Click on this link and listen to it. It is approximately 50 minutes long. After listening to it, explain how the presentation is structured as an argument. In some arguments, the author's goal is to get someone to do something. What is he trying to get his audience to do? After completing that portion of the blog, list 3 things that you consider talents given to you from God.
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/810680/lh17-6_gangland_to_promised_land.mp3
This blog was easily the most powerful thing that I have ever heard in my entire life. To be able to transform from a life of worshiping the false gods of fame and wealth to worshiping a God who is almighty and loving is incredible.
ReplyDeleteJohn Pridmore structured his speech as an argument by providing examples as to how someone as broken as he was being able to make amends and become one with Christ. Many in this world believe that if you are a sinner, there is no chance in this life that you will be saved, so why believe? This is the exact point that John was trying to prove. Not only by displaying examples from his past as a drug lord and underworld leader, but by telling the stories of others who had faced the same problems as he had. I am I firm believer in the fact that anyone can be saved by the catholic religion regardless of what their past or future holds or of how old they are. I have seen an example of this within the past year.
I, myself, was not always catholic. I was born a Protestant. I only attended church on Christmas and I knew very little about my faith. Last year, I converted to the catholic faith at Easter vigil and I cannot say enough how amazing the effects of my conversion have been on me. More amazingly, however, is the story of my father.
When my father was growing up, actually it was more likely until two years ago, he hated the catholic religion. He hated the idea that if you did anything wrong you were automatically going to be sent to Hell (he wasn't completely educated). So, he made fun of the faith and told his students that he was Jewish (I have no idea how that came to be). When the world kind of collapsed two years ago, he went to our old church, trying to find his faith there and failing due to an ignorant pastor. My confirmation sponsor and close family friend then addressed him, advising him to attend on mass in the Catholic Church.
We have been there every Sunday for almost two years now, and this weekend will be the one year anniversary of his confirmation and my first holy communion.
The main objective of this speech was to convince people to attend confession and get rid of our sins. I believe that confession is one of the most purifying things in the entire world, mostly because every time I begin, I start freaking out. I will begin to lose track of my sins and wonder if the priest is judging me, which causes a brief moment of doubt that I will be forgiven. However, once I go through it I realize that this is me displaying my problems and bad objectives to Jesus, who is there to forgive me. I always feel so much better when I complete this task.
In conclusion, I think that there is something very special about becoming catholic when you understand what you are going through. When I was first considering transferring ECC, I read a bible verse that stated: Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways. I believe that things are interconnected because that bible verse led me to this school, which led me to my faith. This speech was powerful and helped me realize that it doesn't matter when you believe in God, just that in the end of the day you do.
Jenna, the story of you and your family is truely amazing. Just as John had a bible verse that related to his life, you also have one too. I think that you would make a really good speaker to teens who need God in their life and want to become catholic. You would be so good at it especially with your story. I agree with you in saying that this was the most powerful thing
DeleteYou have every listened to. I will be talking about it all break and then some. It honestly is just a great feeling to know that you are always loved by God no matter what.
DeleteWhen you stated that your father used to think of the Catholic Church as a place of condemnation and judgment due to his lack of knowledge, I couldn't help but think of all of the individuals who feel that way about the Catholic Church. So many people think of Catholics as people who sit back on their throne of perfection and judge all of those who sin. But that always makes me think - why is that? Shouldn't the Catholic Church be one of loving and welcoming? Instead, many people choose to turn away from the Catholic Church because they feel that they cannot live up to our standards. It is our duty as Catholics to humbly welcome others into our church, and to introduce them to the divine mercy of Christ so graciously given to us. We must show them that we are indeed sinners, but that we believe in the forgiveness of sins. The Catholic Church is far from perfect, but it is a place where one should be able to come in times of desperation and sin.
DeleteOh, and for my three talents I believe were given to me by God, I am making a list.
ReplyDeleteI believe my since of humor is a talent in many ways. I get myself through the day simply by being able to laugh at my problems and trying to make the most out of them. I also think that nothing is better in this world than making someone else smile when they are having a rough day. Even if they do not laugh at my jokes, I know I am funny and I can laugh at myself.
I think that my open-mindedness is a talent too, simply because it gives me the ability to not be confined to one way of thinking and I can look to experience all that this world has to offer, as well as love the way that God loved the world and all of its people.
I also believe that my ability to be good with children is not only a talent, but a miracle. I am afraid of about ten things and one of the top five includes children. I have no idea why, but I do like how they are when they are well behaved and not throwing things and I find it fun to talk to naive minds to see what they think.
God really comes around at times and brings people back to reality. Conversion stories are really fun to listen to and even though some signs are not as strong or nice as others, God does tell us what we need to do. I know the thing that happened to your family a few years ago was not a good situation at all, but it happened and you made the best out of it. With the help of Cindy, your family found God. That is awesome! Also, a sense of humor is very important. You need to be able to laugh at your mistakes, pick yourself up, then start again.
DeleteJenna, I am rather terrified of children as well. One of my earliest memories was at my cousins house. I had a chemistry set because I was a nerd even when I was young. I had a beaker of liquid carbon because liquid carbon does some pretty cool stuff. Anyway, one of my cousins took pool chlorine (Ca(ClO)2) and dumped it into the beaker. This caused a chemical reaction which created phosgene (COCl2). Phosgene is a very poisonous gas, and we managed to create it as little children. Anyway, we had to evacuate the garage, and ever since then, I've hated how children don't know what they're doing. And, I just struggle around children. So I am rather jealous of your talent, and I hope to one day develop an understanding and love for children.
DeleteTalk about a moving argument. John Pridmore brought me to tears and gave me the chills more than ten times. Listening to this before Easter really made an impact and truly will make this Easter different than the last.
ReplyDeleteJohn wanted to make his argument personal to his audience, he told of many stories from his own life and from others who made an impact on his life. He wanted people to know that no matter what you did in your life to stray away from God, he will always take you back and forgive you for the sins you committed no matter what. A way to back up his argument was the use of all the personal stories. This showed his audience that it is possible to become connected with God all over again. He wanted them to feel no doubt that anyone was every denied from being with God again.
John Pridmore talks to many audiences acrossed the glob, and in everyone he made a huge impact on at least one person there. He not only impacted other lives, but his own because he witnessed first hand that what he brought out to others was given in return to him with an overflowing love from God. My favorite part was when he talked about being in confession for over an hour because of how sorry he was for all the sins he committed. For me, going to confession always gets me very nervous and yet every time I leave I fell better and better. Not only because I am forgiven of my sins but I am brought back to God after my sins put the barrier between us.
Everyone always says God gave you talents which differ from others. These talents can not always be shown in a talent show, but sometimes they can be shown with others. I believe that I have the talent of working well and comforting others. When my dad got diagnosed with Brian Cancer, I not only wanted to help him, but help everyone fighting the disease. I was almost 15 at the time and I had no idea how to anything to help. Then I found Relay for life. The first year I did it my mom helped me with everything. I was their youngest team caption for any relay for life team they have ever heard of. That year I raised 2,000 dollars with the help from family and friends. I have the gift of singing too and I got asked to sing the national anthem that year at the opening ceremony. I didn't even make it passed the first line of words before I looked at all the people and cried. Not only did I help them finish the fight, but they helped me finish the national anthem. This was the moment that made me become closer to God. How? I have no idea but it did.
I beleive my other talent is being good with kids. I love babysitting becuase it means that the parents trust me with the lives of thier kids and it makes me feel wonderful inside.
The idea that I'm good with kids allows me to patient with them which is another talent from God becuase without that, I would not be good with childern.
John Pridmore is one of the best speakers I have every listened to about our faith. Why can't he come talk to our school. It would make a huge difference on so many people.
Words are so powerful! It really is amazing! I feel as if the kids at our school would have a closed mind about a speaker like Pridmore, but in the end he would move everyone in one way or another. It is unbelievable how one person can give a speech that is so interesting and inspirational. Your national anthem story is so sweet! It really is a talent in itself that you could get a team together at your age, and it probably is very nice doing the relay for life because other people are there to help you that are going through the same struggles. As we heard in this speech, everyone has their own struggles and your goodness depends on how you handle them or how you turn around if you are doing the wrong things.
DeleteMaddi, I think that it is so cool how you helped your family with the relay for life. It is so i powering to know that someone out age has tried to help people fight for something that many lose hope over.
DeleteI also agree that we need to have John come to our school. I know plenty of people at our school who believe that they have sinned too many times that God could never forgive them. When we went to confirmation, I realized that over half of our class didn't even attempt to go to confession. I feel that if John would come to our school and speak, he would change the lives of so many individuals.
Maddie, I believe that awful things happen with good intentions, if that makes sense. What happened to your father was awful and I cannot tell you enough how inspirational you are for keeping a smile on your face throughout the entire battle. If your father would have never gotten cancer, you would most likely not be making the incredible impact you have with Relay For Life. Everything truly happens for a reason. I am a huge advocate for God's plan and I believe that this was his plan for you. I also agree with you about your favorite part in this speech. Confession is a blessing and to be able to feel relieved of your sins is an incredible feeling and I can only imagine how he felt when he completed his confession. This was so powerful and I am going to remember this for my entire life.
DeleteThat was by far the most beautiful and inspiring speech I have ever listened to. When my mom had her foot injury, I had to listen to so many of those CDs with her, but I have never heard this one and it changed the way I think about Jesus' death. The cross that he had to carry and the pain he suffered happened because of us, and I never wrapped my mind around that until I listened to John Pridmore's stories. Also, he had a very awesome accent!
ReplyDeletePridmore's speech is structured around real and personal stories of his. These stories are not sugar coated in any way, but it comes back in the end when he hits in the purpose of every story. In the end, he explains the importance of confession and also notes that we must always stand up for what is right while forgiving and loving ourselves the way that God does. Not only do we want to be saints, but great saints. Another important point Pridmore made was about happiness and how it comes from God saying "come in my good and faithful servant" not earthly materials. He had so many purposes to his speech, but I think the most important part of this was when he said that the sins we have committed so far are nothing compared to how we can live the rest of our lives.
Talents are great, but it is often hard to praise ourselves for what we can do well. As Pridmore mentioned, we need to learn to see, love, forgive, and accept ourselves as God does, and God wants us to share our talents. One talent I have is that I do not procrastinate. This is very important because I learn to put the work first so that I do not have to worry anymore. When I am carefree, I can have a lot more fun. Second, I am good at playing the piano. I taught myself how to play the violin and I am learning the guitar a little bit at a time as well. Music is a lot of fun and it is really useful. I play the piano for a lot of different reasons, but I feel bad because I did not use my talent when the Lutheran church asked me to play for them every week. I was afraid that they would convert me. Finally, I am good at talking to and hanging out with people of all ages. I love elderly people and I always thought that I would want to work with them if they would not die after I became their friends. I talked to my mom's friend in a wheelchair and another atheist lady the other day when my mom asked me to and I carried out a wonderful conversation with them. Also, my friends are all lovely and we have fun together, but I also can have fun with my sophomore and freshmen friends. The little kids I play with are usually my cousins. Two of them came to play with me today(they are 7 and 4), one asked me to decorate Easter eggs( she is about 10), and now I am sleeping over at my grandmas with my seventh grade cousin.
People are great, and even though some are awful does not mean that they will not turn around. If John Pridmore can turn his life around, anybody can.
Grace, I thought it was the best speech I have listened to also, I bet many of us could agree with that. It would be hard to find one that toped it, many a different one of his speeches does. I would love to listen to more of them honestly. Your talents of being able to play a musical instrument is amazing and one I wish I would have. I tired to learn guitar once, but I quit becuase I didn't have big enough hands. I used to play the flute but then I couldn't read music so I just made up songs and my band teacher got really mad at me. So I don't play that anymore either. What I need to learn from you is that you do not procrastinate because I am terrible at that sometimes. I seem to have no motivation at least once a week. This really kicks me in the but and makes everything harder on me.
DeleteLike both of you, I also bought that his speech was the most inspiring thing that I have ever listened to. I always use to be ashamed of myself when going into confession because I knew of the sins at I had committed. I always thought that God had hated me for my sins but since then, I realized that He doesn't. Listening to John today reminded me that God will always forgive me for whatever I have done as long as I am willing to confess my sins.
DeleteGrace, playing the piano is an amazing talent. I used to play when I was younger and I wish I would have stuck with it. Not many people are able to play the piano well and you should share this talent to let others hear you. I also agree that you can get along with anyone no matter the age, and that is something unique in itself. As you grow older you will find that this talent will enable you to go far because you will impress people by your social abilities, another talent not many have.
DeleteGrace, your comment about the Lutheran church converting you literally made my laugh out loud. You are always so good about not procrastinating. And while we are similar in a lot of ways, this is one where we are very different. I tend to wait until the last second to do things. This is something I wish I could change about myself and it creates a lot of stress. Also, much like you, I have heard a lot of tapes like these but this was by far the best I have heard.
DeleteI agree that Pridmore's speech was great and very inspiring. I think that it is great that he is able to inspire people like that. I can't say that I have heard a lot of tapes about this kind of stuff, but I am certainly glad I listened to this one. I think that being able to talking to people of all ages is a great talent. Sometimes, I think it can be hard relating to people of different ages, and not everyone has the ability to blend with them like you do. I think that is a really unique talent.
DeleteUsually, I would not listen to the entire podcast, but within the first several minutes I knew I had to listen to the whole podcast. I'm glad that I did listen to this podcast, especially before Easter, because it gave me a new appreciation for my faith. Pridmore's message was so relatable to me, there are so many things that I struggle with in my life, much like Pridmore. It gives me hope that if Pridmore can fall into God's grace and turn his life around, than I can fix these things in my life to be the person I want to be. I found this podcast so inspiring because Pridmore was able to hit all the important things that teenagers are able to relate to their own lives. For example, he was able to talk about his relationship with his parents and how he felt out of touch with him. As a teenager, I was are able to put this into perspective into my own life and this was one of the more touching messages of this podcast.
ReplyDeleteThrough his own stories, Pridmore is able to structure a well developed argument through subtle hints and personal messages. Pridmore does not make a clear argument, rather he tries to make his readers feel something and make a difference in someone else's life. A large highlight of the podcast was that we all need to go to confession. We have heard about the importance of confession throughout our lives, but I was able to really understand the importance of confession because of this speech. Pridmore was able to structure his argument about confession by adding in his personal stories which showed that someone as full of sin as he was, could repent and be with God. I am glad that I was able to hear this speech before Easter because it gave me a new appreciation for Jesus dying for our sins. Because of Him, we are able to repent and come closer to God.
Talents are something I personally struggle with a lot. I have had so much disappointment and heartache in my life because I spend so much of my time using my talents in order to gain attention from others. I realize this is not how I should be using them but what I struggle with the most is that many times I work so hard and nothing comes out of this. Of course this is very frustrating, but in my own life, I realize that I need to use my talents to serve God. I am lucky enough to be able to play in the choir every week for Church so this is a concrete way for me to use these talents. I also struggle with recognizing my own talents but here goes nothing. One thing I am talented at is music. It just makes sense in my brain for some odd reason. Where most people just hear one sound, I am able to see the moving parts; all the chords and rhythms and everything falling into place. With this, I have been gifted with perfect pitch and rhythm, which is a nice thing to have. Another talent I have is that I am a good leader. I can take over a situation well and make sure everything gets done that needs done. With this, I am also very responsible. A third talent of mine is that I am a good judge of character and I have a strong personality. I do not let myself get pushed around and I am able to stand on my own feet. I am able to stay grounded in many situations and I can put things into perspective.
Confession is always a big topic around Easter. Easter is a time of renewal and rebirth, and confession provides us with our own rebirth in Christ. I'm glad that Pridmore chose to include stories about how confession impacted different people. It showed how powerful forgiveness is, and how important it is that we receive it. It also changed my viewpoint about confession itself. Whenever I went to confession, I always felt ashamed and could never force myself to look at the priest. Now I have the confidence I need to truly appreciate that it is Jesus to whom I confess, and He who forgives me, not the human priest.
DeleteAbbey, I am the same way when it comes to podcasts. I find myself trying to multitask while listening because it is normally so hard to sit still and just listen. However, this podcast had such a strong and powerful messages that I found myself sitting on my floor captivated, and even crying, at his story and what he has endured in his life. We all need to be open to God and what he has to offer us. I firmly believe that everything in our lives happens for a reason, even if it isn't apparent at the moment.
DeletePridmore used a very interesting structure when presenting his argument, but I found it to be very effective. His presentation was supported through a variety of anecdotes which all served the purpose of achieving Pridmore's overall goal. Through the inspirational anecdotes, the speaker was able to appeal to the pathos of the audience, and drew them in to encounter the "big picture." For example, Pridmore told a story of a father whose son had been crushed by debris in an earthquake. Despite the insistence of the townspeople that the children were dead, the father continued searching for his son, even when it seemed all hope was lost. The father eventually found his son, and the first thing he little boy said was "I knew my father would come for me." Pridmore used this anecdote to support the nature of his own conversion story. He said that it was as if God had never stopped searching for him, even when all hope seemed lost. God never abandoned his son, just as the father in the story did not abandon his. This was only one way in which Pridmore chose to relate stories to his own account to achieve his purpose.
ReplyDeleteIn this particular presentation, it seems that Pridmore is trying to get his audience to give their lives to God, regardless of what they've done. Pridmore presents his life story - a story filled with hatred, grief, and eventually sorrow - in hopes that the audience will see the extent of God's mercy. He wants the audience to understand that no matter what they have done, no matter how lived their lives, God wants them to come to Him with an open heart. I do not think that Pridmore's presentation would have been as effective had he not used his own story of conversion as the focal point of his argument. In doing this, Pridmore almost humbles himself in front of the audience by presenting his personal account of the hatred that was so prevalent in his own life. Pridmore shows how he was able to overcome his life of hatred, and to start again, this time giving his life to The Lord.
Throughout my life, I have never really though of myself as a talented person. I have always been second best in everything that I've done, no matter how hard I worked. But I have just recently realized that there are a lot of ways in which someone can be talented, and it all depends on how one chooses to display their talents. For example, I have always had a passion for writing. Now obviously, I'm far from being an outstanding writer, but it is something I am passionate about nonetheless. Someday I hope that this passion will lead me to praise God in the way He deserves to be praised. In addition, my mother has always told me that I have a compassionate heart. Ever since I was younger, I have always tried to see people for who they are, and to not judge people on their appearances. Obviously as I have gotten older, this has become much more difficult due to the culture's obsession with vanity. But I like to think that I have retained this gift, as I seek to get to know someone before judging them. Finally, I have always been told that I am a creative person. When I was younger, most people would laugh at me and tell I was insane. And after a while, I began to believe it. But as I have grown older, I have come to see my creativity as a gift, especially as I have started writing. I realized that I am capable of creating new worlds inside of my head, and I hope that some day, this will lead me to glorify The Lord in an exceptionally unique way.
Can I just say that this guy is fantastic. Hearing how his life has changed in so many ways really makes me want to change my life. Everyone has done bad things in their lives, of course that may not be going so far as to killing someone, but we know that we all have. I really think that someone needs to contact this man to come speak at our school. I know so many people who would benefit from hearing him speak, I know that I have.
ReplyDeleteHis message is really powerful and I'm sure that everyone got something different out of his speech. For me, I felt that he was trying to tell us that no matter what anyone has done in their lives, God will always forgive them if they are willing to let God forgive them. In my opinion, confession is one of the greatest sacraments that one can go through. The feeling of saying your sins is just so relieving. The feeling of knowing that God has forgiven something that you have done, to me, is the best feeling in the world. The fact that this man spent an hour in confession because he was so sorry for his sins is really intense. Could you imagine sitting in a confessional for an hour just telling of all of your sins and knowing at afterward, you would be forgiven.
Another thing that I thought was extremely amazing was the story of how those two men went into the church to make fun of the priest and the priest did not get mad at them, but he converted them by using the power of Jesus' name. Jesus' name was so powerful that both of these men fell to their knees. I think that this is absolutely mind blowing. I don't understand how people can say that there is no God or that Jesus is just a story when all of these miracles are happening everyday because of God.
God has blessed me with many things throughout my life. I could no sooner choose a favorite star in the heavens than choose three specific talents or gifts that God has given me. however I do know that my most appreciated talent that God has given me is my ability to do art. I love doing art and I am so thankful to God that he has given me the ability to do so. Another talent that God has given me is the ability to be creative. I also believe that I am talented at cooking. Granted I'm not as good a cook as Gizzy is, but never the less I still think I'm pretty good at it. I also think that I am especially good at cooking ramen noodles, but isn't everyone.
I am also amazed at the number of miracles that occur throughout the world in ordinary moments. The power of Jesus' name can not be overstated, and many people do not understand its true power. Hearing about miracles that occurred because of the power of Christ strengthens my faith and leaves me in wonder about the might of God. The fact that some people deny these miracles or God's power simply does not make sense. Pridmore's presentation helped me reflect more deeply on the influence God has on our lives and our world. His stories were real, personal moments that prove Jesus can help us change ourselves for the better.
DeleteThanks Buchs, I have to point out though that I only understand the chemistry of baking. If my mother didn't help me flavor things, all of my baked goods would taste like flour. So in this sense, you may be better than I. And I would love to get this guy in to speak. But he'll probably cost like a billion dollars. That means we'll need another fundraiser and well...I just hate fundraisers. But if we can get the guy in to speak without having to do a fundraiser, I'm all for it. I think everyone needs to hear what this guy has to say. I can easily picture a couple of our students going down the dark path he went down. So it would be very beneficial to get him to speak.
DeleteI agree, RaeAnn, confession is one of the best sacraments. Although most of us probably will not go to the extremity of physically killing someone, we are all guilty of killing people's reputations, which is still a serious offense against God. Confession allows us to renew ourselves and be closer to God how he intended. His eagerness to be forgiven for his sins speaks volumes about what difference God can make in someone's life because before that, it did not really phase him.
DeletePridmore's argument was structured in a way that allowed his audience to understand his message without being explicitly told what it was. Pridmore structured his argument as a series of personal stories that conveyed his message through support and examples. He told stories about his own life, and also about the lives of others. These stories provided the audience with real examples of the power of the Catholic faith.
ReplyDeletePridmore's main point was that Jesus has the power to change people's lives for the better, regardless of anything that they have done or of anything that may have happened to them. Throughout his talk, he constantly told stories of how people who seemingly could not be forgiven received forgiveness and love from Jesus. He told stories from his own life and the lives of other gang members to illustrate how powerful this forgiveness was. One powerful story told of young juveniles who received forgiveness from a priest and were moved to change their lives. After having confession, they cried. They were so overwhelmed that they could not do anything else. They did not think they could be forgiven, but they had been forgiven and told they were loved. Jesus' love is powerful, and can radically change lives.
Pridmore tried to encourage his audience to change their lives for the better, and follow Christ more deeply. To convey this point, he talks about heaven and what will happen when one dies. He asks whether or not the saints will cheer when one enters heaven. This story moved me very deeply. It made me consider the extent to which one must go in order to get to heaven, and also how far one should go to be a great saint.
The first talent I have is that I am a patient person. This comes from having a rambunctious Egg as a sister. She is a bit of a spaz, and needs attention constantly. She manifests this need by making weird noises and jumping on people. When she acts this way, I use my patience to ensure that she receives the attention she needs, even if I'd rather be doing something else. The second talent I have is that I'm a good listener. This is due in part to the fact that for most of my life I could not really hear much of anything. It took effort and energy to hear anything, and I had to focus on someone to understand them. I also remained quiet so that I could hear them better. This experience taught me how to listen. If someone needs to talk to me, I give them my full attention and don't interrupt until they've said everything they need to say. My third talent is leadership. I know how to divide up tasks so that everyone can do something they're good at, which is useful at the workplace. I can take charge if it is necessary, and accept the responsibility that comes with my choices and actions.
It is true that the structure of Pridmore's argument makes it so that his main message is not entirely evident. But I think that there may be a reason for this. Pridmore's story was a powerful one, and I am certain that he has changed many lives throughout the course of his career as a missionary. However, there were a variety of aspects to his presentation, and many of them may be perceived differently depending on the individual and what they may be going through at the time. One might hear of Pridmore's story and feel the need to go to confession. Another may be inspired to apologize to someone they have wronged. Still another may feel moved to share their own personal story with others in hopes of spreading a message of hope and forgiveness. The fact that Pridmore did not directly state the purpose of his talk indicated that what the audience got out of it was up to them.
DeleteGod works in mysterious ways through different people at different times. Conversions such as John's act as such an inspiration to many looking or have already found God. These stories show that even at the lowest points in our lives, God is always there to give us a hand a lift us back on our feet. Conversion is strong and emotional because we view the joys and wonders our creator brought for us. When listening to this podcast, I was inspired to draw closer to God. To be honest, I listened to the podcast more than once today just because I loved the message and the stories of conversions.
ReplyDeleteThe structure of the podcast was well represented and took command of the audience. By starting off with a prayer it established ethos because it brought the entire audience into one body in the presence of Holy Trinity. The establishment of his background and stories of his past allow the audience to connect and have an understanding. John told us of the horrible past and demoralizing actions he participated in before his conversion. Not only did he use his own stories but he also used friends and people he came across as examples. John Pridmore was able to share stories but also make a few jokes to breakup the depressing history. Pridmore concluded by sharing his conversion and all of the joys he discovered once he became closer to God. The overall structure brought in the audience and presented a history, which then led to his conversion and where John Pridmore is now. His story is truly inspiring and shows the power and timing God's love and strength has on each and everyone of us.
In his podcast, Pridmore talks about how we should view ourselves. He tells us that we should view ourselves through the eyes of our Creator, God. God has a special plan for each and everyone of us and these plans involve using our talents for the good of others. Now, I am not a huge fan of sharing strengths or weaknesses or discussing my talents. But everyone has talents and we should share them. I really enjoy art, whether it be observing or creating. I would have to say I am not terrible at the subject. This is one talent that I have shared before and it made me feel great to share something I love with others. Last year for our Pay it Forward projects, I created nine different paintings for different rehab facilities in our area. I loved doing this and also broke out of my comfort zone to present each to a representative from each area. Another area I believe is a talent is athletics. I love participating in sports and enjoy to do activities where I can move instead of sit. I am not a huge fan of sitting and laying around, but sometimes everyone needs a day like that. Lastly, which I am not sure is a talent or not, is that I can see the good and beauty in almost every person. I love seeing the different faces around the world and unique everyone is. I don't classify people or judge people whether they are ugly or not because looks can be deceiving and I believe that there is no ugly person in the world, just different and unique make ups. No person looks alike and everyone is perfect in their own way and each and everyone of us have our own flaws. It is these flaws and perfections that resemble God in others. It is a very hard talent to see the looks in others and is not always the easiest task to do. I find myself on Pinterest only to look at faces. I type in faces and I am memorized at each person's unique structure and placement. I believe this is why I tend to draw a lot of faces.
It is truly wonderful when people can share their talents with each other, Sydney. Many people take their talents for granted and hide them instead of utilizing them how God intended. Pridmore obviously has a talent for speaking, so he shared his story in a way that captivates his audience and brings them closer to God.
DeleteI can honestly truly say that that podcast by John Pridmore may have been one of the most spiritually moving things I have ever heard. As some of you may have known, my family drove down to Florida to visit a college. It is a very long drive. So I played this podcast out loud in the car so all my family could hear it. And we were all moved on a very spiritual level. It is, sorta, relieving. Anyway, just thought I'd share that.
ReplyDeleteThe argument was set up in Avery effective manner. I like how it started off with a prayer. That establishes ethos on his part. I also believe that it unites everyone on a personal level. But then he tells stories. Stories are very powerful. The one he told about the ex-prisoners collapsing before the priest literally made me rethink how I disrespect our Lord's name. He also told many others, but the one that really got me was of the boy who was paralyzed. I was literally about ready to burst into tears. But his use of imagery was very well done. I could not believe how moving he was. I believe his British accent might have helped but...yeah. I think what he wanted a change of heart. The world today has evolved to the point where now our attitude is, "I'll serve God if it's convenient" or "I'll just do this one thing and then go back to being a good Christian." No. That's wrong. You should serve God all the time and you're either a good Christian or a bad Christian, there is no in between. But he showed, even being an ex-monster, God still welcomes everyone back if they've slipped up. I know that now, I want to go to Confession more often. I always just went to the school ones but that doesn't seem like enough. I need to be a good catholic all the time.
Umm...alright...three talents...boy that's a tricky one. I don't really think about talents that much, as I don't consider myself a talented person. But anyway, Uhh...I guess I am talented in the areas of mathematics and science. Are those talents? I'm not sure. I think they are, but it kinda seems like I'm cheating by saying something educational. Anyways, I also like to cook and bake. Just there is something different about being able to cook your own food. It's a feeling I absolutely love. And finally, I am talented at the game of foosball, or table soccer as some prefer to call it. We have competitions all the time at Boy Scouts, and I win pretty much all the time. I have a really nice table in my room because at midnight when I'm bored, I'll go get my brother and play a couple rounds. Very fun times.
Nick, mathematics and science is a talent, especially in your case. Yes, everyone needs to know math and science, but it amazes me how much you know and how interested you are in math and science. It is truly amazing, when you talk about the information you know. I just sit there try to sort out this information because I have no idea what is going, but you just know so much. It is definitely a great talent that you can use in a future career and in everyday life.
DeleteI think being British helped his case as well! I love British people! I really want to go to London some day. His stories are very powerful, and It shows people how conversions aren't some myth. It happens in modern day life, and God does save people. Math and science are a talent, especially when you can use them to benefit the world. I also enjoy foosball and baking. Only I haven't played foosball in like forever because the table we used to have down our basement broke.
DeletePridmore's argument was supported with personal stories as well as moving stories experienced by other people. Pridmore's passion on the topic is obvious and helps him prove his faith in God. Although he made many valid points, his main point was forgiveness and power through God the Father and Jesus. The message of confession is really important for everyone, but especially for this time of year, and it is imperative for all confirmands to confess their sins before receiving the sacrament. Pridmore has repented on taking someone's life. Although we never go that far, we all are guilty of killing other's reputations and happiness quite a lot. We too need to repent for this malicious act just as Pridmore has.
ReplyDeletePridmore's message of fulfillment and satisfaction is highly relevant in today's society where celebrities, houses, cars, brand names, and other material goods are glorified before God. This is a spectacular message for any holidays, because society seems to defenestrate the real meaning for them. Many people will get caught up in the waster bunny, candy, and other Easter gifts and forget that Christ gave his life in a truly horrific way to save our lives. Then he rose again to bring us to new life, which is the real season for the holiday of Easter.
God gave each of his children a special talent to make them unique and give them the ability to make the world a better place. My favorite talent I posses is my physical ability of being a contortionist. Ever since I was a child, I have been abnormally flexible with my legs and back without needing the stretching practice most people need to accomplish a fraction of what I can do effortlessly. I have looked into participating in the National Contortionist Convention, but for now I will just enjoy looking at the photo albums of it and imitating the stretches in my room. My strongest talent is my ability to deal with mental disorders and people's problems. I used to want to use this talent in a career as a psychiatrist, but I already help with so many people's problems that I feel I do not need to go to school for eight years with an additional four years residencyto make a difference in people's lives who need it. My other talent is probably my creativity and point of view. I often see things many people do not in situations and can look at them from a plethora of perspectives instead of just one, which contributes to my creativity by coming up with different solutions and ideas. .
First of all, I am very jealous that Pridmore got to work with Mother Theresa. She is my confirmation "saint" (she is currently just "blessed", but she will be a saint soon) and I hope to model her virtues someday and work with the sick as she and Pridmore did. It is amazing that he was able to be converted from a life of sin and suffering to a life where he was able to impact others by continuing the work that Jesus did on earth. I think that the anecdotes used by Pridmore make this argument so much more relatable. He isn't talking about how others have been converted and lived a more purposeful life with God. He is talking about he has been converted, and HE has lived a more purposeful life with God. Pridmore structures this as an argument off of the simple idea that a person can spend their entire life worshipping a false God, drinking, and taking drugs. That is their free will. But, is not going to give them a life worth living. They will come up empty. Or, Pridmore tells them they can put God at the center of their life and live more purposefully. They can have a full life; one with a family, love, children, and serve the Lord. Who would not want that alternative? When you have the opportunity to be loved, and life a purposeful life....Why are you giving that up? You can open yourself up to so much, only if you let it happen. Pridmore doesn't really present this as an argument, he just gives people logical reasons to be Catholic and why it is good. Another reason he gives to be Catholic is confession. I have never liked confession, and I'm not sure if I ever really will like it. It always feels so personal. Its just like your going up to this random priest and telling him everything bad you have done, as well as your regrets. I am always afraid that the priest will think bad of me, and I feel bad about what I have done. After it, I feel better, its just getting there and actually doing it. I think that it takes a lot of courage to confess your sins, especially in Pridmore's case. I can't imagine going to confession once a week like he does. But, I agree that is it wonderful to be able to experience God's power of forgiveness and healing through confession. I just think that getting there is half the battle. And after hearing this, it did make me want to go to confession, even though I just did it a week ago. But, I think that was Pridmore's point. He made me look at confession a little differently. It is a gift to be able to confess your sins. I should be treating it as such instead of being afraid of it.
ReplyDeleteThey say that the best way to live your life is to lose yourself in the service of others. I think Pridmore is an excellent example of this, and how carrying out God's work can be amazing in more ways than one. It may be stressful or hard, but there is no substitute to experience and what others can teach you. Sometimes, you underestimate how vast the world is and the lessons it and others can teach you. You just have to be open to God's plan for you.
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ReplyDeleteOlivia, it is very cool that Mother Theresa is your Confirmation saint. I find her a great inspiration and it is cool that she is going to be a saint and she lived during our lifetime. Your closing paragraph is great, and very true. I feel at my best when I am doing something to help other people around me. By helping others, I feel like I am doing something to help them but at the same time helping myself. It feels so good to be part of something bigger than yourself.
DeleteI guess I have never really thought about the talents I have, so I guess this is really making me think about myself. I think that God has given me the gifts of kindness, and strength, as well as my ability to play music. I love being able to play piano. I have always had really strong both mentally and physically. I love helping people and I think that is a form of kindness but it is in a different way.
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