Watching anime, I remember why I like Japan. Even though I know that things are not perfect in Japan (since when is any place perfect?) I do like some of the ideas and notions that I grew up with watching Akira Kurosawa Samurai movies. Well, I only watched two when I was a kid, but it deeply affected me in many ways. I wanted to be a Samurai when I grew up. I probably should have taken Kendo (Japanese sword fighting) instead of Judo (Japanese wrestling). Oh well, there's no chance that I'll ever become a Swordsman. I can't even dance let alone get the steps right for fencing.
Anyway, there's a lot of things that I like about Japan. However, there are a lot of things that I dislike about Japan. I guess learning about them in school and hearing them on the news really makes me angry. It was the same reaction that I had in 12th grade when I learned about America's actions in Nicaragua and Central and South America during the 70s and 80s.
At one point I was angry at America for all the wrong that they've (we've) done. I can't blame the government of America entirely, because we elect these people and we are the cause for many wrongs in the world. Betterment of America, betterment of our lives at the cost of others. It's not just America either. Other countries have their wrongs too. Some more messed up in certain ways. Not saying that ours isn't bad.
This post is just me thinking out loud. I'm thinking that there is no perfect place. Obviously. But I shouldn't be mad or judge another place. America has its flaws too. But I can't help but think, does anybody care anymore?
I guess I shouldn't look to others for that answer, but look inside of myself. I drink Starbucks, regardless of their practices. I used to buy Nike shoes and still buy Nike clothes occasionally, even though they have sweatshops and pay their workers inadequately. I spend a heck of a lot on myself and don't do very much to help others. I have quite a bit of junk that I don't need.
Hypocrisy...I'd say so. The question that I ask myself is, "What am I going to do?" The question that I should ask is, "What would Jesus do?"
I look at Jesus in the Bible in the gospels and see someone who really went all out for the people. He was selfless and He changed people's lives by doing good in them, giving them an example, and teaching. I don't want to go too much into this, because I personally believe that a blog is not a place where you should post up spiritual stuff. But Jesus continually challenges me to live for God and to love my neighbor as myself. I am still failing at that.
I have a hard time even talking to the people at my workplace let alone anybody else that I know already. However, I am finding that I am become a little better at talking by doing that everyday.
Part of me thinks that I should have gone on the missions trip to Brazil. It's too late for that now. I've already made my decision, and I can't live in the what if's anymore. Maybe next year.
Right now, I'm sure that I should focus on my job and church. This job is a gift and I'm there for some reason. However, I feel like I'm making no impact at all. I guess it has only been one week. We'll see what things come.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Friday, April 29, 2005
Star Wars III
check out the starwars website on Episode three. They have the regular trailer out and not just the teaser. Plus they have wallpaper for your Background also.
You can find the link here.
Note you will need Flash player to access this website. But if you don't have it, they have it ready to download on their website.
Man, I really need to read those books before the third episode comes out. I have the prequel to episode 3, and the episode 3 book. I'm hoping to get them read before the movie comes out.
check out the starwars website on Episode three. They have the regular trailer out and not just the teaser. Plus they have wallpaper for your Background also.
You can find the link here.
Note you will need Flash player to access this website. But if you don't have it, they have it ready to download on their website.
Man, I really need to read those books before the third episode comes out. I have the prequel to episode 3, and the episode 3 book. I'm hoping to get them read before the movie comes out.
day 5...another day in the Penitentary
Today we were supposed to get out early. We got out late, because an air shipment came at the last minute. However, there were other people backed up in loading, so we helped them also. One guy was late to school because of this.
But yeah, I don't know why they let off other people and not him. Oh well, he's actually a good worker. That's probably why. We needed to get these things done as fast as possible. These were overnight shipments or something like that.
There were problems with a shipment yesterday because a train in our area derailed. So we didn't get the things that we were supposed to get today. We'll have a long monday. But it's all good. We would have been there for a long time if we got that stuff today.
As I work, there are people who yell out stuff. They're yelling stuff like H!!! G!!! H~~!!!, or HEMOROIDS!!! or STEROIDS!!! with a growl at the oids part. It's about 5-6 guys doing that.
They finally spelled out what HGH means. Human Growth Horomones. I find that whenever I get sent back there to do some scanning of missed packages that they would suddenly be quiet and professional. They're supposed to say, "No Label!" when a package has no label, and I scan it and put it in the right place. But yeah, they all go quiet when I go back there. haha.
As you know, Mother's day is coming up. May 8th. The head guy said that scanners will have to be careful, because a time when everyone is sending stuff to their mom, they'll need to get it in a timely manner. So if it has the wrong label on it, it's not going to get there on time. I only noticed that I messed up once today. So I'm getting better.
Anyway, the first week wasn't so bad. I'm glad that it's done. But yeah, I feel like I accomplished something after work each day. I have a long way to go in terms of improvment, but I will get better with consistent effort.
To be honest, I'm not earning that much here, but it's better than nothing. I'm not sure how long I'm going to stay here, but we'll see. I might stay here a whole year. But who knows. Maybe I'll get back into Japanese by then.
Today we were supposed to get out early. We got out late, because an air shipment came at the last minute. However, there were other people backed up in loading, so we helped them also. One guy was late to school because of this.
But yeah, I don't know why they let off other people and not him. Oh well, he's actually a good worker. That's probably why. We needed to get these things done as fast as possible. These were overnight shipments or something like that.
There were problems with a shipment yesterday because a train in our area derailed. So we didn't get the things that we were supposed to get today. We'll have a long monday. But it's all good. We would have been there for a long time if we got that stuff today.
As I work, there are people who yell out stuff. They're yelling stuff like H!!! G!!! H~~!!!, or HEMOROIDS!!! or STEROIDS!!! with a growl at the oids part. It's about 5-6 guys doing that.
They finally spelled out what HGH means. Human Growth Horomones. I find that whenever I get sent back there to do some scanning of missed packages that they would suddenly be quiet and professional. They're supposed to say, "No Label!" when a package has no label, and I scan it and put it in the right place. But yeah, they all go quiet when I go back there. haha.
As you know, Mother's day is coming up. May 8th. The head guy said that scanners will have to be careful, because a time when everyone is sending stuff to their mom, they'll need to get it in a timely manner. So if it has the wrong label on it, it's not going to get there on time. I only noticed that I messed up once today. So I'm getting better.
Anyway, the first week wasn't so bad. I'm glad that it's done. But yeah, I feel like I accomplished something after work each day. I have a long way to go in terms of improvment, but I will get better with consistent effort.
To be honest, I'm not earning that much here, but it's better than nothing. I'm not sure how long I'm going to stay here, but we'll see. I might stay here a whole year. But who knows. Maybe I'll get back into Japanese by then.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Another boring post about work (Day 4)
I don't know what it is, but I felt tired today. I think that it was having to go in to work an hour early for training. Hmm...it wasn't that great of training either. All we did was watch a video, take a test, and then they collected the materials that we worked on. I'm thinking...how the heck am I supposed to remember all these things? I guess the important things that I took from that was, "don't handle things that look dangerous," "Notify your supervisor when you have a question about something." Not too difficult, but I wonder how many employees know most of what is being taught in training. I will have a test later on in the year about this too. Well, I guess I just have to do what makes sense.
For some reason, I was off by one label. That's really bad, because if you're off by one, then all the packages that you apply the label to are off by one and are sent to the wrong places. Hmm...I saw a little more of the plant today as I was sent to a different place to move some packages. I'd say that that was less stressful than the job that they have me currently doing, but I'd say that the job that I have now is easier on the body than what the other guys have to do. I'd say that I got it easy compared to the other guys, but I have more responsibility in making sure that the packages are scanned correctly and the correct label is on.
I'd say however, that the loaders that I work with have it tough, and I got off easy. I can't imagine how tired they get. Oh well, I won't have to worry too much about lifting, but I need to take care of myself and exercise during the weekend.
Today, somebody threw a water bottle at me and it hit the computer. No idea why they did that, but it could be that I was missing too many boxes and they were having to do the work that I missed. haha. Yeah, today wasn't a good day for scanning. At least they didn't throw a box at me. A water bottle doesn't hurt that much.
I'm finding that I have a long way to go in terms of improvment, but I know that I'll get better over time. My bosses tell me that I'm doing a good job, but I'm thinking, this is pretty mediocre for the job that I'm doing. I haven't gotten it down right and I'm missing a lot. But still, I guess I'm getting enough for my level. So I guess I'm doing a good job, but I still could do a lot better.
In other news, I'm thinking that I need to find another job in about 6 months. The pay is okay for now, but as time passes, I'm going to need to find something that gives me more hours. I haven't been studying Japanese and I'm thinking that I might give that up. If I really want to do something, then I'd do it. But it seems like I'm not really enjoying Japanese. We'll see though. I still don't know what I want to do. Maybe I should take an offer that one of my contacts gave me. Japan...is it time to go back?
I don't know what it is, but I felt tired today. I think that it was having to go in to work an hour early for training. Hmm...it wasn't that great of training either. All we did was watch a video, take a test, and then they collected the materials that we worked on. I'm thinking...how the heck am I supposed to remember all these things? I guess the important things that I took from that was, "don't handle things that look dangerous," "Notify your supervisor when you have a question about something." Not too difficult, but I wonder how many employees know most of what is being taught in training. I will have a test later on in the year about this too. Well, I guess I just have to do what makes sense.
For some reason, I was off by one label. That's really bad, because if you're off by one, then all the packages that you apply the label to are off by one and are sent to the wrong places. Hmm...I saw a little more of the plant today as I was sent to a different place to move some packages. I'd say that that was less stressful than the job that they have me currently doing, but I'd say that the job that I have now is easier on the body than what the other guys have to do. I'd say that I got it easy compared to the other guys, but I have more responsibility in making sure that the packages are scanned correctly and the correct label is on.
I'd say however, that the loaders that I work with have it tough, and I got off easy. I can't imagine how tired they get. Oh well, I won't have to worry too much about lifting, but I need to take care of myself and exercise during the weekend.
Today, somebody threw a water bottle at me and it hit the computer. No idea why they did that, but it could be that I was missing too many boxes and they were having to do the work that I missed. haha. Yeah, today wasn't a good day for scanning. At least they didn't throw a box at me. A water bottle doesn't hurt that much.
I'm finding that I have a long way to go in terms of improvment, but I know that I'll get better over time. My bosses tell me that I'm doing a good job, but I'm thinking, this is pretty mediocre for the job that I'm doing. I haven't gotten it down right and I'm missing a lot. But still, I guess I'm getting enough for my level. So I guess I'm doing a good job, but I still could do a lot better.
In other news, I'm thinking that I need to find another job in about 6 months. The pay is okay for now, but as time passes, I'm going to need to find something that gives me more hours. I haven't been studying Japanese and I'm thinking that I might give that up. If I really want to do something, then I'd do it. But it seems like I'm not really enjoying Japanese. We'll see though. I still don't know what I want to do. Maybe I should take an offer that one of my contacts gave me. Japan...is it time to go back?
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Day 3
Today was a little tougher. I was more tired and I didn't move as fast. I saw the HR guy at work today. Don't know why he was there if all we do is talk to our supervisors about new jobs. But I guess he was there to post them or something. Anyway, he told me that he heard that I was doing good work. If you saw me today, you would see a more frustrated Jon. The labels are starting to stick to my hand a lot more. I think that it's because my hands are feeling rougher from working bare handed.
Anyway, I worked another 4 hours. It seems like things aren't so bad right now in terms of how many packages we have, but I think that when the holiday season comes, it will be tougher and more hectic. Since I'm new to the job, I guess I have a little slack right now, but we'll see.
I talked to two guys after work. They seem like pretty cool guys. They told me a little about the place that we work in. Apparently there are some people who are kind of scary. I noticed that people would be yelling at nothing for some reason. They told me that one guy went to Vietnam and that's why he's kind of angry.
The two guys have been working there for awhile now and I don't know why they're still there. They must have been doing the same jobs for all that time. One of them wants to be a screenwriter, so that's why he takes this job. The other, I don't know.
Anyway, we talked about various things. They asked me about my University and I told them some details. When one asked me about English classes, I told him that I took two. One of a basic class, the other was reading literature for enjoyment. What I didn't tell him was that you don't know the material when you sign up for class. All you know is the teacher's name if given. Sometimes they don't have a teacher. But yeah, I went into too many details. The teacher for my reading class is gay and talking about the material got them uncomfortable. They asked if I was a homo. And of course, I am not gay.
But yeah, I don't think that I'll ever mention that class again. When you talk about stuff, it sounds like you have an interest in that type of thing. Maybe the story I told them about people being disgusted over a video that the teacher showed made them think that I was interested in that. I was more interested in seeing people leave and walk out of the class. The video didn't show anything graphic, but it was just not good. It was actually pretty bad. Don't ever watch "Looking for Langston." Langston Hughes was gay. Anyway, half the class stayed for the discussion afterwards. We had no idea that the video was going to show that stuff, but that was his whole point for teaching the class. That the Harlem renaissance had a lot of gay writers.
Just to clairfy things, I don't watch that stuff and I don't like that stuff.
The conversation ended abruptly and I think that I will be keeping my distance for awhile. The reason being that I don't know if they think that I am one. Anyway, I guess I shouldn't let this bother me and just continue to talk to them.
But yeah, I think that I probably won't make too many friends at the workplace. How the heck am I supposed to be a light for Jesus when I can't even have a good conversation? Mostly it is my bads. But I wonder, am I there for a reason? Or should I be seeking other work? I think for right now, I need to practice Japanese. I don't want to be stuck at a dead end job for 4 years before I can get a promotion. But then again, I don't know if this is where God wants me for now. Maybe I'm there for a reason.
Today was a little tougher. I was more tired and I didn't move as fast. I saw the HR guy at work today. Don't know why he was there if all we do is talk to our supervisors about new jobs. But I guess he was there to post them or something. Anyway, he told me that he heard that I was doing good work. If you saw me today, you would see a more frustrated Jon. The labels are starting to stick to my hand a lot more. I think that it's because my hands are feeling rougher from working bare handed.
Anyway, I worked another 4 hours. It seems like things aren't so bad right now in terms of how many packages we have, but I think that when the holiday season comes, it will be tougher and more hectic. Since I'm new to the job, I guess I have a little slack right now, but we'll see.
I talked to two guys after work. They seem like pretty cool guys. They told me a little about the place that we work in. Apparently there are some people who are kind of scary. I noticed that people would be yelling at nothing for some reason. They told me that one guy went to Vietnam and that's why he's kind of angry.
The two guys have been working there for awhile now and I don't know why they're still there. They must have been doing the same jobs for all that time. One of them wants to be a screenwriter, so that's why he takes this job. The other, I don't know.
Anyway, we talked about various things. They asked me about my University and I told them some details. When one asked me about English classes, I told him that I took two. One of a basic class, the other was reading literature for enjoyment. What I didn't tell him was that you don't know the material when you sign up for class. All you know is the teacher's name if given. Sometimes they don't have a teacher. But yeah, I went into too many details. The teacher for my reading class is gay and talking about the material got them uncomfortable. They asked if I was a homo. And of course, I am not gay.
But yeah, I don't think that I'll ever mention that class again. When you talk about stuff, it sounds like you have an interest in that type of thing. Maybe the story I told them about people being disgusted over a video that the teacher showed made them think that I was interested in that. I was more interested in seeing people leave and walk out of the class. The video didn't show anything graphic, but it was just not good. It was actually pretty bad. Don't ever watch "Looking for Langston." Langston Hughes was gay. Anyway, half the class stayed for the discussion afterwards. We had no idea that the video was going to show that stuff, but that was his whole point for teaching the class. That the Harlem renaissance had a lot of gay writers.
Just to clairfy things, I don't watch that stuff and I don't like that stuff.
The conversation ended abruptly and I think that I will be keeping my distance for awhile. The reason being that I don't know if they think that I am one. Anyway, I guess I shouldn't let this bother me and just continue to talk to them.
But yeah, I think that I probably won't make too many friends at the workplace. How the heck am I supposed to be a light for Jesus when I can't even have a good conversation? Mostly it is my bads. But I wonder, am I there for a reason? Or should I be seeking other work? I think for right now, I need to practice Japanese. I don't want to be stuck at a dead end job for 4 years before I can get a promotion. But then again, I don't know if this is where God wants me for now. Maybe I'm there for a reason.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Day 2
If any of you were praying for me, thank you for your prayers. I know that some were praying for me and probably will never read this blog. But yeah, I really think that this job is a good thing, and today went a lot better than the first day.
I got to work at 3am to watch a training video. I apparently didn't pay attention when the instructor was explaining some key things. She went over that in 30 seconds, and I was too busy playing with the device that she set before us. She demonstrated how to use it before giving it to us, but when she gave it to us, I played with it and passed it down. So the three of us now know how to use it, but I messed up in listening.
Anyway, I will get paid for the day before. I got clocked in and my status is now active. I'm not sure exactly what they going to do with that test that I took. But I figure they'll probably just explain it again if I didn't do so well. It was 7 questions, check yes or no.
Today went a lot better. The supervisor showed me how to scan a lot faster than I had been, so there was less stress. Plus I am allowed to stop the conveyor belt if I need to.
The people there are great. I must say that this is the best part of working there. Earlier, however, I saw one of the two guys that I met yesterday sitting outside smoking a cigarette. He was sitting with some other guys who were smoking too. For some reason, I'm wary of talking to new people, so I hung around for a little bit, and walked inside. The guy that I knew said hi to me as he walked in, but it was with a face of uncertainty. I don't know what that meant, but maybe it was nothing.
Anyway, I think that if I try to care for the people there and become friends, then things will work out. But if people hate my guts, then I guess I just need to try to not let it bother me and to try to treat them well regardless of what people think of me.
Anyway, I think things are going well. I am glad that I have this job. I have to learn how to keep my mouth shut, because I think that I'm going to get in trouble if I say too much. I talked about my education, and I think that I came across as this job was the only job that I could get, even though I have this high education. I really like this job. Today was good, and I think that I might sound like I think better of myself than the other guys, which is not true. The other guys are harder workers than me, and I know that they will do well in life.
Anyway, the guys at my work are hard workers, and I know that they will advance in the company or do well elsewhere. Education doesn't make anybody better than another who doesn't have education. People are people regardless of where they come from or what they've experienced.
Yeah, enough about this. But yeah, I feel like I'm lecturing. Anyway, I guess I need to remember this when I meet guys at the company again. People have good points and bad points. We're all human beings.
The reason why I get afraid of new people is that I think that I've been inside of a bubble for too long. Plus I had this scary experience my sophmore year and it still resonates within me. But I guess I need to stretch a little day by day. I've stopped taking chances for a long time, and I've received nothing for taking no risks.
Anyway, I hope that I can be friends with the guys at my work. The people that I've met so far are great. I need to overcome my fears and just talk with the people that I don't know.
If any of you were praying for me, thank you for your prayers. I know that some were praying for me and probably will never read this blog. But yeah, I really think that this job is a good thing, and today went a lot better than the first day.
I got to work at 3am to watch a training video. I apparently didn't pay attention when the instructor was explaining some key things. She went over that in 30 seconds, and I was too busy playing with the device that she set before us. She demonstrated how to use it before giving it to us, but when she gave it to us, I played with it and passed it down. So the three of us now know how to use it, but I messed up in listening.
Anyway, I will get paid for the day before. I got clocked in and my status is now active. I'm not sure exactly what they going to do with that test that I took. But I figure they'll probably just explain it again if I didn't do so well. It was 7 questions, check yes or no.
Today went a lot better. The supervisor showed me how to scan a lot faster than I had been, so there was less stress. Plus I am allowed to stop the conveyor belt if I need to.
The people there are great. I must say that this is the best part of working there. Earlier, however, I saw one of the two guys that I met yesterday sitting outside smoking a cigarette. He was sitting with some other guys who were smoking too. For some reason, I'm wary of talking to new people, so I hung around for a little bit, and walked inside. The guy that I knew said hi to me as he walked in, but it was with a face of uncertainty. I don't know what that meant, but maybe it was nothing.
Anyway, I think that if I try to care for the people there and become friends, then things will work out. But if people hate my guts, then I guess I just need to try to not let it bother me and to try to treat them well regardless of what people think of me.
Anyway, I think things are going well. I am glad that I have this job. I have to learn how to keep my mouth shut, because I think that I'm going to get in trouble if I say too much. I talked about my education, and I think that I came across as this job was the only job that I could get, even though I have this high education. I really like this job. Today was good, and I think that I might sound like I think better of myself than the other guys, which is not true. The other guys are harder workers than me, and I know that they will do well in life.
Anyway, the guys at my work are hard workers, and I know that they will advance in the company or do well elsewhere. Education doesn't make anybody better than another who doesn't have education. People are people regardless of where they come from or what they've experienced.
Yeah, enough about this. But yeah, I feel like I'm lecturing. Anyway, I guess I need to remember this when I meet guys at the company again. People have good points and bad points. We're all human beings.
The reason why I get afraid of new people is that I think that I've been inside of a bubble for too long. Plus I had this scary experience my sophmore year and it still resonates within me. But I guess I need to stretch a little day by day. I've stopped taking chances for a long time, and I've received nothing for taking no risks.
Anyway, I hope that I can be friends with the guys at my work. The people that I've met so far are great. I need to overcome my fears and just talk with the people that I don't know.
Japan train derailment
I'm sure that you've heard about this on the regular news by now, but MSN has some details that were not stated before. With my new sleep schedule, I didn't catch the evening news, so I don't know if there are any different details from that.
You can find the article here.
I found that scary that this happened. It's like one of the crowded buses over here where there's a lot of people standing in the aisle, running into an apartment building or oncoming traffic. I can't imagine what the driver must be feeling right now, but I can only hope that he'll be forgiven and forgive himself. I don't know if it's his fault, but I only hope that it's not.
I'm sure that you've heard about this on the regular news by now, but MSN has some details that were not stated before. With my new sleep schedule, I didn't catch the evening news, so I don't know if there are any different details from that.
You can find the article here.
I found that scary that this happened. It's like one of the crowded buses over here where there's a lot of people standing in the aisle, running into an apartment building or oncoming traffic. I can't imagine what the driver must be feeling right now, but I can only hope that he'll be forgiven and forgive himself. I don't know if it's his fault, but I only hope that it's not.
Monday, April 25, 2005
Day 1 at the new job
I went to sleep after I finished eating lunch with my friends from church. I left at 2:30-3pm and got home at 3:45. Trying to sleep during the day was pretty tough. I would wake up every 2-3 hours until it was 9pm (when it finally got dark). Then I was able to fall asleep much deeper after that. My dad woke me up at 12:30. He stayed up an hour extra so that I would get a little more sleep before he woke me up to stay up. (Thank you Dad.)
I wasn't tired, but the quietness of the night made me want to go back to sleep. I ate my dinner before I went to work and left at around 2:30.
There were no cars on the road. There were, however, two trucks in front of me that stopped in front of every light to read the road sign. But it's all good, I got there on time. The parking lot was full, and I parked in another warehouse's parking lot. I guess being there 15 minutes early doesn't help, because everyone gets there earlier.
Met two guys there. They were pretty nice to me. I was nervous starting my first day of work and they told me that this is easy stuff. Mindless work. I wasn't sure what to expect lifting heavy boxes.
I get inside and don't know what to do. Someone in a nice shirt and slacks asks me my name and tells me to stay right there. Then someone else in a uniform helps me through the shift.
I basically started scanning all the items on the conveyor belt. I made some mistakes and sometimes I scanned them twice and I got off track by one, but hopefully I'll get better and not make that mistake again. If you mess up on the label, then the package goes to the wrong place. It's divided into sections where you send the package, and people from each section go to certain places from those sections.
Anyway, the morning update guy said that this was supposed to be the easiest day of the year. I can't imagine what the other days are like if it's this tough for me now. But hopefully I'll get the hang of it.
The guys at work are all professional. Harassment of any kind is not tolerated and everyone keeps their mouth shut and works hard.
I'd say that this is a good company to work for, but I can't imagine doing this for more than one year. I said that I'd stay for one year, and I wonder if I might be let go earlier if I make too many mistakes. But I guess I shouldn't focus on the negative, but learn from that and work for the positive. I did some good work today, but I messed up in some areas. I felt like a third wheel sometimes, but nobody said anything. I guess they understand that it's my first day.
Overall, it was a positive experience. We'll see how the rest of the days go by. I will get to the lifting sometime, but apparently, I'm going to learn how to scan first. Crazy fast stuff, but I guess that's how you make money.
I'm not sure if I'm going to get paid for today. I didn't have a code to enter my hours in, so I'm not sure what to expect. I might not get paid. But we'll see. They might understand if I tell them.
I went to sleep after I finished eating lunch with my friends from church. I left at 2:30-3pm and got home at 3:45. Trying to sleep during the day was pretty tough. I would wake up every 2-3 hours until it was 9pm (when it finally got dark). Then I was able to fall asleep much deeper after that. My dad woke me up at 12:30. He stayed up an hour extra so that I would get a little more sleep before he woke me up to stay up. (Thank you Dad.)
I wasn't tired, but the quietness of the night made me want to go back to sleep. I ate my dinner before I went to work and left at around 2:30.
There were no cars on the road. There were, however, two trucks in front of me that stopped in front of every light to read the road sign. But it's all good, I got there on time. The parking lot was full, and I parked in another warehouse's parking lot. I guess being there 15 minutes early doesn't help, because everyone gets there earlier.
Met two guys there. They were pretty nice to me. I was nervous starting my first day of work and they told me that this is easy stuff. Mindless work. I wasn't sure what to expect lifting heavy boxes.
I get inside and don't know what to do. Someone in a nice shirt and slacks asks me my name and tells me to stay right there. Then someone else in a uniform helps me through the shift.
I basically started scanning all the items on the conveyor belt. I made some mistakes and sometimes I scanned them twice and I got off track by one, but hopefully I'll get better and not make that mistake again. If you mess up on the label, then the package goes to the wrong place. It's divided into sections where you send the package, and people from each section go to certain places from those sections.
Anyway, the morning update guy said that this was supposed to be the easiest day of the year. I can't imagine what the other days are like if it's this tough for me now. But hopefully I'll get the hang of it.
The guys at work are all professional. Harassment of any kind is not tolerated and everyone keeps their mouth shut and works hard.
I'd say that this is a good company to work for, but I can't imagine doing this for more than one year. I said that I'd stay for one year, and I wonder if I might be let go earlier if I make too many mistakes. But I guess I shouldn't focus on the negative, but learn from that and work for the positive. I did some good work today, but I messed up in some areas. I felt like a third wheel sometimes, but nobody said anything. I guess they understand that it's my first day.
Overall, it was a positive experience. We'll see how the rest of the days go by. I will get to the lifting sometime, but apparently, I'm going to learn how to scan first. Crazy fast stuff, but I guess that's how you make money.
I'm not sure if I'm going to get paid for today. I didn't have a code to enter my hours in, so I'm not sure what to expect. I might not get paid. But we'll see. They might understand if I tell them.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
I got a call yesterday about work. Apparently I'm going to start work at 3am. This is going to be the first time that I've ever done any job at night. I don't know how I'm going to be feeling on the first day, but I think that it's best if I go to sleep at 4pm and wake up at 12am. That or stay up the whole night and go to sleep starting at 8am or 10am. What really conflicts with this timing is church. I can't be asleep again during church, so I'm thinking that I should go to sleep soon after church ends.
Maybe I'll actually have my chance to be a nightowl.
Maybe I'll actually have my chance to be a nightowl.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
This Monday, I'm going to be starting the graveyard shift. It seems pretty straightforward. Pick up boxes and move them to the conveyor belt, or stack them onto a cart without crushing the smaller ones. I still have not received a phone call from my HR person, so since I have his number, I'm going to give him a call on Friday. I can imagine not getting a call and wondering what time I should be at work in the early morning.
This is a new milestone for me. My first job after college. Not glamorous, but not where I want to be. I really don't know where I want to go in my life. I have no direction, and I don't know what I want to do. Japan??
To be honest, I really don't have a love for Japan anymore. Probably because I haven't been there for a long time or even spent that much time with my Japanese friends. I still haven't decided whether or not I want to go back to Japan. I could make up all the excuses for my mediocre Japanese, but I know that that's no excuse for not going. Ah...enough about this...I have my reasons for not going right now.
Staying with this company might be an option.
Plans for the rest of this month:
-Read the Bible and pray everyday
-Read Japanese newspapers to see what's going on in Japan
-Watch anime and old Japanese dramas
-get my money's worth out of my video games haha
-be a better friend
This is a new milestone for me. My first job after college. Not glamorous, but not where I want to be. I really don't know where I want to go in my life. I have no direction, and I don't know what I want to do. Japan??
To be honest, I really don't have a love for Japan anymore. Probably because I haven't been there for a long time or even spent that much time with my Japanese friends. I still haven't decided whether or not I want to go back to Japan. I could make up all the excuses for my mediocre Japanese, but I know that that's no excuse for not going. Ah...enough about this...I have my reasons for not going right now.
Staying with this company might be an option.
Plans for the rest of this month:
-Read the Bible and pray everyday
-Read Japanese newspapers to see what's going on in Japan
-Watch anime and old Japanese dramas
-get my money's worth out of my video games haha
-be a better friend
Suikoden III
(Note to all you out there in blogger land, this is another video game post)
I played Suikoden III until 2am last night. I must admit that it was shorter than I expected, but still a great game. Not too deep though...
Anyway, it revolves around 3 characters. Hugo from a tribal grassland clan, Chris (a lady knight from the city Vinay de Zexay), and Geddoe (a mercenary from Holy Harmonia.) The beginning is interesting as you get to see the story from three perspectives. Something is added in each one that is not seen in the others. Basically it's told from each character's perspective. Hence, the trinity sight system (playing each of the three characters in basically the same events.) It is interesting because in life, you usually see things from your own point of view and don't bother to see things from the other side. I found that this game shows the humanity in the characters, even though they are at war with each other.
It may be unrealistic, but all the characters, with the exception for the enemies, are decent people. The enemies are not so twisted and you can understand why they would be doing this in the end. But there is that weird twist that comes out of nowhere though. But this game goes with my belief that all people have worth and some people need more help than others, and sometimes people don't want your help and you can't do very much to help them. But we're all human and we could just as easily be in someone else's shoes just as easily as they would be in ours. However, we would not make the same choices as others though.
I can see why the game ended like it did, because in a world without God with eternal life, it would be empty and maybe maddening. But it was interesting to see another viewpoint on the universe and people's beliefs.
Anyway, it was interesting. I found out how to play the game more effectively in the end, which came really quick. The game lasted 56 hours on my clock. Yeah, if only I put that much effort into Japanese. haha. I got this game not too long ago...about 3 weeks ago. Really good game, but still has flaws.
It is worth checking out if you are a fan of the Suikoden series. The game will challenge you throughout the game, but it is still not that tough if you put in your strongest characters. Building your castle, gaining characters, and building skills are probably the best parts of the game. The major battles are okay, and the duels are not that tough to figure out. Probably the worst part of the game, for me, is just travelling to all the different places by foot. I didn't get the teleporter person until the last chapter of the game...chapter 5 or 6. Yeah, I would have gotten her earlier if I knew it would be this short. But this game does add variety, while not very deep, keeps one's interest in the game.
I'd give this an 8 out of 10. 10 being the best.
(Note to all you out there in blogger land, this is another video game post)
I played Suikoden III until 2am last night. I must admit that it was shorter than I expected, but still a great game. Not too deep though...
Anyway, it revolves around 3 characters. Hugo from a tribal grassland clan, Chris (a lady knight from the city Vinay de Zexay), and Geddoe (a mercenary from Holy Harmonia.) The beginning is interesting as you get to see the story from three perspectives. Something is added in each one that is not seen in the others. Basically it's told from each character's perspective. Hence, the trinity sight system (playing each of the three characters in basically the same events.) It is interesting because in life, you usually see things from your own point of view and don't bother to see things from the other side. I found that this game shows the humanity in the characters, even though they are at war with each other.
It may be unrealistic, but all the characters, with the exception for the enemies, are decent people. The enemies are not so twisted and you can understand why they would be doing this in the end. But there is that weird twist that comes out of nowhere though. But this game goes with my belief that all people have worth and some people need more help than others, and sometimes people don't want your help and you can't do very much to help them. But we're all human and we could just as easily be in someone else's shoes just as easily as they would be in ours. However, we would not make the same choices as others though.
I can see why the game ended like it did, because in a world without God with eternal life, it would be empty and maybe maddening. But it was interesting to see another viewpoint on the universe and people's beliefs.
Anyway, it was interesting. I found out how to play the game more effectively in the end, which came really quick. The game lasted 56 hours on my clock. Yeah, if only I put that much effort into Japanese. haha. I got this game not too long ago...about 3 weeks ago. Really good game, but still has flaws.
It is worth checking out if you are a fan of the Suikoden series. The game will challenge you throughout the game, but it is still not that tough if you put in your strongest characters. Building your castle, gaining characters, and building skills are probably the best parts of the game. The major battles are okay, and the duels are not that tough to figure out. Probably the worst part of the game, for me, is just travelling to all the different places by foot. I didn't get the teleporter person until the last chapter of the game...chapter 5 or 6. Yeah, I would have gotten her earlier if I knew it would be this short. But this game does add variety, while not very deep, keeps one's interest in the game.
I'd give this an 8 out of 10. 10 being the best.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
I am NOT liking this
One thing about me is that I have been a loner for 21 years of my life. My time in college was the only time where I actually hung out with people. Also, my senior year of high school, I did stuff with two other friends, who don't answer my emails anymore. But it's all good. People move on, and sometimes people are friends on the way.
This may not be a big thing to a whole lot of people, but to me, it's intimidating. What am I talking about? Asking for people's contact information and getting back to them about any job leads they might have.
I am taking a class at my church called "Dependable Strengths." It is a class that helps you to find out more about your strengths and what you like to do in terms of a job. It has been helpful to some people who have jobs already and don't like their job. They see where they're strong at and what they enjoy doing, but aren't doing it in the job. It's an interesting class that started in the 40s.
So...I have this script where I am supposed to go up to someone and eventually ask for their contact information. I am also supposed to push my job interests by asking them if I can contact them from time to time to see if they have any job leads for me. It may be alright in American culture, but to me, this seems like I'm pushing the people who probably are reluctant to give me any information. Annoyed is how I'd feel if someone were to ask me these questions.
But this script has worked and people have found jobs, including the teachers of the class. I have one contact from church, Amy N, and I'm supposed to find two more.
I feel like I'm NOT a people person. I feel uncomfortable around people, and I'd prefer to spend my life in a cave if it had internet, enough food, and a video game system. But I do enjoy people's presence and I try to be nice to them. One of my dependable strengths seems to be that I AM a people person and that I enjoy being around people. All the activities that I listed where I did something actively, did it well, and enjoyed, involved people.
But one thing that I've learned is, the unknown is unpredictable. If you never take any risks, you'll never experience anything good. Risks are risks, because you have a good chance of receiving nothing from them. But when you do take risks, your percentage of something good happening goes up. There is always the chance of something bad happening, and you should be aware of those things. Sometimes there are stupid risks and it's best not to take them. Ie jumping off a bridge or racing on the freeway.
Anyway, the Dependable Strengths class is a class, and I'm not enjoying it, because I am not good at these types of things. But it's a risk and there are benefits if I accomplish something.
I found that throughout most of my life, I have been forced to do things that I didn't want to do. They have been good for me though and I have grown to like some of them. I guess 21 years of being alone (exception family) has been the easy thing to do and I was not forced to do that. All things that have worth while easy to some, are not easy for everyone. There comes a time when you've got to step up to the plate and swing.
I guess if I want worthwhile things in my life, I've got to take chances again. This class may push my social boundaries, but I think that it will be good for me to gauge how people react to these things. Even if they don't give me anything, I will have the experience of trying to do something worthwhile. Is it better to never try anything new and gain the experience? Or is it better to try something new, fail, and get back up and try again? Expect nothing, give your best.
One thing about me is that I have been a loner for 21 years of my life. My time in college was the only time where I actually hung out with people. Also, my senior year of high school, I did stuff with two other friends, who don't answer my emails anymore. But it's all good. People move on, and sometimes people are friends on the way.
This may not be a big thing to a whole lot of people, but to me, it's intimidating. What am I talking about? Asking for people's contact information and getting back to them about any job leads they might have.
I am taking a class at my church called "Dependable Strengths." It is a class that helps you to find out more about your strengths and what you like to do in terms of a job. It has been helpful to some people who have jobs already and don't like their job. They see where they're strong at and what they enjoy doing, but aren't doing it in the job. It's an interesting class that started in the 40s.
So...I have this script where I am supposed to go up to someone and eventually ask for their contact information. I am also supposed to push my job interests by asking them if I can contact them from time to time to see if they have any job leads for me. It may be alright in American culture, but to me, this seems like I'm pushing the people who probably are reluctant to give me any information. Annoyed is how I'd feel if someone were to ask me these questions.
But this script has worked and people have found jobs, including the teachers of the class. I have one contact from church, Amy N, and I'm supposed to find two more.
I feel like I'm NOT a people person. I feel uncomfortable around people, and I'd prefer to spend my life in a cave if it had internet, enough food, and a video game system. But I do enjoy people's presence and I try to be nice to them. One of my dependable strengths seems to be that I AM a people person and that I enjoy being around people. All the activities that I listed where I did something actively, did it well, and enjoyed, involved people.
But one thing that I've learned is, the unknown is unpredictable. If you never take any risks, you'll never experience anything good. Risks are risks, because you have a good chance of receiving nothing from them. But when you do take risks, your percentage of something good happening goes up. There is always the chance of something bad happening, and you should be aware of those things. Sometimes there are stupid risks and it's best not to take them. Ie jumping off a bridge or racing on the freeway.
Anyway, the Dependable Strengths class is a class, and I'm not enjoying it, because I am not good at these types of things. But it's a risk and there are benefits if I accomplish something.
I found that throughout most of my life, I have been forced to do things that I didn't want to do. They have been good for me though and I have grown to like some of them. I guess 21 years of being alone (exception family) has been the easy thing to do and I was not forced to do that. All things that have worth while easy to some, are not easy for everyone. There comes a time when you've got to step up to the plate and swing.
I guess if I want worthwhile things in my life, I've got to take chances again. This class may push my social boundaries, but I think that it will be good for me to gauge how people react to these things. Even if they don't give me anything, I will have the experience of trying to do something worthwhile. Is it better to never try anything new and gain the experience? Or is it better to try something new, fail, and get back up and try again? Expect nothing, give your best.
Monday, April 18, 2005
A and J's birthday
I RSVPed at the very last possible minute. I asked after the deadline. Yeah, that's not good...
I wasn't sure if I should go or not, because I was taking care of the house all by myself, and would have to walk the dog at night if my parents didn't get home in time. I talked with my parents on Saturday night, and found out when they were coming back, so it wasn't a problem...but I had so many things to do on Saturday that I forgot about RSPVing. Plus I was dead tired from waking up so early to go to a class. Man, I hate 9 hour classes...yeah, it lasted 9 hours.
Even though it did cause some tension, it was no problem in the end. The place only allowed us 16 people, and 22 were going to show up. However, only 16 showed up at the beginning and one or two showed up later, but didn't eat. I'm not sure why only 16 showed up. It could be that people just had other things to do.
A and J went to the same schools as I did, but they were one year ahead of me, so I never got to know them until college. When I did reach college and got to know them, they were so nice to me and encouraged me a lot throughout college. I can't say how much they've helped me, but they helped me a lot as well as a lot of other people that they've met. If you ask anyone about them, they'll have nothing but good things to say about A and J. They truly are great individuals.
I know that they will touch many more lives on the road ahead.
I don't know why my friends are friend with me. But I know one thing, I have to start caring again and be a better friend.
At A and J's birthday dinner, I was glad to be alive and with the old crowd again. Things change after college, and things you take for granted become much harder afterwards. All I know is life is what you make out of it. It may throw some pitches that bean you, but how you react makes a big difference. Do you walk onto first base, or do you charge the mound? Things after college are different, but it depends on your choices that make the difference.
I wonder if I'll ever change...
I RSVPed at the very last possible minute. I asked after the deadline. Yeah, that's not good...
I wasn't sure if I should go or not, because I was taking care of the house all by myself, and would have to walk the dog at night if my parents didn't get home in time. I talked with my parents on Saturday night, and found out when they were coming back, so it wasn't a problem...but I had so many things to do on Saturday that I forgot about RSPVing. Plus I was dead tired from waking up so early to go to a class. Man, I hate 9 hour classes...yeah, it lasted 9 hours.
Even though it did cause some tension, it was no problem in the end. The place only allowed us 16 people, and 22 were going to show up. However, only 16 showed up at the beginning and one or two showed up later, but didn't eat. I'm not sure why only 16 showed up. It could be that people just had other things to do.
A and J went to the same schools as I did, but they were one year ahead of me, so I never got to know them until college. When I did reach college and got to know them, they were so nice to me and encouraged me a lot throughout college. I can't say how much they've helped me, but they helped me a lot as well as a lot of other people that they've met. If you ask anyone about them, they'll have nothing but good things to say about A and J. They truly are great individuals.
I know that they will touch many more lives on the road ahead.
I don't know why my friends are friend with me. But I know one thing, I have to start caring again and be a better friend.
At A and J's birthday dinner, I was glad to be alive and with the old crowd again. Things change after college, and things you take for granted become much harder afterwards. All I know is life is what you make out of it. It may throw some pitches that bean you, but how you react makes a big difference. Do you walk onto first base, or do you charge the mound? Things after college are different, but it depends on your choices that make the difference.
I wonder if I'll ever change...
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Friday...
I received no phone call on Thursday for where or what time on Friday I was supposed to meet the HR person to sign papers to finalize my employment. It was Friday morning and the phone rang. I got out of my bed and went to pick it up. It was my brother. He called to check on me to see if I was up and if I was going to go to the company to sign the papers. Tired, I said yes, and I'll go sometime this afternoon. I was kind of grumpy being woke up, but now I'm thankful that he did call me.
I drove over to the company at around 11:30 and got there at 11:55. I asked to meet with so and so, and the lady says, "Who?" The person that interviewed me on Wednesday at this place... "HR...darn we don't have their number." She picks up the phone and calls someone and asks for the phone number for HR. I wait 10-20 minutes before they get back to her.
They ask me for a phone number at which they can call me. I gave my cell phone number...thank God that I have one. They would get back to me sometime later in the day. I go out, and get in the car, and was about to pull out into the road when my cell phone goes off.
I get the number for HR and I pull back into the parking lot again. Call, then I am told that I was supposed to be at a place 15 minutes from there. No idea where it is, and no idea how to get there. He told me that I could get directions from the people at the desk at the office that I was currently at.
Go back into the office, there's now a big line. But the lady is nice and is helpful and gives me a map when I get to the front. Okay, so I drive.
My jaw was clenching...I was upset that the HR person didn't tell me what time or where I was supposed to meet him before, but the 15-20 minutes gave me time to cool off. He told me to call him when I got there, so he could tell me how to get in the building.
I get there, and call...no answer. He's at lunch! Darn... was my first thought. It was about that time, anger starting to rise again, I get out of the car and walk my dog. Yeah, I brought my dog with me on the car, because I thought that I would just be signing some papers and then out and about. My dog takes about a 10 minute walk in the parking lot and wants to get closer to some sheep and a Llama across the street...but it's just not good for this type of dog to get close to farm animals, as seen on the news when some other dog of this breed mauled some sheep and was put to death.
Anyway, I get my dog back on the car, because it was raining outside. I call again not expecting any answer, but it was picked up right away. He told me how to get in...so I go.
Passing conveyor belts and wide open spaces, then finally, past the bathrooms, his office. It was like a big calling room with a long big table and dividers dividing each section of the table. He was the only one in there. I sign the papers and before I leave, and tell him thank you for getting me a job and for being patient with me. I said that it was probably his lunch break..."it is" he said. I appreciate that you met me during this time. We parted and went our own ways.
Here I was angry at him before, and I realize at the end, that he was doing me a favor by waiting for me during lunch. He didn't call me, true, but he did offer me a job, and that's more than any other employers have done in these past few months. I'm not the best at words, and I guess for this job, you don't have to be. But he still treated me like I was worth something and worked in my best interests in the interview, changing some stuff that I had put down. Other employers didn't seem to be interested.
Granted this is not the best job in the world, and I don't see myself doing this forever, but I need to start somewhere until I figure out what I want to do. I don't know what I want to do, but what I know is that I have a job. The direction I take depends on what I choose to do and where God leads me. I don't know what's going to happen in the future, but I want to do something constructive with my time.
I received no phone call on Thursday for where or what time on Friday I was supposed to meet the HR person to sign papers to finalize my employment. It was Friday morning and the phone rang. I got out of my bed and went to pick it up. It was my brother. He called to check on me to see if I was up and if I was going to go to the company to sign the papers. Tired, I said yes, and I'll go sometime this afternoon. I was kind of grumpy being woke up, but now I'm thankful that he did call me.
I drove over to the company at around 11:30 and got there at 11:55. I asked to meet with so and so, and the lady says, "Who?" The person that interviewed me on Wednesday at this place... "HR...darn we don't have their number." She picks up the phone and calls someone and asks for the phone number for HR. I wait 10-20 minutes before they get back to her.
They ask me for a phone number at which they can call me. I gave my cell phone number...thank God that I have one. They would get back to me sometime later in the day. I go out, and get in the car, and was about to pull out into the road when my cell phone goes off.
I get the number for HR and I pull back into the parking lot again. Call, then I am told that I was supposed to be at a place 15 minutes from there. No idea where it is, and no idea how to get there. He told me that I could get directions from the people at the desk at the office that I was currently at.
Go back into the office, there's now a big line. But the lady is nice and is helpful and gives me a map when I get to the front. Okay, so I drive.
My jaw was clenching...I was upset that the HR person didn't tell me what time or where I was supposed to meet him before, but the 15-20 minutes gave me time to cool off. He told me to call him when I got there, so he could tell me how to get in the building.
I get there, and call...no answer. He's at lunch! Darn... was my first thought. It was about that time, anger starting to rise again, I get out of the car and walk my dog. Yeah, I brought my dog with me on the car, because I thought that I would just be signing some papers and then out and about. My dog takes about a 10 minute walk in the parking lot and wants to get closer to some sheep and a Llama across the street...but it's just not good for this type of dog to get close to farm animals, as seen on the news when some other dog of this breed mauled some sheep and was put to death.
Anyway, I get my dog back on the car, because it was raining outside. I call again not expecting any answer, but it was picked up right away. He told me how to get in...so I go.
Passing conveyor belts and wide open spaces, then finally, past the bathrooms, his office. It was like a big calling room with a long big table and dividers dividing each section of the table. He was the only one in there. I sign the papers and before I leave, and tell him thank you for getting me a job and for being patient with me. I said that it was probably his lunch break..."it is" he said. I appreciate that you met me during this time. We parted and went our own ways.
Here I was angry at him before, and I realize at the end, that he was doing me a favor by waiting for me during lunch. He didn't call me, true, but he did offer me a job, and that's more than any other employers have done in these past few months. I'm not the best at words, and I guess for this job, you don't have to be. But he still treated me like I was worth something and worked in my best interests in the interview, changing some stuff that I had put down. Other employers didn't seem to be interested.
Granted this is not the best job in the world, and I don't see myself doing this forever, but I need to start somewhere until I figure out what I want to do. I don't know what I want to do, but what I know is that I have a job. The direction I take depends on what I choose to do and where God leads me. I don't know what's going to happen in the future, but I want to do something constructive with my time.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Almost in the bag
I went to the interview today. It wasn't much of an interview. It seemed more like, "Are you willing to do this job even though it requires you to lift boxes that can weigh up to 70 lbs?" Well...all I can say is, I don't know the future, and this might lead to something big. Who knows...haha. Yeah, I've got to keep on practicing my Japanese.
I just have to go in one more time and present my Social Security card. If the background checks they do on me work out fine, then I'll have a job this coming Monday. However, it's the graveyard shift. bwahahaha. Yeah, no more playing video games late for me.
Well, all I can say is that I'm thankful that I found a job. Even though it may not be the greatest job, it's a start. I might stay with this company, but I might not. I don't know what's going to happen in the future.
Since it's a manual labor job, I worked out for a little bit today. It was a very small workout, where I just ran for 15 minutes and did some curls with a 20 lbs dumbell. I will do more tomorrow, because I'm expecting this job to be really tough. I'm not a kid anymore, and I've slacked off in college in terms of my physical health. So the next few days are going to be important.
My prayer was answered in terms of my job situation. I prayed for a job to fill in space for now until I find out what I want to do. This job that I could get is perfect, because it will give me enough time to do what I want to do for most of the day, and I'll earn some money on the side. It's a part time job, so I'll be lucky if I get 20 hours a week. But then again, less than 20 hours a week might be preferable. haha
Anyway, if you know me, you probably won't see me that often anymore. I'll have to go to sleep early, and the times that I will be up, you'll be asleep, or working. When you get off work, then I'll probably eat and go to sleep. Hmm...
Well...at least I have Sunday off.
I can't imagine what will come out of this job, but it's an answer to my prayer, and I'm thankful. My situation demands certain things for a job, and it will be fulfilled if I am accepted for this position.
All I can say is, thank you God.
I went to the interview today. It wasn't much of an interview. It seemed more like, "Are you willing to do this job even though it requires you to lift boxes that can weigh up to 70 lbs?" Well...all I can say is, I don't know the future, and this might lead to something big. Who knows...haha. Yeah, I've got to keep on practicing my Japanese.
I just have to go in one more time and present my Social Security card. If the background checks they do on me work out fine, then I'll have a job this coming Monday. However, it's the graveyard shift. bwahahaha. Yeah, no more playing video games late for me.
Well, all I can say is that I'm thankful that I found a job. Even though it may not be the greatest job, it's a start. I might stay with this company, but I might not. I don't know what's going to happen in the future.
Since it's a manual labor job, I worked out for a little bit today. It was a very small workout, where I just ran for 15 minutes and did some curls with a 20 lbs dumbell. I will do more tomorrow, because I'm expecting this job to be really tough. I'm not a kid anymore, and I've slacked off in college in terms of my physical health. So the next few days are going to be important.
My prayer was answered in terms of my job situation. I prayed for a job to fill in space for now until I find out what I want to do. This job that I could get is perfect, because it will give me enough time to do what I want to do for most of the day, and I'll earn some money on the side. It's a part time job, so I'll be lucky if I get 20 hours a week. But then again, less than 20 hours a week might be preferable. haha
Anyway, if you know me, you probably won't see me that often anymore. I'll have to go to sleep early, and the times that I will be up, you'll be asleep, or working. When you get off work, then I'll probably eat and go to sleep. Hmm...
Well...at least I have Sunday off.
I can't imagine what will come out of this job, but it's an answer to my prayer, and I'm thankful. My situation demands certain things for a job, and it will be fulfilled if I am accepted for this position.
All I can say is, thank you God.
Monday, April 11, 2005
Answered Prayer
I was feeling kind of bad yesterday. I missed church again...Oh well...I'll go next week...hopefully.
Anyway, I can honestly say that there have been things going on in my life. Problems, issues, but good things too.
Yesterday I was just honest about what I was going through. And I received an answer to a prayer. It may not be the greatest job, but I applied to it and I'll be going to an interview soon. Well...hopefully things will work out with this interview.
It's a manual labor job, but hey, it's a good job. I think that this will be a good thing for me. I'll have to work fast and hard like I did on the farm, but I'm sure that this will be much harder. Well...gotta start somewhere. And I am a good worker and I'm sure that I'll advance. That is if I make a good impression at the interview. hehe
I was feeling kind of bad yesterday. I missed church again...Oh well...I'll go next week...hopefully.
Anyway, I can honestly say that there have been things going on in my life. Problems, issues, but good things too.
Yesterday I was just honest about what I was going through. And I received an answer to a prayer. It may not be the greatest job, but I applied to it and I'll be going to an interview soon. Well...hopefully things will work out with this interview.
It's a manual labor job, but hey, it's a good job. I think that this will be a good thing for me. I'll have to work fast and hard like I did on the farm, but I'm sure that this will be much harder. Well...gotta start somewhere. And I am a good worker and I'm sure that I'll advance. That is if I make a good impression at the interview. hehe
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Okay, maybe I was a little too cynical in my last post. I know that all doctors aren't out for themselves. People sometimes do a profession to help people and make money at the same time.
I also know that politicians are elected by the people. Politicians are pressured by the people and follow so that they can get re-elected. So in a sense, it is the people who elect the official. However, sometimes people don't know what the official actually does.
All I can say is, I don't know too much about what officials do except from what my dad tells me from reading two newspapers. Politicians could be just playing a game in their profession. And I know that sometimes the best people don't get elected. I mean, if you look at the voter's pamphlet and other things on people's websites about who they are and what they do...it doesn't tell you that much. It's up to the voters to find this information on their own I guess...yeah, like anybody has time to do that...besides those who really want to make things the way they want them.
Anyway, enough about this...
There are better times ahead
I have hope that things will be better in the future. But I know that it won't come unless I make good choices, with my time and my money. I'm not necessarily talking about a job, but just my whole life. I know that life is what I make of it. It isn't always going to treat me well, but there are some things worth living for.
I've spent most of my life feeling like people are picking on me. They might not have been picking me, but then again, they may have been. What does it matter though? Does it matter what other people think of me? To that I say, to some degree yes, because it gives you feedback. But to some degree no, because people don't always see the truth. So to me, I try not to feel bad about how people treat me. I know that I am worth a lot more than people may think I am worth.
People have lots of potential to become great things. The choices that you make will lead you down different paths than others. Sometimes certain choices do not matter that much. But sometimes, certain choices do.
I've made some bad choices in my life and what I was thinking last night is, I'm going to have to make decisions each day about if I'm going to do and not do. It's not necessarily a big thing for other people, but to me, it involves how I'm going to treat others. I have to make this choice each day, because I'm fighting a battle that I've started a long time ago.
Anyway, all I can say is, I'm thankful for my friends who have helped me along the way at AACF. I'm also thankful for knowing God who can sympathize with my weakness. In Him, I have changed. But still, there are lots of me that have not changed. I'm hoping that I can become a better person through Him and treat people the same way I'd want to be treated.
Anyway, don't think that I'm some great person, because if you met me, you'd probably think that I am not. Though small, the things that I have written are my hopes for now. People sometimes don't see the worth in another person. But sometimes it is that the person doesn't see worth in him or herself. If you don't see worth in yourself, then what makes you think that other people will? Sometimes they will be able to see beyond the facade, but given human nature...it may be hard. See the worth in yourself and work to become a better person by making better choices. That's what I'm trying to do.
I also know that politicians are elected by the people. Politicians are pressured by the people and follow so that they can get re-elected. So in a sense, it is the people who elect the official. However, sometimes people don't know what the official actually does.
All I can say is, I don't know too much about what officials do except from what my dad tells me from reading two newspapers. Politicians could be just playing a game in their profession. And I know that sometimes the best people don't get elected. I mean, if you look at the voter's pamphlet and other things on people's websites about who they are and what they do...it doesn't tell you that much. It's up to the voters to find this information on their own I guess...yeah, like anybody has time to do that...besides those who really want to make things the way they want them.
Anyway, enough about this...
There are better times ahead
I have hope that things will be better in the future. But I know that it won't come unless I make good choices, with my time and my money. I'm not necessarily talking about a job, but just my whole life. I know that life is what I make of it. It isn't always going to treat me well, but there are some things worth living for.
I've spent most of my life feeling like people are picking on me. They might not have been picking me, but then again, they may have been. What does it matter though? Does it matter what other people think of me? To that I say, to some degree yes, because it gives you feedback. But to some degree no, because people don't always see the truth. So to me, I try not to feel bad about how people treat me. I know that I am worth a lot more than people may think I am worth.
People have lots of potential to become great things. The choices that you make will lead you down different paths than others. Sometimes certain choices do not matter that much. But sometimes, certain choices do.
I've made some bad choices in my life and what I was thinking last night is, I'm going to have to make decisions each day about if I'm going to do and not do. It's not necessarily a big thing for other people, but to me, it involves how I'm going to treat others. I have to make this choice each day, because I'm fighting a battle that I've started a long time ago.
Anyway, all I can say is, I'm thankful for my friends who have helped me along the way at AACF. I'm also thankful for knowing God who can sympathize with my weakness. In Him, I have changed. But still, there are lots of me that have not changed. I'm hoping that I can become a better person through Him and treat people the same way I'd want to be treated.
Anyway, don't think that I'm some great person, because if you met me, you'd probably think that I am not. Though small, the things that I have written are my hopes for now. People sometimes don't see the worth in another person. But sometimes it is that the person doesn't see worth in him or herself. If you don't see worth in yourself, then what makes you think that other people will? Sometimes they will be able to see beyond the facade, but given human nature...it may be hard. See the worth in yourself and work to become a better person by making better choices. That's what I'm trying to do.
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Another Scam by Politicians
I saw this piece of news last night on ABC news. You can read it here. Apparently money talks more than skills or honor.
You can even google the phrase Physician of the year. I must admit that I probably never will trust politicians. I don't think that they care for anybody but themselves and getting re-elected.
Then I think, with my recent experiences with doctors...people become doctors for
1. status
2. money
3. (some, not all) to help people
Yeah, I'm cynical...but I know that not everyone is out there to help the other person. A lot of times, people can become sharks and eat up others...the weak, elderly, disabled, and whoever they can take advantage of. I'm not necessarliy talking about doctors here.
I guess in a fallen world...these things happen. No sense in complaining about it more. It won't help. I'm not saying that everyone is out to get you. But sometimes, there are people out there who will take advantage of you if you're not careful and shrewd. All I can say is, don't let the evil of this world corrupt you too.
The saying goes, "If everyone jumped off a bridge, would you do the same thing?" Thinking independently, when it goes against everyone else, is not easy at all. And I have trouble with that. But I'm still trying.
Anyway, I just meant this post to alert you to this scam.
I saw this piece of news last night on ABC news. You can read it here. Apparently money talks more than skills or honor.
You can even google the phrase Physician of the year. I must admit that I probably never will trust politicians. I don't think that they care for anybody but themselves and getting re-elected.
Then I think, with my recent experiences with doctors...people become doctors for
1. status
2. money
3. (some, not all) to help people
Yeah, I'm cynical...but I know that not everyone is out there to help the other person. A lot of times, people can become sharks and eat up others...the weak, elderly, disabled, and whoever they can take advantage of. I'm not necessarliy talking about doctors here.
I guess in a fallen world...these things happen. No sense in complaining about it more. It won't help. I'm not saying that everyone is out to get you. But sometimes, there are people out there who will take advantage of you if you're not careful and shrewd. All I can say is, don't let the evil of this world corrupt you too.
The saying goes, "If everyone jumped off a bridge, would you do the same thing?" Thinking independently, when it goes against everyone else, is not easy at all. And I have trouble with that. But I'm still trying.
Anyway, I just meant this post to alert you to this scam.
Saw a little bit of "A Bronx Tale" last night on TV. Set in the Bronx in the 1960s. Inter racial dating (white guy, black girl)...blah blah blah.
Interesting movie though. Of course there is tension in the races, but the main character doesn't hate Blacks. It's kind of interesting. A ganster guy looks after the kid telling him not to do what he does. The kid's father tells the kid to stay away from the ganster...I liked this movie. Robert De Niro directed this movie and actually acted as the kid's father.
There were interesting characters to see in this movie. The main character wraps up the movie in the end with the lessons that he's learned from the events that happened. He narrates as he goes along. The imagery is pretty good.
I only caught the latter part of the movie...but it really was an interesting movie. I'm definitely going to have to catch it again.
Interesting movie though. Of course there is tension in the races, but the main character doesn't hate Blacks. It's kind of interesting. A ganster guy looks after the kid telling him not to do what he does. The kid's father tells the kid to stay away from the ganster...I liked this movie. Robert De Niro directed this movie and actually acted as the kid's father.
There were interesting characters to see in this movie. The main character wraps up the movie in the end with the lessons that he's learned from the events that happened. He narrates as he goes along. The imagery is pretty good.
I only caught the latter part of the movie...but it really was an interesting movie. I'm definitely going to have to catch it again.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
I'm an Uncle
My sister had a baby not too long ago. My one and only sister. The only other person that is married in my siblings is my oldest brother and they have no kids yet.
My sister seemed pretty happy in the pictures that she sent my dad. I can imagine the joy that her and her husband have over this new child.
My mom left on a jet plane to visit my sister, brother in law, and baby. Then my dad will leave not too long after. They didn't leave together for my sake. When my dad leaves, I'm going to have to take care of my dog by myself. Taking care of a dog is a lot of work. Especially as they get older. But it shouldn't be that bad...I have no job right now and don't have to worry about getting up early and hurrying home after work to take care of his business. My dog is really a handful...I can't imagine how much tougher it is to take care of a baby. Feeding the baby every three hours, even through the night. oh man...I don't know how my parents did that with 5 kids.
I am glad that my sister had their baby with no problems. I can't believe that I'm an Uncle. I guess I'm ready to be an Uncle moreso than a Father or husband. Some of my cousins were Aunts at 14 years of age. My Uncle and Aunt also have a big family and their children had kids at an early age, so that's why. Anyway, I wonder if he'll like me...I'm sure if I treat him how I'd like to be treated, then there will be no problems.
All I want to say is, kids are great. But they have to be raised well. As in, treated well, positive self image, and good view of other people. Also, discipline, which is not my job, but my sister's and brother in law's. I'm sure that their kid will become a great person. I think that they have good values, and they'll teach them to their kid.
I hope that I can instill some good values in him...
My sister had a baby not too long ago. My one and only sister. The only other person that is married in my siblings is my oldest brother and they have no kids yet.
My sister seemed pretty happy in the pictures that she sent my dad. I can imagine the joy that her and her husband have over this new child.
My mom left on a jet plane to visit my sister, brother in law, and baby. Then my dad will leave not too long after. They didn't leave together for my sake. When my dad leaves, I'm going to have to take care of my dog by myself. Taking care of a dog is a lot of work. Especially as they get older. But it shouldn't be that bad...I have no job right now and don't have to worry about getting up early and hurrying home after work to take care of his business. My dog is really a handful...I can't imagine how much tougher it is to take care of a baby. Feeding the baby every three hours, even through the night. oh man...I don't know how my parents did that with 5 kids.
I am glad that my sister had their baby with no problems. I can't believe that I'm an Uncle. I guess I'm ready to be an Uncle moreso than a Father or husband. Some of my cousins were Aunts at 14 years of age. My Uncle and Aunt also have a big family and their children had kids at an early age, so that's why. Anyway, I wonder if he'll like me...I'm sure if I treat him how I'd like to be treated, then there will be no problems.
All I want to say is, kids are great. But they have to be raised well. As in, treated well, positive self image, and good view of other people. Also, discipline, which is not my job, but my sister's and brother in law's. I'm sure that their kid will become a great person. I think that they have good values, and they'll teach them to their kid.
I hope that I can instill some good values in him...
Monday, April 04, 2005
(Note, this post is only meant to catch up on some things. It's kind of boring...but I thought that I'd write it just so that I have a record)
Things that have happened since...
Since my recent post, I've found that I have given into my temptations. I've been playing video games. I'm thinking that I probably won't get another chance to play these for awhile, so I'm making use of the time I have right now.
Dreaming...
I woke up in a cold sweat. I was having a nightmare of what I feared would happen if I went to Japan. I guess I can't help what other people might think of me, but then again, I can help what I think of myself. My dream was that people didn't respect me and thought that I was stupid and actually said so to my face. Given my experiences with some teachers, I can say that if you don't prepare well, then you'll probably get students who will not be paying attention. Also, students who are thinkers will ask hard questions about the topics that you will be presenting on.
I have these thoughts that Japan is going to be a bad experience if I go. I fear that I become worse after going because of my experiences. I'm sure that that will be untrue. But there is uncertainty as to how things will go if I do go.
I know from experience, that I've degraded in some ways. I've degraded a lot personally these past few years. But it's nobody's fault. I just stopped working on myself, and when that happens, things tend to become worse.
Friday fellowship
I went to a Jewish Synagogue or Temple on Friday. I didn't even know that there were places where Jewish people met. I parked around the temple. There was an off duty police officer there standing outside.
From what it seemed like, there were not that many young people there. It was mainly middle aged to elderly people. That place that had no young people, so it might be only that place and not others...I don't know. But it was an interesting place.
I don't know too much about Jewish customs, but the Rabbi and Rabbi's in training were welcoming to us and we were allowed to stay there and observe their worship style. It reminded me a lot of hymns, but actually a lot more joyful than hymns. Maybe it was that they were singing in Hebrew.
Apparently meeting on Friday was a preparation for the Sabbath. Sunset to Sunset...interesting.
Sin City
I went to see a movie over the weekend. I came out of it feeling disturbed and more cynical.
I personally didn't like this movie. It was really graphic and I didn't care too much for the content either. It was kind of disturbing in my opinion. But I guess in a place called "Sin City" it would have to be. Anyway, there were good guys and bad guys of course. Then there was the dames...and so on...
Anyway, it seemed like it was set in this alternate world in a 1950s type setting. Themes from America like corrupt politicians and corrupt clergy...aka people of power (even though there is separation of church and state). I won't spoil the movie for those of you who want to see it...but I personally didn't like this movie.
People in the audience were laughing in some scenes that were kind of brutal. Good guy does something to pay back the bad guy, people laugh, and bad guy pays for it in pain. The bad guys are really sick and evil in this movie. I couldn't imagine that things would be that bad in real life, but hey, you'll never know.
I will stay away from titles that have horrible names from now on. It just made me sick. I'm not condemning the movie...but as one of my friends said...actually seeing those things in live action was just really too much.
Anyway, I wouldn't recommend this movie to young kids, but I find that this kind of material would be far from entertainment in my opinion. This is from a guy who can't take playing Diablo by Blizzard though.
Things that have happened since...
Since my recent post, I've found that I have given into my temptations. I've been playing video games. I'm thinking that I probably won't get another chance to play these for awhile, so I'm making use of the time I have right now.
Dreaming...
I woke up in a cold sweat. I was having a nightmare of what I feared would happen if I went to Japan. I guess I can't help what other people might think of me, but then again, I can help what I think of myself. My dream was that people didn't respect me and thought that I was stupid and actually said so to my face. Given my experiences with some teachers, I can say that if you don't prepare well, then you'll probably get students who will not be paying attention. Also, students who are thinkers will ask hard questions about the topics that you will be presenting on.
I have these thoughts that Japan is going to be a bad experience if I go. I fear that I become worse after going because of my experiences. I'm sure that that will be untrue. But there is uncertainty as to how things will go if I do go.
I know from experience, that I've degraded in some ways. I've degraded a lot personally these past few years. But it's nobody's fault. I just stopped working on myself, and when that happens, things tend to become worse.
Friday fellowship
I went to a Jewish Synagogue or Temple on Friday. I didn't even know that there were places where Jewish people met. I parked around the temple. There was an off duty police officer there standing outside.
From what it seemed like, there were not that many young people there. It was mainly middle aged to elderly people. That place that had no young people, so it might be only that place and not others...I don't know. But it was an interesting place.
I don't know too much about Jewish customs, but the Rabbi and Rabbi's in training were welcoming to us and we were allowed to stay there and observe their worship style. It reminded me a lot of hymns, but actually a lot more joyful than hymns. Maybe it was that they were singing in Hebrew.
Apparently meeting on Friday was a preparation for the Sabbath. Sunset to Sunset...interesting.
Sin City
I went to see a movie over the weekend. I came out of it feeling disturbed and more cynical.
I personally didn't like this movie. It was really graphic and I didn't care too much for the content either. It was kind of disturbing in my opinion. But I guess in a place called "Sin City" it would have to be. Anyway, there were good guys and bad guys of course. Then there was the dames...and so on...
Anyway, it seemed like it was set in this alternate world in a 1950s type setting. Themes from America like corrupt politicians and corrupt clergy...aka people of power (even though there is separation of church and state). I won't spoil the movie for those of you who want to see it...but I personally didn't like this movie.
People in the audience were laughing in some scenes that were kind of brutal. Good guy does something to pay back the bad guy, people laugh, and bad guy pays for it in pain. The bad guys are really sick and evil in this movie. I couldn't imagine that things would be that bad in real life, but hey, you'll never know.
I will stay away from titles that have horrible names from now on. It just made me sick. I'm not condemning the movie...but as one of my friends said...actually seeing those things in live action was just really too much.
Anyway, I wouldn't recommend this movie to young kids, but I find that this kind of material would be far from entertainment in my opinion. This is from a guy who can't take playing Diablo by Blizzard though.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)