Mars Hill Newspaper Vol 20 Issue 3

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october 21, 2015

THE

TEAM

TREVOR MCMAHAN managing editor

LUCAS KOEHN visual editor

The average child Standing on top of a plastic stool in our old bathroom, I stared at my reflection in the mirror and thought to myself, “so this is what average looks like.” By no means was I disappointed; neither was I proud. Rather, I felt resolved in my conclusions. I had the idea that all average children looked just like me—a gap-toothed smile, brown hair, brown eyes, and freckles to match. The age of this recollection is foggy to me now; I was young enough to use a stool and old enough to have a sense of self. Where I got this idea, I will never know, but it stays with me to this day.

Sometime after this childhood realization, I began to find myself both distinct from and the same as those around me. There were uncanny similarities between myself and others, from the movies we liked, to the socks we wore, to the way we laughed at recess. But there were also things in which I found myself alone. I cannot articulate these things, but I am sure you too have, at times,

felt alone in yourself. There were times where I felt like I did not quite match up with my peers, as though I were a puzzle piece too short or maybe a puzzle piece too many.

There have been numerous times over the course of my life where I have thought myself to be an anomaly, as a deviation from the standard or the norm. Yet, when it comes down to it, none of us are truly anomalies in and of ourselves. When I began sharing my life experiences and sensations with those close to me, I discovered that I was not so alone, nor so bizarre, as I previously thought myself to be. Airing out the stories I hoarded like valuable treasure provided a sense of clarity to my membership in the common human experience. The sense of belonging I experienced from being understood far outweighed the satisfaction I felt in being an anomaly.

Of course, being able to recognize and appreciate differences is an important aspect of life.

There is a great deal of beauty to be found in celebrating and acknowledging individual stories and the hardships that result from differences. Reading through the stories posted on the Humans of New York blog is one of my favourite pastimes because they

EDITORIAL POLICY

CONTRIBUTORS

I

DAVID PUNNAMMANNIL

DARBY ARENS

LARISSA TENORIO

HEIDI RENNERT

photo editor

web editor

MATT RUBULIAK

advertising & finance manager

MARS’ HILL

Mars’ Hill is a student publication of Trinity Western University, floated with funds raised by the Student Association. Mars’ Hill seeks to be a professional and relevant student publication, reflecting and challenging the TWU community, while intentionally addressing local, national and international issues.

layout editor

chief copy editor

SIDSEL RICHMOND illustration editor

MISSION TO MARS

The mission of Mars’ Hill, as the official student newspaper of Trinity Western University, is to inform and entertain its readers, cultivate awareness of issues concerning the TWU community and provide a forum for purposeful, constructive discussion among its members in accordance with the Community Covenant, Statement of Faith, and Core Values of the University.

STUDENT MEDIA ADVISOR Loranne Brown

SPECIAL THANKS

mackenzie

cameron

Mars’ Hill encourages submissions and letters to the Editor. Mars’ Hill reserves the right to edit submissions for style, brevity and compatibility with the Mission, Statement of Faith, the Community Community Covenant, and the Core Values of the University.

Anonymous authorship of any material may be granted at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief.

Opinions expressed in Mars’ Hill belong to the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, Trinity Western University, its officials or its Student Association.

Amara Gelaude Dayna Slusar Aline Bouwman Emily Robertson Nathan Stein Sam Rosenau Jared Barkman Leanne Witten Ariana Hurt Tiffany Hordyk Bailey Broadbent Connor Ewert Matthew Blackaby

Kat Grabowski for the team photos

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Hannah Marazzi

continue to surprise me time and time again.

As an innovative photographer, Brandon Stanton roams the streets of New York City, taking portraits of the people he interacts with and then engaging them in meaningful conversations.

He posts their images and their corresponding stories to his blog and has recently published these stories in a New York Times bestselling book.

Flipping through the images on his blog, oftentimes I make a snap judgment about the people I see, and then, when I read their stories, I am humbled by my own ignorance. There is so much I do not know about those around me.

I have surely brushed shoulders with you on my walk to class, yet I will never understand what it means to actually be you.

This Mars’ Hill issue stands as a starting point of conversation on what it means to feel like an anomaly. Within these pages are stories that were written with care and with caution, so please hold them carefully and consider them openly. You might be surprised to find your own reflection mirrored in their words, thinking to yourself, “So this is what being human looks like.”

7600 Glover Rd, Langley, BC, V2Y 1Y1 604-513-2109 marshill@gmail.com www.marshill.com This issue brought to you by Colton Martin and Fresh Slice.

October 21, 2015

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MADELINE GALLARD

Hear their voice

I

leanne

witten

The issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women is one of the many difficult topics that are easy to dismiss as being beyond our ability to address. Yet the stories of missing and murdered Aboriginal women are not beyond our country’s borders; rather, they rest within them and therefore within our realm of responsibility.

On October 4th, Dr. Robynne Healey and Dr. Erica Grimm brought Red Dress Day to Trinity Western University. Many of you probably noticed the red dresses hanging on trees, placed there to commemorate the loss of many indigenous women.

According to RCMP statistics, there were an estimated 225 missing or murdered aboriginal women in Canada in 2014. Just this past Thursday Selena Rose Keeper, an Aboriginal woman in Winnipeg, died from an assault.

She had previously applied for protection from the police, but her case was dismissed. Cases like Selena Rose’s are all too common for Aboriginal women.

“There seems to be a systematic reason why aboriginal women are not being protected,” said Patti Victor, who is Trinity Western’s Siya:m through Trinity’s Aboriginal Partnership Council. (Siya:m is a Sto:lo word that describes a leader known for wisdom and integrity.) Aboriginal rights have theoretically been protected since 1982 under the Constitution Act,

but too many Aboriginal women suffer because they do not receive the same kind of protection given to other Canadian citizens.

This summer I had the privilege of working with an organization of Aboriginal people through a job with a small newspaper. The mission of the leaders of the group was twofold: to gather together to learn about and celebrate Aboriginal culture, and also to provide support for children and youth who had little family support.

During one of their meetings, a woman from the John Humphrey Centre for Truth and Reconciliation in Edmonton asked questions for a survey focusing on the rights of Aboriginal youth.

When asked if they had rights to basic resources like food, water and shelter, the youth said yes in general. When asked if they had a parent or mentor to approach, the majority of them said they only had the leaders of the group.

The youth were asked if they had proper access to healthcare, to which they responded that while healthcare was available, it was often difficult to access, particularly because the youth did not have a guardian available to sign their health care forms. It is shocking to see how often Aboriginal people theoretically have the same rights as all Canadian citizens but do not, in reality, receive the benefit of these rights.

Before I attended these meetings, the significance of Aboriginal issues had never really extended beyond the textbook for me. I knew these issues existed; I even agreed that they were important, but I never felt a personal need for action until I sat down with

Aboriginal people and listened to their responses.

Often, the stories of missing Aboriginal women are not heard because people have a string of prejudices about Aboriginal people: “they have problems on the reserves,” “they have made poor choices,” or, “they allow others to wrongly influence them.” These prejudices, however, do not qualify as legitimate excuses to be unconcerned about the situations of these women. First, these are generalizations and do not relate to every woman’s story. Second, it is often forgotten that each of these women, regardless of her story, has fundamental rights as a human being. She should be protected, and when a tragedy occurs, it should be investigated.

We must begin by providing education so that people have knowledge of the reality of the situations faced by Aboriginal women. More education will increase our capacity to make changes to the system and ensure that these women are better protected.

The deaths of Aboriginal women may not seem relevant to a lot of university students, but the reality should feel no more distant than the red dresses that hang from the trees on campus.

These women had friends, family, and loved ones. Let us not forget or allow more women to die and simply pass into obscurity.

Gallons of milk regurgitated, since the Gallon Challenge was scrapped this year Cost (in dollars) of a Vanilla Soft Serve Cone at McDonalds Number of Mentos in a standard roll Total number of legs shaved in 8/9 Low Total number of dorms that participated Number of points out of 100 received by winning guys’ team, 1G Number of points out of 100 received by winning girls’ team, 2A Total number of Bobby Wings consumed Total number of calories in the blended McDonald’s meal Total number of shirtless men at various Fork Week events Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Lauren Dresselhuis

0 1 14 28 31 69.75 73.25 1550 1810

too many

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october 21, 2015

On the verge

I

arianna

hurt

Every year, the Verge conference attracts scholars and artists both nationally and internationally to Trinity Western’s little campus in the corner of Langley. The conference’s theme changes each year in its goal to combine art with another discipline. This year’s theme was “Arts and the Environment,” which was also connected with two new endeavours: the Sea Change Colloquium and the Blaauw Eco Forest Celebration.

Because of the distinct subject matter, the conference attracted many scientists in addition to the usual attendance of musicians, poets, painters, writers, and actors.

In addition to attracting established scholars, SAMC also sends out a call for submissions from undergraduate students. This year, Aline Bouwman and I seized the opportunity, and were given the chance to present in a panel.

Bouwman says, “The ‘New Voices’ panel for beginning scholars at the Verge Conference is a great way for undergraduates to get their work out there. I presented on toilets, and it was a lot of fun.”

Bouwman’s presentation offered an insightful look into the

construction of the novel Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace. She discussed, among other things, how the novel detaches the reader from the story with its exceptionally superfluous endnotes, and thus stimulates the reader to reflect upon his own detachment with the world.

On a different

note, the ‘New Voices’ session began with my presentation on how trees exude music, in a sense, and how nature inspires music.

The entire conference was marked with such thematic contrasts and varying subject matters, though not usually side-by-side in the same panel. The session

immediately following ours began with musicologist Thom Jencks presenting on John Luther Adams’ piece Sila in terms of the environment in which we listen.

This presentation was followed

by Ecologist Brandon Craft, who shared the beauty of how the longleaf pine

ecosystems depend upon fire for continued survival. The presentations from two very diverse fields were followed by an equally unique presentation from a ministry worker who discussed art and homelessness.

It is interesting to note the relevance of TWU’s distinctly

Christian identity. Despite the unabashed character of this institution, the conference does not fail to draw speakers from all faith backgrounds. It is in fact a marvelous thing to note that despite all of the bad publicity it has seen in the last year, TWU still attracts good scholars who wish simply to discuss art and are able to do so in such a collegial environment that is free from the tension of religious differences.

Speaking of differences, the Verge conference is also open to expressions of research that take a form other than a paper reading or a lecture. There was in fact a very different kind of session Friday morning, which involved poetry reading and improvisational dance. In the words of music student and attendee Paul Kobilke, the session provided “a beautiful sort of commentary on nature and humanity, and how they interact; the land, the human body and creation all intermingling and showing the effect that each one has on the other.”

Kobilke reported that the performance involved the participation of the audience as the dancer came around and dropped water into each person’s hand.

Friday also brought more work from the TWU student body, as Nicholas Noble—currently in the Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies program—presented on the intrinsic contradiction within

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Susie Strait

the discipline of environmentalism. His presentation combined philosophy as well as literature to argue that environmentalism often overlooks the good of organisms in themselves and instead ‘protects’ them in a more utilitarian manner, which in fact does the good of nature a disservice.

In addition to a few students, several TWU faculty also presented, including the Art department’s Erica Grimm, Doris Auxier and Edith Krause; Communications instructor Loranne Brown; NATS Professor Sam Pimentel and Professor Emeritus, Carl Tracie.

Altogether, the Verge conference is a wonderful part of academic life at TWU. The chance to present is an excellent opportunity for students who wish to attend grad school, or who would simply like to share their work with a wider audience. Even for the rest of the student body, the occasion of having free admission to an academic conference is a great way to experience the world of academia, hear speakers from around the world, and learn a great deal about various topics in relation to art. For more information about Verge, visit twu.ca/samc/interdisciplinary/conferences

October 21, 2015

So berry good

I

madeline

gallard

During the cold and fitfully rainy hours of 10 AM to 4 PM on October 10th, swarms of people (including several Trinity students!) braved the temperamental autumn weather to get free admission and walk the sidewalks of Fort Langley during the 20th annual Cranberry Festival. This is an event sponsored by the town of Fort Langley (along with many supporters, including Ocean Spray). The event followed the annual 8 AM pancake breakfast held by the Fort Langley Lions Club, and simultaneous events include the Fort Langley Canoe Club’s pumpkin boat race, and shuttles to the Fort Wine Com-

pany to see how their cranberry wine is made.

A portion of Glover Road, between Francis Avenue and Mavis Avenue, was blocked off to allow for vendors to safely set up their tents, with wares as varied as fresh fruits and vegetables—naturally—to pottery. One vendor was advertising healthy, homemade dog treats, and plenty of vendors offered freshly baked goods.

Cranberries abounded in various forms, including straight off the vine and in tubs; sauce and jam; and pie. Businesses along Glover also seemed to get into the cranberry mood—Infusion BouTEAque, for example, advertised a cranberry tea special in their window. A second section of blocked off road held the food trucks—the real boon in this reporter’s humble opinion. A quick glance revealed vegan food; mini doughnuts; and pierogi, amongst many others. (For interested parties, this reporter invested in a 13

5

count bag of mini doughnuts, and they were divine.)

The town of Fort Langley sponsored free shuttle service to this event from Walnut Grove Secondary and Trinity itself, running shuttles from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Parking is scarce on Glover with the blocked off roads, so it is a good idea in future Cranberry Festivals to ditch your car and take the shuttle to minimize traffic and congestion along Fort Langley’s side streets. Also note that many of the vendors only take cash, so bringing paper money or sourcing out an ATM is a smart plan if you want to invest in some cranberryrelated products. (And hey, they make great Christmas gifts— pre-planners take note). All in all, the Cranberry Festival is a free and fun outing for people of all ages. Keep your eyes out for the 21st Cranberry Festival next year, on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

The immunization that’s sweeping the nation hordyk

Flu season is upon us, and with that comes the Trinity Western School of Nursing Flu Clinic.

Available to all students, the fourth year nursing students and Wellness Centre staff will be hosting an immunization clinic where you can receive your flu shot—for free! Although getting a shot may not be the most fun study break, nothing is worse than fighting the flu in the middle of exam- and paperwriting-season.

Unlike other vaccines you may have gotten in the past, the flu vaccine is unique in that it must be received annually in order to ensure protection from the flu virus.

Contrary to popular belief, the flu shot does not cause the flu, is not harmful to your body or its immune system, is not very

any further questions concerning the flu clinic you can ask a 4th year nursing student or someone at the Wellness Centre.

The Trinity Western Flu Clinic will be open on November 5th until 4 PM and is available to all students and staff. If you cannot make it to the flu clinic at this time, you can book an appointment at the Wellness Centre to get your flu shot as long as supplies last.

By Levin C. Handy (per http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cwpbh.04326) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

I

tiffany

painful to receive, and in comparison to having the flu itself, is not a waste of time.

Getting the flu shot is important not only for keeping your own body healthy but also for protecting others around you. By getting the flu shot, you will be able to protect people with vulnerable immune systems, such as the elderly and young children.

Most importantly, it can help prevent the virus from spreading through you and your dorm like a wildfire.

As always, your Trinity Western University School of Nursing students are always happy to help and if you have

You don’t have to sit in school to stand among greatness.

› Thomas Edison: The world’s most extraordinary failure never gave up.

Thank goodness.

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Charmaine Viaje

open. online. everywhere. go.athabascau.ca/online-courses

6

october 21, 2015

CAM THIESSEN

Window To the Soul

I

dayna

slusar

“The eyes are the window to the soul.” We’ve all heard this common proverb. Imagine you’re having a conversation with someone and they look like they’re listening, but their eyes are flickering around the room. Behind you, above you, to the left, to the right, like there’s something better that they’re looking for. They might be listening to what you’re saying but they seem distracted and there’s a disconnection in the conversation. You’re missing the window.

Now go to the other extreme.

You’re talking to someone and your eyes meet and they hold your gaze. You try to keep your train of thought but to keep your eyes locked takes all the concentration you have. Suddenly you’re not thinking about your words, but about this person you’re somehow connected with. You see the window. The moment starts to feel uncomfortable, but you don’t want to look away if they aren’t.

Why do we feel this way? Because eye contact is intimate. In many ways, looking someone in the eyes is the most intimate, non-sexual connection between humans.

Reginald Adams and Anthony Nelson, psychology professors at Pennsylvania State University wrote a

chapter in the 2016 APA Handbook of Nonverbal Communication titled “Eye Behavior and Gaze.” They found that not only does eye contact send a physical signal that we are giving our full attention, but they argue that this nonverbal connection sends a message to the listener that draws him or her in. “Anything (the listener is) thinking

or feeling likely implicates us in some way, thereby increasing the self-relevance of the social information they are conveying.” And it is because the eyes draw us in, we find this intimate connection with another human.

When someone listens to you and looks you in the eyes it makes you feel valued and important. There’s something that happens there in that moment, in that gaze. The person respects you, values you, and maybe even understands you better because of

that connection.

The eyes convey so much of our emotion and we identify with what we see in the eyes of another person. Without any words we can tell how someone might be feeling. We just look at his or her eyes. Are they droopy with fatigue? Are they narrow with disdain? Are they squinting in a

joy ful smile? I believe God made it so that the eyes would be the part that tells the most about someone.

You could be talking about anything from the details of your weekend, to the kind of car you drive, to how you feel about what your RELS professor spoke about in lecture. Whatever the topic, when another human looks you in the eyes when you or they speak,

something intimate and spiritual happens between you. In that uncomfortable yet beautiful moment, you are encountering another human being, another creation of God. One who is made in His image, just as you are. And if we are made in God’s Image and we behold other humans every day, we are encountering God’s most precious creation and should regard them as such, without prejudice or judgement. God made them from the same design as you and me. They have that same sacred window.

So the next time you find yourself in any kind of conversation with someone, especially if they are looking at you, make an effort to meet their eyes. When you pass someone on your way to class, glance up and really look at them. Realize that you’re looking into the eyes of another creation formed perfectly by the One who made the universe. Make that connection and keep it. See what happens. Be intentional, and let them know they are important to you.

After all, they’re letting you see their soul.

The new evangelical

I

cam

thiessen

Evangelicalism is the ideological anomaly of Christendom. But do not be fooled by its quick appeal and massive following. The iconic weekly rock concert for Jesus is becoming a thing of the past. The forty-five-minute sermon is going bland. The projectors, smoke machines, and light shows have slowed our minds. In our attempts to change and alter things we have grown tired of, we have killed the Evangelical, and something new is rising from her grave.

Recently, Evangelicalism has been shifting. We have come to the point where the things which describe an Evangelical are becoming absent from churches. Pastors are changing their minds about interpretation. Same-sex weddings are being performed under Evangelical roofs. Women are stepping into positions of leadership. Something

new is here, but it is not Evangelical. The New Evangelical is not coming. The New Evangelical is its own death.

I have been intentionally avoiding the term “Conservative Evangelicalism,” and here’s why: it is redundant. Evangelicalism, as much as it has been defined by its attempt to market relationship-oriented Christian Faith to a progressive culture, has largely been defined—especially by sociologists and other observers of modern religion—by its inherent Conservativism. It is this aspect of Evangelicalism that is changing (although I assure you, the lights, cameras, and pop music will follow).

So who or what has killed the Christian Right? I believe Education is the culprit. Not necessarily because a more educated person will become more

leftist, but because, on a general level, our education and the process by which we acquire it has become overbearingly liberal.

Religious Studies professors are telling us Moses didn’t write the Pentateuch. Philosophy professors provide us with more and more reasons to question the existence of a soul. Gender Studies cause us to question the sexual landscape of the scriptures. Our once dear Conservative values are being eroded by the floods of the enlightenment, and a small few of us will be the last bastions of defence against the more devastating invasion of post-modernism. We are lucky it had not hit us earlier, for it is a long time coming.

But take heed my friends, for although Evangelicalism’s fortresses, the sold out arenas, the feasts, the festivals, the guitar solos, and the self-absorbed “community groups” are losing their significance, they are being replaced by something far more impactful. The force taking over the Church is one of social altruism. We are beginning to focus less on dogma and more on social justice. The Church is changing from a group who has historically prevented progress into a group which pursues it. The Evangelical mind has been reeling from the blows of the Enlightenment, and anti-intellectualism has, for far too long, prevented it from

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Natalie Antturi

making a real difference in this world.

But as the shift from Right to Left, driven by education, continues to take its toll on the Evangelical church, one must wonder what more it has to offer. Perhaps what we will witness is a newfound love for Christian Orthodoxy, coupled with a dedication to social Orthopraxy: love your enemies, care for the widows and orphans. Education is eliminating our need for Evangelical dogma, and is creating space for us to develop a system of values that will make a real difference in this world.

october 21, 2015

Mere profanity

7

The poison of christian apolgetics

I

aline

bouwman

I will confess it from the start: this article is written entirely out of bitterness. My pen is fanged with a special vindictive artistry aimed at a well-loved Christian classic: C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity.

On campus at TWU, the name of Mr. Lewis is invoked like a prayer mantra whenever any semi- or pseudo-philosophical debate erupts. It seems that Lewis is Trinity Western’s patron saint in every discipline, for a well-placed citation from Mere Christianity can always be pulled out as a trump card when the pious believer finds himself attacked by worldly notions. If I am to believe the average Trinity Western student, Lewis has the final word to top the most influential philosophers that the world has ever known, from ancient pagans to modern atheists.

My frustration is with the spirit of anti-intellectualism that haunts the bastions of Evangelicaldom and that is well-represented in Mere Christianity. If C.S. Lewis is, as the reviewer of my copy of Mere Christianity puts it, “perhaps the twentieth century’s finest Christian writer,” that may go a long way towards explaining why Christianity continues to lose adherents.

Reading Lewis’ book, I find myself sitting at the deathbed of Christianity, and wonder how this mere stupidity was ever published. Mere Christianity is an exercise in logical fallacy written in infantilizing language, bloated with tired analogies and the fanatical opinions of a tweed-wearing, pipe-smoking, middle-brow dogmatist. In brief: the book does not deliver what the title promises. It is utterly devoid of any recognizable theology, and it does not make any attempts at origins or historical development of the Christian faith.

Instead, it is riddled with a host of shaky claims about religious, ethical, and philosophical matters, as well as Lewis’ own bigoted, patriarchal opinions on domestic relationships, marriage, and gender.

C.S. Lewis builds foundations of logic based upon a reductionist and narrow-minded vision of history and humanity and then expounds his theories upon the trembling base beneath. It must

be noted that apart from his moronic analogies, all of Mr. Lewis’ material is derived from philosophers across the ages. Lewis does not invent any new arguments in Mere Christianity but merely pick-pockets and popularizes the most primitive and vulgar concepts philosophy has ever produced—such as hierarchical teleology—while flagrantly ignoring all the discourse that discredited and nearly succeeded in eradicating these arguments from history. In a final insulting touch, all this is presented as though these things were indeed to which all Christians subscribe.

So, is that it? A one-star review for grammar, logic, and rhetoric, and we move on to poise our pen against the next book we dislike?

My assessment has been semi-parodic in nature, as often Lewis’ arguments appear to me, but unfortunately the nausea that I feel whenever I open Mere Christianity runs much deeper than my usual distaste for Evangelical tropes and other categories of mediocrity. I am becoming increasingly dismayed by the fact that this debased and debauched work is considered a classic of Christian literature and has sold 3.5 million copies since 2001 in English alone. It is not only that the term ‘intellectual integrity’ does not appear to exist in Mr. Lewis’ vocabulary, or that his writing is worse than Aristotle’s (another thinker he likes to plagiarize), or even the fact that, by any standard of orthodoxy, he would be considered a heretic (his understanding of God is strictly Platonist). What causes me to shudder is that Mere Christianity’s popularity among the Christian crowds implies that your average Evangelical thinks that such intellectual laziness, religious discrimination, sexism, and homophobia is somehow theologically justified. Hell hath no fury like the apologetic mind.

I can only speculate as to how such an offensive and bizarre book became so beloved among those who claim to follow Christ, but I will share a few of my suspicions. Lewis is a Christian apologetician, one who systematizes all thought to suit its purpose. The Christian apologetician sets off on his philosophical quest with the idea that somehow, the spatially arbitrary

and historically contingent Judeo-Christian ideas about the transcendent are the only ‘objectively true’ metaphysic, even though this is a category of Western philosophy imposed upon an ancient religion that did not adhere to such standards at all. The apologetician blinks at every idea it encounters, and subsequently attempts to bend it to fit inside the borders of its system, even if this horribly deforms and distorts the original idea. For this reason, the apologetic impulse prevents anyone from reading works of philosophy with the respect it demands: any notion counter to the pre-supposed system will have to be mangled to conform to its standard of ‘truth’. Thus, when Augustine writes that “all truth is God’s truth,” he is a mangler of truth. If the apologetician, however, encounters an idea that proves absolutely impossible to mangle into the desired shape of his system, it will have to be discarded. Discarded ideas are not ever forgotten by the apologetic, systematic minds: these ideas form the enemy, the bulwark of evil that all the system’s powers strain to overtake. The apologetician will never consider with humility that an other-minded thinker might have something profound to say against the apologetician’s convictions. If the apologist listens to him in earnest, it will be so that he may refute him. The apologetician is never willing to forfeit any of his theological pride in order to truly understand a fellow human being’s earnest convictions—a non-Christian human is always a heathen, reduced to a subject for conversion to Christian conviction. In his moral supremacy, the apologetician feels theologically justified in treating fellow human beings as such, for he is, after all, saving them from hell.

The apologetic mind is wellcaptured in this excerpt from the preface to

Martin Buber’s I and Thou, entitled “Us-Them”: “Here the world is divided in two: the children of light and the children of darkness, the sheep and the goats, the elect and the damned.

Righteousness, intelligence, integrity, humanity, and victory are the prerogatives of Us, while wickedness, stupidity, hypocrisy, brutality, and ultimate defeat belong to Them. Those who have managed to cut through the terrible complexities of life and offer such a scheme as this have

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Peter Woekel

been hailed as prophets in all ages.” If this is ‘mere Christianity’, as Lewis teaches it is, I do not wish to be part of it. Sitting at the deathbed of Christianity and smelling the decay of apologetic moralism, I yearn for a ‘mere Christianity’ that simply teaches charity towards the other. But I have yet to find it in the bulwarks of Evangelicaldom.

8

october 21, 2015

I AM EMILY

On Being an Open Book

I

emily

robertson

What do you do when you’re an open book, but you don’t always want to be? When you feel everything so very deeply and you don’t even have to say a word because it seems that everyone in the room already knows what you’re thinking. When you know that you really aren’t that good at hiding what you’re feeling so you might as well be honest. What do you do when you’re an open book and you don’t always want to be?

It didn’t always used to be this way: There was a time in my life where I can say I had at least a little bit of composure, that I’d be able to test the waters and

be a little more picky about who I shared what with. I liked hiding behind my wall, I liked dealing with my problems on my own, whether that was because of pride or because I felt safer there . . . behind my wall.

But then, in my second year of university, I started struggling with depression.

And whether I liked it or not, this put me in a position where I had no choice but to start being completely honest with the people around me. My counselor, my friends, my parents: they all became people that I relayed every single emotion to, because I had reached the breaking point where keeping it inside of me just wasn’t possible anymore.

A n d whether I was aware of it or not, this honesty

spread itself out to all the other areas of my life. And sometimes I don’t really know how to reel myself back in; but should I? I mean, why are we all so afraid to be honest? Is it because we think we’ll discover characteristics about ourselves that we don’t like, or even worse, that others don’t like? Is it because we don’t want to burden people with our baggage? Or is it because we believe we might get too overwhelmed with all the little things that we want to improve about ourselves?

Sorry friends, but here’s where the truth comes out: I’m a mess and so are you.

Go on, say it out loud; it kind of stings a little doesn’t it? But do you know what the amazing thing about it is? It doesn’t matter how messed up I am or how flawed you are. It doesn’t matter because the perfect God has still chosen you and me to be a part of something so much bigger than us, so much bigger than the sin that so easily entangles.

It’s no use getting overwhelmed, because there will always be virtues that we like and vices that we don’t like about ourselves; it’s okay to not be okay, because none of us are okay. And I’m not saying all of this to get you down and rain a little bit more on your probably rainy day in Langley, BC. I just think its time that we fully accept our weakness, because only then we can start to tap into God’s strength, and realize that we need Him every single day.

So be an open book, be honest, and fully embrace your weakness.

Because if we’re all here at this school and we really want God to use us in all the “marketplaces” of

life, then I believe that this is the first step. And hey, if you think you can, maybe you can even boast about your weaknesses, so you can recognize the true source of your strength.

The Oedipal Age

I

nathan

stein

As an enlightened student of modernity, I must confess that I give little regard to myths. If this is a fault, I do not think that I can be blamed for it. After all, since I was a child, I have been instructed that stories identified as “myths” are distinct from those identified as “true.” In fact, exposing the falsity of myths has become a great source of popular entertainment for many moderns, and even Christians often become indignant at the notion that parts of the scriptures should be interpreted as myths rather than as factual accounts of real persons.

It is a truly rare person who has not bought—at least somewhat— into this skepticism.

For this, we must praise the efforts of science, that great titan that has defied the gods to deliver the burning flame of truth into the hands of mankind. This is indeed the story of science, but is it

not also the language of myth?

When one contemplates the narrative of modern science, is it not the same narrative the Greeks knew by way of Prometheus? As it seems to me, we have simply exchanged the myths of the ancients for one great, allencompassing myth in modern science, and, if I may take one step further, I am uncertain whether the myth through which we have chosen to view this unfolding epic is the correct one.

In considering science, I am often struck by the parallels between our modern narrative and the great tragedy of Oedipus. Oedipus was a prince, separated at birth from his parents, the king and queen of Thebes, and raised by a foreign ruling family. He grew up unaware of his adoption, and, in time, discovered an oracle foretelling that he would murder his

own father. To avoid this fate, he became a wanderer, but he soon entered into a dispute with a man at a crossroads and, not recognizing him as

his father, the King of Thebes, slew him. His travels then took him to Thebes and, by an act of heroism, he won the hand of the now-widowed

queen. In time, the truth was discovered that he had indeed fulfilled the oracle’s words, for the man he had slain outside Thebes was the king, and the king was his father, and the woman he had married—with whom he had fathered children—was his very own mother.

The essential mythos of Oedipus is that in ignorance of oneself, one’s striving causes the unthinkable. In our present age, science has made its claim upon truth.

Surely we have not forgotten that philosophy was first the lover of truth, and that from this love science was born. Indeed, science has been separated from philosophy, its father, and, in its desire to have truth for itself, it has subordinated that which established it. This subordination is the death of philosophy, for all that cannot pass through the scientific method is simply discard-

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” - Anne Yemous

ed or untouched. Modern science is not the Promethean hero we have imagined to be, but rather the force of Oedipal ruin.

Yet still we praise the modern man for his objectivity, following the lead of those dizzying idealists we call scientists. Have we completely forgotten the subjective factor of all knowledge, that there is no object unless it is first known by a subject? That even the very words on this page mean nothing in and of themselves apart from what they mean to the mind of the reader encountering them as stimuli? This was once known in the myth and symbolism of the ancient poets and playwrights, who relied upon language to evoke in the heart of man those themes that were inexpressible through pure reason.

In making science an end in itself, we have turned our eyes so wholly upon the object, upon that which is without ourselves, that we have completely neglected the self within. In this regrettable, enlightened ignorance, we have, like Oedipus, committed the unthinkable.

october 21, 2015

e LC bathrooms h t y b d e r i p s n I Found yourself without a Halloween costume with a mere costumes are sure to be a big hit on your night out. Modeled by week-and-a-half till the big day? Well we have a stunning three TWU Alumni Association intern, Colton Martin, these pieces piece collection of costumes that will only take you five minutes are easily accessible and wildly popular. to assemble. Inspired by the lower cafeteria bathrooms, these

The LC Girls’ Bathroom Stall

Papertowel Scarecrow

Toiletpaper Mummy

Upcoming from the alumni association and student life “Understanding Sexual Identity and Gender Dysphoria” Mark Yarhouse

November 5 at 7:00 pm at the TWU Richmond Campus November 4-5 at 11:00 am in the Gym

Mark Yarhouse encourages Christians in the church to engage in the conversation of sexuality on a story-by-story basis, remaining sensitive to the experiences of each individual. He is a professor of Psychology at Regent University School of Psychology and Counselling. He has an MA in Theological Studies and a Psy.D in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College.

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” - Audrey Herold

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october 21, 2015

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Erin Grypma

october 21, 2015

I

anonymous

The strange thing about dating a bisexual person is that it is not really that strange—it is not much stranger than any other relationship. In some ways, it might seem odd on the surface, but I think that it is more or less like dating anyone else: often confusing, occasionally painful, and, if it’s a good one, frequently wonderful. It all depends on the nuances of who you are and who they are. Without overstressing the importance of sexuality at the expense of the many other facets that come into play in a relationship, I would like to delve deeper into the topic. I will try to elaborate a few of the peculiarities that have come from this particular trait in my own situation.

First of all, being bisexual in no way means that a person is debauched. I should not even need to say this.

I do not worry about my girlfriend’s relationships with women any more than I worry about her relationships with men. Even in a heterosexual relationship, if there is so much anxiety around your partner’s relationships with the opposite sex, then it is a major issue that needs to be talked about one-on-one. The code of conduct is mostly the same, but it is extended

to people of both sexes.

All that is lost is the ease of confining conduct to opposite-sex friendships, as is perhaps possible in heterosexual relationships.

Bisexual people still do not allow relationships with people for whom they could have attraction to develop into anything compromising or that which could be misconstrued as such.

When I initially started courting my girlfriend, she was fairly open about her orientation. This awareness caused me some anxiety as to whether she would be interested in me or not. I was not sure if she was interested in a heterosexual relationship and if assuming she was interested impinged on her sexuality in some way.

I admit this was a naïve assumption, and, on reflection, the added variable confused me more than it should have. I was in a state of misunderstanding.

Still, it is important to note that even in heterosexual relationships, there is always confusion. If not over this particular issue, then over something else.

There is always confusion as to whether signs are signs or just attitudes, whether a flirt is just a flirty person, or if I am a “special” person. This added layer of complexity did affect things, but not to the degree that it should have if I had been more informed.

As it happens, my own sexuality is not as narrowly defined as it appears. I have

been much less open about it in the past and did not mention it at all initially. I do not think of myself most of the time as bi man, but nor do I think of myself as an entirely heterosexual man either. Discussing our mutual queerness has actually been quite good for our relationship. Even though our particular love is hetero, I believe we both have experienced some angst when entering the relationship, particularly that the other would judge us for our inclinations or that the other would think that it somehow undermined the purity of our love. In discussing past relationships, she was fairly open that she had had homosexual relationships in the past, but I was not open about my own homosexual feelings and experiences until later. When I did open up, it quickly lead to more ease in relating to my girlfriend, and I experienced a freedom of expression that I had never really encountered before.

It is equally awkward to discuss past people we have kissed in heterosexual and homosexual contexts.

It is not an added layer of discomfort between us that we have had those experiences. The fact that we are both open with each other about homosexual and heterosexual relationships is freeing. We do not need to hide that part of ourselves.

It is a relief that it is not considered a stumbling block.

We are happy in a heterosexual partnership, but we

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Shelby Holloway

have been and maybe still would be happy in a homosexual one. We do not see it as divine intervention, like God had a plan to make us straight through each other.

Finding each other means we are partnered, not heterosexual. We both find relief in discussing our orientations openly, as if it were any other topic. It is not as though we don’t struggle with jealousy, but there is no added layer of pain and shame from internalized homophobia. We are who we are. We love each other.

I hope that in relationships where only one member is bi, their partner would be just as understanding.

All in all, relationships are messy regardless of the sexuality of the person you love. Being outside of the typically assumed borders of sexuality does come with a few unique differences, but ultimately love is still about being open and honest and doing what you can to get to know the other person in their individual being. Everyone is an immensely complex entity. No matter who your love interest is, there is always going to be many quirks and difficulties that will arise out of unique personalities. Taking the opportunity to explore these aspects is a great way to further understanding between you and your partner. You become closer to your partner by suspending judgment and accepting them in their fullness.

11

12

october 21, 2015 inspired by

[spaces] WELCOME TO [SPACES] LITERARY JOURNAL TWU’s official literary journal, [spaces], is entering its tenth anniversary volume! As part of our celebration, the Mars’ Hill has kindly agreed to dedicate one page from each issue to feature some of the finest pieces that [spaces] has published over the years.

We invite you to submit poetry, short stories, essays, dramatic works, artwork, and photography for publication to volume ten. [spaces] is an edited and peer-

reviewed journal, and this is a wonderful opportunity to see your creative work in print! The theme for the tenth volume of [spaces] is “recurrence.” The submission deadline is November 5. For more information and specific criteria for submitting, please visit www.twuspaces.com.

Please send your submissions and any questions you may have to spacesliteraryjournal@gmail.com.

Don’t Wait Up

“It’s perfect,” she whispered, eyes glowing with awe and satisfaction as she stared up at the finished painting. “There is absolutely no flaw.” She smiled slightly as her gaze flicked systematically across every corner, every brush stroke. She sighed quietly, eyes narrowing.

“It’s beautiful, Hannah,” I offered, massaging her shoulders as she wiped her colourmottled hands with a clean cloth – palms, backs, between the fingers, fingernails. She was tense despite my ministrations, and shooed my hands away without looking behind her. “It’s perfect,” I echoed, not knowing what to say.

She nodded curtly at the painting, and then stood up from her stool, folding the cloth across the edge of the sink as she vigorously cleaned under her nails with a stiff-bristled brush. “I have a meeting with a gallery owner in an hour or so, I won’t be home for dinner,” she said as she frowned at a particularly stubborn spot of red.

“You’ve been going out a lot lately,” I said, smiling as I rested against a desktop. “Business must be really picking up!”

She leaned towards the mirror to wipe her face. She said nothing.

“Is it the new website? The new reconfigurations are really increasing traffic, I noticed.”

Hannah shrugged. “I am an artist. What do I care about a website?”

She worked so hard. She deserved a night out. “You know what, we should go for dinner tomorrow, or lunch. Do something fun to relax and celebrate the finished painting, eh?”

Her eyes met mine for a second, then moved back to the mirror. “I will see,” she said.

I lifted my hands in surrender. “All right, all right,” I laughed, “I know you’re busy, what with the gallery opening and all. But you,” I pointed at her, squinting in mock accusation. “You need to take some time off. Do something for yourself for once.”

She offered no response as she left the studio, and I followed. She walked towards the bedroom, unbuttoning her long work overshirt as she went. She was fluid, languorous. The shirt fell from her shoulders and they glowed in the half-light like two pale, freckled moons.

“Hannah,” I whispered from behind her as she sat on the bed to remove her socks. My fingers trailed over her skin, barely touching out of fear and wonder at her perfection. “Are you sure you can’t stay home tonight?”

“Howard is expecting me,” she stated. She lifted her arms to let down her hair, and my hands fell from her shoulders. I shook my head, chuckling.

“Well, you’re much more disciplined than I am. You’re so committed to this event, honey. You’ve barely been anywhere but meetings or the studio for weeks! I’m amazed that you can keep this up. Are they giving you any help?” I called after her as she went into the bathroom.

She lifted up onto her toes like a dancer as she leaned towards the mirror and dabbed foundation over her cheekbones. “Howard and I have been working very closely on this project.”

I paused. “Howard? … Is that the one I’ve met? ” She strode back in to retrieve a dress from the closet. She ran a finger over the neat rows of hangers, then tapped her selection on the shoulder, as if asking for the time.

She dropped it on the bed with a heavy slap of fabric and went back into the bathroom with a pair of earrings. The dress was a low-cut number, with a swinging skirt that would sway with her when she walked, like a doting admirer. It lay limply, suggestively on the bed as if tossed there by a lover – sweaty, desperate.

“Hannah?” I called, staring at the dress as if posing the question to it. She didn’t answer, but was listening. I didn’t know what I wanted to ask.

She grew impatient waiting for me to finish. “What?” she prodded, her brows knotted irritably as she cut her sharp eyes over to regard my slouching form, sitting on the bed with my palms face-up on my lap. She traced a tube of lipstick over the curve of her lip, the smooth sides climbing to their blissful descent into the middle of the cupid’s bow, all outlined in red.

She was busy. I shouldn’t bother her.

“Have a good night, darling,” I said, smiling.

“Don’t wait up,” she said.

Amara Gelaude (Vol. 8) Jake Noble (Vol. 7)

SUBMIT YOUR PROSE, POETRY, DRAMA, ARTWORK, AND PHOTOGRAPHY TO SPACESLITERARYJOURNAL@GMAIL.COM BY NOVEMBER 5, 2015 Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Amy Dauer

The Search - Darby Arens (Vol. 9)

october 21, 2015

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matthew wigmore

Mad Max:

I

sam

rosenau

In May of 2015, I entered a theatre and witnessed a film that would forever change my definition of a good action movie.

One may find that a certain Mission Impossible will quench his or her action thirst, but I find Mad Max: Fury Road changes the genre of action from brain-dead entertainment to something unthinkable: art.

While primarily an action film, Fury Road also falls under the categories of sci-fi and adventure.

Set in post-apocalyptic Australia, the film revolves around a corrupt nigh-theocratic dictatorship. Its main character alone, who aims

to rebel against a totalitarian ruler, makes it a hectic ride for any viewer. Although the title suggests otherwise, Furiosa, played

by Charlize Theron, is arguably the film’s central protagonist. If you think this female role is a damsel in distress, think again.

Theron’s performance as Furiosa is one of my favourites this year— she nailed the role of the fierce female protagonist, adding emotion to the story as well as being a bold and relentless hero for whom you truly want to cheer. Her anger and courage seep through the screen, allowing the viewer to sincerely feel her drive for vengeance.

Although this film is full of great performances, what actually took my breath away was the visuals and aesthetics. Fury Road is one of the best-looking modern films to date. While most post-apocalyptic movies, such as

Fury Road

Book of Eli and even the original Mad Max, tend to use a washed out grey-scale filter, director George Miller wanted colour for Fury Road. This makes the viewer feel as if they are taken on a journey through an everchanging painting of desert and fire. Fury Road is so visually immaculate that I easily consider it to be an artistic movie.

Additionally, Miller created this film using over 80% practical (not computer generated) effects, thus adding a sense of authenticity to the film. Furthermore, Miller reportedly asked production designer Colin Gibson to construct the many wild and gritty vehicles within the film in Fury Road. Miller told Gibson, “Make it cool, or I’ll kill you,” adding extra incentive for Gibson, who certainly delivered by creating absolutely berserk and profligate

contraptions that roar with energy and seek to destroy.

I did find some faults in this film. The second time watching Fury Road was more of a challenge than the first time.

Once I was disconnected from the ubiquitous action, I was able to focus more on the nitty-gritty details. By no means is this film perfect, but for the average movie-goer, there is nothing that will distract you from enjoying the film’s spectacle.

If you find yourself needing to burn 120 minutes, consider spending that time watching Mad Max: Fury Road. You will not be disappointed.

Fright nights at Playland Not for the faint of heart

I

mackenzie

cameron

There were billows of smoke, monsters a plenty, and a considerable amount of tears (mostly from my colleague and me). If you are in the market for a dose of Halloween fun, then Fright Nights is right up your alley. With seven haunted houses and fifteen thrilling rides, this experience is sure to excite. Over 90 trained actors roam the grounds of the park in full costume and character ready to approach, engage, and startle park-goers. While the actors are not allowed to make any physical contact with guests, they will most definitely come within inches of you for the ultimate spooky experience. Be prepared to be chased by a butcher with a chainsaw, stopped by the dead doll twins, or frightened by the escaped asylum patients. This park is not for the faint of heart, but it certainly makes for a night to remember if

you are in the market for a heavy dose of adrenaline. With affordable rates and discounts through booking online, Fright Nights might just be the ultimate Halloween adventure. If you are still not sure, perhaps our exclusive interview with Fright Nights performer Singe the Clown will change your mind.

MH: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself ?

Singe the Clown: Absolutely!

My name is Singe the Clown, and this right here is a wound.

It hasn’t healed yet. When I was younger and more naïve, I thought it would be a good idea to play with fireworks. So I took them, put them under my hat, and it went boom! I’ve never been the same since. I’m very sporadic, as you can tell.

MH: Can we get some pictures of your head wound?

SC: Sure! You can use it for some kind of medical thing. You can see my frontal lobe there.

It’s working hard. I work out my brain.

MH: That’s a lovely outfit. Are you going somewhere fancy?

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Megan Benger

SC: I am somewhere fancy.

I’m here! I’ve got the tailcoat. Do you like it? It clashes just a little bit, but not enough to clash too much. You know what I’m saying?

MH: So what’s your favorite part about Fright Nights?

SC: My favorite part about Fright Nights is the people!

Without everybody here we would just be scaring ourselves.

That would be, like, Inception. It’s crazy. You’d be scaring yourself, scaring yourself, scaring yourself.

It’s no fun.

MH: So why should people come to Fright Nights?

SC: Why should they? To see us, of course! To experience the fright of night. What better way to say “I love Halloween” than to come here and get your socks scared off ?

MH: What’s your favorite attraction?

SC: My favorite attraction has to be the clown house. It’s my house.

Visit MarsHillOnline.com to listen to the insane interview with Singe the Clown!

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october 21, 2015

In person: stacey chomiak

I

matthew

wigmore

Stacey Chomiak is a local visual artist and a Background Key Colour Artist for DHX Media Vancouver. You can find some of her work in recent seasons of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Pound Puppies, Littlest Pet Shop, Packages from Planet X, and Transformers: Rescue Bots.

Chomiak also engages in freelance illustration and graphic design and has designed for GCN (The Gay Christian Network).

I had the opportunity of sitting down with this established artist in her quaint townhouse as she explained her career, passions, and advocacy for sex and gender minorities in evangelical circles.

MS: How did you get into animation?

I did a year of vocational college studying graphic design. I then started doing graphic design for North West Company, followed by Great-West Life, then a Christian Ministry for a total of five years. However, the ministry went into financial stress and because I was the newest hire, they laid me off. I started to think about returning to school, and it was around this time when Tammy (now my wife) came into my life.

I decided to go to Sheridan College in Toronto because I knew they had one of the best programs for animation. It was both humbling and tough to be “just another student number.” In my fourth year, as my thesis project, I did a short animated film called “TahDah.” It ended up getting into 45 film festivals, and I got to see it screened in LA and Hawaii. After graduating, I returned to Winnipeg, but I found the animation

scene to be pretty destitute. It was soon after graduation that I got engaged to Tammy. We came to a bit of a crossroads between Vancouver and Toronto. Ever since struggling with my sexuality at the age of 17, and then deciding to continue my relationship with Tammy, I was really set on finding God’s direction for my life.

Tammy and I both felt we should give Vancouver a try, and it was there that I got the job in 2011 with DHX, where I’m currently working.

MS: Who are some of your favourite animators?

Glen Keane, who did animation for Beauty and the Beast. I’m also a big fan of Chuck Jones and how he can show emotions in his drawings.

MS: What do you love most about your job?

Essentially, I get paid to colour and play with dogs. I love to be able to sit at work, read a script, and then envision what the scene should look like. I also love that I don’t have to compromise my beliefs and moral fabric for the shows I work on.

MS: What is something about your job that most people would not expect?

For one, my workplace allows dogs at work, which is pretty awesome. I think outsiders can underestimate how many people it takes to put together one show and the amount of people involved in each stage of TV production. Schedules are really tight, and the process runs like an intricate well-oiled machine.

MS: Is there anything you find frustrating?

I focus primarily on the background colour design for key scenes and setting the stage. That means I can’t do character design

for the same show, which is part of the reason I balance with freelance work.

For the most part, I’ve been really lucky with great crews and great clients.

MS: Have you had opportunities to use your art to describe your faith journey?

I’m trying to come up with a short film that focusses on how a gay Christian comes out. Also, I do some graphic design for GCN, a ministry I really believe in. I just finished a book with an author in Portland called Downside Up. It is a children’s book targeted at adults which focuses on how the church got turned upside down and how we’ve sort of compromised the beliefs of Jesus.

MS: What is your biggest frustration with the church?

I’m frustrated with the assumption that by embracing this “lifestyle”, my wife and I are choosing to walk away from our faith.

It’s the complete and total opposite. I spent a week just listening to God before choosing to marry Tammy. If I didn’t decide to come out and eventually marry Tammy, my faith would be a shadow of what it is today.

I’m equally frustrated by the tendency to treat gay Christians as second class. Gay Christians are forced to deal with their broken selves in the spotlight, which can be a huge blessing. We can tithe, worship, and be told that “we’re always welcome,” but our help is refused in ministry. It’s the hierarchy of sins that frustrates me.

MS: Is there something you hope to do in the future using your art?

I would love to do another short film. Specifically, I want to do something on behalf of gay Christians. I want to do something that’s all my own and just put it out there. It’s important for artists to stretch themselves.

Eventually, I’d love to work on a feature film.

MS: What’s the value in animation?

It’s the only form of visual art that

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Ellen Graham

moves. It’s the illusion of life. It’s amazing when lines are giving emotion and making you laugh. If you can just go film it, it’s not animation. Animation depicts things that can’t exist.

MS: What would you say to aspiring Christian artists?

Don’t give up on what you really want to do. Life is so short.

I get to say that I’m achieving my dreams.

I’m in love with a heathen

I

sidsel

richmond

I am a Christian; I have been all my life. I have also been dating a guy for two years who does not believe in God, and may never.

Right off the bat I learned that Christians had a certain reaction to that, and so did I. “I’m dating someone,” quickly followed by, “he’s not a Christian, but he’s so great” became a disclaimer for anyone asking about this new guy in my Facebook pictures.

Why did I feel the need to start there? Youth group and university classes taught me the importance of being “equally-yoked,” and the impossibility of a marriage in which you are never spiritually understood. In sex and relationship forums on campus, the “what do I do if I really like this guy who doesn’t believe in God” question always came up, and it was always answered with the same response: “He might be awesome, but don’t do it. It can’t work,” as if a successful relationship was inconceivable. Imagine my horror when I fell for this guy who was awesome, kind, loving, generous, thoughtful, and respectful. He was the perfect Christian boyfriend in writing, except that

he was missing the single crucial factor—God. Sure, we tried “just friends” and the works, but what could I do? This was a whole new kind of “like”.

What I needed from these forums was for them to answer my new question: “What do I do now that I am in love with a guy who does not believe in God?” I am not trying to discredit the Christian perspectives on the subject. I heard my fair share of cautionary tales and biblical references, and rightly so. Giving your heart to someone who might never understand the fundamental structure of your character is one tough cookie to bite. Proceed carefully, by all means.

However, my interest in this guy who was not “saved” taught me a disappointing thing about Christians of which I myself had been guilty. Inside the Christian bubble, we tend to forget that you do not have to be a Christian to be a person of true virtue, magnanimous quality, love, forgiveness, and sacrifice. You do not have to be a Christian to be a good, or even great, person.

They may not share your beliefs, but they can still understand your experiences and share your values.

They will challenge you in your faith by asking the questions you

october 21, 2015

did not want to answer.

Dating someone with a different worldview and spiritual orientation is not all peaches and cream, though. We had a long process of growing into versions of ourselves that were compatible with one another. We learned to debate about religion without getting emotional or personal. It took time to start viewing boundaries as a team effort and relationally beneficial rather than a one-sided decision to benefit my Christian checklist of good deeds. I had to get used to constantly being stumped with questions about my faith for which I had no answers. There have been many tearful conversations (on my part) and long drives dedicated to working out the kinks and snares of the little things.

That will persist, well, as long as we are together.

Being in love with a guy who does not believe in God has been a faith-enriching experience for me, so I will end with this: do not be so scared of the ones who are open-minded, curious, and supportive of a faith that

is not their own. Could you say the same for yourself ? You may very well deepen your faith more through these relationships than being surrounded by the strongest believers. Take opportunities

15

to show non-believers why faith is important to you, and let them teach you a thing or two about their views.

sotrinitybarbie 1 Cor. 11:6 “For if a woman does not

sotrinitybarbie Trying this new Juice Cleanse. Who

cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off”

wants to try it with me? #mybodyisatemple #wearetwu

#womanofgod #purity #notcausingmymantostumble

#goodlookingodservin

#cuteness #blessed

sotrinitybarbie Gotta get some of that TWUSA Coffee #sogood

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Kat Grabowski

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october 21, 2015

KATIE MARYSCHUK

Veteran to rookie The Jarred Hayne story

I

bailey

broadbent

The 2015 edition of the National Football League season started just over 6 weeks ago. For a select few rookies, their dreams of making it onto the field for a regular season game became a reality.

Through many years of hard work and dedication, the next chapter of their lives has finally begun.

Much of the spotlight coming into the NFL season is directed towards the San Francisco 49ers, largely because of a unique new rookie they just signed.

At first glance, you may not know what differentiates him from the rest of the rookies on the team. He is a sturdy 6’2”, 220 pound 27-year-old—an ideal size and build for most football players. The difference, however, begins with the accent.

Born in Australia, Jarryd Hayne grew up playing rugby at an early age and proved he was an elite talent in the sport. After dropping out of high school to pursue his rugby dream, he even-

tually made his professional rugby debut at just 18 years old in the National Rugby League (NRL), playing with the Parramatta Eels in western Sydney.

Following his first season in the league in 2006, where he was named rookie of the year, Hayne quickly became an instant success and fan favourite. He earned the nickname “The Hayne Plane” in the process, due to his explosive speed and celebration after every try (rugby equivalent to touchdown).

Through dominating the NRL, Hayne received MVP honours in both the 2009 and 2014 seasons and was set to become the league’s highest paid athlete, with an annual salary projected over 1 million dollars.

However, after the 2014 rugby season ended in September, Hayne informed his organization he wished to pursue a football career America. He decided to make an extremely rare transition from one professional sport to another. He says, “It has always been a dream of mine to play in the NFL, and at my age, this is my one and only chance at having a crack at playing there.”

Many football scouts were skeptical, but the fundamentals

A.F.C. bournemouth English football’s greatest comeback story

I

connor

ewert

Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal are the top teams in the English Premier League; however, they are not the teams most English football fans follow closely. That team will be A.F.C. Bournemouth, which is located in a large coastal resort town of close to half a million people on the South coast of England.

Bournemouth, a lowly and small time club that came close to shutting down less than 10 years ago, is currently in the middle of the table in English football’s top tier, the Premier League.

They have achieved this ranking through six games, playing their home games at Vitality Stadium, a 12,000-seat stadium, which is

by far the smallest in the division.

The past 25 years has seen A.F.C. Bournemouth persevere through torturous circumstances on and off the pitch. In 1996, the club came within 15 minutes of being shut down and was only saved by their own supporter’s trust fund. In 2008, the club again fell into administration troubles and narrowly avoided relegation from the football league entirely. The club pulled through, climbing from the fourth tier of English football to the top one in just five years.

The club’s emergence and perseverance has also had an impact on the greater Bournemouth community and economy. The resort town has since gained back the tourism it lost in the dog days of the club. The local theatre, beach, pier, and even barbershop are flourishing. The restaurant that once served the Bournemouth players for free because of their harsh financial situation is now thriving. Even

the club’s shop manager has said that they have experienced an increase of profits by six times in the last four years.

Whether you are a die-hard fan of a team in the EPL or whether you are simply looking for a good rags to riches sport story, it is tough not to be in awe of what A.F.C. Bournemouth has accomplished in the last half decade.

Club secretary Neil Vacher said, “Those of us who were there in those days and before are just going to be sitting there... pinching ourselves, thinking, is this really true?” At some point reality may kick in, but for now the team lives to see another game.

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” –Elise Dirks

between rugby and football were eerily similar, which eventually gave reason for optimism. After numerous teams held interest in the Australian, he ultimately signed with the San Francisco 49ers.

His strong showings in the pre-season, including a highlight-reel 53 yard run, eventually earned him a spot on the 53-man roster, thus capping off the unbelievable transition from one sport to another.

For Hayne, his faith in God was a big reason for the move and he often refers to Christ in social media. He tweeted a few hours after signing with San Francisco that “Today a dream becomes a reality. With God anything is possible.”

Australian media has been buzzing through this whole process, along with new fans jumping on board every day to follow the Hayne Plane. This rise in popularity led to Jarryd Hayne jerseys becoming the fifth highest selling jerseys in the month of September. The whole story has a Cinderella-esque feel, and it will be quite interesting to see what the next chapter has in store for Hayne.

october 21, 2015

Straight outta’ south central ing landscape might wear down students walking home in British Columbia, assault, theft, and homicide topped the list of concerns held by residents of South Central. Luckily for Smith, he discovered what would be his ticket to a bright future at a young age.

The walk home from school Smith began playing basketball every day was precarious for at his grandmother’s house across Kelvin Smith. For most children the street from the Challenger’s in the Lower Mainland of Brit- Boys & Girls Club, founded by ish Columbia, the difficulties of Lou Dantzler in 1968. It began walking home may only be the as a safe haven and a positive weather or long distance. For network for a few young boys who Kelvin Smith, growing up in had no strong male presence in South Central Los Angeles, the their life. According to the club’s list was a bit more extensive. website, it now has opened its “In South Central, you see doors to over 35 thousand chilthings, and it just becomes dren, Kelvin being one of them. normal,” says Smith, as he re- “It was a place you could always counts memories of criminal go and have fun,” he says. “You activity in his neighbourhood. could see what was happening South Central is notorious for from behind the gates, but on the gang-related happenings and inside it was a positive place.” overall criminal activity. In the The club not only provides mid-1990’s it was reported that recreational and sports equipthere were over 150,000 gang ment but also includes programs members in LA alone. Each for academic success, career deblock would be claimed by a gang velopment, leadership, character such as the “Bloods” or “Crips,” development, and much more. both known for their attire “I learned a lot about leadership being limited to a single color. there,” Smith says. “I learned how “I grew up in a Crip neighbour- to embrace my own culture but hood,” recalls Smith. “Once our rise above the negative standards.” team went to play a Blood school, Rising above standards became and the game ended with all the a recurring theme for Smith fans rushing the court to fight.” when basketball became less of a Where poor weather and a roll- past-time and more of a passion.

I

I

matt

blackaby

katie

maryschuk

How did you get started in volleyball?

JK: I began playing volleyball in grade four. My older brother was just starting to get interested in the sport, so he needed someone to practice with. Although “practice” usually consisted of him hitting the ball as hard as he could and me getting hit in the face.

What is your favourite part of the game?

JK: My favourite part of the game is the strategy and technical skill involved in my position.

I really enjoy being able to think through the game and also develop my craft. This makes volleyball a unique sport as it is not solely dependant on physicality but has an intellectual side as well.

What are you looking forward to most about the team?

JK: All the times off of the court. The athletic community is generally centred on selfishness and arrogance, but our group at Trinity is focused on developing a community where we want our brothers to succeed both on the court and in all areas of life.

17

He would play constantly at the club and looked up to the older players that earned scholarships as well as those that went on to play in the NBA. One of these players was his cousin, Russell Westbrook. “He was my big homie.

We would shoot in the backyard and watch the NBA draft together,” recalls Smith.

Little did Smith know that one day he would watch his ‘big homie’ walk across the stage as the fourth pick overall in the 2008 NBA draft by the Seattle Supersonics.

Smith is now entering his fifth and final year playing for the Trinity Western University Spartans. He is not sure yet what the future holds for him after university, but he knows what impact he wants to leave. “I don’t have to play basketball in the future,” he remarks. “If I do, that’s great, but I want to have an effect on kids. I want to train them and shape them. I want to be remembered as someone that showed them what hard work looks like and how to make it when you’re straight outta’ South Central.”

If you could play any other sport besides volleyball, which would it be?

JK: Honestly, I’m very average at all other sports, but for pure swag purposes, I would play ping pong. It is very applicable for dorm life and the rallies that go viral are insane.

What is the most important aspect of volleyball for you?

JK: The most important aspect of volleyball is the team element. Success hinges on the chemistry of the team and their trust in each other.

But I guess being able to jump really high and hit really hard helps too.

name: jordan koslowsky age: eighteen year: first

sport: volleyball Can I ask you a question? “’Yes!” - Stuart Knott

18

october 21, 2015

Coaches’ corner AARON MUHIC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL “I am thankful for the progress of our team thus far and look forward to continued improvement throughout the season. We have a terrific group of guys who are coachable, love the game, and push each other to play their best. We are all excited to be a part of the campus community and are honored to represent Trinity Western on the basketball court.”

PAT ROHLA MEN'S SOCCER “This year, our team is young with a talented and optimistic movement that is learning to win as a group. We have seen a challenging season so far with great competition in our league that has given us a good opportunity to work on gameplay and scoring progress. We are on the right track and will only be losing two seniors this year, so the next few games will be crucial in moving up in the league and showing our opponents what we are capable of. Our pulse is vibrant and unproven, and, going forward, we have a chance to build on teamwork. Look for the men to come out strong to build excitement for the Spartan Faithful and to challenge our opponents as smart contenders.”

BEN JOSEPHSON MEN'S VOLLEYBALL “This year’s edition of Spartan Men’s Volleyball will be new mixed with the old tradition. There are a lot of new faces that will contribute in a big way, yet the style of play that we intend to showcase will be similar to what has made our program successful in the past. With only one senior athlete, the team has a lot of youth. Look for this year’s team to play fast paced offence with explosive serving and massive blocking. Returning outsides Ryan Sclater and Blake Scheerhoorn will look to carry the bulk of the offensive load and a trio of young middles, Aaron Boettcher, Leigh Goossen, and Pearce Eshenko, will provide the blocking force. The setting this year will be as good as ever, and, with hard work and traditional Spartan pride, we think we will soon be in the mix for another national title.”

BARRET KROPF MEN'S HOCKEY “Spartan hockey is poised for another great year. We have some great team depth this year with lots of speed up front and a stellar D core that will lead us through the year.

This is the most rounded team in Spartan hockey history, and our goal is to grow as champions on and off the ice.”

CHERYL JEAN-PAUL WOMEN’S BASKETBALL “We are looking forward to the 2015-16 season. Even though there are six new faces, we have really grown as a group over the off-season. The team made a commitment to getting stronger, improving defensively, and growing mentally tougher to be in a better position to win some of the close loses we’ve had in the past. We are returning a strong young core which will be tested early with a tough first semester schedule against four teams. Three of the four teams were in the CanWest final four, so we have some early challenges that will be great tests of character.”

GRAHAM ROXBURGH WOMEN’S SOCCER “We are really excited about the team and the group that has been assembled this year.

We are relatively young with lots of new talented players. If we can grow quickly together into a team that is unified and committed to excellence both on the field and, more importantly, in terms of growing our culture, then this has the potential to be another very successful season. The competition around us is getting stronger, and we must be willing to work with an intensity and focus. When we do that, we can compete with anybody in the country.”

RYAN HOFER WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL This year’s women’s volleyball team is shaping up to be quite the force. “We are looking to enter the year as a separate group from last year, after coming away with winning the CIS National Championship. The team is made up of a good core that is able to see floor time and contribute as great leaders on and off the court. While we did graduate six players last year, the upcoming contributions from our younger players will not go unnoticed. We want to be in a continual process of building and improving, and become a solid all round team that works well together. We have a great coaching staff and a group of ladies that are committed to each other and looking forward to the journey ahead. The high turnover of senior players have not affected this teams confidence from having impressive goals this season.

ROB PIKE MEN & WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD AND CROSS COUNTRY “The cross-country team has already started the season on a high note with individual and team wins across the board. With new faces and returning veterans, the team is aiming to create a culture that fosters personal and spiritual growth while still succeeding in our athletic goals. In general, because we have a large team filled with a range of athletes, it is a season to recreate an atmosphere of togetherness and foundational teamwork. The track and field athletes are preparing for the indoor season, which starts in January, and aiming for our highest national placing’s in both CanWest and CIS with potential wins. We have a fresh team with a lot of determination and are recharged for what is to come.”

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” - Jen Newman

october 21, 2015

KREG LONNEBERG

Politics with jared

I

jared

barkman

I suppose that by the time you read this the elections will be over (oh the sweet relief ), a Prime Minister will be chosen, and you can finally watch TV again without being bombarded incessantly by the same three ads (although granted, what kind of Millennial actually watches live TV anymore). Odds are that a minority government was voted in on Monday and, fingers crossed, we can indefinitely leave behind provoting Facebook soliloquies advocating for an antiquated democratic process that most of us did not participate in anyways. Alas, regardless of Monday’s results, I have penned up my suggestions for what the three biggest PM hopefuls need to do in their last week of campaigning to achieve their place at the pinnacle of Canadian democracy.

Harper, as the sitting Prime Minister, has managed to play it cool in this campaign season, letting every jab slide off of his back faster than the Canadian

economy has slid in the last 10 years. However, if Harper has any intention of being reelected, he needs to lose the condescending smile. Instead of conveying warmth and understanding, it lets off a vibe that would be more appropriate in The Shining than in a political debate. Alternatively, Harper could cover the smile with a niqab, and simultaneously gain back the votes of the three people actually affected by his favourite wedge issue. And if Harper can’t gain back their votes, he will, at the very least, ward off any hints of terrorism lurking beneath their mysterious veils.

Justin Trudeau has been the biggest surprise of the election season, shooting up in the polls at the last minute and resurrecting a political party that was previously as lifeless as Justin’s late father.

One of Trudeau’s greatest qualifications in becoming the head of the Liberal Party in 2013 was that, regardless of how terrible he was, there was no way that he could be worse than Michael Ignatieff. He has effectively reined in the previously undocumented demographic of politically ignorant middle-aged women who will gladly cast a lustful ballot for a Disney heartthrob gone rogue.

Trudeau has defied science and proved that an entire campaign can, in fact, be run solely on the power of attraction. That being said, if Trudeau wants to win this election, he needs to counterbalance his existing sex appeal with a family man image.

While Thomas Mulcair began the election season with a bang, he has since followed the historic trajectory of socialism and faded into oblivion. While the NDP’s last minute support of marijuana legalization is likely to pique the interest of Millennials, it will likely have no effect on Mulcair’s popularity since Millennials don’t actually vote. If Mulcair is looking for a Hail Mary move to gain back his lost support, perhaps he could shift his attention to the needs of more relevant demographics, like publicly funded Viagra or antidepressants.

I had every intention of writing suggestions for Elizabeth May as well, but considering her perpetual irrelevance to Canadian politics, she has offered to post her responses via Twitter. Additionally, she is willing to use the amount of paper conserved from her absence in this article to save the entire Arctic from Harper’s proposed deep-water port.

Methamphetamine Old Crow Medicine Show Tennessee Pusher

Ordo virtutum Hildegard of Bingen Hildegard LP

Turkey Dog Coma Flying Lotus YouÕre Dead!

You’re

PMS Blues Dolly Parton Heartsongs: Live from Home

Get Lucky Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams Random Access Memories

Can I ask you a question? “Yes!” – Emily Palmer

19

20

october 23, 2015

Submit your declassifIeds at:

www.marshillonline.com/de-classifIed Mars’ Hill editors reserve the right to edit or reject submissions based on content and/or length. A printed submission does not necessarily reflect an endorsement of any kind, nor does it necessarily reflect the opinions of Mars’ Hill staff , the student association, or that of the University. In fact probably not.

If my girlfriend was a fictional character, she would be Katniss Everdeen because she’s so on fire for God. To the only guy who participates in my 8am philosophy class, thank you for enabling me to just sit and sleep.

I need a hug.

Hey Veronica Hargrave, wanna get coffee sometime?

Why fall in love when you can fall back asleep?

So excited to see Keenan Marchand as Peter Van Daan in SAMC Theatre’s Diary of Anne Frank! Maybe I will profess my undying love to him on opening night (October 28th). #KrushingonKeenan Pretty soon, all of us guys will be sporting ponytails. Hey, whatever gets us the girls.

Does swimming in debt count as cardio?

Shout to Brian Yoon for bringing back pizza for all the hungry?

Fraser students.

Anyone want to buy a kitchen sink?

All of my best papers have been written at 3 am, why change it up now? #despair #rels465 Dear girl in my class, I really like you.

Sincerely, Guy in your class

THE

JIMNAL

Dear voters in the Canadian election, Congrats on being a part of the vulgar many.

Sincerely, Cal Townsend Is anyone out there?

Sometimes, when I’m stressed about homework, I eat plain condiments. Thankfully Thanksgiving just happened, so I have lots of cranberry sauce to eat.

Dear Girl with pink hair, Hi. I figured out why your eyes water when you yawn... You miss your bed and it makes you sad.

When the lights start to flicker at 10:30 in the library, I imagine it’s Batman signalling to me it’s the perfect time to make an escape!

Then I GTFO as fast as I possibly can and pretend like Batman and I successfully completed the mission - a 4th year slowly losing his mind BLOW IT OUT OF THE WATER! Today I took a nap underneath all of my clean laundry.

That’s it. That’s the story.

If you love something, set it free.

Maybe not sharks though. Or bees. Viruses. Lots of stuff really. Look, the point is don’t love anything.

Juan

JIMENEZ

“What’s your favourite pasttime?”

“Probably the 1920s” The amount of times I have showered during Fort Week has been ridiculous. #oatmealandmanure Why can’t you starve in the desert? Because the sand which is there.

My roommate just brought me tea.

Thank you roommate, I am not too overwhelmed with gratitude to write my paper.

Sweatshirts are probably one of my favourite things in the world, like am I wearing a bra?

Probably not, cause I’m a guy, but the mystery is still there.

I have so much debt I could start a government.

What do we want?

LOW-FLYING AIRPLANE NOISES!!

When do we want em?

NNNEEEEYYYYOOOOWW!!!! www.isitchristmas.com If I had to make a guess, it would be that a lot of these upcoming de-classifieds are going to be about Fort Week.

To the guy in Douglas who plays ukulele and sings, marry me.

Hey guys! Did you see the declassi-fields?

year: 1st

age: 18

And then the male population of Trinity lost their eyebrows.

“Houston, we have a problem.”

“What is it?” *adjusts lens-less glasses* “This space-food isn’t gluten free.”

What did the pirate say on his 80th birthday?

Aye matey Free baking at Keara Allen’s apartment tonight, 4am. Will only open door to loud knocks and shouting first year boys.

First person to post a selfie with Erin Thiessen on the Mars Hill Facebook page gets a $5 gift card to Starbucks.

Pretty sure even Jesus skips chapel.

Stop by Apartment 232, where you get invited over for dinner and end up cutting out a hundred pieces of paper for someone’s project!

A double negative forms a positive, but apparently there is no language where a double positive is a negative. Yeah, right.

I realized that it’s not just the bass thumping in my chest when Michael leads chapel worship Hey Tarun. My friend request has been pending on facebook for more than a year now. Get it together man. <3

Why can’t you take a turkey to church? They use FOWL language.

The only thing I have accomplished during Fort Week has been overcoming my fear of clowns.

Being the leading brand in bottled water is like being the leading demon in Hell.

Hello, I’m a realist! If you are reading this, then...well...you are reading this.

Eating bobby wings is like making out with the devil.

If you’re not doing your homework while listening to a looping track of heavy rain, you’ve been doing it all wrong this whole time. single in the womb, single till the tomb I feel like I am abusing TWUSA’s coffee but I am too cheap and so done with spending money to truly reflect it. #fourthyearproblems #readytobedone It was nice today so I went for a run to the caf.

What’s Whitney Houston’s favourite kind of coordination?

Hand-eye.

I’m digging the new MH website!

& major: media communications height: 5’11

DAVID PUNNAMANNIL

Hometown: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Denomination: Evangelical.

Fave way to worship god? Playing drums.

Fave christian (non-worship) song?

“Made Alive” by Citizens.

Idea for a perfect date?

Downtown Vancouver: summer, sunset, and rooftop restaurant.

Favorite body part?

domestic talent?

Best pick up line?

Top quality in a future mate?

How do you know if it’s love?

If you could have one super-power what would it be?

If we are both feeling it.

Tele-transportation. I’d never be late for class.

How long before you propose?

Skill that makes you “the one”?

Belly.

Are you a camera? Because every time I look at you, I smile.

Four years.

I can cook pretty much any meat you want.

Funny and humble.

I’m the only Juan.

Can I ask you a question? “Is this for your stupid Mars’ Hill thing?” – Brynn Kaas and Farren McDonald