Long Time No Talk

Following the cursory examination of the father effect, Rewell and Levi connect to their emotional past. Feelings of loneliness and abandonment are explored and how they impacted their significant relationships. The brother-bonding effect is detailed beginning in childhood and the correlation to one’s love language. Rewell discloses a contention with lust and we theorize how one’s past effects one’s future. We use Rewell’s role as a parent as a platform to delve into parenting and commication between parent and child.

Our discussions start off where we left off last time.  Rewell and Levi explore the effects of an absent father, figuratively speaking.  Larry compares and contrasts his own experience.  Jason shares his observations of the guys experiences. [Original Recording #8]

Rewell starts the dialogue off by describing some of the demands raising his toddler son brings about.  In particular the effect parenting has had on Rewell’s energy levels.  This takes us to briefly cover introversion and extroversion. We explore what the philosophy of parental engagement and activity might be expressing.  Rewell details his parental philosophy. [Original Recording #8]

Our proverbial icebreaker art activity of creating a pictorial representation of the past, present and future self continues. We continue with our present pictures, resuming following Larry’s picture, Jason describes his present. We complete this activity by expounding on the future pictures we are striving for ourselves.

With printed paper, colored pencils and crayons strewn out on the dinner table, we begin with a proverbial icebreaker art activity. Draw a pictorial representation of your past, present and future self. While drawing we touch on topics including ripeness and a past topic regarding external enhancement. We expound on our illustrations of the past and its significance. Larry closes out this episode describing what his present looks like. The continuation of “This Is Me: Super Saiyan“ to be concluded with Ep 53.

What is the purpose of a car? Jason shares a realization that a brand new car is a poor financial investment.  How was the desire for new material goods triggered within?  Reflection provides a platform for recognition and understanding. Larry's narrative is a contrast to this idea, when returning home unemployed, without any job prospects from global missionary work.  However, during this time he expressed satisfaction with his side work. Is one's position or job title the significance of the person or is it his or her prevailing constitution and disposition.  Larry's story tells of opportunities, leadership roles resulting from character.  [Original Recording #5]

Rewell cites the account in which Jacob was betrothed to the sister of his supposedly bride-to-be as a parallel with his own life. Rewell particularly identifies with Jacob and the flow of consequences due to his actions. This was the impetus for deep, self-reflections. Rewell details a small business enterprise he and his brother pursue almost a decade and half ago. Levi recalls the origins that provoked their shoe ventures. Strange events follow their business ventures, leading Rewell to now identify with Jacob's experiences. From [Original Recording #5]

Jason details interview with mixed martial artist Georges St. Pierre's view on the changing landscape of sports competition. What used to be the platform for human performance is now the stage for super human exploits. However, this is not only a recent phenomenon, a long sordid history can at least be traced back to the 1988 Olympics. The shocking revelation: superhuman performances are not limited to the sports arena, rather the sports world is a microcosm of the social structure. To achieve high levels of success, requires assistance, enhancement. Some of the most renown names have disclosed the use of extraneous assistance. Thus the notion that hard work, determination, and focus is all you need to achieve and sustain the highest echelons is a facade, there is a cost. _____ Audio provided through YouTube. CNN Business Segment, "Can LSD make you a billionaire?" By Cullen Daly and Erika Fink {https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz9yZFtRJjk} Permission request from CNN pending _____ [Original recording #6]

Rewell begins by sharing what has been on his mind the last few days. Provoked by a change in his schedule, increased availability and spare time, he has thought about how to occupy himself. Rewell shares his idea of pursuing coding. This provides the platform for delving into the dynamic of passion. Jason shares how Long Time No Talk came about. However, passion is not the most significant piece. Just as important, even more so, is the motivation: the why. Rewell describes other activities to occupy his time with. {Recording #6}

Levi starts the conversation off wondering how we spend our leisure time. Larry and Jason list their interests including sports, movies, and games, particularly poker for Jason. (Though not at a casino, rather a home game with friends) Jason describes expanding his leisure interests into audiobooks and how a continuous reading of the Bible has provided the opportunity to dive into other classic literature texts and fiction. Without a familiarity of old English, Jason would be restricted to only modern language and writing. A connection between leisure preferences and the formation of habits are detailed. Habits are developed due to the fulfillment of deeper desires. How can one identify the deep seeded desires? How can one establish desires intently? Rewell talks about his approach to his leisure time. We end on the importance of reflection. "The unexamined life is not worth living.

There are certain things that Levi needs to have as a foundation before he can study the content. Without this initial understanding, his studies will not be as meaningful and significant and instead have the feel of information and facts. Levi uses his studies of the book of James to illustrate the importance of discovering the historical context occurring at the time of the writing. We briefly discuss the context of first century A.D. Particularly what was occurring within Jerusalem and the Diaspora. We move onto questions that Levi and Rewell had and the importance of searching for answers rather than being given. Larry delves into how questions frequently are not seeking direct responses, rather are indicative of deeper layers and notion which may be yet to be uncovered by the individual him or herself. Larry refers to the woman at the well to illustrate this point clearer.

It’s one thing about having a passion for something, it’s another to share a passion with others. Jason shares how he envisioned and hoped for Dinner Talk before it took form. In particular, the cohesiveness, openness, and shared enjoyment of deep conversations. Levi opens up about the guilt he feels when he sees spends his time and laying PS4. He wonders about this, whether his feelings are warranted or not. Jason relates to his experiences and Larry shares his newly preoccupation with Clash Royale. The tendency to feel forced and obligated to participate in spiritual activities out of guilt becomes a primary motivator is detailed. Levi details the importance of creating a conducive environment for study, focus and thought. We end this conversation with what enhances our personal studies.

The Series: Scratching the Garden's Surface will resume at a later date as we will be resuming our regularly scheduled programming ) We continue to work on piecing together the real world ramifications of our topic.   One of our observations is the role knowledge plays with social engagement. Knowledge has become a measurement to differentiate oneself from the crowd. We delve into how our knowledge of God is inserted into the spectrum paradigm. Levi brings us back to social engagement and we detail its structure facilitating banter rather than active listening. We end on the notion that small groups should not be primarily about the get together, rather it should be a provocation outside of the hang out.

Levi kicks off our dialogue working to wrap his mind around our past discussions. Was the eating of the fruit of knowledge of good and evil the activator of resulting effects? In Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, a framework is provided which we replicate and apply into the Genesis 3 account. The knowledge of good and evil was not a singular event, activated by a single bite.  Rather knowledge of good and evil is a process, one that began prior to the eating of the fruit. Knowledge is a quantifiable concept, one that is measurable with the form of a spectrum. This leads us to the significance and prevalence of the spectrum form and its reverberating impact.

Levi raises a previous topic yet to be discussed, the misinterpretation of disobedience. Before we can arrive to a point of clarity, a deeper understanding must first be established. As a prelude to a future subject, we detail the notion of circular reasoning, in which the end point is also the beginning. You end where you begin. The Disobedience-Death correlation is described.

Continuing from our last talk, we begin with the serpent’s claim and the tendency to identify it as temptation. By assigning an evaluation, we miss the intention, which is the dispersal of information. Therefore we can better grasp that knowledge was not derived through the eating of the fruit, rather the tree not to be eaten was a catalyst for delving into deeper truth and matters.

We start out by expounding on the original picture of creation. The tendency to focus on the secondary segment of the picture is highlighted. The notion that the serpent’s intention was to deceive and tempt is in actuality an evaluation, an appraisal, and result in important pieces missing. So then before an evaluation is determined, what was the intention of the serpent. In other words, what is the purpose of the temptation? This is the impetus for the use of the metaphor, putting the cart before the horse. What was the antecedent of the temptation? Was the intent to create an alternative picture countering the original picture?

If tangibly represented, the picture of the beginning would be depicted by a single form, a single model. However, an alternate picture came into existence establishing two forms. Next we explore whether the cause of this second form was a singular or plural event. We delve into probable causes supporting a plural form. The culmination of our exploration leads us to examine if disobedience of God’s is the sole prominent event. We end on the notion of antecedents.

Rewell kicks off discussion sharing his self-reflections provoked by our recent conversation. He comes to the realization thechoices he made in the past and the actions he engaged in were done more automatically rather than deliberately. He ends his reflections with ”why.” Before we continue on the path of our series, we take a moment to step back and better understand the picture provided in Eden. Though it could come across as redundant or overly exhaustive, however, our tendency is to skip ahead while allowing our presumptions to color our ideas. Together we work to illustrate the account as a method to peel away deep presumptions. The picture we arrive at is a before and after.

Our conversations begin with exploring possible causes for not believing in God. One such cause is that God is a myth, which we proceed to delve into the notion of myths and mythology. Perhaps the notion is of myth can be traced all the way back to the garden of Eden and the philosophies espoused at the event. Then man expounded on “myth” with stories having an affect on perceptions of God. Next I preview a forthcoming discussion of what occurred at the eating of the fruit. Why did this event result in a litany of negative effects. The common notion identified for the triggering effect is disobedience. We explore perceptions branching from this notion and why.

This episode is a direct continuation of Ep. 35. What was Eve’s thought process when hearing the serpent’s claims? We explore what might have been running through her mind based on her interpretation the fruit was “to be desired to make one wise.” Why did Eve eat the fruit? Was this a special tree? From Eve’s interpretation of which was formulated by the serpent’s words, ideologies and beliefs branched forth. Concepts fleshed out include power, natural and supernatural. We return and conclude the capabilities demonstrated by Eve by her response to the serpent.

"What makes man, man?" This question facilitates a discourse on the nature of man, which is a basis for foundational thought. The spring board for understanding the nature of man is the examination of Adam and Eve. "Did they have the capability to deliberate before eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil?" The significance of the occasion recording in the first few chapters of Genesis is addressed. These abbreviated accounts provide a glimpse into a completely different structure, form and existence; which is the key to a deeper level of understanding. Is choice the initiator for deliberation? We take both Eve's internal and external processes following the serpent's claim and place them under a microscope to extrapolate Eve's capacities. Eve's words demonstrated her capacity to do what? Contrary to popular belief, words are important. Eve’s words demonstrated her abilities that are detailed. We also explore how the garden of Eden might be like.

Larry's previous talk about a debate between an atheist and a theist is the impetus to broach the subject of foundational thought. (The episode elaborating foundational thought as well as other levels of thought are forthcoming.) We revisit choice, particularly the relationship between choice and action with the notion that these two activities trigger thought and deliberation. These ideas lead us to the theme we will be exploring in more detail over a few episodes, "What were Adam and Eve before they ate the fruit and afterwards?" We end up with the thought, "What makes man, man?"

We begin by revisiting a past discussion of whether Adam and Eve were acting without thought or deliberation, prior to the appearance of the serpent. In other words, were they going through the motions automatically which then changes after the eating of the fruit signified by the description, "their eyes were opened." We discuss why exploring these concepts might be important, which also leads us to wonder, "Why did God create us in the first place?" Larry introduces us to the notion of moral culpability.

Jason shares his realization that while its easy and natural to move forward, to jump from one topic to the next, what is missing is a thorough understanding and examination. Without these two activities, what we engage in is more accurately described as banter. So before we continue, the need to revisit previous discussions with a closer eye is detailed. "Why is the account of creation and the garden of Eden so important?" We explore the significance of origins, particularly effective plot devices utilized within developed story lines. (Opening theme created by CGEffex. Licensed by attribution license. {https://freesound.org/people/CGEffex/sounds/89595/} Closing theme created by SRO. Licensed by attribution license. { http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Sro})

The idea of a series entitled "Scratching Below the Surface" that would encompass a collection of talks is raised. We celebrate Rewell and Levi's birthday and have them share their thoughts for their upcoming year, also Larry shares his thoughts for his upcoming year as well. We discuss the form and configuration of our group talks and why it carries meaning for each of us.

We take a brief moment to absorb and digest the recent conversations and to preview future discussions, particularly the unpacking of desire and reasoning. (Desire and reason were tabled and postponed for later episodes because other more pertinent conversations needed to be fleshed out prior to advancing forward as a foundation for future discussions.) The concept of striving towards God is briefly detailed. Larry refers to the seven churches and the notion of overcoming.

We continue right off from the last episode about how Eve's desires overran her other processes. The concept of desire and reasoning are fleshed out more thoroughly. The correlation of choice along with the notion of "good" are detailed. Particularly how the nature of good expressed itself in the garden. The notion of good is divided into two distinct forms and examined: "good for me" versus "good by nature."

Our dialogue begins with an examination of Eve's processing prior to the taking and eating of the fruit. Choice is not a single event, rather it is made up of multiple components. We work together to extrapolate the components of Eve's choice, which were three particular parts. If the starting point of choice is desire and reason, what might have been Eve's internal processing becoming choice? Choice is a revealer: a revealer of what in this account? The role of good and how it affects choice is discussed.

The serpent's role with the Genesis account is discussed. Rather than identifying the purpose of the serpent, we instead delve into what its purpose was not. This less frequent methodology allows us to explore the nature of the fruit. The nature of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil is commonly inflated. The concept of choice is introduced, one that was not deliberately, nor distinctively presented, rather inferred. We look at the choice itself, which became hyper-focused on the fruit, which then has carried onto our own interpretations. What are the components that make up choice?

This discussion continues exploration of good and evil, particularly their meanings detailed in its original language. When good and evil are used, its context includes responses of feelings. These evil feelings are exemplified by Eve's experiences. Eve's experiences are not antiquated, nor outdated stories or myths. Rather her experiences are as relevant to the modern day as any other. We extrapolate one prominent emotion, "fear" and make personal correlations. How is fear expressed, realized today? While we may use more sophisticated language today, the notions are consistent from the earliest days.

We start this dialogue with the notion of tackling some difficult questions. Rather than veering off or inserting a pre-cut answer we instead talk about ruminating and reflecting. What will heaven be like? We delve into an exploration of heaven and the possibility that not everyone would enjoy it. We return to the context of good and evil within Genesis 3. How was the knowledge of good and evil attained? And how was Adam and Eve's experience influenced by the knowledge of good and evil?

We pick up right where we left off from our last talk in which Larry rehashes our topic regarding the notion of "good." A basic ground work is laid that sets the table for the appearance of the serpent. What was the serpents intention in the garden? The serpent touches on some significant themes that catches Eve's attentions and triggers responses from her. We continue discussion of the notion of good and the notion of evil. [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] is not a preorchestrated, meticulously designed series with a set agenda in place. Our regular talks are taking us on an incredible journey together, a brotherhood, a fellowship in which we have been searching for understanding, discernment, and wisdom, in one accord. While this series will be more structured than our usual free form style, our direction was provoked from past discussions, musings, and contemplation. We do not know explicitly where our journey will take us, nor what the destination will be, because the journey is not mapped our and one we embark together.

The second volume of [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] begins with a question asked by Rewell in a past talk. Prior to the eating of the fruit recorded in Genesis chapter 3, we ask, " Was Adam and Eve only functioning automatically?" Automatically meaning acting without deliberate thought, without high functioning mental capacities, moving without intention. Rewell likened this functioning to worker ants- involuntary, instinctual movement. This notion is derived from the verse which says "the eyes of both were opened." We begin our exploration and study in Part 1 of "The Questions of Life." We end our talks inquiring whether or not we can say Adam and Eve knew good. [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] is not a preorchestrated, meticulously designed series with a set agenda in place. Our regular talks are taking us on an incredible journey together, a brotherhood, a fellowship in which we have been searching for understanding, discernment, and wisdom, in one accord. While this series will be more structured than our usual free form style, our direction was provoked from past discussions, musings, and contemplation. We do not know explicitly where our journey will take us, nor what the destination will be, because the journey is not mapped our and one we embark together.

A cursory discussion regarding truth. Though we only briefly cover notions of truth during this abbreviated episode, these ideas and thoughts will help us steer forthcoming discussions in our search for understanding. We hope to further explore notions of truth in subsequent dialogues and studies.

We start this talk delving into the question, "What is the goal of the good life?" Does our current surrounding environment, particularly where we live, contribute to the good life? The benefits and disadvantages of living in the United States are explored. We are introduced to the concept of Eudaimonia, an exploration and commentary by Aristotle regarding concepts of the good life. The good life particularly in meaning and in form. [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] is not a preorchestrated, meticulously designed series with a set agenda in place. Our regular talks are taking us on an incredible journey together, a brotherhood, a fellowship in which we have been searching for understanding, discernment, and wisdom, in one accord. While this series will be more structured than our usual free form style, our direction was provoked from past discussions, musings, and contemplation. We do not know explicitly where our journey will take us, nor what the destination will be, because the journey is not mapped our and one we embark together.

This Episode is a continuation of [Series: Scratching Below the Surface]. We delve into notions of life, the "good life", and the purpose and meaning of it all. [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] is not a preorchestrated, meticulously designed series with a set agenda in place. Our regular talks are taking us on an incredible journey together, a brotherhood, a fellowship in which we have been searching for understanding, discernment, and wisdom, in one accord. While this series will be more structured than our usual free form style, our direction was provoked from past discussions, musings, and contemplation. We do not know explicitly where our journey will take us, nor what the destination will be, because the journey is not mapped our and one we embark together.

This Episode kicks off the second season of Long Time No Talk. The maiden voyage of [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] begins with an ice breaker activity, "Tell me about yourself." This activity will set the tone for forthcoming discussions. [Series: Scratching Below the Surface] is not a preorchestrated, meticulously designed series with a set agenda in place. Our regular talks are taking us on an incredible journey together, a brotherhood, a fellowship in which we have been searching for understanding, discernment, and wisdom, in one accord. While this series will be more structured than our usual free form style, our direction was provoked from past discussions, musings, and contemplation. We do not know explicitly where our journey will take us, nor what the destination will be, because the journey is not mapped our and one we embark together.

Rewell and Levi share a discussion among themselves about "What does being fully committed mean?" What does it look life; what is the life style and so forth. So they throw out the question to Larry and Jason. Jason's answer revolves around the notion of stewardship. Larry 's response delves into "What do I do" versus "Who am I," when I am fully committed. Being vs. Doing.

We continue with the topic of the previous episode, left-handedness and opportunities of fostering right-brain characteristics. Rewell shares some of his ideas of how to foster his son's mental capacities. How are an individual's thinking capacities developed and what are factors that influence one's thinking? Larry goes through the anatomy of the brain. We tie different types of thinking with the importance of understanding another's particular way of thinking.

Finally, our new microphone the Zoom H2N is unveiled which provides not one, not two, but five built-in microphones. Larry and Rewell softer tones are now front and center along with Levi and Jason. We start out this episode with some small talk. Larry demonstrates his new ability to speak or sound out a different dialect. During Rewell's reading of the book of Judges, the story of Ehud catches his attention, particularly how the account found it noteworthy to address his left-handness. Rewell shares with the group his curiosity and unpacks his findings regarding left-hander. For Detroiters, please negate the ScottMitchell reference from mind.

Larry delves into the process of growth described through the Beatitudes.

We begin this talk with the benefits of reflecting on past difficulties. An internet article reports on JustinBieber's discontent as he wonders "Is this all there is?" Larry expounds on the notion of perpetual novelty. We share some take aways, points that have stood out from past episodes, particularly on Larry's story. Jason shares about managing his time, particularly in regards to relationships. Larry discusses the idea of influences and counter-influences.

Remember the WWJD wristbands; Larry describes how it impacted him. Levi, Rewell, and Jason react and unpack highlights of Larry's story. We find connecting themes to our own experiences.

Larry continues telling his experiences how God answered his prayers, practically simultaneously. When good people left Larry's life, God brought new people. Larry and Jason's introduction: Bridge young people's ministry and Pastor Joe's impact. Larry delves into his career track: a long & winding road but one he learns to trust God's leading.

Larry continues his story transitioning from high school into college. He details familial expectations and pressures, particularly in education. Larry talks about a serious relationship during this time and the ramifications resulting. Larry opens up about a difficult period in his life.

Larry begins his story about the importance of surrounding himself. Levi and Rewell connect with Larry's experiences. Larry shares his high school experiences growing up and developing his voice.

In this episode we briefly discuss the dynamics of communication within love relationships. The idea of compartmentalization is described in how it expresses itself in our lives, particularly with our spirituality. We talk about how to make connections beyond the superficial. We touch on the friends of Job and their approach during his hardship.

Levi discusses the feeling of being torn between two worlds. Jason relates to Levi's feelings, describing feelings of guilt from his own short-comings. Discussion of self-flagellation that has occurred in the past and with other cultures. The notion of self-flagellation is referred to as penance. Be in the world but not of the world. And taking the higher ground introduced by Larry.

Our second recording session included delicious entrees provided from Amarin Thai Cuisine. Rewell begins our new discussion with his interest in E.Musk's story. Larry introduces us to the notion of robber barons. We briefly talk about how an individual's life is a platform of expression and creation.

A prelude to the story of Larry that became a legend. The deepening of important relationships. The creation of an impressive self. This is finally the final episode from our premiere recording. I have had numerous talks with Levi and Rewell and countless discussions with Larry. However, this was only the 2nd occasion for the four of us to get together with the purpose to converse with each other, which was recorded. We are excited to continue our talks with each other.