Obama: Please vote NO to FISA
(more info)

Thursday, March 30, 2006


There has been a lot of pain in my life as well as everyone else's life. So many times we cry out and ask God where the justice is. Why are we allowed to be treated in such horrible ways at times and yet those who bring affliction on us seem to thrive. It's a concept that we can't fully comprehend but I think a good portion of the answer is found in Exodus when God led His people out of Egypt. These people had gone through so much pain and suffering and I'm pretty certain it is more than most of us could even begin to imagine. Why? I think that God puts it pretty clearly in the end when the Egyptians drown in the Red Sea.... In Exodus 14:17, God says "...And I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen." God has promised us that everything will work together for His glory. And His Glory I believe is partially us. These people had so much affliction on them and, as any of us would, they wanted to see the source of that affliction taken care of in one way or another. God felt for His people and as you read this story in Exodus, you see that God actually was hardening Pharaoh's heart. This doesnt really make logical sense.... If God really cares for us, why does he make those who bring affliction on us hate us even more? But, again, the answer lays in His glory. It's not our responsibility to harm those who harm us. It's not our place to judge. This is God's place... and I think He takes great Joy in not only removing our source of affliction but in completely destroying it. In this case, God was leading the Israelites in circles at times, it seemed.... and it seems like they were allowed to be put in bad situations and I'm sure this frustrated them. But in the end, it wasnt just a handful of their enemies that they watched drown... it was all of them. God completely wiped out every enemy they had right before their eyes. It wasn't the Isarelite's position to judge those people, but I'm pretty certain that they had some very big smiles on their face. God didnt just take their enemies away like they asked.... even tho it did bring some more pain, He gave His people more than what they were asking for.... He showed them His power and let them watch their advesaries be destroyed. If you could go back and talk to those people, I bet more than just a few would tell you it was worth it.

Isaiah 29:5
But your many enemies will become like fine dust, the ruthless hordes like blown chaff.

There are many references through both the Old and New Testaments where God tells us that He is not only going to deliver us from our enemies but we are going to see their destruction. The important thing is that God is going to take care of this. It is not our place to judge. If we do judge our enemies, then we become like Jonah who just didnt understand that God's forgiveness is available to all people. Jonah sat on a hill waiting for Ninevah to be destroyed. He took it into his own hands to judge those people but in reality, they repented and became better people. Every single one of our enemies is able to be redeemed. And instead of us being disappointed, we should rejoice! Not only did our enemies enter a position of not being our enemies any longer, but the Kingdom of God has grown. These are the matters that God holds in His hands.... They are not in ours at all! God will bring Glory to Himself.... and I believe that all of us will benefit from that. Maybe we will face lots of pain in our lives but we will also see our enemies either completely destroyed or we will see them join us in Heaven. I think this should be great comfort to anyone who is experiencing pain. God doesnt allow us to be given into our enemies hands unless we have something to gain.

God truly is an amazing God. He watches out for each one of us whether it seems like it or not. I am convinced that He is planning great things for each one of us, even as we go through these (seemingly) never-ending struggles. James said "Count it all Joy" when you face trials (James 1).... and maybe this is just part of what he meant by that.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Wednesday, March 29, 2006


The Sleeping Giant Goes on the Offensive - April 3, 2006
"No, I do not. Nor do my children. My children--in many dimensions they're as poorly behaved as many other children, but at least on this dimension I've got my kids brainwashed: You don't use Google, and you don't use an iPod."

Wow... Steve Balmer brainwashes his kids.... With skills like that, its no wonder Microsoft rules the world :)

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

BibleBoy's Xanga

No, its not mine... but there is another BibleBoy out there on the net.... hehe... actually, there are a few but I still think I am the first since my name "BibleBoy" was used back in the BBS days before the internet really exsisted.... Crap, now I sound old... :) But its ok, I *DONT* remember when color TV was invented..... but I think my dad does... (after that, should I go home this weekend) lol

Yea, btw, I'm in a good mood.... can you tell? :)

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Tuesday, March 28, 2006


Bryan White did a song called "Someone Else's Star" .... Tonight after I dropped Robin off I headed to work and I heard this on XM. It really made me realize something... I could pretty heavily relate to this song.... I wish and pray for something and not only dont I get it but someone next to me does. It's a frustrating thing.... The song is about just that... questioning why it is when we wish for something, someone else gets it and we dont. I really started thinking about this and realized that maybe when I wish on someone else's star, the intent is to do just that: Help someone. I have 2 main goals in my life.... I want to be a good husband and a good father and I also want to help as many people as possible. If I wish for something and someone else gets it, havent I accomplished part of my goal? It does got a step further.... Garth Brooks wrote a song called "Unanswered Prayers" which is such a powerful song when you think about it. If you think about the ideas that Garth had in that song and you combine it with Bryan White's song, couldnt it be that you might just receive benefit from that too? Even tho we live in the "Microwave Age" where we want everything now, it's still alot better tasting to have something cooked on the stove.

One thing that comes to mind that fits this perfectly in my own life is the whole Tiff situation. I wanted to be with her so bad.... I enjoyed the times that we had together and I wanted those to live on.... but maybe I wished on someone else's star? Not only is she going to make another guy extremely happy, but there is another girl thats going to fit in my life better. It's been a hard thing getting over Tiff but now that I'm there, it feels so much better. I know that there is a completely amazing girl out there for me and maybe it's someone I already know.... The point is, it feels so much better to accept that fact that I may have wished on someone else's star and that if I did end up with Tiff, maybe some other guy out there would be heart broken. What happened has happened for a reason.... Both with Tiff and I getting together and with us breaking up. I'm a single person and I have an amazing girl in my future... and it feels good to look to the future instead of back on the past. If I wished on someone else's star and someone gets what I was wishing for, then I can really take that as I helped someone else out and in the future, I will receive something better than what I was wishing for.

God certainly does take care of all of His children and I am very proud that I am His child. Even if He doesnt do things as quick as we want Him too, we have to understand that maybe He's working on an entire home-cooked dinner and not just microwaving the latest Hungry Man meal.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Wow... I slept till like 5:30.... Much needed catch up after the few long (or short, depending on how you look at it) nights. I feel pretty good tho.... and the important thing is I woke up before my life group! :) I'm really enjoying being a part of that group. Anyway, I'm picking Robin up at 7 so I better get headed out.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Monday, March 27, 2006


(Now!)
Everything in which you struggle and strive to be
only proves that you are something that you cannot be.
(See!)
You're bringing me down with false words profound,
making me pray for silence, the only golden sound.
(See!)
Why must I be required to suffer for art
when it's something you exclude from the very start?
(See!)
You're putting me under a microscope.
How will I cope when I know that there is no room to hope?

And you're allowing me access to your family and slamming me,
say this will be the fall of me.

(When!)
did you forget that freedom of speech is something I would protect,
denying my fruits are in check?
(When!)
the words of the brethren,
'cause time and time again I see it put back together again.
(When!)
I had to come to terms that wherever you turn,
some are quick to love and some would rather see you burn.

This is my test of time! Endurance!
Struggle is something that I'm used to
been abused too
and it's something that I know to be too true
(Now!)
And I remain the one to deal with false recognition,
wishing still while you're dismissing.
(Now!)
that I agree and you agree that we can never agree
and still you turn and run and I will see.
(Now!)
that this is all that you have for your case, you turn in disgrace
Say it too my face!

This is my test of time! Endurance!

"Endurance" by EDL (Every Day Life)

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

This is getting somewhat annoying but I'll adapt. I went to bed at about 9:30pm last night.... I was just so mentally and emotionally drained that I just needed to lay down and rest.... But at midnight, I was up.... and I've been up ever since. I tried going back to sleep multiple times but I just tossed and turned. So going to bed early last night was supposed to get me extra rest that I needed and I ended up only getting a little over 2 hours.... But here it is almost 5:30am and I still can't sleep.... I feel pretty good right now so I'm just going to start my day. There is alot of work to do at the church office this week so its probably not a bad idea to get started.

I guess the biggest problem is that there is just so much on my mind right now... and so many things that I need to get done. I'm not really so much worried about New Life and MFC but its the little odd jobs that are stacking up against me.... Helping friends and relatives.... and I just simply am not able to make the time for them that I would like to. I havent talked to even my mom in weeks.... I tried to call Friday when I had some time but she was busy and then later I was busy again. I'm just really starting to feel bad about this stuff.... I'm trying... I really am.... and the other tough part is people dont understand how much it easier for me to communicate with email than on the phone.... But I know everyone else wants to discuss things and get things resolved on the phone but it just doesnt work for me.... email is so much easier for me because I am a multi-tasker. Half my life is waiting on a computer to do something so in those moments, I can work on another project for a brief period of time.... this is perfect for sending an email response but if I start a phone conversation, it goes on for a while and next thing you know, my other project gets pushed back, I get distracted and things get frustrating.

I'm trying... I really am trying..... The fortunate but also unfortunate thing is that I have a lack of people to hang out with and such so to keep myself busy, I'm working on these projects... but at the same time, I dont have any way of relaxing.... and, for me, there is no such thing as relaxing at home.... unless I'm with someone else doing something, I always end up going back to working on something..... which wears you out. I dont like being idle.... which is another blessing and curse all at the same time. I just can't relax.... Maybe this is why I feel so much better when I am in a relationship.... being able to cuddle up with a special girl and watch a movie or something like that is the best way that I have ever relaxed.... I dont date someone that I dont care about so as a result of that care for her, she becomes important to me and time with her is important and is precious. No, I don't need a girlfriend... and I really have adjusted to that frame of mind.... but it is something I desire and I'm pretty sure whenever God shows me that special girl, things will be alot easier and more exciting for me. Sure, I've made my mistakes in relationships and I'm sure I will again.... but this is life... maybe I've destroyed some.... maybe the other person destroyed some... it doesnt matter. What ended was for a reason no matter why it ended. There is a special girl out there for me and I'm looking forward to the time that I meet her (or realize who it is if I already know her).... but for now, I just want to hang out with friends... I want to be able to sit and talk with people.... It's always been an important thing to me that a relationship be built on friendship.... So to get to the relationship, I need to build a friendship anyway.... but just because I'm building a friendship, doesnt mean that I feel that person is the one... it's just because I want a friendship with someone who seems to compliment my life.

I know there are a few people that still remain that care about me.... I'm sorry for the pain I'm causing you. I'm really trying hard...... And to all my friends and relatives that I havent had a chance to help with computer issues and such, I am really sorry... I'm trying hard with that too. I know I'm creating alot of pain to some people right now.... please be paitient with me. I'm a diamond in the rough.... I'm not the Potter but the clay.... if you think something is wrong with who I am, please ask the Potter to adjust me.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Sunday, March 26, 2006


Wired News: NSA Might Listen to Lawyer Calls

Another step towards securing our nation from terrorism.... and even bigger step towards getting rid of our privacy once and for all.

I really never even remotely thought I would be on the democrat's side but I'm really starting to think we'd be safer (note: I didnt say safe) if Kerry was in office.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

I have a feeling this is going to be a fun week.... lots going on with the church's network and it could be pretty busy for me. I am planning on heading up to PA on Friday until Saturday.... I need to help my uncle and it'll be nice to visit... plus I'm sure my mom's fish need some attention :)

Today wasnt too bad... Well, church was awesome as always. I was kind of out of it at lunch tho. Elisa and I had a good conversation and that was nice.... I'm not doing so well in groups right now... I like one-on-one conversations because most of what I have on my mind right now isnt something I'm comfortable talking about in a group.... And its not even the people.... There may be 3 people I'd like to talk to about this stuff but if its those 3 and me in a room, I still won't say anything. It's just really hard for me because my friends dont really want to hang out with just me ... they say they just prefer being in groups but I dont know if its so much a preference as maybe they just dont want me spilling my guts to them.... *shrug* ...

I really thank God for New Life tho.... For the first time I really feel like I'm appriciated.... and its not just a feeling... I know that I am. Thats better than any salary you could give me. Right now I think if it wasnt for me helping out New Life, I wouldnt be holding together too well. The only thing keeping me going is knowing that I am appriciated.... this isnt something that I've felt too much in my life.... I usually feel like I'm just being used and once I've accomplished what was asked of me, the relationship ends.... New Life isnt like that.... They really are an amazing group of people and they really do appriciate me.... It feels good to feel like your worth something to someone. It especially feels good with all of the crap that I have taken from bosses and girls in the past two years.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

There's a place that I love to run and play
There's a place that I sing new songs of praise
Dancin' with my Father God in fields of grace
There's a place that I lose myself within
There's a place that I find myself again
Dancin' with my Father God in fields of grace
There's a place where religion finally dies
There's a place that I lose my selfish pride
Dancin with my Father God in fields of grace
I love my Father, my Father loves me
I dance for my Father, my Father sings over me
And nothing can take that away from me

"Fields of Grace" by Big Daddy Weave

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Saturday, March 25, 2006


I'm really concerned about myself. I am still feeling a little emotion but I'm slowly becomming more and more numb.... Along with that it seems I'm becomming more anti-social. About the only person I really talk to anymore is Keith.

Right now I'm at Becca's birthday party. I'm kind of just sitting and watching everyone. I'm watching and feeling excited because the way everyone just let's lose and have fun. These people help make up the greatest church in the world. And what makes me happy is this attitude is what I always wanted to find in a church. Also watching my pastor and his wife interact with their kids, especially their 3 year old, just makes me smile. I long for the time I have my own kids to care for. This is how I know I'm not completly emotionally numb......

The problem is I don't feel excitement like I used to. I don't even feel sadness like I used to. Right now I know I'm emotionally in pain, but I don't really feel it. People ask me how I am doing and I don't know how to answer.

The anti-social thing is scaring me too.... And the worst of all is that being in big groups right now is killing me but everyone around me hates hanging out one-on-one..... So I try to adapt but I clam up and just make things worse. This has been progressing for a while and now I'm shy around people I'm close to. I overcame feeling this way years ago but now I'm falling back into it. I'm affraid of people hurting me because I've been hurt too much already.... But ill try again and the guess what.... I get hurt. Then this cycle turns into me hurting others..... I push them away... No one wants to be around me at all... And alongside that, I don't want to be around them either because ill just bring them down.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Thanks to Keith's Bargain Basement .... er, well... I guess we dont have a basement but the trunk of his car? Yea, anyway, I finally replaced my Rockford Fosgate 10" subs with Keith's Alpine Type R 10" subs. After looking up the specs for the Rockford's I found that they were made in 1993 ... I knew they were old but wow :) These things have been through the war.



In other news, I'm feeling alot better today. I woke up about 2 hours ago and didnt feel too bad and for the past hour I've been talking to a new friend of mine and its just been really nice to chat with someone for a while.

God truly is amazing!

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Friday, March 24, 2006


I don't care anymore... There is already enough stress on me to worry about who said what about me, who humiliated me, who hates me, or whoever is upset with me. I guess I've always tried to have a few people around me as my release.... as those people failed me, I expanded to relying on other people for support.... The end result is I'm more stressed than I was to begin with. I fail people.... I fail people alot. I wish that at some point in my life I could find someone who embraces me for who I am, including my flaws... but thats alot to deal with since I seem to have more flaws than I have good points about me.... Maybe someday I'll get back as close to God as I once was and I wont have to worry about anyone in my life.... I've failed God and I've failed my friends. It's sometimes really hard to figure out what the point of my life is. There are alot of people out there that are loved by many and are popular and who fail a heck of a lot less than I fail.... I'm certain they could be much more effective than me in the things that I do.... why does God need me? It used to be that even posting here helped because there were alot of people that would email me or leave comments and encourage me.... but people have stopped.... I dont get responses to my emails.... Apparently, I really am too much to deal with. Now this blog is a place for people to link to and publicly humiliate me -- even people that barely know me. But that is something that I am ok with. This is me and this is who I am.... If there is any hope of me making an impact on someone's life, I hope it is because they get to see that I am a real person with real struggles. I am proud of who I am even tho it isn't much. I'm not proud of when I do hurt someone, and I wouldnt want to publicly humiliate anyone.... but who I am is something I am proud of. Being able to handle the things that I am handling in a completely honest manner is really a great feeling. Yes, it hurts that people are opposing me like they are.... and I guess I make it easy for them because I expose myself so much.... but this is who I am.... I dont hide behind any mask... what you see is what you get... and I'm sorry but its not much. If you want to attack me because of who I am, then that is your option and that is part of who you are.... Every person is their own person and their actions are that of their own. It's not my place to judge what is right and what is wrong and I do my best not to do that.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

It's L-I-N-U-X

This is one of those things that you really can't make up... and anyone who ever worked in tech support can definately appriciate.

In case the link doesnt work, I have archived the email thread
right here.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Wednesday, March 22, 2006


Aside from a few things in my life such as relationships, I am really happy with where I am. I am also very happy that I am doing things the best that I can do them both performance wise as well as integrity and honesty. Sure, I make mistakes like anyone else but I've learned alot and I know that honesty and integrity is what is important.... and thats how I plan to handle the situations at hand.

I think there are alot of interesting things coming up.... and I think alot of that can contain alot of stress for me but for all of that stress, it will be worth far more than what I put into it.

God's going to do some great things.... and I cant wait to see whats ahead :)

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

It really ended up being a good day.... And I don't even know why. Everything seemed so relaxed.... From cleaning fish tanks, to working with more outlook stuff at new life, a visit to cox, life group, and even working in the data center tonight. All just a really relaxed day. I have only been up about 32 hours straight or so... Hehe.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Tuesday, March 21, 2006


Ahh hail!

no,really.... Falling from the sky.... And is it ever... Wow

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

She was driving last Friday on her way to Cincinnati
On a snow white Christmas Eve
Going home to see her Mama and her Daddy with the baby in the backseat
Fifty miles to go and she was running low on faith and gasoline
It been a long hard year
She had a lot on her mind and she didn't pay attention
She was going way to fast
Before she knew it she was spinning on a thin black sheet of glass
She saw both their lives flash before her eyes
She didn't even have time to cry
She was sooo scared
She threw her hands up in the air

Jesus take the wheel
Take it from my hands
Cause I can't do this all on my own
I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on
Jesus take the wheel

It was still getting colder when she made it to the shoulder
And the car came to a stop
She cried when she saw that baby in the backseat sleeping like a rock
And for the first time in a long time
She bowed her head to pray
She said I'm sorry for the way
I've been living my life
I know I've got to change
So from now on tonight

Jesus take the wheel
Take it from my hands
Cause I can't do this all my own
I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on

Oh, Jesus take the wheel
Oh, I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
Save me from this road I'm on
From this road I'm on
Jesus take the wheel
Oh, take it, take it from me
Oh, why, oh

"Jesus Take the Wheel" by Carrie Underwood

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

I give up.... no sleeping for me.... it's almost 7am and I still wasnt able to fall asleep.... so I guess I'll rely on the 20 hours I had yesterday :)

Weird thing was.... I was laying in bed just really excited to start my day today.... I dont understand why tho.... I mean, there isnt anything special today.... why am I so anxious? I dont get it *shrug*

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Just something to think about . . .

Genesis 2:19 ... In this passage Adam names all of the birds and the beasts of the earth.... but there is no menion of those in the seas. I think this is rather interesting because it hasnt been until recently that we have been unlocking the wonders that lie beneath the waters. We are finding more and more amazing creatures.... creatures that boggle our minds. What is so special about them? Why does it seem as tho God has saved those creatures to be revealed to us in today's age?

I dont have an answer.... this is just something that occured to me. Any thoughts?

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Wait another minute.
Can’t you see what this pain has f___ing done to me?
I’m alive and still kickin’.
What you see I can’t see...
And maybe you’ll think before you speak.
I’m alive for you.
I’m awake because of you.
I’m alive I told you.
I’m awake swallowing you.
Take another second.
Turn your back on me...
And make believe that you’re always happy.
It’s safe to say you’re never (alive)<- that word is supposed to be have!
A big part of you has died.
And by the way...
I hope you’re satisfied.
Tearing it back unveiling me.
Taking a step back so I can breathe.
Hear the silence about to break.
Fear resistance when I’m awake.

"Awake" by Godsmack

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Monday, March 20, 2006


You know, I've been thinking about something as I went to get something to eat.... Thinking about alot of things in my life and I've realized something.

Most people look at who they are and they can look back over their lives from the time they were kids at the positive things that made them who they are. Its never been a secret that I'm a very different person, but its really occured to me that my life was full of alot of negatives which is why I am who I am today.

This isnt meant to mean that I've had a life with no positives at all. In fact, the biggest impact in my life that produces my two biggest goals/values in life (unity and opposition to persecurition, specficially homosexuals) was very positive: Living in Florida for 4 months and working for Disney.... Unless, of course, you count all of the opposition I had regarding that move and the "I told you so"'s when I got back.... But the thing is, I am who I am because of the negatives.

Many people find things that dont look so great and then later they realize they are great. My attitude is always "innocent until proven guilty" ... If I meet someone, they arent negative until it is proven..... and this is actually the source of a lot of my pain. The thing is that I look at everything as a positive until it turns negative and in almost all situations, it turned into a negative. Odder still are the things that were logically negatives that turned out to be the best decissions (dropping out of higher school, for example).

Think of the huge things that have occured in my life. The people that have been in my life... the opposition that I faced. Look at the girls that I have dated that were really great relationships that turned into complete disaster (amber, kendra, tanya, tiff, etc -- one exclusion being I met Eli out of dating Tanya and that WAS a positive). All of these relationships were completely negative in the end.... even tho many of them were looked at by me, as well as others, as really great relationships. Look at jobs.... the disasters that struck at export moose, b4futures, helicon, computer connections, eicomm, carpathia, etc. There were some positive things that came out of those but the overall results were disasterous... Look at what I went through as a member of CFC. Most dont know the story about when I was brought before the missions board and was completely attacked and told that I was not worthy to serve God on a missions trip.....

I've had a life full of negatives to make me who I am.... which is probably why I'm an awkward person. Everyone faces negatives but most can look at the positives in their lives that developed them into who they were. I, on the other hand, was developed into who I am today by a string of negative events with a few positives -- the exact opposite of most people. Not that I would change any of that..... but I guess what needs to be said here is that I am built on a totally different foundation than almost all other people. And I also have to say that I feel very blessed that I am who I am. Most people who are built on a foundation of negatives turn out to be not-so-good people. In that aspect, I guess that I am a miracle.

The one problem with this is I dont know where I am today. Am I to expect more negatives to occur to produce me into a better person or am I at a point where positives will begin happening. Working at New Life is absolutely incredible. Tho I faced some very hard persecution with some changes I made with email and probably will face more of that in the future as I move New Life into a new position technologically, I have some key people that are really encouraging me and they are constantly thanking me. And I also dont feel that this "persecution" was something target towards me.... many people cant see the good on the other end of making some minor adjustments so they think the changes are stupid. I dont take any of that as something against me..... but the thing is, I really believe that I am appriciated.

But in other aspects... where am I? Working for MFC is awesome and I'm enjoying it.... but others are attacking me by other means to try to make this relationship misserable for me. They havent succeded yet.... but I assume they will keep trying. I dont give up easily and won't give up in this scenario either. To those that are attacking me I guess I only have to say this: Bring it on! Look above and you will see that the more negative that is brough on me, the better of a person I become. Sure your words and actions may sting me but in the end, you lose. Working for MFC is great and I will hold on to that. It works out really really well and I'm not going to let go easily.

The one other aspect is friendships. This is becomming a very hard area for me. I, again, am starting to feel like an extreme outcast. I'm the person that is told they are a friend but yet never gets invited anywhere.... I'm the friend that is the least important... if you make plans with me, it is completely acceptable to break them when someone else has a better option. It is hard for me to do all that it is I do without being able to relax with friends. Whats worse is feeling like you are no one in the eyes of your friends. Friendship is something that I view as sacred.... and friendship involves fighting for just that. Friendship does not mean that you rush in and try to save your friend when they are down.... friendship is sharing in the great moments of his or her life. Friendship isnt something that exsists only when it is convient..... I guess the same is true inside relationships as well. I try my hardest to be there for my friends in good and bad scenarios.... I'm not perfect, the same as everyone else.... but attitude is a huge thing. Its not hard to see where someone's heart is.... and what scares me is that I'm not seeing any room for me inside of my friend's hearts. This is hard on me and has created a real struggle for me. If you told me that my friends didnt care about me, I would tell you that you were wrong.... but if you told me that I wasnt important to my friends, then I might have to agree with you. This is a hard place for me to be.... and it's actually where I have been my whole life it seems. Aside from a few key friends like Matt Shafer and Steve McGuire, I'm always left to question where I stand in the eyes of my friends.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

I slept for 20 hours!

Last night I was not feeling good at all.... went to bed around 9:30pm and woke up at 5:30pm..... and I'm still not feeling real good.

I'm really not sure whats going on with me.... it's like this on again, off again thing as far as being sick. I felt horrible Saturday night last week, was fine Monday.... now I was sick last night, still sick today.... even going back a few weeks is the same thing.... I just seem to get real sick for a day or two and then I'm better for a week.... and the same thing happens again.

There has been alot of stress on me so I dont know whether to account this to that. Alot of hurt feeling and alot of things that I dont really want to have to go through.... but they dont neccesarily line up at the same times I'm sick.... although that doesnt neccesarily mean thats not the problem.

Don't really know what to think..... just could use some prayers.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Sunday, March 19, 2006


So I'm pretty depressed again..... but rather than whine and moan, I'm just going to take some xanax, fall asleep.... and wake up to a new day tomorrow.... Hey, some day someone will start caring about me, right?

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

"No duh" love..... The best example of this is the angels. The angels love God because they see him everyday. Its easy.... You see God's Splendor everyday. But what about us? We can not have "no duh" love because we don't see Him everyday. This is why we mean so much to God.... When we love Him its a risk and a struggle.... God knows we Love Him because we have to work at it.... We would only do that if it was true love. This is why the split between God and man is a good thing.

This is what love is.... Its pushing on when things are rough. We, as humans, were created in His own image and it is His desire that we mock Him in our lives.... The way we do things should be what Jesus would do. Those bracelets that were popular 5 years ago were so refreshing.... But they became the thing to wear. It wasn't taking a risk anymore because WWJD was just something to wear. All of a sudden, it meant nothing.

What is true love? Its not giving up. We see so many failed marriages now.... This is the result of discomfort and struggles.... And we blame God! Are you kidding me? These troubles are a blessing..... When we have struggles and we want to give up, its then that the other person really loves us. If we or they give up, then where was the love? A romantic relationship should be followed after the example that God gave us.

People are so easy to give up now... On people and their dreams. God wants people who mean business..... And I want to find a girl who means business as well. People say God doesn't tell us how to handle situations but His life is an example in almost all situations.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

It's a new day and the start of a new week..... and I'm up and ready to go to church :)

May God Bless this week for everyone!

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Friday, March 17, 2006


So I just filled out my personality profile thing at www.true.com .... I'm more than likely not subscribing because it's way too expensive but I thought my profiles seems to describe me well so I'm gonna post it here:

Personal Characteristics - Summary
You have conservative views and attitudes about the world
You appear to be very ambitious
You're somewhat intellectual
You are moderately conscientious
You have a high level of integrity
You sometimes seek out adventure
You have a somewhat adaptable personality
Occasionally you behave in a dominant manner
Money Attitudes - Summary
Money plays an insignificant role in your life
Social Life - Summary
Certain facets of your personality may occasionally make it challenging for others to interact with you
Having a social network is somewhat important to you
Stress Reaction - Summary
It appears that your understanding of your own emotions and those of others is average
In general, your reaction to stress is highly adaptive
You display a few psychological traits that may interfere with your day-to-day functioning
Communication Style - Summary
You are comfortable being vulnerable to your romantic partner
You need a lot of emotional intimacy
You are somewhat open to accepting your partner's opinions, goals, and input in the relationship
You communicate effectively and considerately with other people
You have a moderate need for intellectual, thought-provoking discussions with partner
Conflict Resolution - Summary
You have relatively strong conflict resolution skills
You are somewhat prone to conflict
Relationship Issues - Summary
You appear to be ready to commit to a serious, long-term relationship
You're looking for a long-term relationship
You're an incurable romantic
You are very attentive towards your romantic partner
You believe in being somewhat chivalrous
You have somewhat modern beliefs related to gender roles
Attachment Style - Summary
Your level of reliance on your partner is occasionally unhealthy
Sex Life - Summary
Your sexual experience is average
When it comes to sex and sexuality you are relatively liberal in your attitudes and behaviors
When committed to someone, you are a faithful and loyal partner
Parenting Style - Summary
You believe in providing children with a lot of affection
You don't believe in providing children with a lot of limits

My Ideal Partner

Personal Characteristics
Highly emotionally intelligent
Has a positive self-concept
Believes in doing the "right" thing and behaving with integrity
Highly dependable person
Somewhat concerned with being neat and organized
Has a tendency to stick to a daily routine but is flexible
Handles stress with ease
Strikes a balance between being dominant and encouraging equal input
Attitudes and Beliefs
Optimistic
Somewhat spontaneous and fairly open to new experiences
Flexible and open character
Conservative
Has some modern and some traditional perspectives on gender rolesHigh
Thinks that money is of little importance in life
Spends wisely
Communication and Conflict
Able to communicate effectively
Skilled at dealing with conflict
Social Life
Has characteristics of both an introvert and an extrovert
Possesses good social skills
Places moderate importance on relationships with family and friends
Relationship Skills and Attitudes
Trustworthy
Needs a lot of emotional intimacy
Somewhat tolerant individual
Willing to rely on others
Ready to be in a committed relationship
Moderately adventurous sexual attitudes and behavior
Faithful when in a relationship
Willing to discuss his/her feelings
Has independent and dependent traits when in a relationship
Moderate need for control
Emotionally steady; tolerant of occasional mood swings
Has good control of anger

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Anyone who says they can not understand how someone can shoot someone as the result of road rage has never drove in Northern Virginia.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Thursday, March 16, 2006


What a stressful day....

There used to be a saying that everyone said up at Computer Connections.... "No good deed goes unpunished" .... and as stupid as it sounds, its unfortunately true. The nicer that you are to people, the more they abuse you.... I was born about 50 years too late I guess.... I trust people so much and I always get walked all over because of it. Everyone is out to get everyone... and it's sad.

I'm not nice to people to get anything out of it ... I'm nice to people because I want to be nice... It would be a bonus tho if someone would actually appriciate it and actually respect the fact that I am holding true to my word instead of trying to corner me by making stuff up.

I'm finishing up here at the data center and looking forward to grabbing something to eat on the way home and just relaxing for a little bit.....

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

I need 2 priests... one young, one old.....

ahh, heck... just give me some advil and someone that actually understands what crack Microsoft was smoking when they developed Exchange.....

A ticket to Hawaii would be nice too.....

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

I finally found an Anti-Spyware program that I support (other than the Spybot and SpywareBlaster programs I have been supporting). Its only $20 for a year license (and right now you can get 2 licenses for $30). So check it out and buy it! It definately makes a great impact in keeping your computer clean.


SunBelt Software - CounterSpy


For those of you that are techies, you may remember the Giant Anti-Spyware product. This was quickly becomming the best program to use for spyware protection.... Microsoft quickly bought that company out and re-branded that software as "Windows Defender" (aka Microsoft Anti-Spyware). With this, of course, they watered down alot of the threats because some of the companies that are threats are also Microsoft's Customers and Partners.... The interesting thing is that SunBelt Software was working with Giant on this software package so the system is actually their property as well. Microsoft and Sunbelt have seperated ways but this CounterSpy program is 100% what Giant Anti-Spyware was without the watered down results Microsoft is adding to their version of the program.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Wednesday, March 15, 2006


Im so emotionally numb right now.... Kinda like when you just cant get physically comfortable you squirm around.... thats how I feel emotionally.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

This is a test, right? I just got a call with a job offer for $60k in Sterling..... Thats substantially more than I make now..... but what do I do? I guess I am leaning towards not taking it.... I like where I am.... and I think I'm where I can be most effective for God..... so I guess thats my answer, right?

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Things are still going pretty well for me.... Im happy about where I am in life.... but the thing that I realized is that I really am going to have to go back into counseling.... There are issues that I just cant seem to get over. There are things I'm not handling well. All related to relationship things, of course.... whether that be friendship or romantically.... So I guess please keep that in you prayers.... I need find a good counselor as well as the finances to afford it.

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Tuesday, March 14, 2006


To: Randle El,

OK, so you are richer than you were yesterday. But keep in mind the
following...

1. That you have signed with a team that is already set in the wide reciever
position and will probablly run you as a ..3 guy

2. That you have signed with a team that has an owner that puts more value
in buying big name flashy players than investing in guys that bleed and
sweat from a genuine love for the game

3. That you will be pawning your superbowl ring as soon as Dan Snyder finds
someone else with a flashier name and even Al Davis doesn't know who you
are.

4. That you were one one of the ONLY NFL teams that complimented your style
of play and made you look at your best.

5. That instead of 80,000 screaming fans waving Terrible Towels and cheering
you onto the field, you now have to look at a bunch of fat guys in dresses
wearing pig noses.

6. That occasionally getting into the playoffs stems only as a result of
being in a division that is consistantly mediocre and is only good enough to
not lose as much as the other teams and eventually has to play an AFC team.

7. That Washigton DC has the highest crime rate per capita and tripled the
crime rate compared to that in the Burgh.

8. That Lavar Arrington just actually forfieted money to be able to leave
Washigton to go to a team that will not sit you on the pines because of
personal off-field politics.

9. That words like "superbowl", "parade", "Lombardi" and "champion" will be
forever restricted from your volabulary and replaced by words such as
"overpaid", "overrated", "dead-weight" and "downgraded"

10. And finally, that you were a millionaire regardless of what city or team
you play for

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

Monday, March 13, 2006


I never realized until today how paticularly horrible Microsoft products are at handling large amounts of data. You put all of your archived email in a folder in Outlook thinking that you can easily go back to it if you need to.... but then, you reach thousands of messages and anytime you want to do something in that folder, your system comes to a crawl if it still moves at all.... It's just unbelievable....

(C)2003-2008, Bob K Mertz - Some Rights Reserved

So a fun day at the New Life Office today, I'm sure. Mail migration and all that fun associated stuff :) .... After that I'm (well, I think I am) hanging out with Kim, Becca, and Nathan at IHOP or something and then headed up to PA.... I have to meet with my lawyer tomorrow.... I wanted to ski too but Hidden Valley is closed until Saturday..... Speaking of which its going to be 81F today.... WTF? Where did spring go? :)

And so starts another day.... I'm feeling alot better both emotionally and physically. Still have a bit of a sore throat but I can deal with that. Alot of the things that were really bugging me over the weekend have been resolved.... Wish I could have made church yesterday but I was so sick yesterday morning I couldnt even stand up..... And I'm going to miss my life group tomorrow night since I'll be in PA..... but at least it'll be nice to visit PA.... Maybe I'll get to see Eli!

Well, everyone.... have a great week! :)