tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41416370179001483902024-03-06T00:19:51.252-06:00"Why Wear The Cross?"Home of 2 Men and a Bible and the Dirty Work Bible Study SeriesBobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.comBlogger247125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-56784217460722802742020-12-17T13:04:00.005-06:002020-12-17T13:04:37.075-06:00 Down the biblical rabbit hole I go....<p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08RYN15mekTT4sscga1kgi4Gm5iTr1dS4DOI1xoueUQ4B6Bdhv6UKNEIkdJjj8zu7kRUrjeqSCcUMczIpcy701cr2SNag5WJgZEYGatCrAVM2ZxZ041biP5RfWPPDCYgFtrDnjIcM7LUK/s751/rabbit+hole+-+bobby+ozuna+-+why+wear+the+cross.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="751" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08RYN15mekTT4sscga1kgi4Gm5iTr1dS4DOI1xoueUQ4B6Bdhv6UKNEIkdJjj8zu7kRUrjeqSCcUMczIpcy701cr2SNag5WJgZEYGatCrAVM2ZxZ041biP5RfWPPDCYgFtrDnjIcM7LUK/w418-h278/rabbit+hole+-+bobby+ozuna+-+why+wear+the+cross.jpg" width="418" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Have you ever worked on a writing project--you know, a simple writing project--and then, found yourself writing something totally different, and complex, within the body of the simple? If you haven't, you're fortunate--if you have--I'm sorry, I feel your pain.<div><br /></div><div>This third bible study has been no easy task. I've spent now, close to 4 weeks studying the 3rd chapter of the epistle of James, in what should have been a relatively <i>easy </i>project. I say that, primarily, because the first two study guides over James, chapters 1 and 2, come out with relative ease. I think this third chapter has spoken to me so much, so intently, that I find myself expanding too far beyond the initial message, drafting, somewhat and somehow, another study entirely within the pages of this very short chapter. I've been stuck on two areas within this chapter's outline--the severity of improper teaching (gulp) and the source of biblical Wisdom. Both of these topics strike to the very heart of me, that when I start drafting questions to help the audience discover the message, I look up to realize I've written days of worth questions that should have lasted one day. I'm in an endless cycle of minimize and fluff--one moment I have the simple, yet profound questions drafted for the final two days of study, only to read over my draft and realize I've written days worth of content. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, what's the answer? Another study, no doubt! I think I need a study that focuses on biblical wisdom and Godly understanding. There is so much meat to be taken from this chapter and I'm in my 3rd re-write of the same 18 passages of scripture. That's the life of the student and the teacher, isn't it? </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks and happy studying....</div><div><br /><p><br /></p></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-13705812774669523712020-12-10T09:45:00.006-06:002020-12-10T09:56:45.299-06:00"What is the peace or Shalom of the Lord?"<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpHbQj-fgkVxB_k2Uja2uhZ1Ux3I16Hxsc7uXSbTEsNM3y1P-JxdL2gQyvsXXjm4qO7o9I1mV1JnUp05Wb472eAxjB62zKFlAY4SyBtJ43KlecHkRjuq3CZI0WhwyfpWzxwF_udsQTB-Y/s699/Shalom_gradient.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="699" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpHbQj-fgkVxB_k2Uja2uhZ1Ux3I16Hxsc7uXSbTEsNM3y1P-JxdL2gQyvsXXjm4qO7o9I1mV1JnUp05Wb472eAxjB62zKFlAY4SyBtJ43KlecHkRjuq3CZI0WhwyfpWzxwF_udsQTB-Y/s320/Shalom_gradient.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>There is a lot of references to the Lord's <i>peace</i> or the <i>Shalom </i>of the Lord in the bible. Like many words or phrases in the bible, I've read them, heard them, quoted them, even applauded when others referenced them, etc., but never really studied the meaning behind the word--or the relevancy. That was of course, until my study of the epistle of James. As I have moved from reading the bible, to actually spending time in prayer, meditating and thinking on the words of the scripture, and studying the original context, to gain the Lord's understanding in the message--the Holy Spirit has revealed more of the Lord's truth and promises to me. It's amazing honestly, to think, we can read a passage, study it, spend time thinking about it and praying for the Lord's wisdom, and slowly, you hear this whisper in your heart, in the world around you and in people, and start to gain spiritual understanding. It's really something amazing. </p><p>I have spent the past two full months, between October and today, studying the book/epistle of James. In my study I have written 2 daily bible studies (which are <a href="https://inotauthor.blogspot.com/p/test.html">FREE </a>downloads) and I'm wrapping up the conclusion to the Week 3 study of chapter 3, and like the Lord, He has brought me to a place to gain empirical understanding of the messages in James. Oh yes, not book knowledge understanding by fire. I've faced trials and setbacks, obstacles and roadblocks, and once again, I am standing in a place where I can only depend on Him and TRUST Him and His words to be true to get me through another season. I am presently powerless over circumstances in my life--money, career, relationships--hardships and things, that in the past, would have broken me--if not brought out the ugly side of Bobby in my emotions and lack of control. When we can't control the circumstances of our future, nor understand why we face difficult times, we often resort to fear and anxiety. My habit and pattern has been to run tot the world for help and ask 1,000 people for a lifeline. Instead, in this new season, I've put the Word to the test, so to speak, and I've opted to stand on my faith and Trust the Lord--and in my solitary prayer time (of which started as 2-3 minutes per day in the beginning and has since moved to an hour), the Lord has begun to fill my heart with His Shalom--his peace.</p><p>What is peace? What is Shalom? It's toted as the absence of war--in the worldly sense of the word--but my understanding is growing beyond that today. The biblical interpretation is "completeness" and "to restore." For me, at this moment, those speak to a calming sense of contentment, in the midst of my trials and tests--to be content and still, knowing, the Lord IS bringing me to a place of completeness, or oneness with Him, and in that, restoring my spirit back to the original source--Him. That has been my experience of peace--not focusing on the multitude of problems that would destroy me with anxiety--not worshipping the problems of my life by talking about them all day, to everyone, but; instead, focusing on Him, and in it--a Shalom I can't explain, has overtaken me. I can only say boldly: this place is so much better than handling the world's problems on my own.</p><p>So in essence, the Shalom of the Lord--the peace of the Lord that passes all (human/worldly) understanding is a contentment, a balance, and a place where I am not torn in the war of my soul and mind--stressing over the uncertainty's of the world and future--but instead standing, knowing, I don't know how, or when, but I know--Jesus, the Lord will provide at the right time. Oh, how sweet it is.</p><p>I pray you humble yourselves, on your knees today, offering all your fears and concerns to Him; I pray you open your heart and plead with the Lord for his peace--for His Shalom--to restore you back to Him, to be complete in Him, and gain the balance that comes with saying--yeah, "though He slay me, yet will I trust Him."</p><p>God bless.</p><p><br /></p>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-39762597925010753412020-12-01T16:09:00.002-06:002020-12-01T16:10:02.306-06:00 As not to force my own opinions<p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bRm7M5oBCoc2R1y-LzKgM_D5FRzR5M2x4VMlr1uY_QkPR4OosLPmDYy6BWytw0OEH9UKoOOzF5P8i-3MjPpU4lrWwGlM9RhodmqwzIQj86wWIoT19m8XTRA9fh3Z_cUPcrRMKq-7Icdv/s2048/IMG_0584.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bRm7M5oBCoc2R1y-LzKgM_D5FRzR5M2x4VMlr1uY_QkPR4OosLPmDYy6BWytw0OEH9UKoOOzF5P8i-3MjPpU4lrWwGlM9RhodmqwzIQj86wWIoT19m8XTRA9fh3Z_cUPcrRMKq-7Icdv/s320/IMG_0584.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>No doubt, up until this point, the bible studies have been relatively <i>easy </i>to write, with easy being, they flowed really well and I've studied the content enough to spit out questions without delay or hindrance. That was to say--until I hit the first verse of Chapter 3. That is what they call a roadblock. </p><p><br /></p><p>It's funny how the very things the Lord inspires you to do, parallel the very path you might be on in life, or more specifically, in your walk with the Lord. Verse 1 poses a point of consideration for people who aspire to, or have been called, to teach the gospel message. James is firm in his reminder that those who teach "will incur a stricter judgment" (NASB). How ironic, the very moment I decide to step further into my faith and walk with the Lord, and expand on the gifts He gave me, to write and teach, expanding on the gospel message, and I hit this roadblock that reminds me--you better be studied up! <br /><br /></p><p>We learn in 2nd Timothy that we should study to show ourselves approved unto God (2 Timothy 2:15) and no doubt, I took that warning very seriously. I spent 2 weeks reviewing, studying and meticulously reviewing every word in James chapters 1 and 2, comparing the original Greek text to the literal translations of the NASB and KJV, to ensure the questions drafted supported the original message. For some reason I just got stuck on that 1st verse--stricter judgement. I was faced with the reality, in my own study, that to teach the gospel message requires more than studying the words, but more so, bringing yourself to a place of subjection under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Without that, I would be imposing my own opinions and that my friends, would surely invite the judgment on myself. </p><p>I want to serve the Lord, in transparency and truth, in teaching the gospel message, as I was called to, many years ago. I have since recorded my first teaching video on the opening verses of James, chapter 1 (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OARX1ipaLc&t=17s" target="_blank">The Joy of Trials</a>), and now, I am preparing the follow-up lesson to record and publish this week. I spent almost 3 weeks reading and re-reading chapter 3, to ensure the message points to the gospel, and the questions bring my audience to a place to face their sins with confidence, and not guilt and shame.</p><p>A virtual bible study group on Facebook will begin using my bible studies on the book of James, beginning next week. I can't wait for the feedback, but more so, I can't wait to hear that someone, daring to be transparent and open with their responses, is finding freedom afforded in the gospel message. If so much as one person starts the transformation walk--then I would have completed my mission.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-88192934511783619282020-11-24T10:00:00.006-06:002020-11-25T10:05:56.891-06:00Another Step Into the Deep Waters...<p> </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S5LjAghDnVVgQB5SiaBQyFN40pfxrjn0QptFJp5AoKxJws46bhe_c5b7qhHxdMZ2P7SgAnFC8IOVKHQFoXuKfTlt5pMdEwC5EANvVBeO2exM6KItYbcUCVUn7mJb32RdPHJT8hIy_fsH/s259/bobby-ozuna-writer-biblestudy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S5LjAghDnVVgQB5SiaBQyFN40pfxrjn0QptFJp5AoKxJws46bhe_c5b7qhHxdMZ2P7SgAnFC8IOVKHQFoXuKfTlt5pMdEwC5EANvVBeO2exM6KItYbcUCVUn7mJb32RdPHJT8hIy_fsH/s0/bobby-ozuna-writer-biblestudy.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">So, yesterday I took another step into the unknown regions of my faith and walk with the Lord. There is so much complexity into my backstory, of which only a few people in my life know. I struggled with shame and embarrassment in my faith for many, many years. I believe the source of those feelings are end results of how people have made me feel for choosing to follow Christ. In the past, people who said they loved me the most, mocked me or ridiculed me for my faith, and despite my attitude of "no one tells me what to do"--those words impacted me. They resonated deep within my soul and they hurt me. They limited me and my walk with the Lord. I've lived many of my years "in Christ" with one foot in and one foot out. I was always a "believer" but rarely a follower. I knew "of Christ" but wouldn't pursue Him. I knew the Word and the gospel message--but I wouldn't commit to it. I believed--but I did not trust. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I've been on a new journey these past 3 years of my life, and recently, I made a decision to continue my path into the unknown regions of my faith. I</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">n honor of my gift of teaching--something that did not spur in me until the day I gave my life to the Lord--I chose to share aspects of my gift of teaching more openly with the world. I wrestled with this decision for some time now, afraid, excited, nervous, brave, you name it--I've gone back and forth with a variety of emotions. We are called to live by faith, not by feelings--so I took the plunge. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">See, I've been blessed to teach mathematics for many years. I've been successful, to state it humbly, to help many others with their academic struggles in math. My efforts have blessed families--I've helped people get into college, get out of college, move from elementary school to middle, middle to high school and helped many, many students graduate from high school. I've been complimented for my teaching style for many years. About a decade ago I started reminding people, if and when they complimented me, [that] my teaching is "a gift." That isn't a lie, but it was only partially true. All good gifts come from the Lord, but how we choose to use those gifts is up to us. The more transparent answer is: I have been given a gift of teaching to use to share the gospel message. God honored the gift--as I have helped many people in mathematical struggles--but that is not why He gave me that gift. The Lord blessed me with a gift of teaching to share His message of salvation, redemption and grace. Yesterday, I acted on that gift and calling. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Yesterday I opted to share the gospel message more openly. Since I am actively working to create the bible studies for the book of James, I thought, I would expand on that message and share it online. You can find that video </span><a href="https://youtu.be/1OARX1ipaLc" style="font-family: verdana;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: verdana;">. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Now, there is nothing left to do but pursue the Lord...and bring the loaves and fishes to the table...so that He can do the work. </span></p>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-4567446177469451912020-11-18T17:13:00.001-06:002020-11-18T17:21:49.217-06:00The Epistle of James - Chapter 2 - COMMENTARY<span style="font-family: verdana;">There is so much power to be uncovered in this second chapter of the book of James, and so much study can come from unpacking and expanding on this letter.</span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-eKiu64yPBbXTS5Qlh9oqnySSSPwsibi7vgIN8dM-HUb6d4R321crRmc25YHAcLvChr0x89U-Tq-15vCQfUBwyMzSUkjxVDwgCu9CY-qz9pXiDRBsxiC4QuhDIX2seuiM5S72bqc3dm6/s1280/bobby-ozuna-book-of-james-bible-study-commentary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-eKiu64yPBbXTS5Qlh9oqnySSSPwsibi7vgIN8dM-HUb6d4R321crRmc25YHAcLvChr0x89U-Tq-15vCQfUBwyMzSUkjxVDwgCu9CY-qz9pXiDRBsxiC4QuhDIX2seuiM5S72bqc3dm6/s320/bobby-ozuna-book-of-james-bible-study-commentary.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We open the first half of this chapter in verses 1 through 8 with a challenge to examine ourselves--the heart of who we are--in relation to whom we choose to show partiality, and more so, the condition of our heart to judge others. So many times, we, as Christians, recite the famous words of John 3:16: "<i>For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son</i>." You can find that on many poster boards in various sporting events. Unfortunately, we forget the follow-up context to that statement in verse 17 where we are told, "<i>For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world</i>." It is easy, because of our human nature, to cast judgment because of sin, but it is imperative that we strive to align ourselves with the gospel, so much so, that we allow the Lord to begin working in us to see others the way He sees them--by the heart, as we are told in 1 Samuel, chapter 16, verse 7. The Lord God does not expose our sin to judge us--but to reveal to us where we are broken--so we can repent and splendor in the grace offered by the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. The example provided by James is one of a multitude of occasions where we can represent our faith by choosing to see people as the Lord God sees them, not by what they seem to have, or by what they seem to be able to provide us in return for showing favoritism.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">James leaves us with a reminder in verses 9 through 13, that should we examine our own hearts, and remember that Jesus died on the cross <i>while we were yet sinners</i> (Romans, chapter 5, verse 8). How can we judge others if all sin is equal in the eyes of the Lord? Jesus did not take the cross for variations of sin--but for all sin, and all people--once (Romans 6:10).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">In the second half of this chapter in verses 14 through 26, we get a major call to action--pun intended! Here James outlines very clearly and numerous times that our faith should not exist solely in our mind, or in our words--but in our actions or deeds. Faith is comprised of more than just those two elements (thoughts and words) but it is triune--threefold: belief in the mind--by the words of our mouth--and by the actions we take. It is not enough to say we believe in something--if there is no action to justify it. It is not enough to profess to know of, or believe in, the Lord Jesus--without evidence to support that belief. We who are called are chosen, and we all have the same message to share--to believe in our hearts (belief), confess with our mouths (words) and share the gospel message with others (action), making disciples (action) and pursuing the heart of the Lord in prayer (action), reading the word (action), and studying the scriptures (action). Those elements combined are what set us apart from the very demons and principalities that are aware of God's existence (belief) and even reference Him in speech (words). </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I pray you step out the boat and pursue the Lord in uncharted waters--answering His call and acting on faith in the good works He has called you to.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Be a light to the world around you.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bobby Ozuna</span></div></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-65109506995524785742020-11-16T18:57:00.000-06:002020-11-16T18:57:48.882-06:00The Epistle of James - Chapter 1 - COMMENTARY<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">I have
heard it said many times—the book of James is a blueprint for the Christian
walk. One of the simplest, yet most lacking areas of the Christian life is that
of discipleship—or, as I like to say—walking along side others in their faith.
It is an imperative aspect of living a Christian lifestyle. Jesus didn’t die on
the cross so we can be free and delivered from our sins, only to wake up and
find ourselves weighted down by tasks lists and to-do’s, or worse, burdened
with religious attempts at earning salvation. That is the beauty of
grace—unmerited or undeserved favor and love from the Lord. There is nothing
you can do to earn your salvation—it is a gift. It is a choice. Choosing to
receive the Lord into your heart and choosing again to follow Him is the
fundamental principle of <i>being </i>a Christian. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">This first
chapter of James prepares us to face the inevitable—tests and trials—as part of
that learning and development. Tests in academics or in athletics, or the arts,
are all purposed to prepare us for the “big game” or “performance.” As
Christians, we should embrace these tests and trials as a means of
strengthening our trust in the God we serve. What good is a <i>lifejacket</i>
if you are not willing to jump in the water to test and see that it will keep
you afloat? That is how we should view tests and trials—not as some means to
destroy us—but rather, a method to prune us and refine us and strengthen our
trust, confidence, and faith in the Lord. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">James also
reminds us to evaluate the status of our own hearts—so we can see and discern
the difference between tests and trials designed to strengthen our faith, and
the temptations that result as unfaced sin in our hearts. He shows us that
sometimes we fall from the choices we make, and those choices are a direct
reflection of a sin struggle we have not dealt with. These types of enticement
to sin vary from person to person, as each of us struggles with different
aspect of sin. The good news—neither is designed to keep you under shame and
guilt, but rather—to give you encouragement in your growth and awareness of
where you need to step into the Lord’s grace. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">He
finishes this chapter with a reminder to be a doer—not just a hearer—of the
Word. He challenges us to walk away from traditional man-made religious rules
and instead, pursue the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord through His Word, so
that you too, can become an encouragement and light to those who are struggling
and walk alongside others as you grow in your faith. We should shout for joy in
the freedom we experience through Christ and share that <i>good news </i>with
others, who will turn to you and ask something like, “Why do I keep facing so
many struggles?” or “Why is this happening to me?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">Oh, what
an opportunity that is! It is such a blessing to have that chance to share the
joy of your own personal growth and development, through the trials, tests and
even some of the temptations you have wrestled with along your own path! Your
story—or your testimony—is the GREATEST encouragement to others. Daring to be
known and vulnerable is part of the freedom that comes with Christ—knowing, you
are no longer bound by the burdens of your sins, but free to live out from under
the shame and guilt of your past! <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: .5in;"><i><span style="color: #1f4e79; font-family: "Calibri Light",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-themecolor: accent5; mso-themeshade: 128;">Be a light
to the world around you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-10344573824416623742011-11-16T11:50:00.001-06:002011-11-16T11:52:43.408-06:00The Essence of Masculinity<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">"A
real man is a warrior; He fights for those who can't fight for
themselves. He is a Leader, who isn't afraid to challenge the system, to
bring about change he knows the world so desperately needs. He serves a
cause greater than himself and he is lovingly compassionate and he is a
romantic. His heart yearns both to love and to conquer and he is not
ashamed to bow his head and take a knee before the God he so
passionately serves, for he knows full well the essence and origin of
his true masculinity and strength."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br /><i><b>Bobby Ozuna | November 2011</b></i></span></span></h6>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-9233694608494179682011-11-07T11:05:00.001-06:002011-11-07T11:06:00.290-06:00A Father's Right and Duty<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">"<b>Fathers:</b>
Dare to love your children today. Dare to defend their right to be free-loving spirits. Dare to defend their right to the best education
possible, at any cost necessary, to inspire them to learn. Dare to defend your sons' rights to be weak, as they aren't animals, but rather, reflections of both you, as their father, and their mother. Dare to show them by example, when to be strong. Dare to defend the virtue of your daughters and nurture the importance of defending and protecting their virginity, and lastly, dare to show
them <i>how </i>to be a man and <i>what </i>a man should be. Don't fear to fail them, because that is the bain of our existence, the spear that penetrates our hearts, which was born first in the men who have failed us previously, stretching forth to the very fall of Adam, but instead dear Fathers,
fear more, <i>who </i>or <i>what </i>will teach them what you aren't willing to show them in your walk, by living example."<br /><br /><i>Bobby Ozuna | November 2011</i></span></span></h6>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-12545938710021652202011-10-18T15:30:00.000-05:002011-10-18T15:38:02.144-05:00A Child's Academic Success Depends Upon a Parent's Willingness to Let Them Fail!<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<b>A Child's Academic Success Depends Upon a Parent's Willingness to Let Them Fail!</b></div>
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It has been my experience that a child's ability to <i>succeed </i>in the classroom is somehow directly correlated to their comfort or how <i>safe </i>they feel with (what we commonly refer to as) <b><i>failure</i></b>. And in my experience I have learned [that] one key element in teaching your child <i>HOW </i>to succeed (yes, I said <i>how to succeed) </i>is first allowing them the freedom to feel comfortable with failure.<br />
<br />
First, let's define the word <i>failure. </i><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/failure">Merriam-Webster</a> defines the word failure (noun) as the 'lack of success.' Having taught leadership courses in the past, I am very adamant about first, understanding that success <b>cannot</b> be attained without a certain degree (or mass quantities) of short-comings, setbacks, delays, hindrances, downfalls, etc., etc., etc. Secondly, success is an illusion. What one person considers a success, another might consider a failure. So, you ask, what's the point? The point is, unless you have a clear vision of what <i>success</i> means within <i>your </i>household, how can you then limit a child or hold a child accountable for failing? You have to ask yourself, what is the true measure of academic success for me?<br />
Is it...<br />
<ul>
<li>Learning?</li>
<li>Grades/Grape Point Average?</li>
</ul>
...because there <i>is </i>a difference between these two objectives/goals. I can hardly elaborate on the second point, as it is of little significance to me. Being a professional tutor and parent (not to mention a person who simply sees life for what it is--just life) I put little weight on grades. To me, the most important aspect of school is learning. <br />
<br />
<br />
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I shall elaborate, as this is the example I share with many parents, as it relates to their child's success (or failures?) in the classroom.</div>
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<br />
Many of us might not recall the first time we rode a bike. But, as parents we may have a strong recollection of the day our child first rode (or attempted to ride) a bike. Unless your child was blessed by the gods, so to speak, and born to ride bikes for a living, many of them would have fallen, not once, but multiple times, even with you standing, walking, or running behind them, the first time they attempted to ride. Many of our children cried when they fell the first time. Many of our children were too scared to get back up, but miraculously, they did. Did they do it because they found the will within themselves to keep going? Or, did they do it because they <i>learned </i>the will to succeed within our firm support and committed diligence, all in the name of faith and love in our children? I believe they learned to ride because we didn't measure their falls as failures, but instead, as necessary steps towards achieving the monument of success--and in this particular instance--it was riding their bike! <br />
<br />
Now, let's take that same example and apply it to schoolwork or homework. A child tries, attends class, does as their peers do, and sometimes they just 'can't get it.' It has been my experience that instead of running beside them, encouraging them, and pushing them onward, even reminding them of the many times <b>we have fallen</b> before in our own lives, parents seem to get upset. If a child feels discouraged, they can't learn. It takes two things to <i>learn</i> in this world--the right attitude and an attempt.<br />
<br />
I speak from example when I say it is hard--very hard--to separate our emotions when attempting to 'help our kids' with homework. I am a professional tutor and yes, I still get help for my children. Why? Because we can't believe they need help. Or, we assume, if we did it, they, somehow (perhaps genetically? magically?) should 'get it' too. Sometimes we get upset, not because they can't 'get it' but more so, because we cannot. It is oftentimes fear--fear of <i>them </i>failing, fear of <i>them</i> not having great opportunities later, etc.--that cause us to react, not out of love, but out of anger. This is what we must address.<br />
<br />
My first recommendation--let go of the fear. Failure is the lack of success. Success is an illusion. Success is relative to each individual circumstance. You and your child learned how to ride a bike, ONLY AFTER having fell once or twice before. It is within the fall we appreciate the ride. School is no different. Don't be so scared to let them fail a test, a homework assignment, or a six-weeks grade for that matter, if, in the long run, it helps them truly learn.<br />
<br />
<i>...the serving father...</i><br />
<br />
<b>~Bobby</b><br />
<a href="http://www.examiner.com/single-dads-in-fort-worth/today-s-single-daddy">See my column on The Examiner.com!</a></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0North Richland Hills, TX 76180, USA32.8362389 -97.232925532.782872399999995 -97.311889499999992 32.8896054 -97.1539615tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-10968108963294470252011-10-07T20:01:00.000-05:002011-10-07T20:04:31.100-05:00New Column Focuses on the Efforts and Necessity of the Father in the Lives of Their Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><span id="goog_48745214"></span><span id="goog_48745218"></span><br /><img alt="Bobby Ozuna on The Examiner.com!" border="0" id=":current_picnik_image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhUmXW9jjqqzFFF16N58JgB0TfRVTzTPJcndi-MnLFIqNFqXgogunTdeuq_xz2YFIjddrszZyUI-QodCqbT0robRPViTGSg7l-f0eA97UvC-qTzGwSyxL3eqC08AEo6DT-gf24do4LEA1/s1600/16712880497_M6hFw.jpg" /><span id="goog_48745219"></span><span id="goog_48745215"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<br />
Recent changes in my life have prompted me to return to my original love, the true passion of my life--and the one true gift bestowed upon me by the Lord--writing.<br />
<br />
Recently, my life has changed and a wonderful circumstance has come before me. My sons, Dominic and Damian, are now living with me full-time! I believe there is no greater treasure and reward for a father! Now, whether this venture is short-term or long-term matters little to me; what matters most is this: that I make the most of the time I am given with them. And in the true spirit of serving, I am going to begin sharing my experiences as a new-found "single daddy" and what better way than with a regular column on <a href="http://www.examiner.com/"><b>The Examiner!</b></a><br />
<br />
Today, my first of many articles has released on <a href="http://www.examiner.com/"><b>The Examiner.com</b></a>. Please, subscribe, re-post, re-tweet, share and spread the word, and most importantly, read the content! <br />
<br />
My first article, "<a href="http://www.examiner.com/single-dads-in-fort-worth/today-s-single-daddy"><b>Today's Single Dad Needs to Remember Mom's Greatest Lesson in Parenting</b></a>" is now available from <a href="http://www.examiner.com/"><b>The Examiner!</b></a><br />
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I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for the support.<br />
<i><br />
...the Serving Father...</i><br />
<br />
<b>~Bobby Ozuna</b><br />
<br /></div>
Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-43090280445321399442011-06-25T12:03:00.001-05:002011-06-25T12:04:27.078-05:00Who Shall Lead True Educational Reform in America?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><span data-jsid="text">There have been some great responses and a collection of private emails sent to me regarding my recent post, both here on this website and on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/theindieauthor#%21/theindieauthor/posts/10150345253282586">Facebook wall</a>. (See Question: <a href="http://www.ozunapub.com/2011/06/why-do-we-send-our-children-to-school.html">Why Impose an Educational System, That Has Limits On Its Ability to 'Educate'?</a>)<br />
<br />
Below is my response and further argument.<br />
<br />
***************************<br />
<br />
<br />
It is imperative [that] people--our society--is forded the opportunity to hear perspectives from each of the three (the three essential pillars for appropriate societal education of our children)...the school <span class="text_exposed_show">system (representatives), the educators themselves and the parents. If a consensus could be reached between the three, we would have, I believe, created the ideal and most appropriately functional basis for an appropriate educational 'system.' Now, how we go about that is the general issue I believe. If we are to properly educate our children, it will take efforts on all sides to cooperate together. Now, its no easy task, that we know. But I think, and I am fond of teaching, self-awareness is the key to growth. We as a society must first realize, our system of education IS broken. Then, relieving special interest and primarily, money, we need to embark on a journey to discover a better means of offering an education to our children. Someone must take the reigns and someone must lead, and that leader must follow the council and direction, requests and passions of the people he/she leads. Apathy I believe will be the very cause of the decline of such an ambitious endeavor. <br />
<br />
I think, historically, we are doing the right thing by first discussing it. There are people who care, but don't know where to begin. There are people who wish to care, but aren't sure of the 'facts (which are and should be contested). There are also people who could care less and see the system as a functional tool for processing drones, as you say, in efforts to keep cash-flow running smoothly. I see as a vision a new system, born by a combination of what has worked in the past, and what can be applied for the future, mixed with traditional and nontraditional methods. Who shall lead the charge is open to public determination. Whether or not that leader can bind Apathy, well, that is another fight altogether.<br />
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<br />
<i><b>~Bobby Ozuna</b></i></span></span></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-78269354622950682872011-06-24T12:06:00.001-05:002011-06-24T12:07:17.418-05:00Why impose an educational system, that has limits on its ability to 'educate'?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">With the dramatic decrease in employees & staff in our school systems...I wonder, should we, as parents and community members...cease to send our children to school? If we are 'failing' with full staff, what will we become with a severely limited availability of resources? What's the point?<br />
<br />
<span data-jsid="text">If the system is already designed to "tell" not insight "free thought"...then why can't we just tell them what to do already? Why can't they read and study books on their own, without fear of being judged by "minimal test scores"? Why not encourage them to think freely and prepare them, as a parent, as a community, for a college system that doesn't "tell them what to know" but rather, encourages them to "think for themselves?"<br />
<br />
Apart from "having to go to school" because its "the way we do things in America"--why do we really have to (or why would we want to) send them to school? <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
~Bobby Ozuna</span></span></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-42059389353536884602011-06-14T22:39:00.001-05:002011-06-14T22:39:34.680-05:00Is Freedom physical or simply a state of mind?<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Would you say FREEDOM is something tangible, something physical, something you can touch, taste, smell, hear or would you say FREEDOM is mental, something that exists within the "reality" of your mind--a state of being?<br />
<br />
What is your stance on the 'concept' or 'illusion' of FREEDOM?<br />
<br />
Can you possess it or perhaps only live within its realm?<br />
<br />
<br />
Feel free to share your thoughts...<br />
<br />
...serving the soul of humanity...<br />
<br />
<br />
~Bobby</span></span></h6>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-75636121475410969712011-06-09T10:26:00.001-05:002011-06-09T10:27:37.453-05:00The subtle and pervasive reality, of Reality Television.<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><br />
The irony and the aspect of "reality" TV that should scare us the most is this: First, that TV producers consider the nonsense as "reality" and secondly, by not being overly critical, we are (seemingly) allowing these (types of) shows to instill a new set of values in our community, family and children, which then in turns becomes OUR "reality."<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this matter.<br />
<br />
~Bobby</span></span></h6>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-12501247400270837492011-05-22T15:41:00.002-05:002011-05-22T15:45:52.143-05:00The Cycle of Patterns: Introduction<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody"><b>[This is the first part in a series of articles which are draft forms of the new non-fiction booklets I am writing to help bless, edify, encourage and mentor the soul of humanity]</b></span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody"></span></span></div><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody"><br />
The first critical step in implementing change in your life is confession. Self-awareness is the key to growth and development. You can't change unless you first realize a change is required. To believe you need to change is one thing, to confess is another altogether.<br />
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I've heard it countless times before. <i><b>How do I know I need to make changes in my life?</b></i><br />
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The response: Simply thinking about the notion of implementing change in your life is the first indicator. Your soul is the spiritual representation of your true nature--your true self. When your spirit is at conflict with your physical and outward actions--the life choices you are making--there is conflict. That inner turmoil, that 'tug-of-war' you feel within your mind, when you're happy one minute and unhappy the next, is the clash between your mind--your Ego--and your Soul--your true identity. <br />
<br />
You can't buy happiness. It can't be purchased in a book, it can't be found in a store, in another person (male or female companion), you can't find it in your own children or grandchildren, it can only be discovered. <b>To discover <i>happiness </i>is to land on its shores. It's a journey, a trip, a symbolic road trip away from the mundane routines you are already implementing in your life, which must be altered, like a course down the wrong path to the right location.</b><br />
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The <i><b>Cycle of Patterns</b>, </i>as I call it, clearly defines the steps to implement change. You have to first be aware that a change is required. That is where confession comes in. Secondly, after making the outward verbal confession you must then replicate that action by verbalizing the belief that you are (or are not) what you are at the present moment. <br />
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Do not be afraid to come to terms with your short-comings, hindrances or mere necessity of change. Change is great. Change is a wonderful breath of fresh air on a muggy, humid day. Welcome it. Look for it in expectance by creating it with the power of the spoken (and written as you will see) word.<br />
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Spend some time along and identify first, the desire and necessity to change. Verbalize it. Say it out loud. Tell a friend, tell a loved one, a stranger, a pet or simply look yourself in the mirror and say, "It's time for a change." This is the first step towards discovering true happiness and changing the present life course of your life.<br />
<br />
(to be continued...)<br />
<br />
<i>...serving the soul of humanity...</i><br />
<br />
<b> ~Bobby Ozuna</b><br />
</span></span></h6>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-2939486097474091632011-05-22T13:32:00.001-05:002011-05-22T13:33:14.407-05:00The Serving Soul--May 22nd, 2011<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>"The Serving Soul"--May 22nd, 2011</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>When does the world end?</b></i></div><br />
<br />
In light of the comical following to a fanatical belief [that] the world was supposed to end yesterday, May 21st, 2011, I thought I'd interject with my own poetic rendition to this possibly historical event, by sharing a tale that was relayed to me when I was a child.<br />
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There is a passage in the Book of Matthew (first book of the New Testament) where Jesus is asked point blank by his disciples <i>when </i>the world will end. I remember the first time I read this particular passage because as I was spending more time dissecting the scriptures, I couldn't help but ask myself: Why doesn't someone ask the real questions!? Then, ironically, I ran across the scripture myself. I remember feeling justified in that, yes, it seems these disciples were human after all. <br />
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I remember asking my father this same question when I was young. I thought it was harmless and my father must have seen in me, the same inquisitiveness stirring at an early age that has since defined my life path--my approach to all aspects of life. His answer was simple and it has been the very response I share to the multitudes of people who have posed the same question to me over the years.<br />
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When does the world end?<br />
<br />
Simple.<br />
<br />
It ends the day you die.<br />
<br />
That was the response my father gave me and looking back, I realize it had a very powerful implication in that one, it did answer the immediate question and secondly, it offered some sense of peace to an inquiring soul like myself. It is no doubt obvious that people can spend so much time tending to the details of this possible known event [that] they put their life on hold and almost quit living altogether. Worse still, if you aren't careful you can find yourself spending a vast majority of your time judging or scaring others into following particiular religious processions because of their own indecision. I think the response is enlightening because it offers a sense of tranquility that says: You only have to worry about what you can control, while you are living, and because of this, your only real obligation to the fear that the "world is going to end soon" is [that] you fulfill a life of purpose until that day.<br />
<br />
I have no doubt there are people and groups or organizations who dedicate every resource available to determining a solid answer to this common question: When is the world going to end? But I ask this particular question in return: Is the purpose of such a discovery to help offer a greater sense of life, for the rest of humanity, while we yet live? If not, then there is no reason to chase this illusive tail (or tale for that matter). I see this research and study (or worry) no different than someone who says, "I know which team is going to lose the game!" Then, during the entire course of a sporting event they chant, parade around the house and interrupt other spectators to share their own conclusion on what the final outcome will be. Yes, there is always a 50% chance they might be accurate in their hypothesis. Then, if they are, the euphoria is telling everyone "I was right!" And yes, if they guessed (or somehow evaluated correctly) I think they missed the greatest treasure and reward: They missed the entire game and in focusing on the end result, they caused others to miss the game as well.<br />
<br />
Life to me is similar in pattern to a sporting event. There is heightened enthusiasm leading up to the event, then the announcement--the birth of the life participants. Then, the game is commenced and we watch, we look for mistakes, we celebrate the small victories and then we almost die with the hero as they fall short. There are break periods, for the hero's and for all the spectators. There is advise, counsel and coaching along the way. Support is rallied and faith is lost. Then, as the game comes to a close, there are multitudes of professionals offering insight and in time, the hero is forgotten, remembered only on special occasions. We honor their attempt over time and we try not to focus on the losses, but rather the victory their game offered us in mere entertainment--entertainment that pulled the rest of us away from our ordinary, mundane sports of our lives.<br />
<br />
I say celebrate the life you have been given, and the time you are aware of, now, as it matters. Because, at the end of the day, what else truly matters, when the game is over?<br />
<br />
...serving the soul of humanity...<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>~Bobby Ozuna</b></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-57573903641908764282011-05-11T13:14:00.001-05:002011-05-11T13:14:58.842-05:00The Serving Soul--May 11th, 2011<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<i><b> What does it take to live a life of reason? A life of value? A life of purpose?</b></i><br />
<br />
You have to assume that service to others, the unselfish act of living, does NOT come naturally...therefore...to act on behalf of others, selflessly, without concern for your own needs, is a miracle in itself to perform...small miracles, yes...but miraculous nonetheless. The notion [that] others would heed the subtle whisper of the spirit, to be keen to the sensitivities of others and their necessities and thereby offer it up freely, without consideration for what you (they) need, is a rare and seldom gift. I am a firm believer that when you bless others secretly, God rewards you openly. It is one thing for a man to brag of his own abilities (the egoist) and another to serve for the sake of others without consideration of receiving (the altruist). The altruist is a man I believe, after God's own heart and God loves a cheerful giver and thereby, when you do for others, God opens doors, windows of opportunity and chance happenings that make your life better, not always easier, but better in the sense that you have chance opportunities to do things others work and slave an entire life to hope to experience. As Paulo Coelho says (in summation), when you are living your personal legend (the life of your soul and your calling) all the Universe conspires in your favor. We all secretly want to see others succeed...as we believe in the possibility of our own successes. Keep steady...even when it gets hard...and know, you ARE making an impact and influencing lives the way we were called to: as Men...as Leaders...as Pillars...as Strength...as Light...as Warriors, Companions, and mostly, as Friends and Brothers.</span><br />
<br />
...serving the soul of humanity...<br />
<br />
~Bobby</div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-39094447895035658242011-04-27T16:44:00.002-05:002011-04-27T16:45:25.334-05:00"I-Tutor Math"--Announcing the 2011 Summer School!<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">The <b>"I-Tutor Math"</b> 2011 Summer School is coming up! IF you wish your child to touch elements crucial in developing skills for Middle Grades (6~8), including 9th Grade, to help them master TAKS and fundamental skills, you WILL NOT WANT TO MISS THIS SUMMER SCHOOL!!!<br />
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The school will be 6 weeks long, focusing on Pre-Algebra and Algebra I fundamental skills. It will begin July 11th and run through August 19th. Six weeks, 3 days a week, 3 hours per day, including 2 hours of study on Tues/Thurs. There are a... total of 66 hours of study/curriculum practice (equivalent to 4.5 months of school time) for a low cost of $400 per child, which totals about $6 per hour, including supplies they can use the entire (and upcoming) school year!<br />
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More details to come!!!<br />
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~Bobby</div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-37115823878061228372011-03-29T16:24:00.001-05:002011-03-29T16:25:18.949-05:00"The Serving Soul"--March 29th, 2011<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>"<span class="messageBody">A teacher should never be afraid to push the students beyond the expectations of their culture."</span></b></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="messageBody"><br />
<i><br />
...serving the soul of humanity...</i><br />
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<b>Bobby Ozuna</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-72871646442755092612011-03-23T20:21:00.001-05:002011-03-23T20:22:06.762-05:00Help Fund a School Project with "DonorsChoose.org!"<span id="goog_744295903"></span><span id="goog_744295904"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Help donate funds to your local schools for classroom projects @ Donorschoose.org" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNXhNH8mNQZC4aiMv314GjYn1sWcV-IuVRD0Ar9Vm6SSADEvHdKLlow6eoH4pICL5qKKaayi5ykrYiY6srBduXTwBprGVDtkvZy5jnP3VD_IBVmYAzUfZfdJK_P0EWD-wWPeZ9s9jbpU47/s1600/donorschoose_org.gif" /></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">I found a GREAT way to help support the efforts of teachers in the classroom--donorschoose.org! This organization helps connect with schools, based on location (state, city, city, etc) who are in need of funds for their school and classroom. You can scroll through the list of "projects" needing funds and even see the dollar amount requested and receive an email from the requesting teacher or school staff member. <br />
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I am happy to say I have connected with <a href="http://donorschoose.org/"><b>DonorsChoose.org</b></a> by placing their banner and link on my website (scroll down) and I also donated $25 to "<i>Mrs. H's</i>" class at <b>T.A. Sims Elementary School</b> in Fort Worth, Texas!</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you consider the "budget crisis" we are facing in our school systems across the US, this is a GREAT way for you, as an individual, to be proactive and help fund money where it matters most--in the classroom!</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Happy Donating!</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>...serving the soul of humanity...</i><br />
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<b>~Bobby Ozuna</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="goog_744295888"><span id="goog_744295892"></span><span id="goog_744295898"></span></span><span id="goog_744295899"></span><span id="goog_744295893"></span><span id="goog_744295889"></span></div><span id="goog_744295894"></span><span id="goog_744295895"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-445942599807525882011-03-21T22:52:00.001-05:002011-03-21T22:53:19.388-05:00"The Serving Soul"--March 21st, 2011<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><br />
</b><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">"It is my job to teach them whatever it takes, to teach them <i>whatever it takes</i> for them to learn."</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
~<i>Bobby Ozuna</i></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-31375144634995413902011-03-14T12:11:00.016-05:002011-03-21T15:44:30.292-05:00"I-Tutor Math"--FRACTIONS<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUfHEGkC398_7agoLZq9eF4MFsHHnsu25rZ15eQ9fF4UklMwDBxR9bVZOESqn4UZjOzYtLZrhXLQX_OGgWIhZGEyVUAyomZZYg5jU4hSu_9EVEkCOV1neCXOSLn9ONqsMU7MqSU_EFvQ5/s1600/Addition_Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>"I Tutor Math"--FRACTIONS<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUfHEGkC398_7agoLZq9eF4MFsHHnsu25rZ15eQ9fF4UklMwDBxR9bVZOESqn4UZjOzYtLZrhXLQX_OGgWIhZGEyVUAyomZZYg5jU4hSu_9EVEkCOV1neCXOSLn9ONqsMU7MqSU_EFvQ5/s1600/Addition_Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="I-Tutor Math FRACTIONS Free Worksheets for Parents and Kids from Ozuna Publications" border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUfHEGkC398_7agoLZq9eF4MFsHHnsu25rZ15eQ9fF4UklMwDBxR9bVZOESqn4UZjOzYtLZrhXLQX_OGgWIhZGEyVUAyomZZYg5jU4hSu_9EVEkCOV1neCXOSLn9ONqsMU7MqSU_EFvQ5/s200/Addition_Image.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b> <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dear Parents:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">These "practice" worksheets are designed to help strengthen your child's fundamental skills in mathematics. Like sports, we practice a motion, movement, pattern, etc., continuously throughout the week to strengthen our ability to perfect that skills on game day, or for the big 'test.' Math or any classwork should be no different. <br />
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There are 3 complimentary worksheets below and a quiz. The concept is simple: You print one sheet per day, three days a week and check their work <i>with </i>them. Then, on Thursday, you give them the quiz but instead of having them do the quiz alone, you have them TEACH YOU each problem. This concept I call <b>The FLAT Square</b> validates mastery in a particular math element.</span> The continual practice of a particular element is what strengthens their skills and helps commit mathematical concepts to long-term memory.<br />
<i><br />
~Bobby Ozuna</i></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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(Instructional Video Coming Soon)</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/50721403/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Addition-w-Same-Denominator-Sheet-1"><b>Addition of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet #1</b></a></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/50725160/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Addition-w-Same-Denominator-Sheet-2">Addition of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet#2</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/50726060/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Addition-w-Same-Denominator-Sheet-3">Addition of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet#3</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/50727310/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Addition-w-Same-Denominator-QUIZ">Addition of Fractions, Same Denominator--Quiz</a><br />
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(Instructional Video, Coming Soon!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51188454/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Subtraction-w-Same-Denominator">Subtraction of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet#1</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51188700/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Subtraction-w-Same-Denominator-Sheet-2">Subtraction of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet#2</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51188996/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Subtraction-w-Same-Denominator-Sheet-3">Subtraction of Fractions, Same Denominator--Sheet#3</a></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51189667/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Subtraction-w-Same-Denominator-Quiz-1">Subtraction of Fractions, Same Denominator--Quiz</a><br />
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</b><br />
<b>(Instructional Video, Coming Soon!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51194082/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Dividing-Fractions-Sheet-1">Dividing Fractions, Sheet#1</a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51195304/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Dividing-Fractions-Sheet-2">Dividing Fractions, Sheet#2</a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51195567/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Dividing-Fractions-Sheet-3">Dividing Fractions, Sheet#3</a></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51196182/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Dividing-Fractions-Quiz-1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Dividing Fractions, Quiz#1</b></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
(Instructional Video, Coming Soon!)</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51248875/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Multiplying-Fractions-Sheet-1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Multiplying Fractions, Sheet#1</b></span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51248959/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Multiplying-Fractions-Sheet-2"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Multiplying Fractions, Sheet#2</b></span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_496044249"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51249002/I-Tutor-Math-FRACTIONS-Multiplying-Fractions-Sheet-3"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Multiplying Fractions, Sheet#3</b></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Multiplying Fractions, Quiz#1<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-72989575342173480232011-03-02T15:44:00.001-06:002011-03-02T15:45:38.071-06:00"The Serving Soul"--March 2, 2011<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">"I would rather fall, standing for something, than stand by to watch others fall for nothing at all, or worse, fall for something I could have prevented, if I had only the courage to stand my ground."</span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">That is how I feel when I look the children in the eyes or listen to the concerns of the hundreds of parents I communicate with (regularly) regarding America's approach to education.<br />
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<b>~Bobby Ozuna</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-51100911796107564612011-02-27T18:13:00.002-06:002011-02-27T18:14:30.140-06:00The Serving Soul--February 26th, 2011<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
"Be happy with what you have in this world or find the courage to go after what you want. All the talk in between either validates your true desires and passions to make your dreams a reality, or proves your indecision. Life is too short to second guess yourself and life is too precious to spend one moment in regret. Period."</span><br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">~Bobby Ozuna | 2.26.2011</span></span></div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4141637017900148390.post-68170619990423553222011-02-18T14:14:00.001-06:002011-02-18T14:14:58.874-06:00One more night until the "I-Tutor Math" FRACTIONS Workshop in Fort Worth, Texas!<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">There is still room available to register for the "I-Tutor Math" FRACTIONS Workshop in Fort Worth, Texas, Saturday, February 19th.<br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">Registration/Workshop Details are below. Cash is easy, but you can bring a Money Order (leave blank).</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Registration Starts @ 11:15</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Workshop Begins @ 12:00</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Drinks provided.</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>You can bring food and snacks.!!! (<u>PLEASE BRING FOOD!!!</u>)</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Workshop Ends @ 4:30</b></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">Holiday Inn Express, (@ Western Center)</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">6351 North Freeway 76131</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">$25 per Family Unit (1 Adult + 1 Child) $15 for Each Additional Child</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">I will have paper and pencils.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">If you need to contact me, please do so <a href="mailto:bobby_ozuna@yahoo.com">here</a>. If you need to call me, provide your number and I will call you.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
I hope to see you tomorrow at 11:15AM!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">Bobby Ozuna</div>Bobby Ozunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06054557500399102688noreply@blogger.com0