Eating two plates of suicide wings is harder than the army gas chamber exercise.
There was a decent amount of build up to this event. I'm not exactly Rambo, but I knew all along it was hype. Don't get me wrong, it did burn a little and my eyes watered big time, but the same thing happens when I put a little extra "bomb" sauce in my chicken.
OK, we put on our gas masks outside, then lined up in the CB gas filled chamber and stood against a wall for a few minutes. Next we had to slightly break the seal of the mask, say our name and SS number and put it back on. This gave us a taste of the gas. After that we had to take the mask off completely and say our name and info again--with our eyes open. Then we left. Some snot and tears but that was about it.
Here's an old video of chaplains exiting the chamber:
I feel good today. We had night PT in one of the gyms and I ran on a treadmill. A nice easy run. I had fun adjusting the speed and incline. At one point I shut my eyes and tried to imagine myself running down Reeser Rd, but nearly fell off the thing. Note to self: always keep eyes open on a treadmill.
I give thanks to the Lord. I trusted that the pipe/pond issue would resolve itself and it did. My neighbor was able to fix it.
One of my constant prayers has been for Nathanael. Of all the kids, he's the only one that cannot understand what in the world happened to his father. When Keri tells me that he calls more me I always well up (like right now). Though Keri and I cannot make him understand, I am trusting that Jesus can give him a peace beyond understanding. God is faithful.
I'm beginning to get a preaching jones. My last sermon was almost a month ago. Longest such streak since 1997.
Tommorow is a day of first aid (so is Friday). PT in the early morning. Gonna call my mom, Keri, do some laundry, then got to bed.
grace & blessings
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
A long day
Up at 4:30 to get ready for PT (physical training), morning in class (army writing, army problem solving) and this afternoon at a team-building challenge course. I am tired, but feeling good.
We had to walk at least a mile in the hot sun and full uniform to get to the challenges. We were given tasks like getting the group across a row of stumps without touching the ground with nothing but a 2x4. Lots of stuff like that. My group was able to complete one of the challenges. I didn't hear any other group completing a challenge so we felt good about that. I personally did pretty well (imho). I did avoid a near disaster as one of the guys failed to secure a wooden plank I was balancing on and I fell backwards to the ground. It was funny because the Fort Jackson quality assurance guy happened to be there and immediately began interviewing me after the fall. Alls good. I did sweat like a dog on the walk back (and drank like 3 liters of water).
I was able to meet with the financial services lady and we did square some things away. Right after I got back from the meeting, one of the teachers (also called the cadre) got up and instructed the class to stop going to Mrs. Smiths office. So I got in in the nick of time. I still have a few stupid administrative odds and ends yet to be settled.
Man I'm tired. Tommorow for PT we are having what they call a "muscle fatigue" workout. Yipee.
Keri told me of a small problem we are having with the pond back home. I have been constantly praying for my family and stuff like this. I know my neighbor was working on it. I'm trusting that it is a done issue as I type this. God answers prayer!
Awaiting a call from Keri.
I do miss all the folks at Solid Rock tremendously. There aren't to many people in this world who know me as Pastor Jim. A title I will cherish forever.
We had to walk at least a mile in the hot sun and full uniform to get to the challenges. We were given tasks like getting the group across a row of stumps without touching the ground with nothing but a 2x4. Lots of stuff like that. My group was able to complete one of the challenges. I didn't hear any other group completing a challenge so we felt good about that. I personally did pretty well (imho). I did avoid a near disaster as one of the guys failed to secure a wooden plank I was balancing on and I fell backwards to the ground. It was funny because the Fort Jackson quality assurance guy happened to be there and immediately began interviewing me after the fall. Alls good. I did sweat like a dog on the walk back (and drank like 3 liters of water).
I was able to meet with the financial services lady and we did square some things away. Right after I got back from the meeting, one of the teachers (also called the cadre) got up and instructed the class to stop going to Mrs. Smiths office. So I got in in the nick of time. I still have a few stupid administrative odds and ends yet to be settled.
Man I'm tired. Tommorow for PT we are having what they call a "muscle fatigue" workout. Yipee.
Keri told me of a small problem we are having with the pond back home. I have been constantly praying for my family and stuff like this. I know my neighbor was working on it. I'm trusting that it is a done issue as I type this. God answers prayer!
Awaiting a call from Keri.
I do miss all the folks at Solid Rock tremendously. There aren't to many people in this world who know me as Pastor Jim. A title I will cherish forever.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
more CHBOLC
"The truth is, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked
and go wherever you wanted to.
But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands,
and others will direct you and take you where you don't want to go."
John 21:18
I am beginning to realize the source of some darkness in my heart.
One of the major internal challenges I face involves submission. I find myself silently resenting those in authority. Those who are checking to see if I'm drinking enough water. Those looking carefully at my uniform. Those who yell or talk too directly for my taste.
For the last 10 plus years at my desk, I set my schedule. I was the one in charge of the agenda. I set expectations and managed outcomes. In less than one week my world has changed 180 degrees. Now I must be where I am told to be at least 15 minutes before I'm supposed to be there. I'm now accountable for some of the smallest details of my life. I cannot get into my car and drive outside of the base without permission. My system is in a minor state of shock. At times I go negative.
This is a spiritual battle Satan must not win.
For some time I've regarded submission as central to spiritual maturity. That lack of submisson stands at the core of many of our inner struggles. Well the rubber is meeting the road.
The motto of Fort Jackson is "Victory Starts Here". I believe that if this next chapter of my life is going to go anywhere, than victory must start here, with the submission issue.
I thank God for the victory that lies ahead. For revealing this to me. I envision being a better chaplain, a better husband, a better father, a better person, because of this battle.
Battles are tough. but victory is sweet. ........................................................not there yet but identifying the problem is 1/2 the battle.
___________________________________________________________
Did some more drills this morning. I need to work on my footwork. I was also issued a helmet and other "battle gear". I need to get a pitcure of me in my uniform up here so everyone can get a chuckle :). NOTE-remember, I am not EVER authorized to touch a weapon (so rest easy).
Tomorrow I am planning on going to 3 religious services to observe and take notes for an assignment......
and go wherever you wanted to.
But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands,
and others will direct you and take you where you don't want to go."
John 21:18
I am beginning to realize the source of some darkness in my heart.
One of the major internal challenges I face involves submission. I find myself silently resenting those in authority. Those who are checking to see if I'm drinking enough water. Those looking carefully at my uniform. Those who yell or talk too directly for my taste.
For the last 10 plus years at my desk, I set my schedule. I was the one in charge of the agenda. I set expectations and managed outcomes. In less than one week my world has changed 180 degrees. Now I must be where I am told to be at least 15 minutes before I'm supposed to be there. I'm now accountable for some of the smallest details of my life. I cannot get into my car and drive outside of the base without permission. My system is in a minor state of shock. At times I go negative.
This is a spiritual battle Satan must not win.
For some time I've regarded submission as central to spiritual maturity. That lack of submisson stands at the core of many of our inner struggles. Well the rubber is meeting the road.
The motto of Fort Jackson is "Victory Starts Here". I believe that if this next chapter of my life is going to go anywhere, than victory must start here, with the submission issue.
I thank God for the victory that lies ahead. For revealing this to me. I envision being a better chaplain, a better husband, a better father, a better person, because of this battle.
Battles are tough. but victory is sweet. ........................................................not there yet but identifying the problem is 1/2 the battle.
___________________________________________________________
Did some more drills this morning. I need to work on my footwork. I was also issued a helmet and other "battle gear". I need to get a pitcure of me in my uniform up here so everyone can get a chuckle :). NOTE-remember, I am not EVER authorized to touch a weapon (so rest easy).
Tomorrow I am planning on going to 3 religious services to observe and take notes for an assignment......
Friday, June 5, 2009
CH-BOLC--day 6
We had our first physical training assessment this morning. I was pleased with my performance.
1 minute of pushups==29
1 minute of situps==39 (I started out too slowly--could have done more)
1 mile in approx 6:47 (not sure on that, I thought someone noted the time for me--they didn't)
Only gonna get better. My goal is to pass the PT end of June assessment. If I pass that I will not have to do nightly PT (but will have to go in the morning).
I have realized something about my heart in my first week here. I'm gonna hold it for tomorrow or Sunday cause it might get wordy and I'm tired. More training in marching in the AM.
I heard some high-brass chaplains preach/talk this morning. The emphasis was loving and serving the soldiers--thats what being a chaplain is all about. I was inspired and motivated to get out there and serve them.
1 minute of pushups==29
1 minute of situps==39 (I started out too slowly--could have done more)
1 mile in approx 6:47 (not sure on that, I thought someone noted the time for me--they didn't)
Only gonna get better. My goal is to pass the PT end of June assessment. If I pass that I will not have to do nightly PT (but will have to go in the morning).
I have realized something about my heart in my first week here. I'm gonna hold it for tomorrow or Sunday cause it might get wordy and I'm tired. More training in marching in the AM.
I heard some high-brass chaplains preach/talk this morning. The emphasis was loving and serving the soldiers--thats what being a chaplain is all about. I was inspired and motivated to get out there and serve them.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
CH-BOLC day 5
I've got to be at one of the athletic fields at 4:50AM tomorrow. Ouch! It's for an assessment of my training prowess. It includes a timed mile, so here is where all that running since the beginning of March comes into play. Not sure what to expect, if I ran a mile in under 8 minutes I'd be very happy. I'm actually looking forward to it.
This first month is going to be challenging, looking at the schedule, it mellows out a bit in July-August. But until then, there will be some very long and rigorous days.
I did pass the height/weight test with flying colors. According to my height/weight/age, I cannot weigh more than 180. I weighed in at 161. If I can get down to 155, than I will be at my college weight. Unbelievable!
I've got some red tape to go through to get my family on the rolls here. I will be glad when this pain in the butt stuff is behind me.
Gotta get to bed and look at a couple of things I need to memorize.....
I talked to Keri and the kids today and they seem to be doing well. Also got an email from an old seminary friend Ken Johnson--a very pleasant surprize. Maybe I'll have some time this weekend to throw out some emails......
This first month is going to be challenging, looking at the schedule, it mellows out a bit in July-August. But until then, there will be some very long and rigorous days.
I did pass the height/weight test with flying colors. According to my height/weight/age, I cannot weigh more than 180. I weighed in at 161. If I can get down to 155, than I will be at my college weight. Unbelievable!
I've got some red tape to go through to get my family on the rolls here. I will be glad when this pain in the butt stuff is behind me.
Gotta get to bed and look at a couple of things I need to memorize.....
I talked to Keri and the kids today and they seem to be doing well. Also got an email from an old seminary friend Ken Johnson--a very pleasant surprize. Maybe I'll have some time this weekend to throw out some emails......
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
CH-BOLC day 4
4 shots in the right arm today, just a little sore...we also started formation drills and movements, stuff like about face, saluting, and marching. I was completely lost at first but am beginning to get the gist of it. Having zero rhythm doesn't help matters. I kept thinking of movies like "Stripes" and "Private Benjamin, which I actually never saw but know enough about the plot to identify with the protagonists.
SIGN OF BEING A FATHER: I just unzipped one of the many pockets of my luggage and pulled out a pair of Emilys and Derricks underwear and Toris socks. I just might throw them on the floor and make this place feel more like home.
Tomorrow is our first weigh-in. Some of the guys are nervous, but I should be fine. Physical training begins Friday. I'm OK (I think)to pass the minimum requirements now, but fully expect to be a machine by the end of the three months. I'm actually looking forward to it--though I know it will be hard.
I met a guy today who will be going to Ft Hood at the same time I am. A single, Hispanic guy from Maryland. He told me he wanted to go to Ft Hood because he wanted to be deployed quickly and was told that Hood was the place to go. Of course I panicked and went off on how it would be poor leadership to send a green chaplain so quickly to the front lines. He actually bought into my logic. In the end I told him (and myself) that God is in control and we walk in faith. Seemed like a cool guy. Assemeblies of God dude.
Well, gonna call Keri than finish studying, than get to bed--late(r) report time tomorrow (8AM).
---------------------------------------see ya!
SIGN OF BEING A FATHER: I just unzipped one of the many pockets of my luggage and pulled out a pair of Emilys and Derricks underwear and Toris socks. I just might throw them on the floor and make this place feel more like home.
Tomorrow is our first weigh-in. Some of the guys are nervous, but I should be fine. Physical training begins Friday. I'm OK (I think)to pass the minimum requirements now, but fully expect to be a machine by the end of the three months. I'm actually looking forward to it--though I know it will be hard.
I met a guy today who will be going to Ft Hood at the same time I am. A single, Hispanic guy from Maryland. He told me he wanted to go to Ft Hood because he wanted to be deployed quickly and was told that Hood was the place to go. Of course I panicked and went off on how it would be poor leadership to send a green chaplain so quickly to the front lines. He actually bought into my logic. In the end I told him (and myself) that God is in control and we walk in faith. Seemed like a cool guy. Assemeblies of God dude.
Well, gonna call Keri than finish studying, than get to bed--late(r) report time tomorrow (8AM).
---------------------------------------see ya!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
CH-BOLC--day 3
spent most of the day waiting....for a military ID card and to get my teeth checked.
The teeth thing went well. One of the helpers, a middle-aged, southern lady with extra attitude told me I looked sexy with my haircut. I was looking at my military ID card and with my white, shaved head looking like platinum blond, I kinda look like Eminem.
Tomorrow we have to report in uniforms, which I am nervous about. I have so much to learn about Army custom and culture--saluting, showing respect...all that stuff is like a new language to me. I have pins and patches that need to be in the right place, my pants need to go down to the correct spot, my hat needs to be correct........
What was cool was watching all these young soldiers in basic. They were kids. The Lord has put a great love in my heart for them.
I just got off the phone with Keri and the kids. I'm still unable to talk to them without crying. I'm so blessed.
And thanks to everyone from Solid Rock who have been concerned with Keri. She told me many of you have reached out to her. Again, I'm so blessed.
Here's my address:
Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course (Class:09-002)
Captain James Souza
USACHCS
10100 Lee Rd.
Fort Jackson, SC 29207-7090
The teeth thing went well. One of the helpers, a middle-aged, southern lady with extra attitude told me I looked sexy with my haircut. I was looking at my military ID card and with my white, shaved head looking like platinum blond, I kinda look like Eminem.
Tomorrow we have to report in uniforms, which I am nervous about. I have so much to learn about Army custom and culture--saluting, showing respect...all that stuff is like a new language to me. I have pins and patches that need to be in the right place, my pants need to go down to the correct spot, my hat needs to be correct........
What was cool was watching all these young soldiers in basic. They were kids. The Lord has put a great love in my heart for them.
I just got off the phone with Keri and the kids. I'm still unable to talk to them without crying. I'm so blessed.
And thanks to everyone from Solid Rock who have been concerned with Keri. She told me many of you have reached out to her. Again, I'm so blessed.
Here's my address:
Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course (Class:09-002)
Captain James Souza
USACHCS
10100 Lee Rd.
Fort Jackson, SC 29207-7090
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