Game Review: Assassin's Creed

Few months ago, my brothers sold me their Xbox360 along with all their games. Although I don't have the free time that I did back in grade-school, it's quite enjoyable to return to the gaming universe every now-and-then. Fifa 12 has been my most frequent game, yet I also embarked on some others, such as Assassin's Creed. And I must say the content of Assassin's Creed has opened up my eyes to very large and significant portion of history that I know very little of; The Crusades.

The last game I really got into, was The Godfather for PC. I enjoyed this game for it's familiar storyline, the 1950s New York City setting, and especially its style of game-play. Well the game-play of Assassin's Creed is very similar, with a free-reign environment that lets you move in-and-out of cities as you please. The story is set in the Middle East, across cities such as Damascus, Acre, and Jerusalem, during the the Third Crusade. The protagonist, Altair, works for a secret order of Assassins, and must hunt down many high ranking officials on both sides.

The game has incredible graphics, a very interesting story, and an exhilarating game-play. It constantly mixes elements of stealth, escape, and battle. Many objectives require careful patience and precision, while other require high-adrenaline getaways. The only thing I didn't enjoy about this game, was the loading process and the "Animus" Interface. I don't see why they can't just set the game in the period and do away with this entire scientific-genetic explanation. Either way the game has captivated my interest in the History of Christianity, which I will soon begin a new series on. I also intend to start up on Part II, in the coming weeks, which is focused on the Renaissance.

Theology of Emanuel Swedenborg

The Power of Spirituality

The concept of spirituality is an extremely intriguing and powerful topic, with many different interpretations. It is essentially believed that within every life dwells an invisible inner force, known as the spirit. Whether through religion, nature, or humanity this inner force is the utmost essence of every individual's existence. There is of course no scientific proof of this lively essence, however it is commonly understood that the body and mind are incomplete without the soul. One simply cannot deny the transcending power of the inner spirit.

There are several ways to access this inner spirit; through meditation, prayer, and contemplation. In my opinion, spirituality is best achieved through faith. The practice of religion helps us accept that this spirit is a gift from a greater being, and has a purpose for eternal life. To think otherwise, and perhaps turn to science as a means of explaining everything, is utterly pessimistic.

In the practice of Christian Mysticism, one can experience a spiritual union with God. This experience could range from a transcendent feeling, an inspiring dream, to perhaps even a divine vision. The power of this experience is best achieved by the power of the individual's willingness. Throughout history we have heard numerous accounts of divine visions from prophets, monks, philosophers, and saints. All of whom have claimed some form of miraculous intervention from God. One of the most notable Christian Mystics, was the Swedish scientist and theologian, Emanuel Swedenborg. I recently read some of his work and was quite inspired by his theories. Here is a brief outline of his spiritual experience and teachings.

Biography of Swedenborg

Whats most interesting about Emanuel Swedenborg, is his sudden transformation from respected scientist to respected theologian. For the early part of his career, he worked for the Swedish monarchy as a scientist, mathematician, engineer, and inventor. He had a gifted mind, and often dabbled into astronomy, philosophy, poetry, anatomy, physiology, neurology, and dozens of other subjects. He made many scientific contributions throughout his life. Yet at the age of 53, he underwent a sudden spiritual transformation and spent the rest of his life as a theologian. He is thus best known for his spiritual insights and theology.

Spiritual Insight

Throughout his later life, Swedenborg claims to have had many visions from God, heaven, angels, and the saints. The first vision that transformed him was from a man who told Swedenborg, that he was to be the Lord's servant and reveal the spiritual meaning of the Bible. This inspired Swedenborg's numerous writings about the inner spirit, heaven and hell, the universe, and many other theories. He claimed to have psychic powers, with the ability to visit heaven and hell frequently. Although he may have been a total mad-man, Swedenborg's theories were quite revolutionary and thought-provoking. His writings of the mystical world, blended scientific reasoning with theological concepts, and made his work all the more plausible. He totally changed the way we consider spirituality and the afterlife.  

Theology

Swedenborg didn't like to consider his work as theology or philosophy yet instead as a journal of actual-truthful experiences. Nonetheless he provided a unique perspective on the study of Christian religion.

Pertaining to the afterlife, Swedenborg explained that heaven was physical place of enormous size, free of time and space. It is inhabited by happy people, children, and angels from all walks of life. He explains that heaven has a structural system, and that there are institutions of marriage and education within it. He also explains that every spirit from Earth, has the free-will to enter and leave heaven at any moment, yet none never want to. God is essentially good, and welcomes all spirits who love God and others, and rejects those who love themselves or the world.

Swedenborg also introduces the process of human transformation; from a physical form to a spiritual form. He explains that Jesus Christ introduced a rebirth of the human flesh and was the defining example of this spiritual transformation. Jesus had a divine spiritual power that made him transcended beyond a boundless world. To accept his teachings is to fulfill the soul with truth and enlightenment. This is the ultimate path of the inner-spirit.

Pertaining to love, Swedenborg explained that it was quite abundant in heaven. That married couples will continue their love-lives, while others will find new love. Swedenborg essentially believed that every person has a soul-mate, and that if they do not find them in life, they will surely be united with them in the afterlife. This is a very inspiring concept.

One of Swedenborg's greatest theological contributions, in my opinion, was his concept of "Sola fide". He was against the idea that people would find salvation through faith alone. Instead he urged that there were two essential justifications for eternal life; faith and charity. That to love God is not enough, and that people need to make an effort to love others as well. This is of course the Golden Rule and the Greatest Commandment; Love the Lord thy God with all your heart, soul, and mind; and love thy neighbor as thyself.

 Christian Mysticism

While reading these teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, I found some to be very inspiring yet others to be quite ridiculous. For example he claimed that the Last Judgment had already occurred, that there was life on other planets, and that he had psychic powers. Whether or not all this is true can only be speculated, and I think that it is beyond the point. Swedenborg was no-doubt a gifted intellectual, who more than likely did achieve a certain scope of transcendence through his knowledge. The recordings of his testament demonstrate the power of a willing spirit, and the possibilities of a union with God. For this reason I think Swedenborg's life and teachings, present an inspiring account of spiritual transcendence.

Random Winter Notes 2012

Well it's been a year now since I moved here to River Road Apartments, and got my job at Racer Cartage Logistics, and I thought it was fitting to post an update. As of now I am still satisfied with my living and work situation and am going to continue with the both of them. This is quite an accomplishment for me to sustain a position for more than a year. Sure there are some things that I dislike about my job or my apartment, yet the hassle of change is just not worth it. I've had some terrible days in the past year, yet for the most part I have it quite easy.

Financial Report: The past year I juggled three part-time jobs and did not take a single sick-day or vacation. I have thus acknowledged my title of a "freelance-contractor". One thing I quickly found with this type of work, is that you have to spend money to make money. And I was especially afraid come tax season, yet it wasn't so bad. My business expenses practically canceled out my due taxes. Although I don't have any benefits or retirement plans, I've made a decent profit this year, built a savings account, and have really hacked down some bills (car is finally paid off!). I let go of tutoring in the summer, yet plan on continuing with Sportvision and RCL.  I've had extremely busy days and extremely easy days, and the thing I love best about working freelance is the freedom! I don't know how long I can continue this lifestyle, but I just try not to think of those things.

I want to plan a vacation sometime this year, perhaps in the spring or summertime. I got money saved up, and would really look to experience a different culture for a while. Maybe a week or so. It's been a long time since I've had a good adventure.

Current Political Topics: The news of the moment has been as interesting as always. President Obama has been under fire lately with the Catholic Church, by making contraception a part of Health Care. He also is facing another Budget fiasco, with continuous Republican opposition. The economic civil war continues; higher taxes vs less government. The Republican Presidential Primaries have been extremely heated as well, constantly switching leads for Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Santorum. It would appear that Romney would have the nomination, yet he just can't break free of the others. Hopefully this division amongst conservatives will favor Obama for reelection. 

Current International Topics: Growing tensions in the middle east. It's been over a year now since the Arab Spring took way, and many nations won their revolution. However other nations, especially Syria, have faced bloody opposition. The government of Bashar al-Assad is responsible for the deaths of over 5000 citizens. This is has become a humanitarian issue, worthy of UN or NATO intervention. However it would appear, that unlike Libya, there is no financial gain from such an act.

Another heated tension is between Iran and Israel. Most of the world expects that Iran is pursing a nuclear program, and could pose a threat to Israel. Yet this is of course speculation without any hard evidence. Throughout the past few months, there have been a number of assassinations on both sides, from nuclear scientists, military figures, and diplomats. The situation has reached a boiling point, and a war between the two seems almost inevitable.


Phases: I've been in quite a jazz-phase and a space-phase the last few months, reading books, and watching documentaries about the science of the universe. I've always believed that the best way to really understand a certain subject, is to absorb yourself in it for a while. This goes for music, history, culture, etc. I suppose it began after college, a peculiar hunger for knowledge. I of course don't expect to get anything out of these studies, besides knowledge.

Fitness: The 4th annual Sundberg Sprint Triathlon, is set for July 21st and is going to be quite official this year. I've met and teamed up with a non-profit organization, that specializes in planning triathlon events. There will be an entry fee this year to cover the costs of roadblocks, lifeguards, and t-shirts. There will also be many outside participants, seasoned triathletes, that should make it all the more interesting. My intent is that we can still keep the event within the family and friends, while expanding. Still have lots of work and training to do though.

A Study of Modern Physics: The Mysteries of the Universe

The world as we know it, is regulated by a natural science of physical guidelines that operate in consistent form. These guidelines, such as gravity, motion, and energy are the laws of physics, and explain our existence here on Earth. Throughout history the understanding of these rules have slowly evolved from a philosophy to a natural science. It was Sir Isaac Newton who changed the scope of physics with a mechanical explanation of universal gravitation and the three laws of motion. This monumental discovery shifted theory into practicality, and the natural science of physics became quite factual.

Yet although our understanding of these rules have changed throughout time, the rules themselves have not. We are still bound to this earth, trapped in a 4-dimensional world (right-left, forward-backward, up-down, and progressing onward through time). However when considering something as vast and complex as the universe, why not broaden the mind to new possibilities. Following the Scientific Revolution of the Newtonian era, physicists have furthered their understandings of the physical world with newer technologies. Led by the great Albert Einstein, science has entered into an age of Modern Physics ranging from fields of Quantum Physics, Astrophysics, to the Theory of Relativity. This science is extremely complicated and way over my head, yet also far too interesting to be ignored. Here is a very basic look at some mysterious theories that bend the laws of physics.

Theory of Relativity

In 1905 Albert Einstein introduced a theory of special relativity, that measured motion through a frame of reference, and a unification of space and time. As groundbreaking as this theory was, it was limited only to the special case of motion in comparison with a reference. In 1916 he furthered this theory by adding the effects of gravity, in what became known as his monumental Theory of General Relativity.

This theory explains a geometric curvature of space and time, relative to the matter that is present. The best example I have seen to describe this complicated theory is a bowling ball in a trampoline. The heavy ball sinks into the elastic surface, and creates a vortex. If a smaller ball were placed at the edge of the trampoline, it would slowly be attracted to the heavier matter and speed up as it got closer. This scenario demonstrates the gravitational effect of a heavier matter in space, such as in the case of our sun and the orbiting planets.


Einstein's Theory of Relativity changed the way we understood space and time, by illustrating a new geometry of space, progression of time, theory of gravity and light, and also explaining mysterious features such as Wormholes and Black Holes. Wormholes are hypothetical invisible short-cuts through space and time, which would enable the possibility of time travel. Although there is no evidence to prove of the existence of wormholes, it is a mathematical possibility according to the laws of relativity.

Black Holes, on the other hand, are a factual feature of space. It is an invisible region withing space where nothing, not even light can escape. The region of a black hole is formed by a sudden deformation of spacetime, caused by the death of a star. It then creates a powerful force that absorbs all the energy around it where nothing can escape it's event horizon. At times these holes grow so massive, they emit an energetic blast known as a quasar. Although a black hole is invisible, it's existence can be determined in relation to the matter and light that is around it. The size of a black hole can range from a thousand solar masses, to over a billion, such as in the case of a supermassive black hole. It is believed that at the center of every galaxy is a supermassive black hole.





Particle Physics: Dark Energy, Dark Matter, Anti-Matter

Throughout this new age of Modern Physics, came the study of particles, that provided an even deeper look into the core elements of matter and radiation. Scientists have been able to identify the subatomic particles of the universe, such as electrons, neutrinos, and photos in a Standard Model Theory. However this model only covers three of the four fundamental forces that created the Big Bang; electromagnetism, weak force, and strong force. There is an omission of gravity in this model, that emphasizes the great mystery of many particles such as dark energy, dark matter, and antimatter.

Dark Energy is believed to be the invisible force that accelerates the expansion of the universe. It accounts for 73% of the total mass-energy in the universe. It dwells in the blackness of space, and is an unmeasurable mysterious substance.

Dark Matter is another mysterious particle in the universe that cannot be seen, because it does not emit nor scatter light. And yet this invisible particle makes up 83% of the matter in the universe and 23% of the mass-energy.

Anti-Matter is the symmetric opposite of matter, such as a negative to a positive. Since there is no mass in anti-matter it is merely a concept, however as equally powerful as matter. The collision of matter and anti-matter would lead to the annihilation of both. Although it is a mathematical fact, there is no known evidence of anti-matter and is one of the greatest mysteries of particle physics.

These three mysterious particles are just a few of the many unsolved mysteries of the universe. They open up the doors to other abstract theories in search of an answer to everything. One of the best known theories that attempts to explain the Theory of Everything is the String Theory.



String Theory

The active research of String Theory merges the physics of quantum mechanics and general relativity to try and fill in the blanks of the Standard Model Theory. It attempts to explain everything; all four fundamental forces, subatomic particles, and forms of matter within the universe. String theory suggests that the nucleus of an atom, is made up of 1-dimensional oscillating lines that can create a super-symmetry connection between particles.

However there are five distinct string theories that present dualities with one another, and require an extension of additional dimensions to be correctly calculated. This opened up the intangible concept of the M-Theory, which suggests that there are membranes that extend across 11 dimensions. This irrational theory of 11 interconnected dimensions, would unite the five string theories, explain the Cosmogony of the Big Bang, and ultimately claim the existence of a Multiverse. 


Multiverse

The concept of a multiverse, also referred to as a parallel universe, is an extremely profound thought, in which multiple universes exist infinitely with variations of time, space, matter, energy, and physical laws. This scientific idea could perhaps describe everything from the beginning of our universe, it's physical laws, to the end of everything as we know it. It could also be theorized that universes are constantly forming, overlapping with one another, or collapsing.

Yet I believe this concept of a multiple reality is the end of science and the beginning of a spiritual philosophy. That perhaps these multiple universes are a dreamlike state, free of physical restrains. Perhaps they are the layers of an afterlife, such as heaven and hell. This would ultimately explain that our lives here in this universe is not a scientific coincidence, yet a spiritual purpose. Of course there is no scientific evidence for such a belief. Only the freedom of the mind and faith of the spirit.

Musical Look: The Evolution of Jazz

Whenever I hear the music of Jazz, I think of the American past-time; the swinging music of the Roaring Twenties. This music is no-doubt an American creation of self expression, rooted with a cultural story. It's a fast-tempo style of instrumentation and improvisation that completely changed the scope of musical entertainment.

It grew from the Southern African-American communities, such as New Orleans, spread into Chicago, New York City, and Kansas City, and quickly became the defining music of our nation. I recently watched Ken Burns' Jazz Series, and grew all the more intrigued by this cultural movement that began in the 1920s. In this post I want to briefly outline the rise and evolution of Jazz.


Ragtime

Most of today's most iconic genres of music, such as the Blues, Rock and Roll, and even Hip-Hop emerged from the roots of Jazz. And these musical roots occurred in the south, during slave gatherings of musical dance and celebration. Following the abolition of slavery, many African Americans were able to work as musical performers in clubs and bars. By the late 1800s a new up-tempo piano style emerged on the scene, that became known as Ragtime. This music was quickly launched to popularity through the pianist Scott Joplin, and his famous hits "The Entertainer" and "Maple Leaf Rag". A new musical style was thus born in the south.

Dixieland

New Orleans was the party jewel of the South, and a melting pot for African-American and Creole musicians. Through the use of street parades and big marching bands, New Orleans created a fun celebratory music known as Dixieland. Big names such as Buddy Bolden and Jelly Roll Morton introduced this style to the night scene, and eventually brought it to bigger cities such as Chicago and New York City. However it was a young trumpeter named Louis Armstrong, with a unique raspy voice, who was able to turn this new music into a sudden popular sensation throughout the country.


The Jazz Age

By 1920, with the start of the Prohibition, Jazz musicians took center stage at the growing number of speakeasies. The musical entertainment of these underground night clubs, created a festive atmosphere of flashy music, singing, and dancing. Jazz thus introduced a new and rebellious music for the younger generation, and defined the booming economy of the Roaring Twenties. Although segregation was still quite at large, artists such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday were able to use their music as an early racial bridge. By this point all races, genders, and classes were on board with the widespread trend of Jazz Music. It ranged from big band swing music to classy compositions such as George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue".

Swing

By the 1930s, jazz musicians had achieved worldwide fame, and began a new style of Big Band Swing made popular by clarinetist, Benny Goodman. Goodman became known as the "King of Swing" and was joined by many other popular bandleaders such as Artie Shaw, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller. These bands consisted of various sections of rhythm, brass, and woodwind, and were directed by a bandleader. Even during the Great Depression, people found a reason to dance and get away from their problems. These big bands were able to fill ballrooms with happy swinging music that inspired all sorts of new dances; from the Charleston, the Lindy Hop, the Balboa, and the Jitterbug. The term "swinging" became used as an adjective to describe a catchy tune or rhythm.

Sub-Genres

After WWII, Jazz began to die down in popularity, and was eventually replaced by Blues and Rock-n-Roll. The music shifted from commercial dancing, into more of an expressive art-form. It began with European variations that introduced string compositions, guitarists such as Django Reinhardt created a new style of up-tempo Gypsy Jazz. In the United States, a form of Be-pop was created with a heavy emphasis on harmony and sheer improvisation. Artists such as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Thelonious Monk once again furthered the scope of jazz music. In 1950s a trumpeter named Miles Davis, introduced another style, that became known as Cool Jazz. And from this came all sorts of other sub-genres such as Hard-Bop, Modal Jazz, Free Jazz, Latin Jazz, Soul Jazz, Jazz Fusion, and many others.

Few of my Favorites

• Louis Armstrong (Dinah, What a Wonderful World)
• Duke Ellington (Don't Mean a Thing if it Aint got that Swing)
• Billie Holiday (Am I Blue, Them there Eyes)
• George Gershwin (Rhapsody in Blue, They Can't take that Away from Me)
• Ella Fitzgerald (Fine Romance)
• Benny Goodman (Stompin at the Savoy, Moonglow)
• Glenn Miller (Moonlight Serenade, Pennsylvania 6-5000)

An American Heritage

The music of Jazz is rooted with a unique character, that tells a story through music. It's an inspiring form of self expression and creative innovation that can be enjoyed by all people. Whether it's the loud flashy marching bands of a Dixieland parade, or the smooth improvisation of a saxophonist, this music truly captivates the listener. To hear the many forms of Jazz music, is to experience the evolution of American culture.