiction and the other a couple of short stories pulled together in one volume. They are electronic books only and are available for download at Amazon and Barnes and Nobles. The descriptions and links are below.

Back, Again:

“Back, Again” is the story of a man who spent his life doing right and, at 45, finds the results wanting. He makes a radical decision in response to his disillusionment and turns his back on his life-long faith, shirking Christianity and denying the existence of God. This isn’t brought on by tragedy or some earth-shattering event; it’s a sober decision based on doubts and disappointments. On the surface, the book deals with the ramifications of his decision and the toll it takes on long-established relationships, mainly with his wife, children and parents. The story also works on deeper levels. It’s a love story between Earl and Ellen. It’s a story of a man in search of himself. It’s a story of redemption.

[That is the official blurb, the one I put out there for agents, publishers and people I don’t know. The more personal explanation of this story is it is a fictional version of my life if I had made a few different decisions and followed through with some of the thoughts I have entertained. Yes, the names are different but that helps make it fiction, right?—no matter how thinly disguised. It is an alternate reality that could have—but did not—happen.]

Back, Again:

Amazon (US): http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0046A9SXA

Amazon (UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0046A9SXA

Barnes & Noble (Nook): http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?ean=2940011816376

Two Short Stories:

“Two Short Stories” by Jay Colle is … well, two short stories. Truth in advertising is alive and well. The first story, “Save Me, Black Jesus,” is a sober look at the prospect of dying told through the eyes of a patient in a hospital. The second story, “Oh, Tanner Baum,” is a humorous look at selecting a Christmas tree told through the eyes of a young boy. The stories are so far apart in tone and concept that they cannot see each other even if they use binoculars. Which is why it makes perfect sense to bundle them together. Seriously. Stop staring at me…

Two Short Stories:

Amazon (US): http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0046H9I9C

Amazon (UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0046H9I9C

Barnes & Noble (Nook): http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?ean=2940011819933

These are links to download the apps to read the e-books:

Kindle apps:

iPhone: http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=kcp_iphone_mkt_lnd?docId=1000301301

PC: http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=kcp_pc_mkt_lnd?docId=1000426311

Blackberry: http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000468551

Android:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/?&docId=165849822

Nook apps:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/free-nook-apps/379002321/

Twenty Years

Recently, I was sifting through some old VHS tapes in an effort to convert them over to DVDs. This has been a lengthy, laborious process since we have/had stacks of tapes dating back to the birth of our first child in 1986. (Our first video camera was so large and clunky it looked like it belonged in a television studio and I am surprised we burned so much tape considering the wear and tear on our shoulders. Yes, I said shoulders...) Throughout this process I have made several discoveries:

1. I have a lot of fodder for embarrassing wedding videos as my children marry,
2. We took an awful lot of video of our children as babies... just sitting. (Yet I still find it difficult to edit any of it in the transfer process...),
3. A lot of my friends are still married.

One of the tapes I discovered was a recording of a going away party for Hope and I from 1990. We were moving our young family from Central Florida back to Tallahassee and our core group of friends gathered all of us together for a proper send-off. Besides how young (and thin and hairy) we all looked (uhm, the previous parenthetical statement was aimed at the men ONLY), what jumped out to me was, out of the 13 couples who attended the party (including us), all but one of them are still together.

Twenty years later.

I have no idea why (other than some pretty strong spiritual foundations infused in all of the marriages... okay, that is probably the main reason) but it was nice to see the tape and have that epiphany. Congratulations to my friends. Stay strong. Keep on loving...

Back, Again...

We have had a whirlwind month of August. In brief, Jordan decided to return to Ocean’s Edge School for a second year. It was not a rash decision although, to the casual observer, it seemed that way. He just felt like God placed it on his heart to follow the calling of another year to study and perform with OE’s incredible staff—and to do it now. His original intention was to give Vera a full, uninterrupted year to see how they fared in the rough and tumble music business. As the summer progressed, he sensed the change coming and, eventually, acted upon it. After explaining his reasoning to the guys in the band they were understanding and encouraging, although understandably disappointed. They spent last week in the studio recording some of the new songs they had written and performed at shows over the summer. All indications are the songs sound great and, hopefully, they will share them eventually. It's nice that his drumming for the band will have some shelf life.

So, this past Sunday we packed up the truck once again and sent Jordan southward. Hope and I are a little sad to see him go but are 100% behind his decision. And we cannot wait to see why God called him back to Ft. Lauderdale.

One more time!

Ocean's Edge has released the latest video from the End Of Year CD recording for the Class of 2010. This is the only cover they performed and it is "With Everything" by Hillsong United. It was the showstopping last song at The Show as well. And, oh yeah, my son sings lead vocals... almost forgot to mention that. Enjoy! (And thank you, Hillsong, for writing such a powerful song...)



You can watch the wide screen version here.

The Cone of Silence

Sorry for the lack of posts recently. I am following advice I (and pretty much everyone I know) received as a child: If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all. Well, to be truthful, I basically have not had anything to say, period. Good, bad or indifferent. But I will and soon. I will leave you with this picture. This is me with one of my good buddies, Queen Kara, discussing how we are going to rule our kingdom together. If I remember correctly there will be lots of stuffed animals and sweets. All in favor say "eye."

Eye.

I lied.

I could not pass the chance to share this one with you. The author is "nazi" and his comment is short and to the point:

what the hell are you talking about?

SPAM. Speaking truth to power.

Okay, just one more...

Sorry, but these SPAM comments are just too good to keep to myself. Remember, these are posted on my portfolio site—lots of pictures, few words.

All I can say is retain it up. This blog is really needed in a time when everybody just wants to talk about how many men and women someones cheated on their wife with. I imply, thanks for bringing intelligence back towards internet, its been sorely missed. Excellent stuff. Please maintain it coming!

As you continue through your week, remember to retain it up!

One more time...

I know this is a fairly lame track to run down but this latest spam comment actually raised the level of robotic, civilian discourse several notches. Bear in mind these "comments" are being dropped on my portfolio site. Visuals only, very little text. Behold my first geriatric spam comment:

LOL is that what you young people would say in this cases? Hello there, i’m a 84 years old grandfather and I’ve just found this website in my browser history. My nephew used my laptop the last time he went here, I believe… he says LOL pretty often but I’ve started to undertand what it means only recently but he’s a good boy after all. Keep doing your best guys, Internet is a real blessing and you have no idea how lucky you are. Best wishes by a old man commenting for the first time

The Internet: Bridging the Generation Gap like no other technology known to man.

A Shout Out...

The school Jordan attended, Ocean's Edge School, decided to record a live concert as the End of Year project for the class of 2010. Of the final five songs selected for the CD, Jordan was fortunate to have a song he wrote included in the mix. The video for "Image of You" was released today by the school and I am happy and proud to share it with you. He shares singing duties with one of his best friends Cameron Couchman. Hope and I were honored to be a part of the filming of the live show and I am excited that the video captured the song so well. Enjoy...

When Life Gives You Lemons...

I don't care if this comment left on my blog is SPAM and was left by someone named wowgoldwizard, I will cherish it and accept it, convinced that someone has finally given me my due. I present to you "The Greatest Comment Ever Left on My Blog:"

Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what they're talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the story. I cant believe you're not more popular because you definitely have the gift.

I may have to retire...

Parting Shot

Jordan graduated this past weekend from Ocean's Edge School. It has been a long, short, happy, frustrating, enjoyable, blessed year for all concerned. Friday night was their end-of-year show and it was a very special night of music. Someone took hand held video of the final song and it is posted below. Yes, it is over nine minutes long but, in my opinion (and it is my blog), it is well worth a view. The fact that Jordan sings lead on it has absolutely nothing to do with this recommendation. Seriously. It doesn't. (Okay, maybe a little...)

Enjoy!

Blood, Sweat and...

Last night I was standing in the back of a small, steamy bar on The Strip in Tallahassee, Florida, waiting for my youngest son and his band, Vera, to take their place on the tiny stage and play their 30 minute set.

And I was sweating.

It occurred to me how appropriate that was, perspiring and waiting to watch one of my kids do something. You probably think I am about to take off on some metaphorical rant about child-rearing and the “sweat of the brow” but that isn’t what this is about. I am referring to tangible, hat soaking, shirt sticking to your back, droplets breaking loose and rolling freely down legs and backsides sweat. I am also talking about interminable, mind-numbing, I have to quit checking my watch, I thought they were supposed to start 15 minutes ago waiting. Whether it was practices and games on the athletic field or “oh my gosh they forgot to turn the air on again in the auditorium” choir concerts, each child has taken me (please understand, this is “The Royal Me,” which includes my wife) into the cooker on a regular basis. I am sure that raising my kids in Florida has a lot to do with this (okay, it has everything to do with it), but sticky heat has been a constant in my quest to support, encourage and love the three children God allowed me to raise.

And I wouldn’t change a thing. From watching William endure August practices in full pads to Laura deciding to sit down at shortstop because it was too hot (and it was and I will never think less of her for that decision) to sweltering summer baseball games with Jordan—the misery of the moment eventually fades and what is left is a story or two about survival and an occasional victory. And, really, what is a little sweat in the Big Picture? It is why God prompted somebody to invent the hat and another sunscreen and yet another bottled water. And it is why I had to smile last night as I spotted all three of my kids (and Jul makes four) mingling, hugging and sweating in the bar after Vera finished their set. Their preparation has begun...

Go Lightly into the Night

I had a colonoscopy yesterday. Not my first and I doubt it will be my last. In fact, as the doctor reviewed my folder right before the procedure (and the various results of my six previous visits), I suggested they create a "Frequent Probee" card that I could have punched and possibly get my tenth colonoscopy for free, or at least half price. The doctor did not immediately dismiss my idea, although he only offered a possible cut rate on the cost of the prep materials. I will take what I can get.

The reason I have endured so many of these procedures is my mother and her father both had colon cancer. My mom survived; my grandfather did not. Because of the family history, my siblings and I had to start this fun at age thirty and continue it every three (or five) years, depending on results and the mood of the physician. And every year my mom apologizes to me, losing sight of the fact that her ability to actually speak to me as a living person makes my small contribution to preventive medicine worthwhile.

But this year was different. I am 50 years old and I had to rebut her apology by reminding her that, because of my age, I would have been required to schedule a colonoscopy regardless of her. She is finally off the hook and I am glad to relieve her of one third of her burden. My brother and sister, both younger, are not that far behind me (See? I waited until the third graph to make some tacky jokes... I am slowly growing up), so she will be guilt free before she knows it.

And, FYI, I got a clean bill of health and don't have to come back for five years. I think the doctor got nervous about my punch card idea. I am guessing he wasn't serious about cutting me a deal and decided to keep me away for a while. Trust me, I won't forget Dr. TheMan. I won't forget...

Hawaii Happenings: Part Six

The final installment! For metaphorical reasons, I wanted to end this series with our sunset cruise. It was remarkable for two reasons: 1) it was a beautiful night and a very relaxing two hours and 2) Kyle didn’t throw up. As noted before, my brother loves the water and all the potential activities it affords. The problem is his body betrays him. He brings new and rancid meanings to the term “going green” whenever he engages in any activity on the water. The reasons he agreed to join us for this excursion can be chalked up to being a team player and the faint hope that this time may be different. Alas, it wasn’t but we do appreciate his willingness to play along. Enjoy the evening displayed in pictures and thank you for putting up with these, admittedly, non-universally appealing posts. Aloha, ya'll!

Upon our arrival at the pier we discovered we had to ride

an inflatable raft to get to...

...the catamaran that was our main boat for the evening.

Kyle, full of confidence and bravado, climbing on to the boat.

It was the best he looked all night.

Sure, this is a picture of Tallulah and Shannon and the back of Hope's head,

but the real beauty here is Kyle, starting to turn.

Artsy shot (or, "Dang, why is everyone in shadows?")

Aunt Hope and Tallulah singing songs and enjoying the ride.

Our sunset. 

And thus ends Hawaii Happenings...

Hawaii Happenings: Part Five

With only a couple of more updates on the docket (I promised myself I would not drag this out and would do my best to complete it before Hope’s tan fades), in this installment I want to discuss food. My brother and I enjoy eating sushi (our stated goal for the week was to never eat anything that was cooked; we failed but we went down kicking and screaming--or at least with a good pout). My brother’s M.O. is to inform the waiter/waitress that he wants to give the sushi chef carte blanche (is it kosher to use French words when discussing Japanese food?) to prepare anything he/she wants--be creative--and Kyle always lets them know, “We aren’t afraid of anything.” Depending on the mood of the chef, this can be a delightful culinary adventure or a mediocre roll through... well, rolls. We were pretty lucky during our week on the Big Island. We had the opportunity to eat sushi three times (which was a pretty good average over seven days). We enjoyed one spot so much that we made a return trip for our farewell dinner before boarding a plane and flying for 11 hours. (Risky? Probably, but, really, it’s not like any of the dishes can be undercooked.) The following pictures show off some of the dishes we enjoyed (and I wish I could remember what they were but I can’t so you just have to be entertained by the visuals and not gain any raw seafood knowledge in the process). And to all the sushi chefs we tormented with that awful phrase, “yes, we want some more,” I salute you and raise my chopsticks in honor of your creativity and willingness to play along. Bon appetit! (Eh, there I go again...)

Brothers, preparing for battle.

A "sweet shrimp" which was blue and

"tasted like the ocean." I am referring to the piece lying 

across the seaweed, not the fried shrimp head.

Uni (pureed sea urchin) and a quail egg

being introduced to Mr. Shrimp Head.

Goose foie gras sushi.

Yeah, surprised us too...

A smorgasbord of sea life, dead.

A variety of raw stuff, including uni and octopus.

Salmon roe with a quail egg which, when bitten,

shot the eggs all over the inside of your mouth. Incoming!

I am not sure about the type of fish but our instructions

from the chef were to "roll toward the center and grab some eggs."

Okay.

Tuna, chipotle dressing and tempura crumbles

(i.e. chef gettin' crazy!)

Shannon

Wasabi headache (amateur!)