The Journey of Gus and Sam

I think what strikes me the most is the hospitality of the remote villages. Of course, we were the special gringos from "estado unidos" and that was flattering for them. In addition, our white skin and tall stature was somewhat of a status symbol, children stared at us all the time and giggled.

This hospitality welcomed not only us into their lives, but theirs into ours. Everytime I shared, I was moved to tears. This people group is mostly ignored by common culture. The farmers are subsidized by the government due to terrible growing conditions. So while they struggle with production, they also struggle with self-worth. Their children get glimpses of the "city" life at their small school from the educational sources the teachers use. This is breaking down the families as very few children seek to stay in the mountains after school... similar to the american farmer, I suppose.

What's worse is that those who know anything about God know only legalism, control and religion. They've heard very little about unconditional love, the power of God's goodness or that their performance does not dictate God's love... One man had been told in his church that his daughter got sick because of him not going to church. This was so sad. Sam got the share with him about the reality of the Gospel of Peace and even gave him a book about the real "good news". The man was so very grateful.


This is the man who was told that his daughter got sick due to not going to church.

As we spoke, we got to connect with these incredible people. They've led a very difficult life. The sun baked skin, hallowed eyes and small homed existence reflects the struggles they endure. Yet, somehow in this simplicity, there's a beauty. Not much for selfish gain, materialism or mortgage payments. Just family, staying warm and possibly a burro to mind to.

During our service to these people, we witnessed miracles. Emotionally, there were some who struggled with the passing of loved ones that held them back; Spiritually, there were salvations connections with the greatests of all love; and physically, people were healed of ailments and maladies right before our eyes.

In one village, a very shy and reclusive young man got healed of chronic back pain. We had to go to his small home, duck under the ceiling and pray for him there. He got up with a look of awe as he paced back and forth, bending over and over again saying, "my back is better". He didn't say anything else... he was too shy.

One of the children had an incredibly high fever. I put my hand upon his forehead and it was literally HOT. We all prayed for him and then went to eat breakfast. The boy sat down beside us and the fever was totally gone. In less than 5 minutes.

Another lady had very poor vision and stomach problems. I was teaching on God's goodness and love while Sam interpretted. In the middle of the service, this woman's eyes opened up and the stomach problems disappeared. We didn't even pray for her. Simply, the revelation of a good God allowed her to receive.

What's even more amazing is that the leadership of the ministry we worked with was enamored with this message. We taught them so they could carry the message to their people. As we learned in school, when you influence the leadership, you influence all of the people they represent... Some of the Pastor's even talked to us about coming down to do a leadership conference... Not such a bad idea.

CLICK ON THESE PICTURES TO SEE THEM ENLARGED!!!



We just came down from the mountains and wanted to post a little news. We saw a lot of people get touched through the message of God's love. It wasn't some fancy teaching. It was the simple message the no matter what, God is completely and overwhelmingly in love with us. It's not about legalism or rules... Simply an unconditional loving relationship with the one that knows you most.

The mountain villages were like a step back in time. Very little running water, most had none, depending on the village. No garbage pick up. No street lights. No telephones. No mailman.

~to my friend Will, we didn't need the hiking advice. The mountains have seen very little rain. It's mostly a desert landscape and the roads have no pavement whatsoever, not even gravel. In fact, we happened to blowout two tires at the same time on those nasty roads. They're very, very bumpy. Nothing like an hour and half ride with your fillings bouncing out of your mouth.

I'll post more later.

It's late, I have to go to bed. But tomorrow, it's off to serve the people of Santillo, Mexico. I'll have much to share, I'm sure. If I can find the internet, I'll post along the way. Good night.

Taking this class, Family Relations. What an incredible class on relationships.
Stop seeking and start attracting by being the person you wish to find... pretty deep.

1. LOVE - Expressed, communicated and unconditional.
2. PASSION - Chemistry and connection.
3. ROMANCE - A sense of value, worth and being present
4. PLAYMATE - Togetherness, fascination and intrigue.
5. FRIENDSHIP - Honesty, trust and a listening ear.
6. PARTNERSHIP - Comrades with the same mission, values and battles.
7. COUNTERPART - An equal amount of effort and commitment to the relationship.

What an awesome day!!! I'm down looking at a new apartment complex to move into and the phone rings. It's my realtor announcing I have an accepted offer on my house. FINALLY!!! AND, I'm getting the best price we negotiated on. This is such an incredible relief. The best part... we close in a WEEK!!! No more mortgage, no more utilities, no more insurance!!!

I get this call WHILE I'm reviewing the paperwork on an incredible apartment. However, the only apartment we want (3 bedroom) is not available until June 21st... BUT WAIT, someone JUST cancelled and the very apartment we walk through is available next week!

I'm ecstatic!!!

Click on the PIC for a link to the complex. I recommend taking the 360degree tour of the lake. We can take long walks, fish, play tennis and enjoy the outdoors. The place is away from everything and is still only 12 minutes away from campus. But yet, only 2 minutes from shopping. It's very decadent.

How many arguments would be avoided if I sought peace rather than my own "rightness"?

I think a lot of us could ask that question. It happens the moment we get into conversation crossing the line of communication and instead becoming forceful, accusational and defensive. Whether out of insecurity, defiance, conquest... What is it that causes a person to completely forget the quality of the relationship and suddenly seek blood?

Feelings get hurt. The arena of safety is thrown out the window. All we're left with is chaos.

I've determined to be more of an observer in my own journey. It's causing me to question motives, influence and whose best interest is my focus. On a very deep level, it's a constant challenge. We can be so fickle and most times, we don't even realize why.

- Now loosing the preoccupation of self. Wanna join?


Love this kid... my nephew, Stewie.

The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71.

Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch.

The gravesite was piled high with flours. Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Doughboy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded. Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was not considered a very smart cookie, wasting much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times he still was a crusty old man and was considered a positive roll model for millions.

Doughboy is survived by his wife Play Dough, two children, John Dough and Jane Dough, plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart.

The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.

An eventful day of hanging with my friends. After church, we went out for lunch, watched one of my favorite movies ("Say Anything"), and watched some Ultimate Fighting re-runs. It's so important to realize who your friends are, to appreciate them and spend time together. Thank God for friends.

So I'm in class learning about Support Groups. You know, like the 12 step program of Alcoholics Anonymous. I would have never guessed that this class would become one of the greatest classes of my life.

A sudden revelation comes to me about "motive"... why I do what I do.

From videos, I'm watching all of these people share their life's experiences and torments. All from different pasts, perspectives and yet, ironically the same. Transcending social strata, economic status and race.

Every person with every habit all wanting the same things: Unconditional love, value and not to be alone.

No matter what the story. Someone was seeking these elements.

Unfortunately, every person masked their pain, past and fears with denial, deceipt and distraction. What brought them together was brutal, fearless honesty with self.

They tore down the facades and revealed the truths they so desperately tried to hide. In so doing, they found life.

Another plateau has been achieved... brutal, fearless honesty with self.

Difficult, but amazing.

It's my niece's birthday!!! She's six year's old today and I miss her heaps.

LOVE YOU OLIVIA!!!

HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!!!

My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny . . . because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment . . . because you “deserve better than this.”
I cheat you of knowledge . . . because you already know it all.
I cheat you of healing . . . because you’re too full of me to forgive.
I cheat you of holiness . . . because you refuse to admit when you’re wrong.
I cheat you of vision . . . because you’d rather look in the mirror than out a window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship . . . because nobody’s going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love . . . because real romance demands a sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in heaven . . . because you refuse to wash another’s feet on earth.
I cheat you of God’s glory . . . because I convince you to seek your own.

My name is Pride. I am a cheater.

You like me because you think I’m always looking out for you.
Untrue.... I’m looking to make a fool of you.

God has so much for you, I admit, but don’t worry . . .
If you stick with me.....You’ll never know

My how the world is such a lover of the exploited few. If there is anything I can't stand, it's drama.

Whether personal or otherwise, drama is such a huge waste of time, emotion and brain space. Really, do we really need 42 sources of the condition of Nick & Jessica, Brad & Jen - Angelina, adoptees etc... It's truly exhausting!!!

Is it that people lack a sense of purpose? Do they lack passion in their own lives and dreams and therefore vicariously fantasize the life of another??? WHO WANTS THESE DRAMA FILLED LIVES!!!

Crap I tell you. Simply crap.

Then there's personal lives. Most of our own drama is completely self induced. No doubt about it. In 99.9% of every case, the drama we experience could have been prevented.

I'm convinced that it's the quality of our hearts that create our own realities. Out of our heart flows everything about us. So it stands to reason that a hurting heart produces more hurt, more pain and more drama. No more drama.

So the contrary is a heart of love, peace and generousity. A heart of this persuasion creates a reality FAR MORE inviting. Ahh, this is the life. A life to share, embrace and live.

Drama lovers... get a life.

They're a motley bunch, but I call them friends.

10. How do they spend their time?
9. What are their friends like? (you imitate whom you associate)
8. How do they spend their money? (for where your treasure is, there is your heart also)
7. How do they resolve conflict? (vengeance served cold is to be avoided)
6. How do they handle offense?
5. What do they do when embarrassed?
4. How do they treat other people? (especially family)
3. What part does the Bible play in their decision making?
2. How do they handle being wrong?
1. Are they forgiving? (no score keepers)

Ok, seriously, where was this list for me like five years ago? Provided I had ears to hear, this would have saved me a ton of emotional anguish... Better believe I've tattooed this into my brain!!! ; )