The Jesus Sutras: How Christianity was First Taught in China

The Jesus Sutras are early Chinese language manuscripts of Christian teachings. They are connected with the 7th century mission of Alopen, a Nestorian bishop of the Assyrian Church of the East.

The sutras date from between 635 AD, the year of Alopen's arrival in China, and 1005, when the Mogao Cave, near Dunhuang, in which they were found was sealed. Four of the sutras are said to be located in private collections in Japan, while one is in Paris. Their language and content reflect varying levels of interaction with Chinese culture, including use of Buddhist and Taoist terminology.

The Xi'an Stele was erected in 781 to commemorate the propagation of the Da Qin Luminous Religion ("Da Qin" is the Chinese term for the Roman Empire). Martin Palmer recently claimed that a pagoda near Lou Guan Tai was part of a Da Qin monastery. Lou Guan Tai was the traditional site of Lao Tze's composition of the Tao Te Ching. The stele was unearthed in 1625 and is now on display in nearby Xi'an, the ancient capital of the Tang Dynasty.

Sutra (literally "binding thread") is a Sanskrit term referring to an aphorism or group of aphorisms. It was originally applied to Hindu philosophy, and later to Buddhist canon scripture. In the case of the Jesus Sutras, the term applies indirectly. In Chinese, all religious and classical books are referred to as jing (經), including indigenous Chinese works, Buddhist scriptures, and other foreign works such as the Bible and the Koran. In the context of Buddhist scriptures, jing is conventionally translated as "sutra". The Jesus Sutras do not carry canon status but they do comingle Christian philosophy with Buddhist and Taoist thought.


Martin Palmer is the Secretary General of the Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC), and the author/translator of The Jesus Sutras: Rediscovering the Lost Scrolls of Taoist Christianity, published by Piatkus Books (2001) as well as the Penguin Classics translation of The Book of Chuang Tzu (Penguin Classics), a compilation of the great Daoist philosopher from the fifth century BCE. He wrote the following important article in 2005.

For over 30 years I have been profoundly interested in the faiths, cultures, history and philosophies of ancient China. Most especially, I have been intrigued by that strange phenomenon, ancient Christianity in China. When I mention this deep interest, the most common response is a puzzled look and the question “What ancient Christianity?” Chinese Christianity dates from early in the Seventh Century, but it has been a closely kept secret, both for China and for Christianity. The tradition, as it developed, drew upon not only Christian imagery and philosophy, but also the wisdom of Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The texts that survive are few, but fascinating. My colleagues and I, in recent years, entered, through them, the conceptual world of these early Chinese Christians. Most marvelous of all, hidden in plain sight in China’s heart, we discovered the earliest monastery—adorned with the earliest Christian artwork—that still survives.


The place was not far from where, if legend can be believed, Lao Tzu wrote the Dao De Ching. In an incident straight out of a fairytale, it was an aged seller of amulets who was the instrument of revelation. My colleagues and I had come to Lou Guan Tai, the site of the greatest official Daoist temple. I believed that the earliest Christian church in China was located nearby.


West of the main temple, we saw a perilously leaning seven-storey pagoda. We asked an old woman, a vendor of amulets, sitting nearby what religion it represented. “It is Buddhist,” she replied. As we turned away disappointed, she added, “But it wasn’t always Buddhist.”


Our hopes were aroused until she continued, “It used to be Daoist,” she told us. Crestfallen, we again prepared to leave. With impeccable timing, she again prevented us from departing.


It doesn’t really belong to either of them, though,” the old woman confided. “It was built by five monks who came from the West and believed in one God.”


To explore further, we climbed the steep hill into which the site had been cut. We scrambled to the top—and were welcomed by another aged lady, a Buddhist nun who informed us that she was 115 years old.


We searched for proof that the pagoda had once been Christian. No evidence offered itself. Only when I climbed still higher did I discover that we had found what we had sought. Daoist, Confucian, and Buddhist temples, almost without exception, run north-south. This terrace, cut to hold the temple, ran east-west: the cosmic alignment for Christian churches.


“Why so much noise?” the Buddhist nun asked as I ran down the hill shouting the news. I explained my conviction that we stood on an ancient Christian site, then worried that I had offended her when she drew herself up to her full height of five feet. “Well, of course it is!” she informed us.” This was the greatest Christian monastery in China. We all know that!”


We were told that local people remembered the five monks who had come from the West and the building that they had made. Memory lost to the wider world for over a millennium had persisted here.


We were saying our farewells when the old nun turned to me. “You want to pray, don’t you?” she asked. “Go ahead, then. They will all hear you.”


I prayed on ground sanctified by Christian and Buddhist supplications. We know only a little about how they prayed, these spiritual ancestors of China. One Tang Dynasty painting shows Christians with hands raised in simple devotion. Another shows a saint—or perhaps Jesus himself—in the Buddhist mudra associated with teaching. I know how I prayed that day. I prayed weeping.


Discoveries followed, once excavation had begun. Within the center of the mountain was a cave, and in the cave was the lower portion of a statue. The design of the mountain and the cave were classical Chinese. The figure was not.


The Orthodox Church bases its representations of Christ’s birth on the Book of James, which recounts that Mary gave birth alone, in a mountain cave. The figure in the cave echoed thousands of Orthodox depictions of the Nativity. A woman, semi-reclining, gazes at the child she holds. She is Mary. Outlined in the dirt was the shape of a child. The earliest known Christian statue in China was composed of Orthodox iconography surrounded by Chinese art. The second statue seems to represent a favorite prophet of the Church of the East, Jonah.


Architecturally and historically, these were important discoveries. Even more important, perhaps, is the spiritual discovery of The Jesus Sutras.


On its publication, my book translating these Sutras aroused great interest. The Christianity revealed in the texts emerges in a form unknown to most of us. In showing what the past has been, these writings suggested what the future could be. An ancient faith revealed a way of believing ideal for those who live today.


My colleagues and I found classics brought to China by the first official Church mission in 635 AD, texts not extant only in Chinese. We found Persian books retelling the life of Jesus; documents from the Subcontinent exploring the fusion of Greek and Indian Buddhist traditions; evidence of religious dialogue among Christians and Hindus and Jains; even a fragment of a text from the ancient Church of Tibet. The insight into Greek, Persian, Zoroastrian, Buddhist and shamanic cultures was remarkable. So was the ability of the Church to fuse Christian teachings and images with wisdom and symbolism from other traditions.


In the Sutras, Jesus is called “the Jade-Faced One,” because, for the Daoists, jade is the stone of immortality. In the Sutras, the doctrine of original sin has no place. Creation is innately good. Concepts of dharma and reincarnation are explored. There is even feminism. The Sutra of the Teachings of the World-Honored One explains that Eve’s sin in Eden is fully expiated by the women who are the first to see the evidence of the risen Christ, saying:

As the first woman caused the lies of humanity, so it was women who first told the truth about what had happened, to show all that the Messiah forgave women and wished them to be treated properly in the future. (Ch 5:32)

The early Chinese Church taught that not only feminine nature, but all human nature is in harmony with Nature itself. The Stone Sutra explains that, as in Daoist philosophy, the whole of creation is intrinsically good. Only when humans allow the goodness that is their birthright to be invaded by foolishness, greed, envy and pride do they become inharmonious with the rest of creation. “Original sin”—the doctrine that “in Adam’s fall/ we sinned all”—is not mentioned.


Instead of a viewpoint that sees all of humanity laboring under a curse, the early Chinese Church found much in Daoist teachings that reflected its more loving beliefs.

All of you should chant this day and night,
Because it brings back clear seeing,
And each of you will return to your own original nature,
Your ultimately true beingness,
Free from all falsehood and illusion.
And you will see these teachings are inexhaustible.


Anyone, even if they only have a little love
Can walk the Bright Path, and they will suffer no harm.
This is the way that leads to Peace and Happiness.
And they can come to this even from the darkest of darks.

If you really follow the Sutras, imagine how easy this could be!


“Following the Sutras,” in Seventh-Century China, meant opening to the possibilities exemplified by Jesus. It meant peeling off layers of ignorance and greed to reveal the glory that is our truth, not crushing any inherited wickedness.


It is not only in teachings on The Fall that the Chinese Church is so wonderfully different from what we might expect. The Stone Sutra’s version of the Ten Commandments echoes Buddhism in forbidding the taking of any life and Confucian thought in encouraging the veneration of parents. In fact, the Decalogue itself becomes interwoven with the Sermon on the Mount, as the passage below suggests.

The first covenant of God is that anything that exists and does evil will be punished, especially if they do not respect the elderly.


The second covenant is to honor and care for elderly parents. Those who do this will be true followers of Heaven’s Way.


The third covenant is to acknowledge we have been brought into existence through our parents. Nothing exists without parents.


The fourth covenant is that anybody who understands the precepts should know to be kind and considerate to everything, and to do no evil to anything that lives.


The fifth covenant is that any living being should not take the life of another living being, but should also teach others to do likewise.


The sixth covenant is that nobody should commit adultery, or persuade anyone else to do so.


The seventh covenant is not to steal.


The eighth covenant is that nobody should covet a living man’s wife, or his lands, or his palace, or his servants.


The ninth covenant is not to let your envy of somebody’s good wife, or son, or house or gold, lead you to bear false witness against them.


The tenth covenant is only to offer to God that which is yours to give.

There are even a few “extras.”

If a poor person begs for money, give generously. If you have no money, have the courtesy to explain why you can only give a little help.


If someone is seriously ill or handicapped do not mock, because this is the result of karma and not to be ridiculed.

Good counsel is not all that the Sutras offer. The following passage illustrates how far beyond Judaic tradition the Chinese Christians ranged.

Now, what are the Four Essential Laws of the Dharma?
The first is no wanting. If your heart is obsessed with something,
It manifests in all kinds of distorted ways.
Distorted thoughts are the root of negative behavior . . .


The second is no doing. Don't put on a mask and pretend to be what you’re not . . .
The effort needed to hold a direction is abandoned,
And there is simply action and reaction.
So walk the Way of No Action.


The third is no piousness. And what that means
Is not wanting to have your good deeds broadcast to the nation.
Do what's right to bring people to the truth
But not for your own reputation’s sake.
So anyone who teaches the Triumphant Law,
Practicing the Way of Light to bring life to the truth,
Will know Peace and Happiness in company.
But don't talk it away. This is the Way of No Virtue.


The fourth is no absolute. Don't try to control everything,
Don't take sides in arguments about right and wrong.
Treat everyone equally, and live from day to day.
It’s like a clear mirror that reflects everything anyway:
Green or yellow or in any combination-
It shows everything, as well as the smallest of details.
What does the mirror do? It reflects without judgment.

Such ancient teachings resonate for contemporary people. The Sutra of Returning to your Original Nature offers words from the living Jesus that speak across the ages.

Then He spoke to the assembled crowd and said:
This Sutra is profound and unimaginable.
All the gods and gurus agree on this, and acknowledge
This Way that is the essences of connection and return.
To move you need light to see by — this teaching provides it
Just as the sun slants out, so you can see what is in front of you,
This Sutra offers understanding, and by its light
You can know the Way of Peace and Happiness in your heart.


If anyone wants to share these teachings with friends or family
Of course they can. Honor them, sing and pray together —
And this will bless you and your family into the next generation.
Every generation is united in this communion —
From goodness in past lives, people come to this religion
And through the faith they have they find Happiness.
It’s like the spring rain that refreshes everything —
If you have roots, you will flourish in its coming.
Ch.3 :12 – 19.

The discovery of a site so long hidden is wonderful. Finding art that so beautifully fuses Chinese and non-Chinese traditions is deeply satisfying and instructive. Knowing more about the forms that surrounded the early Church in China contributes much to our human heritage.


The spiritual teachings once imparted within these forms contribute even more. The Jesus Sutrasurge respect, kindness, gentleness, and receptivity. To understand them is to peer into an almost-forgotten distant past. To understand them is to light a path to a possible future. Contemplating “The Jade-Faced One” and the Church built around him in China may allow a model of Christianity that is not only ancient but well-fitted for contemporary life, a revelation not only of what has passed away, but of what can come to be.

The following blog post was taken from Ecumenical Buddhism's blog posts: The Jesus Sutras Part One: Rediscovering the Lost Scrolls of Taoist Christianity and The Jesus Sutras Part Two: An Ancient Message for a Post-Modernist Future.

Shen Yun Performing Arts

A little about a show coming to my area, and may be coming to a city near you as well:

Shen Yun Performing Arts presents classical Chinese dance and music in gloriously colorful and exhilarating shows. An art form several millennia old, Chinese dance is refreshingly dynamic and expressive. Ancient legends and heroic figures come to life through its leaps, spins, and delicate gestures.

Shen Yun premieres over a dozen new dances and songs each season. State-of-the art, animated digital backdrops conjure up blossoming landscapes and celestial palaces. The Shen Yun orchestra meanwhile performs all-original compositions while combining classical Western and Chinese instruments as never before.

A Shen Yun show is art you can feel good about. Themes of kindness, compassion, and courage are brought out through the songs of eminent vocalists and stunning choreography. The human spirit triumphs over adversity in powerful, thought-provoking dances. It's a truly uplifting and inspiring experience.

Shen Yun Performing Arts (formerly known as Divine Performing Arts) is a triumph of collaboration, bringing together leading dancers, choreographers, and musicians from around the world. Its productions are unique in being not only tremendously fun and entertaining, but also educational, enriching, and uplifting.

The company’s rich repertory breaks new ground by focusing on the authentic cultural heritage of classical China while also giving artistic treatment to the world around us. Each year, Shen Yun premieres an entirely new program of dances, songs, and musical scores.

Based in New York, Shen Yun Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization that is independent of China’s communist regime and which seeks to revive the true, five-millennia-old artistic tradition of China that thrived before decades of suppression by the Chinese communist state. The company seeks to breathe new life into traditional Chinese culture while providing audiences everywhere with an experience of sublime beauty.

Shen Yun Performing Arts came into being in 2006 with a vision of cultural renewal. It was then that leading Chinese artists and several small performance companies joined together to revive an artistic tradition. For its first two-plus years the company was known as Divine Performing Arts.

Today, Shen Yun is proud to consist of three dance companies, three orchestras, and a host of choreographers, composers, costume designers, backdrop artists, and artistic staff.

The response to Shen Yun’s productions has been phenomenal. Laughter, tears, and standing ovations are a common sight. In its inaugural 2006-2007 season the company performed for some 200,000 people. In 2007-2008, the number swelled to 600,000 and has continued to expand since.

Shen Yun has already graced many of the world’s greatest stages, including New York’s Radio City Music Hall, London’s Royal Festival Hall, Washington DC’s Kennedy Center, and Paris’ Le Palais de Congrès.

Once the producer of shows titled variously Chinese Spectacular, Holiday Wonders, and Shen Yun, the company now often performs under simply its own name. Each year Shen Yun Performing Arts travels the world, performing on tour across Europe, North and South America, Oceania, and Asia.

Classical Chinese dance (or “Chinese dance”) is an altogether unique dance heritage. In its early stages it was mainly passed down among the common people, through members of the imperial court, and as part of ancient theater.

Over the years, dancers reorganized, refined, experimented with, and reworked it to arrive at the extraordinary system of classical Chinese dance known today. It is part of the divinely inspired heritage that is China’s five-millennia-old culture, and one means by which that culture lives on, having been built upon China’s deep-running, traditional aesthetic tradition.

Classical Chinese dance has as its foundation China’s divinely inspired culture of five thousand years. The unique art of Chinese dance that we know today, with its impressive scale and system, is the product of generations of dancers’ many years of artistic experience combined with their refining, reorganizing, and reworking of the art form.

Classical Chinese dance has its own complete set of training methods in foundational skills, a strict regimen for perfecting bearing and form, and means of training for skill sets such as jumps, turns, and flips, as well as extremely demanding aerial techniques, culminating in an enormous dance system. The aerial movements of classical Chinese dance contain a wealth of high-flying dives, dexterous leaps, and diverse spins.

It is the deeper resonances of traditional Chinese culture, however, that imbue a dancer’s movements with such rich expressive power. The dancer is thus capable of not only portraying a given figure’s disposition or mood, but even the vivid expressions unique to a certain age, whatever the land or time.

Here’s your chance to discover the dance and music that have won the hearts of millions. Shen Yun Performing Arts presents an exhilarating celebration of China’s traditional arts featuring world-class performers, stunning costumes and backdrops, powerful drum rhythms, and a full orchestra at most shows.

Experience a lost heritage in this remarkable production inspired by the legends and values of centuries of Chinese culture before communist rule. Discover firsthand why Shen Yun’s performances—critically acclaimed as “breathtaking,” “brilliant,” and “glorious”—have delighted audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

It's a stunningly expressive art form that is millennia-old, with a vocabulary of movement so rich as to range from elegant to explosive to everything in between. Meet Chinese dance.

Perhaps no other art form in the world can boast such strong expressive qualities and diversity of technique as classical Chinese dance. Shen Yun Performing Arts’ choreography ranges from grand imperial processions to legions of thunderous drums, with gorgeously costumed dancers moving in stunning synchronized patterns.

The visual effect is a tableau of purity, goodness, and beauty. At once rich in variation and immensely difficult, this dance form’s athletic movements and graceful technique have won high acclaim, with its aerial skills, in particular, often leaving audiences in awe. Shen Yun is notably the only company to have strictly authentic classical Chinese dance as part of its repertoire.

Imagine gracefully twirling about with tea cups perched delicately atop your head, or fistfuls of chopsticks beaten rhythmically about your body, and you can begin to picture the character, color, and vivacity of Shen Yun’s ethnic and folk dance.

The many distinctive ethnic groups within China and around her borders provide a wonderful array of material from which to choreograph and compose. These dances might whisk you away to the plains of Tibet, the shores of a Dai village, or the sprawling plains of Mongolia.

One of Shen Yun Performing Arts’ trademarks, these dances give dramatic portrayal to the cherished stories of yesterday and today. Their figures embody the most exalted virtues of Chinese civilization, and convey a message or moral that is still relevant today. Many have inspired people for generations, such as the tales of heroine Mulan and general Yue Fei. Others quietly lead lives of great courage today that are sure to move and inspire.

From the opening gong, reminiscent of a vast bell, that heralds the start of each show to the soulful erhu solos and hypnotic bamboo flutes throughout, audiences are in for a melodious treat at each Shen Yun Performing Arts production.

The Shen Yun Performing Arts Orchestra brings together two of the world’s greatest classical music traditions, Chinese and Western, in a masterful fusion. With Western instruments as its base, the orchestra brings out Chinese musical flair through a variety of Chinese instruments.

All of the music the 40-plus member orchestra plays is original and composed to fit perfectly with each dance. The live accompaniment adds an energy and joyful exuberance like nothing you’ve experienced before.

Performances by leading solo musicians are an integral part of the Shen Yun experience. Audiences are often surprised by the expressiveness and powerful emotion conveyed by the two-stringed Chinese erhu, with its otherworldly quality that stirs the soul as few instruments can.

Sopranos and tenors with piano accompaniment sing impassioned arias that give voice to the deepest of spiritual longings as well as to hopes that have shaped Chinese culture for centuries.

They invite you to discover for yourself the sounds that critics are calling “flawless,” “fantastic,” and “absolutely perfect.”

Majestic celestial palaces. Sprawling Mongolian grasslands. Cascading clouds.

The breathtaking digital backdrops at each Shen Yun Performing Arts show bring classical Chinese dance into the 21st century, giving each scene an added visual depth and grandeur. Each backdrop is custom-designed to match exactly a given dance’s costumes, story line, lighting, and even choreography.

Some of the backdrops begin as a painting, some are created digitally. Many are animated, allowing flower petals to sweep gently across fields and snow to softly fall. Come show time, each is manually operated to integrate precisely with the rhythms of the performance.

From radiant golden-hued Tang dynasty gowns to elegant Manchu court chopine shoes, each costume is carefully designed and tailored with meticulous care. Apparel has always been an essential part of China’s five-millennia-old, divinely-bestowed culture, and Shen Yun Performing Arts brings this heritage to life on stage.

The costumes begin with a combination of historical example and new inspiration, and extend to a months-long hunt across countries and continents for just the right materials. The result on stage is a visual feast in which brave warriors do battle in vibrant uniforms and beautiful silken dresses swirl and flow like water.

“There’s just something about them,” audience members often say.

Indeed, more than just being accomplished artists, members of Shen Yun Performing Arts bring an unusual depth to their work. They take to heart an ancient Chinese belief: that to create true art, there must first be inner beauty.

Many draw personal inspiration from traditional Chinese culture and practices, such as the self-cultivation method of Falun Dafa, and naturally bring a calm expressiveness and depth to their work.

Counted among the company’s artists are winners of top international competitions in dance and music along with exceptionally accomplished choreographers and composers. No other Chinese performing arts company boasts such a remarkable body of talent.

The Gospel of John, Chapter 2

(King James Version & Chinese Union Version-Simplified Characters)

1 And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: 1 第三日，在加利利的迦拿有娶亲的筵席，耶稣的母亲在那里。
2 And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. 2 耶稣和他的门徒也被请去赴席。
3 And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. 3 酒用尽了，耶稣的母亲对他说：「他们没有酒了。」
4 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. 4 耶稣说：「母亲（原文作妇人），我与你有什麽相干？我的时候还没有到。」
5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. 5 他母亲对用人说：「他告诉你们什麽，你们就做什麽。」
6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. 6 照犹太人洁净的规矩，有六口石缸摆在那里，每口可以盛两三桶水。
7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. 7 耶稣对用人说：「把缸倒满了水。」他们就倒满了，直到缸口。
8 And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. 8 耶稣又说：「现在可以舀出来，送给管筵席的。」他们就送了去。
9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, 9 管筵席的尝了那水变的酒，并不知道是那里来的，只有舀水的用人知道。管筵席的便叫新郎来，
10 And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now. 10 对他说：「人都是先摆上好酒，等客喝足了，才摆上次的，你倒把好酒留到如今！」
11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. 11 这是耶稣所行的头一件神迹，是在加利利的迦拿行的，显出他的荣耀来；他的门徒就信他了。
12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days. 12 这事以後，耶稣与他的母亲、弟兄、和门徒都下迦百农去，在那里住了不多几日。
13 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, 13 犹太人的逾越节近了，耶稣就上耶路撒冷去。
14 And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: 14 看见殿里有卖牛、羊、鸽子的，并有兑换银钱的人坐在那里，
15 And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; 15 耶稣就拿绳子作成鞭子，把牛羊都赶出殿去，倒出兑换银钱之人的银钱，推翻他们的桌子，
16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. 16 又对卖鸽子的说：「把这些东西拿去！不要将我父的殿当作买卖的地方。
17 And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. 17 他的门徒就想起经上记著说：「我为你的殿心里焦急，如同火烧。」
18 Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? 18 因此犹太人问他说：「你既做这些事，还显什麽神迹给我们看呢？」
19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. 19 耶稣回答说：「你们拆毁这殿，我三日内要再建立起来。」
20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? 20 犹太人便说：「这殿是四十六年才造成的，你三日内就再建立起来吗？」
21 But he spake of the temple of his body. 21 但耶稣这话是以他的身体为殿。
22 When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said. 22 所以到他从死里复活以後，门徒就想起他说过这话，便信了圣经和耶稣所说的。
23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. 23 当耶稣在耶路撒冷过逾越节的时候，有许多人看见他所行的神迹，就信了他的名。
24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, 24 耶稣却不将自己交托他们；因为他知道万人，
25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man. 25 也用不著谁见证人怎样，因他知道人心里所存的。

Invasion of the Super-Fruits!

Who or what are the 12 superfruits?

1. Açaí from South America
2. Blueberry from North America and Northern Europe
3. Cranberry from North America and Northern Europe
4. Durian (King of Fruits) from Southeast Asia
5. Goji (Wolfberry) from China
6. Guarana from South America
7. Mango from India, Southeast Asia and Oceania
8. Mulberry from Asia
9. Pomegranate from Greece, Saudi Arabia and California
10. Purple Mangosteen (Queen of Fruits) from Southeast Asia and Oceania
11. Red Grape from Central Asia, Europe and California
12. Seaberry (Sea-Buckthorn) from Asia and Europe

Apples, Oranges, Tomatoes, Strawberries, Black Cherries, Red Raspberries, and Blackberries achieve many of the criteria to be superfruits.

Many juices lately have been marketed including one or more of the above super-fruits and Resveratrol (Reservatrol comes from super-fruits such as grapes and mulberries), but what are the advantages of the Super-Fruits?

1. Acai provides increased energy levels, improved sexual performance, improved digestion, detoxification, high fiber content, improved skin appearance, improved heart health, improved sleep, and reduction of cholesterol levels.
2. Blueberries inhibit mechanisms of cancer cell development and inflammation in vitro and may alleviate the cognitive decline occurring in Alzheimer's disease and other conditions of aging. They can block replication of the hepatitis C virus and might help to delay disease spread in infected individuals.Feeding blueberries to animals lowers brain damage in experimental stroke and may help prevent urinary tract infections. Other animal studies found that blueberry consumption lowered cholesterol and total blood lipid levels, possibly affecting symptoms of heart disease.Additional research showed that blueberry consumption in rats altered glycosaminoglycans which are vascular cell components affecting control of blood pressure.
3. Cranberries are a source of polyphenol antioxidants, phytochemicals with possible benefits to the cardiovascular system and immune system, and as anti-cancer agents. Cranberry juice is able to inhibit and even reverse the formation of plaque by Streptococcus mutans pathogens that cause tooth decay. Cranberry juice components also show efficacy against formation of kidney stones. Raw cranberries and cranberry juice have shown promise as anti-cancer agents in in vitro studies. Cranberry tannins have anti-clotting properties and may reduce urinary tract infections and the amount of dental plaque-causing oral bacteria, thus being a prophylaxis for gingivitis. There is also benefit of cranberry juice consumption against bacterial infections in the urinary system.
4. Durian fruit contains a high amount of sugar, vitamin C, potassium, and the serotonergic amino acid tryptophan, and is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is recommended as a good source of raw fats by several raw food advocates. A decoction of the leaves and roots has been prescribed as an antipyretic. The leaf juice is applied on the head of a fever patient and/or drank. Traditional Chinese medicine consider the durian fruit to have warming properties liable to cause excessive sweating. The Javanese believe durian to have aphrodisiac qualities. Pregnant women and alcoholics should not eat durian.
5. Goji's medicinal benefits, especially due to its antioxidant properties, include potential benefits against cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, vision-related diseases (such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma), having neuroprotective properties or as an anticancer and immunomodulatory agent. Goji/Wolfberry leaves may be used to make tea, together with Lycium root bark (called dìgǔpí; 地 骨 皮 in Chinese), for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A glucopyranoside and phenolic amides isolated from wolfberry root bark have inhibitory activity in vitro against human pathogenic bacteria and fungi.
6. Guarna has shown to give memory, alertness and mood increases, platelet and weight loss. Other laboratory studies showed antioxidant and antibacterial effects, and also fat cell reduction in mice.
7. Mangoes are rich in a variety of phytochemicals and nutrients. The fruit pulp is high in prebiotic dietary fiber, vitamin C, polyphenols and provitamin A carotenoids. Mango peel and pulp contain other phytonutrients, such as the pigment antioxidants - carotenoids and polyphenols - and omega-3 and -6 polyunsaturated fatty acids which may counteract free radicals in various disease mechanisms. Mango is an effective inhibitor in laboratory models of prostate and skin cancers. An extract of mango branch bark called Vimang, isolated by Cuban scientists, contains numerous polyphenols with antioxidant properties in vitro and on blood parameters of elderly humans.
8. Mulberries, in traditional and folk medicine is believed to have medicinal properties and as a source of anthocyanins for functional foods. The skin is a source of Reservatrol.
9. Purple Mangosteen has a combination of nutrient richness, antioxidant strength and potential impact for lowering risk of human diseases. It also has a cooling effect, the opposite of the durian.
10. Pomegranates rind and the bark of the pomegranate tree is used as a traditional remedy against diarrhea, dysentery and intestinal parasites. The seeds and juice are considered a tonic for the heart and throat, and classified as a bitter-astringent, and considered a healthful counterbalance to a diet high in sweet-fatty (kapha or earth) components. The astringent qualities of the flower juice, rind and tree bark are considered valuable for a variety of purposes such as stopping nose bleeds and gum bleeds, toning skin, firming-up sagging breasts and treating hemorrhoids. Pomegranate juice is also used as eyedrops as it is believed to slow the development of cataracts. Juice of the pomegranate is effective in reducing heart disease risk factors and has been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure. Juice consumption may also inhibit viral infections, while pomegranate extracts have antibacterial effects against dental plaque. Extracts of the fruit can inhibit the proliferation of human breast cancer cells.
11. Red Grapes have properties such as reducing susceptibility to vascular damage, decreased blood vessel constriction, and lowering blood pressure. Concord grape juice is showing potential benefits against the onset stage of cancer, platelet aggregation and other risk factors of atherosclerosis, loss of physical performance and mental acuity during aging and hypertension in humans. The skin is also a great source of Resveratrol. Together with tannins, polyphenols and polyunsaturated fatty acids, grape seed constituents display inhibitory activities against several experimental disease models, including cancer, heart failure and other disorders of oxidative stress.
12. Seaberries' nutrient and phytochemical constituents have potential value as antioxidants that may affect inflammatory disorders, cancer or other diseases. The fruit of the plant has a high vitamin C content—about 12 times greater than oranges. The fruit also contains dense contents of carotenoids, vitamin E, amino acids, dietary minerals, β-sitosterol and polyphenolic acids.

So why has no company made a juice from all of these 12 super-fruits, the 7 reservist super-fruits, and the one fruit not listed that seems to be in every super-fruit concoction... Pear.

But what good is pear juice, other than a pleasant taste?

Pears can be useful in treating inflammation of mucous membranes, colitis, chronic gallbladder disorders, arthritis, and gout. Pears can also be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure, controlling blood cholesterol levels, and increasing urine acidity. They are good for the lungs and the stomach. Most of the fiber is insoluble, making pears a good laxative. The gritty fiber content may cut down on the number of cancerous colon polyps. Most of the vitamin C, as well as the dietary fiber, are contained within the skin of the fruit.

I think the pear should be the 8th reserve super-fruit, giving us, truly, 20 delicious super-fruits to choose from.

Dream Teams: JSA, JLA, Titans, YJA

Much is said about the Big-7 concept of the JLA, where the biggest 8 heroes of the DCU (Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman, Green Arrow, and Martian Manhunter) come together to form the ultimate team. I enjoy the concept, but I also loved Extreme Justice and the JLI (Justice League International) which had a few big-hitters and a number of 2nd and 3rd string heroes that made a great team.

But my dream team of the Justice League of America (Late 30's to Early 40's super-heroes) in the DC Universe is a little different. I would have them written by Peter David drawn by Ed McGuiness.

1. Martian Manhunter: J'onn J'onzz is the heart and soul of every line-up of the JLA.
2. Guy Gardner: Whether as Warrior, A Green or Red Lantern, or a Sinesto Corps ring-holder, he is my favorite GL as long as he is portayed as a strong, manly, hero.
3. Firestorm: The Elemental Man made of Prof. Stein and Ronnie Raymond is a great confused hero.
4. The Atom: You can always use a shrinking hero.
5. Steel: John Henry Irons is an expert at building whatever you need, and a strong, black hero in his own right.
6. Black Canary: I am not putting Green Arrow on the team, but his wife definitely deserves a spot here.
7. Captain Marvel:  With one word, "SHAZAM!", Billy Batson becomes the World's Mightiest Mortal! (Although if I could change continuity, I would make him be part of the 1940's JSA instead. His character truly belongs in that time period)
8. Red Star: The redeemed enemy & graduated Titan
9. Wonder Woman: Diana should lead the JLA IMO.

As great as the JLA is, the penultimate super-hero team is the JSA: The Justice Society of America. My dream team for them would be a team operating in the 1940's. Today, outside a few exceptions like Alan Scott, they should all be retired. This series should be written by John Byrne and drawn by Chris Batista.

1. Sentinel: The original Green Lantern, Alan Scott, should lead this team, but I like the Sentinel name best.
2. The Flash: Jay Garrick, the original Flash was great then, but now should have passed his uniform down to Wally West.
3. Hourman: An original, classic costume.
4. Dr. Mid-Nite: Another original, classic costume.
5. The Sandman: Wesley Dodds' costume with the gas mask is great!
6. Dr. Fate: One of the greatest costumes of all time.
7. Hawkman: A must for the JSA, and another Egyptian tie-in like Dr. Fate.
8. Hippolyta: Wonder Woman's mom who became Wonder Woman and traveled back in to the past in a great costume.
9. Liberty Belle: The original strong woman who reined in Johnny Quick. Wonder Woman cannot be the only woman in the Society!

Now that I have chosen for the first 2 generations of the DCU, what about the next 2 generations?  First the Titans, starting with the classic five, written by Kieth Giffen and drawn by Tom Grummett. Oddly enough, I choose a majority female team here.:

1. Nightwing: The former-Robin is naturally the leader of the team.
2. Arsenal: I like his Indian costume Devin Grayson gave him.
3. Troia or whatever Donna Troy is calling herself today.
4. Flash (Wally West wearing the now-retired Jay Garrick's old costume)
5. Tempest: Formerly Aqualad, now is imbued with magical powers.
6. Jade: Alan Scott's daughter, I always felt she would fit right in on this team.
7. Bumble Bee: Adding a little more diversity with her Afro-Puffs.
8. Terra: Make the original Terra be back permanently and put her where she belongs. 
9. Mary Marvel: I really had to debate whether she should go here or with the YJA.

How about the youngest generation? Young Justice of America could be the name, with the following teens and young 20-somethings, written by Ron Marz and drawn by Todd Nauck.

1. Superboy: Leader of the team, representing the Superman (El) family on one of the 4 teams.
2. Batgirl: Her instead of Robin, which creates a love triangle between her and Superboy and Wondergirl.
3. Wonder Girl: The heart and soul of the youth teams.
4. Impulse/Kid Flash: Adds a bit om funny and excitement.
5. Damage: A great hero who would fit perfectly on this team, but with his second costume.
6. The Ray: Was a good mix with Damage and Impulse before.
7. Static: Long wanted teammate for these heroes. Has a past with Superboy.
8. Lagoon Boy: Adding fun with a capital 'F'.
9. Arrowette: Needs to be unretired and her parentage from Green Arrow clarified.

2nd Chronicles, Chapter 20

(King James Version & Chinese Union Version-Simplified Characters)

1 It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them other beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle. 1 此後，摩押人和亚扪人，又有米乌尼人，一同来攻击约沙法。
2 Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh a great multitude against thee from beyond the sea on this side Syria; and, behold, they be in Hazazontamar, which is Engedi. 2 有人来报告约沙法说：「从海外亚兰（又作以东）那边有大军来攻击你，如今他们在哈洗逊他玛，就是隐基底。」
3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 3 约沙法便惧怕，定意寻求耶和华，在犹大全地宣告禁食。
4 And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the LORD: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD. 4 於是犹大人聚会，求耶和华帮助。犹大各城都有人出来寻求耶和华。
5 And Jehoshaphat stood in the congregation of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD, before the new court, 5 约沙法就在犹大和耶路撒冷的会中，站在耶和华殿的新院前，
6 And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee? 6 说：「耶和华我们列祖的神啊，你不是天上的神吗？你不是万邦万国的主宰吗？在你手中有大能大力，无人能抵挡你。
7 Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever? 7 我们的神啊，你不是曾在你民以色列人面前驱逐这地的居民，将这地赐给你朋友亚伯拉罕的後裔永远为业吗？
8 And they dwelt therein, and have built thee a sanctuary therein for thy name, saying, 8 他们住在这地，又为你的名建造圣所，说：
9 If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help. 9 『倘有祸患临到我们，或刀兵灾殃，或瘟疫饥荒，我们在急难的时候，站在这殿前向你呼求，你必垂听而拯救，因为你的名在这殿里。』
10 And now, behold, the children of Ammon and Moab and mount Seir, whom thou wouldest not let Israel invade, when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them, and destroyed them not; 10 从前以色列人出埃及地的时候，你不容以色列人侵犯亚扪人、摩押人，和西珥山人，以色列人就离开他们，不灭绝他们。
11 Behold, I say, how they reward us, to come to cast us out of thy possession, which thou hast given us to inherit. 11 看哪，他们怎样报复我们，要来驱逐我们出离你的地，就是你赐给我们为业之地。
12 O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee. 12 我们的神啊，你不惩罚他们吗？因为我们无力抵挡这来攻击我们的大军，我们也不知道怎样行，我们的眼目单仰望你。」
13 And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children. 13 犹大众人和他们的婴孩、妻子、儿女都站在耶和华面前。
14 Then upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, came the Spirit of the LORD in the midst of the congregation; 14 那时，耶和华的灵在会中临到利未人亚萨的後裔玛探雅的玄孙，耶利的曾孙，比拿雅的孙子，撒迦利雅的儿子雅哈悉。
15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's. 15 他说：「犹大众人、耶路撒冷的居民，和约沙法王，你们请听。耶和华对你们如此说：『不要因这大军恐惧惊惶；因为胜败不在乎你们，乃在乎神。
16 To morrow go ye down against them: behold, they come up by the cliff of Ziz; and ye shall find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of Jeruel. 16 明日你们要下去迎敌，他们是从洗斯坡上来，你们必在耶鲁伊勒旷野前的谷口遇见他们。
17 Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you. 17 犹大和耶路撒冷人哪，这次你们不要争战，要摆阵站著，看耶和华为你们施行拯救。不要恐惧，也不要惊惶。明日当出去迎敌，因为耶和华与你们同在。』」
18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD. 18 约沙法就面伏於地，犹大众人和耶路撒冷的居民也俯伏在耶和华面前，叩拜耶和华。
19 And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel with a loud voice on high. 19 哥辖族和可拉族的利未人都起来，用极大的声音赞美耶和华以色列的神。
20 And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper. 20 次日清早，众人起来往提哥亚的旷野去。出去的时候，约沙法站著说：「犹大人和耶路撒冷的居民哪，要听我说：信耶和华你们的神就必立稳；信他的先知就必亨通。」
21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever. 21 约沙法既与民商议了，就设立歌唱的人，颂赞耶和华，使他们穿上圣洁的礼服，走在军前赞美耶和华说：「当称谢耶和华，因他的慈爱永远长存！」
22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten. 22 众人方唱歌赞美的时候，耶和华就派伏兵击杀那来攻击犹大人的亚扪人、摩押人，和西珥山人，他们就被打败了。
23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another. 23 因为亚扪人和摩押人起来，击杀住西珥山的人，将他们灭尽；灭尽住西珥山的人之後，他们又彼此自相击杀。
24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped. 24 犹大人来到旷野的望楼，向那大军观看，见尸横遍地，没有一个逃脱的。
25 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much. 25 约沙法和他的百姓就来收取敌人的财物，在尸首中见了许多财物、珍宝，他们剥脱下来的多得不可携带；因为甚多，直收取了三日。
26 And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they blessed the LORD: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto this day. 26 第四日众人聚集在比拉迦谷（就是称颂的意思），在那里称颂耶和华。因此那地方名叫比拉迦谷，直到今日。
27 Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; for the LORD had made them to rejoice over their enemies. 27 犹大人和耶路撒冷人都欢欢喜喜地回耶路撒冷，约沙法率领他们；因为耶和华使他们战胜仇敌，就欢喜快乐。
28 And they came to Jerusalem with psalteries and harps and trumpets unto the house of the LORD. 28 他们弹琴、鼓瑟、吹号来到耶路撒冷，进了耶和华的殿。
29 And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel. 29 列邦诸国听见耶和华战败以色列的仇敌，就甚惧怕。
30 So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet: for his God gave him rest round about. 30 这样，约沙法的国得享太平，因为神赐他四境平安。
31 And Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah: he was thirty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi. 31 约沙法作犹大王，登基的时候年三十五岁，在耶路撒冷作王二十五年。他母亲名叫阿苏巴，乃示利希的女儿。
32 And he walked in the way of Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing that which was right in the sight of the LORD. 32 约沙法效法他父亚撒所行的，不偏左右，行耶和华眼中看为正的事。
33 Howbeit the high places were not taken away: for as yet the people had not prepared their hearts unto the God of their fathers. 33 只是邱坛还没有废去，百姓也没有立定心意归向他们列祖的神。
34 Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, behold, they are written in the book of Jehu the son of Hanani, who is mentioned in the book of the kings of Israel. 34 约沙法其余的事，自始至终都写在哈拿尼的儿子耶户的书上，也载入以色列诸王记上。
35 And after this did Jehoshaphat king of Judah join himself with Ahaziah king of Israel, who did very wickedly: 35 此後，犹大王约沙法与以色列王亚哈谢交好；亚哈谢行恶太甚。
36 And he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish: and they made the ships in Eziongeber. 36 二王合夥造船要往他施去，遂在以旬迦别造船。
37 Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish. 37 那时玛利沙人、多大瓦的儿子以利以谢向约沙法预言说：「因你与亚哈谢交好，耶和华必破坏你所造的。」後来那船果然破坏，不能往他施去了。

2009 -> Transitioning -> 2010

What a year 2009 was! I was forced to switch from Mac OS X to Windows XP with the death of my last Mac, which also switched my Linux distro from FixStars' Yellow Dog Linux to Ubuntu (except on the Sony PlayStation 3). I finally got my wife home after a year of  immigration red tape, I lost another beloved grandparent, I changed jobs, got laid off, moved to a state I never thought I would return to, and learned a lot. And that last part is important. If you stop learning, you are dead. Never stop learning. I have likely learned more about myself this year than any other year of my life. No, it was not some spiritual introspection, or anything like that, but my wife teaching me about myself. She obviously knows me better than I know myself, and she assures me this is "a normal phenomenon". Her knowing me so well has helped me to overcome many of my failings, and she is helping me to become a much better man, every day!

This last year my brother's family and my family have started a new tradition. Every weekend we have dinner together. Usually at his home, although we bring dishes, and sometimes a movie to watch.This last year has also seen my daughter go from a "D+" average student to an "A-" average student. Likewise, my wife has decided to become a Christian. I never forced any beliefs on her, but being in a community with many Chinese Christians, they could better explain the Faith, which has made her into a strong believer. Her strong zeal has helped my zeal to return as well. These 3 changes above are all because of my move back to Texas. An unanticipated move that I see happened for a reason. His Will be done!

Next year will come with many ore changes as well, I am sure. My daughter will become a senior in high school. My wife will be Baptized, we will likely have a new baby on the way, and I hopefully will find a new, good job. I ask your continued prayers, my friends, and may us all have a successful, prosperous, enlightening 2010, and come 14 February, a blessed Chinese Lunar Calendar's Year of the Tiger! As my daughter would say, "RAWR!"

The Next Great Chinese Movie I am Anxiously Awaiting...

Other than the American release of Red Cliff, the next great Chinese movie that I am looking forward to is this...

The Protoevangelium of James: Birth of the Theotokos

The Protoevangelium of James
The Birth of Mary the Holy Mother of God,
and Very Glorious Mother of Jesus Christ

1.IN THE RECORDS OF THE TWELVE TRIBES OF ISRAEL was Joachim, a man rich exceedingly; and he brought his offerings double, saying: There shall be of my superabundance to all the people, and there shall be the offering for my forgiveness to the Lord for a propitiation for me. For the great day of the Lord was at hand, and the sons of Israel were bringing their offerings. And there stood over against him Rubim, saying: It is not meet for thee first to bring thine offerings, because thou hast not made seed in Israel. And Joachim was exceedingly grieved, and went away to the registers of the twelve tribes of the people, saying: I shall see the registers of the twelve tribes of Israel, as to whether I alone have not made seed in Israel. And he searched, and found that all the righteous had raised up seed in Israel. And he called to mind the patriach Abraham, that in the last day God gave him a son Isaac. And Joachim was exceedingly grieved, and did not come into the presence of his wife; but he retired to the desert, and there pitched his tent, and fasted forty days and forty nights, saying in himself: I will not go down either for food or for drink until the Lord my God shall look upon me, and prayer shall be my food and drink.

2. And his wife Anna mourned in two mournings, and lamented in two lamentations, saying: I shall bewail my widowhood; I shall bewail my childlessness. And the great day of the Lord was at hand; and Judith her maid-servant said: How long dost thou humiliate thy soul? Behold, the great day of the Lord is at hand, and it is unlawful for thee to mourn. But take this head-band, which the woman that made it gave to me; for it is not proper that I should wear it, because I am a maid-servant, and it has a royal appearance. And Anna said: Depart from me; for I have not done such things, and the Lord has brought me very low. I fear that some wicked person has given it to thee, and thou hast come to make me a sharer in thy sin. And Judith said: Why should I curse thee, seeing that the Lord hath shut thy womb, so as not to give thee fruit in Israel? And Anna was grieved exceedingly, and put off her garments of mourning, and cleaned her head, and put on her wedding garments, and about the ninth hour went down to the garden to walk. And she saw a laurel, and sat under it, and prayed to the Lord, saying: O God of our fathers, bless me and hear my prayer, as Thou didst bless the womb of Sarah, and didst give her a son Isaac.

3. And gazing towards the heaven, she saw a sparrow's nest in the laurel, and made a lamentation in herself, saying: Alas! who begot me? and what womb produced me? because I have become a curse in the presence of the sons of Israel, and I have been reproached, and they have driven me in derision out of the temple of the Lord. Alas! to what have I been likened? I am not like the fowls of the heaven, because even the fowls of the heaven are productive before Thee, O Lord. Alas! to what have I been likened? I am not like the beasts of the earth, because even the beasts of the earth are productive before Thee, O Lord. Alas! to what have I been likened? I am not like these waters, because even these waters are productive before Thee, O Lord. Alas! to what have I been likened? I am not like this earth, because even the earth bringeth forth its fruits in season, and blesseth Thee, O Lord.

4. And, behold, an angel of the Lord stood by, saying: Anna, Anna, the Lord hath heard thy prayer, and thou shalt conceive, and shall bring forth; and thy seed shall be spoken of in all the world. And Anna said: As the Lord my God liveth, if I beget either male or female, I will bring it as a gift to the Lord my God; and it shall minister to Him in holy things all the days of its life. And, behold, two angels came, saying to her: Behold, Joachim thy husband is coming with his flocks. For an angel of the Lord went down to him, saying: Joachim, Joachim, the Lord God hath heard thy prayer Go down hence; for, behold, thy wife Anna shall conceive. And Joachim went down and called his shepherds, saying: Bring me hither ten she-lambs without spot or blemish, and they shall be for the Lord my God; and bring me twelve tender calves, and they shall be for the priests and the elders; and a hundred goats for all the people. And, behold, Joachim came with his flocks; and Anna stood by the gate, and saw Joachim coming, and she ran anti hung upon his neck, saying: Now I know that the Lord God hath blessed me exceedingly; for, behold the widow no longer a widow, and I the childless shall conceive. And Joachim rested the first day in his house.

5. And on the following day he brought his offerings, saying in himself: If the Lord God has been rendered gracious to me, the plate on the priest's forehead will make it manifest to me. And Joachim brought his offerings, and observed attentively the priest's plate when he went up to the altar of the Lord, and he saw no sin in himself. And Joachim said: Now I know that the Lord has been gracious unto me, and has remitted all my sins. And he went down from the temple of the Lord justified, and departed to his own house. And her months were fulfilled, and in the ninth month Anna brought forth. And she said to the midwife: What have I brought forth? and she said: A girl. And said Anna: My soul has been magnified this day. And she laid her down. And the days having been fulfilled, Anna was purified, and gave the breast to the child, and called her name Mary.

6. And the child grew strong day by day; and when she was six months old, her mother set her on the ground to try whether she could stand, and she walked seven steps and came into her bosom; and she snatched her up, saying: As the Lord my God liveth, thou shall not walk on this earth until I bring thee into the temple of the Lord. And she made a sanctuary in her bed-chamber, and allowed nothing common or unclean to pass through her. And she called the undefiled daughters of the Hebrews, and they led her astray. And when she was a year old, Joachim made a great feast, and invited the priests, and the scribes, and the elders, and all the people of Israel. And Joachim brought the child to the priests; and they blessed her, saying: O God of our fathers, bless this child, and give her an everlasting name to be named in all generations. And all the people said: So be it, so be it, amen. And he brought her to the chief priests; and they blessed her, saying: O God most high, look upon this child, and bless her with the utmost blessing, which shall be for ever. And her mother snatched her up, and took her into the sanctuary of her bed-chamber, and gave her the breast. And Anna made a song to the Lord God, saying: I will sing a song to the Lord my God, for He hath looked upon me, and hath taken away the reproach of mine enemies; and the Lord hath given the the fruit of His righteousness, singular in its kind, and richly endowed before Him. Who will tell the sons of Rubim that Anna gives suck? Hear, hear, ye twelve tribes of Israel, that Anna gives suck. And she laid her to rest in the bed-chamber of her sanctuary, and went out and ministered unto them. And when the supper was ended, they went down rejoicing, and glorifying the God of Israel.

7. And her months were added to the child. And the child was two years old, and Joachim said: Let us take her up to the temple of the Lord, that we may pay the vow that we have vowed, lest perchance the Lord send to us, and our offering be not received. And Anna said: Let us wait for the third year, in order that the child may not seek for father or mother. And Joachim said: So let us wait. And the child was three years old, and Joachim said: Invite the daughters of the Hebrews that are undefiled, and let them take each a lamp, and let them stand with the lamps burning, that the child may not turn back, and her heart be captivated from the temple of the Lord. And they did so until they went up into the temple of the Lord. And the priest received her, and kissed her, and blessed her, saying: The Lord has magnified thy name in all generations. In thee, on the last of the days, the Lord will manifest His redemption to the sons of Israel. And he set her down upon the third step of the altar, and the Lord God sent grace upon her; and she danced with her feet, and all the house of Israel loved her.

8. And her parents went down marvelling, and praising the Lord God, because the child had not turned back. And Mary was in the temple of the Lord as if she were a dove that dwelt there, and she received food from the hand of an angel. And when she was twelve years old there was held a council of the priests, saying: Behold, Mary has reached the age of twelve years in the temple of the Lord. What then shall we do with her, test perchance she defile the sanctuary of the Lord? And they said to the high priest: Thou standest by the altar of the Lord; go in, and pray concerning her; and whatever the Lord shall manifest unto thee, that also will we do. And the high priest went in, taking the robe with the twelve bells into the holy of holies; and he prayed concerning her. And behold an angel of the Lord stood by him, saying unto him: Zacharias, Zacharias, go out and assemble the widowers of the people, and let them bring each his rod; and to whomsoever the Lord shall show a sign, his wife shall she be. And the heralds went out through all the circuit of Judaea, and the trumpet of the Lord sounded, and all ran.

9. And Joseph, throwing away his axe, went out to meet them; and when they had assembled, they went away to the high priest, taking with them their rods. And he, taking the rods of all of them, entered into the temple, and prayed; and having ended his prayer, he took the rods and came out, and gave them to them: but there was no sign in them, and Joseph took his rod last; and, behold, a dove came out of the rod, and flew upon Joseph's head. And the priest said to Joseph, Thou hast been chosen by lot to take into thy keeping the virgin of the Lord. But Joseph refused, saying: I have children, and I am an old man, and she is a young girl. I am afraid lest I become a laughing-stock to the sons of Israel. And the priest said to Joseph: Fear the Lord thy God, and remember what the Lord did to Dathan, and Abiram, and Korah; how the earth opened, and they were swallowed up on account of their contradiction. And now fear, O Joseph, lest the same things happen in thy house. And Joseph was afraid, and took her into his keeping. And Joseph said to Mary: Behold, I have received thee from the temple of the Lord; and now I leave thee in my house, and go away to build my buildings, and I shall come to thee. The Lord will protect thee.

10. And there was a council of the priests, saying: Let us make a veil for the temple of the Lord. And the priest said: Call to me the undefiled virgins of the family of David. And the officers went away, and sought, and found seven virgins. And the priest remembered the child Mary, that she was of the family of David, and undefiled before God. And the officers went away and brought her. And they brought them into the temple of the Lord. And the priest said: Choose for me by lot who shall spin the gold, and the white, and the fine linen, and the silk, and the blue, and the scarlet, and the true purple. And the true purple and the scarlet fell to the lot of Mary, and she took them, and went away to her house. And at that time Zacharias was dumb, and Samuel was in his place until the time that Zacharias spake. And Mary took the scarlet, and span it.

11. And she took the pitcher, and went out to fill it with water. And, behold, a voice saying: Hail, thou who hast received grace; the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women! And she looked round, on the right hand and on the left, to see whence this voice came. And she went away, trembling, to her house, and put down the pitcher; and taking the purple, she sat down on her seat, and drew it out. And, behold, an angel of the Lord stood before her, saying: Fear not, Mary; for thou hast found grace before the Lord of all, and thou shalt conceive, according to His word. And she hearing, reasoned with herself, saying: Shall I conceive by the Lord, the living God? and shall I bring forth as every woman brings forth? And the angel of the Lord said: Not so, Mary; for the power of the Lord shall overshadow thee: wherefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of the Most High. And thou shalt call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins. And Mary said: Behold, the servant of the Lord before His face: let it be unto me according to thy word.

12. And she made the purple and the scarlet, and took them to the priest. And the priest blessed her, and said: Mary, the Lord God hath magnified thy name, and thou shall be blessed in all the generations of the earth. And Mary, with great joy, went away to Elizabeth her kinswoman, and knocked at the door. And when Elizabeth heard her, she threw away the scarlet, and ran to the door, and opened it; and seeing Mary, she blessed her, and said: Whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? for, behold, that which is in me leaped and blessed thee. But Mary had forgotten the mysteries of which the archangel Gabriel had spoken, and gazed up into heaven, and said: Who am I, O Lord, that all the generations of the earth should bless me? And she remained three months with Elizabeth; and day by day she grew bigger. And Mary being afraid, went away to her own house, and hid herself from the sons of Israel. And she was sixteen years old when these mysteries happened.

13. And she was in her sixth month; and, behold, Joseph came back from his building, and, entering into his house, he discovered that she was big with child. And he smote his face, and threw himself on the ground upon the sackcloth, and wept bitterly, saying: With what face shall I look upon the Lord my God? and what prayer shall I make about this maiden? because I received her a virgin out of the temple of the Lord, and I have not watched over her. Who is it that has hunted me down? Who has done this evil thing in my house, and defiled the virgin? Has not the history of Adam been repeated in me? For just as Adam was in the hour of his singing praise, and the serpent came, and found Eve alone, and completely deceived her, so it has happened to me also. And Joseph stood up from the sackcloth, and called Mary, and said to her: O thou who hast been cared for by God, why hast thou done this and forgotten the Lord thy God? Why hast thou brought low thy soul, thou that wast brought up in the holy of holies, and that didst receive food from the hand of an angel? And she wept bitterly, saying: I am innocent, and have known no man. And Joseph said to her: Whence then is that which is in thy womb? And she said: As the Lord my God liveth, I do not know whence it is to me.

14. And Joseph was greatly afraid, and retired from her, and considered what he should do in regard to her. And Joseph said: If I conceal her sin, I find myself fighting against the law of the Lord; and if I expose her to the sons of Israel, I am afraid lest that which is in her be from an angel, and I shall be found giving up innocent blood to the doom of death. What then shall I do with her? I will put her away from me secretly. And night came upon him; and, behold, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, saying: Be not afraid for this maiden, for that which is in her is of the Holy Spirit; and she will bring forth a Son, and thou shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. And Joseph arose from sleep, and glorified the God of Israel, who had given him this grace; and he kept her.

15. And Annas the scribe came to him, and said: Why hast thou not appeared in our assembly? And Joseph said to him: Because I was weary from my journey, and rested the first day. And he turned, and saw that Mary was with child. And he ran away to the priest? and said to him: Joseph, whom thou didst vouch for, has committed a grievous crime. And the priest said: How so? And he said: He has defiled the virgin whom he received out of the temple of the Lord, and has married her by stealth, and has not revealed it to the sons of Israel. And the priest answering, said: Has Joseph done this? Then said Annas the scribe: Send officers, and thou wilt find the virgin with child. And the officers went away, and found it as he had said; and they brought her along with Joseph to the tribunal. And the priest said: Mary, why hast thou done this? and why hast thou brought thy soul low, and forgotten the Lord thy God? Thou that wast reared in the holy of holies, and that didst receive food from the hand of an angel, and didst hear the hymns, and didst dance before Him, why hast thou done this? And she wept bitterly, saying: As the Lord my God liveth, I am pure before Him, and know not a man. And the priest said to Joseph: Why hast thou done this? And Joseph said: As the Lord liveth, I am pure concerning her. Then said the priest: Bear not false witness, but speak the truth. Thou hast married her by stealth, and hast not revealed it to the sons of Israel, and hast not bowed thy head under the strong hand, that thy seed might be blessed. And Joseph was silent.

16. And the priest said: Give up the virgin whom thou didst receive out of the temple of the Lord. And Joseph burst into tears. And the priest said: I will give you to drink of the water of the ordeal of the Lord, and He shall make manifest your sins in your eyes. And the priest took the water, and gave Joseph to drink and sent him away to the hill-country; and he returned unhurt. And he gave to Mary also to drink, and sent her away to the hill-country; and she returned unhurt. And all the people wondered that sin did not appear in them. And the priest said: If the Lord God has not made manifest your sins, neither do I judge you. And he sent them away. And Joseph took Mary, and went away to his own house, rejoicing and glorifying the God of Israel.

17. And there was an order from the Emperor Augustus, that all in Bethlehem of Judaea should be enrolled. And Joseph said: I shall enrol my sons, but what shall I do with this maiden? How shall I enrol her? As my wife? I am ashamed. As my daughter then? But all the sons of Israel know that she is not my daughter. The day of the Lord shall itself bring it to pass as the Lord will. And he saddled the ass, and set her upon it; and his son led it, and Joseph followed. And when they had come within three miles, Joseph turned and saw her sorrowful; and he said to himself: Likely that which is in her distresses her. And again Joseph turned and saw her laughing. And he said to her: Mary, how is it that I see in thy face at one time laughter, at another sorrow? And Mary said to Joseph: Because I see two peoples with my eyes; the one weeping and lamenting, and the other rejoicing and exulting. And they came into the middle of the road, and Mary said to him: Take me down from off the ass, for that which is in me presses to come forth. And he took her down from off the ass, and said to her: Whither shall I lead thee, and cover thy disgrace? for the place is desert.

18. And he found a cave there, and led her into it; and leaving his two sons beside her, he went out to seek a widwife in the district of Bethlehem. And I Joseph was walking, and was not walking; and I looked up into the sky, and saw the sky astonished; and I looked up to the pole of the heavens, and saw it standing, and the birds of the air keeping still. And I looked down upon the earth, and saw a trough lying, and work-people reclining: and their hands were in the trough. And those that were eating did not eat, and those that were rising did not carry it up, and those that were conveying anything to their mouths did not convey it; but the faces of all were looking upwards. And I saw the sheep walking, and the sheep stood still; and the shepherd raised his hand to strike them, and his hand remained up. And I looked upon the current of the river, and I saw the mouths of the kids resting on the water and not drinking, and all things in a moment were driven from their course.

19. And I saw a woman coming down from the hill-country, and she said to me: O man, whither art thou going? And I said: I am seeking an Hebrew midwife. And she answered and said unto me: Art thou of Israel? And I said to her: Yes. And she said: And who is it that is bringing forth in the cave? And I said: A woman betrothed to me. And she said to me: Is she not thy wife? And I said to her: It is Mary that was reared in the temple of the Lord, and I obtained her by lot as my wife. And yet she is not my wife, but has conceived of the Holy Spirit. And the widwife said to him: Is this true? And Joseph said to her: Come and see. And the midwife went away with him. And they stood in the place of the cave, and behold a luminous cloud overshadowed the cave. And the midwife said: My soul has been magnified this day, because mine eyes have seen strange things -- because salvation has been brought forth to Israel. And immediately the cloud disappeared out of the cave, and a great light shone in the cave, so that the eyes could not bear it. And in a little that light gradually decreased, until the infant appeared, and went and took the breast from His mother Mary. And the midwife cried out, and said: This is a great day to me, because I have seen this strange sight. And the midwife went forth out of the cave, and Salome met her. And she said to her: Salome, Salome, I have a strange sight to relate to thee: a virgin has brought forth -- a thing which her nature admits not of. Then said Salome: As the Lord my God liveth, unless I thrust in my finger, and search the parts, I will not believe that a virgin has brought forth.

20. And the midwife went in, and said to Mary: Show thyself; for no small controversy has arisen about thee. And Salome put in her finger, and cried out, and said: Woe is me for mine iniquity and mine unbelief, because I have tempted the living God; and, behold, my hand is dropping off as if burned with fire. And she bent her knees before the Lord, saying: O God of my fathers, remember that I am the seed of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob; do not make a show of me to the sons of Israel, but restore me to the poor; for Thou knowest, O Lord, that in Thy name I have performed my services, and that I have received my reward at Thy hand. And, behold, an angel of the Lord stood by her, saying to her: Salome, Salome, the Lord hath heard thee. Put thy hand to the infant, and carry it, and thou wilt have safety and joy. And Salome went and carried it, saying: I will worship Him, because a great King has been born to Israel. And, behold, Salome was immediately cured, and she went forth out of the cave justified. And behold a voice saying: Salome, Salome, tell not the strange things thou hast seen, until the child has come into Jerusalem.

21. And, behold, Joseph was ready to go into Judaea. And there was a great commotion in Bethlehem of Judaea, for Magi came, saying: Where is he that is born king of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him. And when Herod heard, he was much disturbed, and sent officers to the Magi. And he sent for the priests, and examined them, saying: How is it written about the Christ? where is He to be born? And they said: In Bethlehem of Judaea, for so it is written. And he sent them away. And he examined the Magi, saying to them: What sign have you seen in reference to the king that has been born? And the Magi said: We have seen a star of great size shining among these stars, and obscuring their light, so that the stars did not appear; and we thus knew that a king has been born to Israel, and we have come to worship him. And Herod said: Go and seek him; and if you find him, let me know, in order that I also may go and worship him. And the Magi went out. And, behold, the star which they had seen in the east went before them until they came to the cave, and it stood over the top of the cave. And the Magi saw the infant with His mother Mary; and they brought forth from their bag gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned by the angel not to go into Judaea, they went into their own country by another road.

22. And when Herod knew that he had been mocked by the Magi, in a rage he sent murderers, saying to them: Slay the children from two years old and under. And Mary, having heard that the children were being killed, was afraid, and took the infant and swaddled Him, and put Him into an ox-stall. And Elizabeth, having heard that they were searching for John, took him and went up into the hill-country, and kept looking where to conceal him. And there was no place of concealment. And Elizabeth, groaning with a loud voice, says: O mountain of God, receive mother and child. And immediately the mountain was cleft, and received her. And a light shone about them, for an angel of the Lord was with them, watching over them.

23. And Herod searched for John, and sent officers to Zacharias, saying: Where hast thou hid thy son? And he, answering, said to them: I am the servant of God in holy things, and I sit constantly in the temple of the Lord: I do not know where my son is. And the officers went away, and reported all these things to Herod. And Herod was enraged, and said: His son is destined to be king over Israel. And he sent to him again, saying: Tell the truth; where is thy son? for thou knowest that thy life is in my hand. And Zacharias said: I am God's martyr, if thou sheddest my blood; for the Lord will receive my spirit, because thou sheddest innocent blood at the vestibule of the temple of the Lord. And Zacharias was murdered about daybreak. And the sons of Israel did not know that he had been murdered.

24. But at the hour of the salutation the priests went away, and Zacharias did not come forth to meet them with a blessing, according to his custom. And the priests stood waiting for Zacharias to salute him at the prayer, and to glorify the Most High. And he still delaying, they were all afraid. But one of them ventured to go in, and he saw clotted blood beside the altar; and he heard a voice saying: Zacharias has been murdered, and his blood shall not be wiped up until his avenger come. And hearing this saying, he was afraid, and went out and told it to the priests. And they ventured in, and saw what had happened; and the fretwork of the temple made a wailing noise, and they rent their clothes from the top even to the bottom. And they found not his body, but they found his blood turned into stone. And they were afraid, and went out and reported to the people that Zacharias had been murdered. And all the tribes of the people heard, and mourned, and lamented for him three days and three nights. And after the three days, the priests consulted as to whom they should put in his place; and the lot fell upon Simeon. For it was he who had been warned by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death until he should see the Christ in the flesh.

And I James that wrote this history in Jerusalem, a commotion having arisen when Herod died, withdrew myself to the wilderness until the commotion in Jerusalem ceased, glorifying the Lord God, who had given me the gift and the wisdom to write this history. And grace shall be with them that fear our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory to ages of ages. Amen.

James Clavell's "Asian Saga" Book Reviews

I am reading James Clavell's Asian Saga currently. I started with Shōgun and am currently reading Gai-Jin. I understand that his books received critical acclaim and Shogun was even turned in to a mini-series.

While he may be a great story-teller (although all his stories are based on actual events of actual people with the names and some details changed), I would not call him a great writer nor his editor a great editor. I have found many spelling, grammatical, and factual mistakes. Yes, this is historical fiction, but putting things in the wrong time period is uncalled for in my opinion.

The use of 70's slang in books written about centuries before hurts the book, and the lack of knowledge of facts about some things hurts. Mr. Clavell seems obsessed with unneeded (IMO) sexual detail, and sometimes it make3s you think that these books are fantasies of how he wished his life had happened.

Shogun was full of so many unnecessary details and then just ended, summarizing what happened over the next few years. It is almost as if he just ran out of gas because he gave so much detail up to this point, that he just quit.

Thankfully, more details are filled in as one reads the further books of the saga, and for this, I am thankful.

That said, I still enjoy the books. I only wish his editor was more diligent and it would make these books much more enjoyable.

Déjà Vu: My wife saved my daughter's and my life this weekend!

I have always had deja vu. I will be experiencing some mundane moment and will know exactly what will happen next, because I have dreamed it before. My daughter has inherited the same ability. Likewise, my wife has had this. First time was in Pueblo, Colorado when she saw a giant drainage ditch for the Arkansas River runoff. She had dreamed of this as a child. The second time she has experienced this in America, was this weekend when I was taking Raven to Wal-Mart. There was a whole 3-way conversation that happened exactly as she had dreamt of it long ago. Except in her dream Raven and I left and never made it back, so she insisted on going with us to ensure it did not end as in her dream. Well she went with us, and we made it back, so possibly she saved our lives!

HOW-TO: Localized (or Localised) Google Updater

Of course I have the Google Pack, which uses Google Updater. I have installed everything save for Google Earth and gTalk, as I only use Google Maps and Pidgin for those protocols. Well for fun I changed the language on the Google Pack page from English to Chinese and found that I could get some other new software including WPS Office, 谷歌拼音输入法, 谷歌金山词霸合作版, and 傲游浏览器 2. I highly recommend trying this out, especially if you want some great freeware in another language!

Welcome to the Social Revolution

This is why Social Networking, especially China's Q'Zone is the biggest shift in Communication since the Industrial Revolution. This is why companies like Krilix will be the future of Advertising & Marketing 2.0.

Busy Days!

Yesterday I deleted http://orthodox.blogspot.com - the original address of this blog (Orthodox Ecclesiology... and Insane Ramblings) that I had received from Justin Kissel after he abandoned the domain. It became my blog on Ubuntu and Yellow Dog Linux on Apple eMacs, iBooks, PowerBook G4s, etc. But now my Macs are all dead (save for an old G1 PowerBook that runs Mac OS 9 & YDL 3) and I exclusively use a Lenovo IdeaPad S10-2 netbook. So now it is time for someone else to claim this domain for their own.

My wife comes to America in just 9 more days. So today I am doing a thorough cleaning of my house. Today is also laundry day, so busy, busy, busy!

Speaking of my wife, today I video chatted with her and her elder and twin sister on QQ. Then I cleaned the kitchen wall watching Star Trek: Generations. I m taking a break right now, I will post this then move on to my room and the bathroom. FUN!

My Fei in GuangZhou, Courtesy of Lonnie B. Hodge of Pueblo

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Back home!

I am back from China and thankfully Fei should be following me withing a few to several months. So although I enjoy every trip to China that I have made since 2007, I probably will not be back until Fei and I return with our future child, most likely in 2011. So far, we know if our child is a girl that her name will be Margaret (Maggie) with a Chinese middle name chosen by her parents, but we have not decided on a boy's name. All her family and much of my family would like for us to have a boy, but Fei would prefer a girl. I am good either way, but a girl would be more convenient since we have a name picked out. I had this same conundrum when Raven was born, no boy name picked out, so thankfully she was a girl!

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Furniture Row Beds and Linens

You know what I think would look pretty fantastic? The CHICAGO Bed from BEDROOM EXPRESSIONS with Sky Blue Bamboo Sheets from DENVER MATTRESS and the RIO GRANDE Bedding Bag Set from BEDROOM EXPRESSIONS. Of course you would want to combine that with a HIBERNATION Soft-Side mattress set or the new MUZIC BED from DENVER MATTRESS, but what a fabulous combination that would be!

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HOW-TO: QQ Codes

I use QQ through Adium on Mac OS X currently and it tells me all the animated gif codes. Just in case you do not know the codes, here are a few:

/zj is a waving goodbye
/bb is a steaming pile of crap
/tx is laughing with the hand in front of the teeth
/dk is crying
/qiang is thumbs up
/ruo is thumbs down
/xs is a breaking heart
/xin is a beating heart
/wen is kissing lips
/aiq is 2 penguins in love
/yb is a hug
/bei is a stiff drink
/xy is rainclouds
/ty is a shining sun
/lh is embarrassment
/mg is a red rose
/lw is a wrapped gift box
/dg is a birthday cake
/fw is a penguin in love

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