JosephBurke.com

A Heartbeat Away

// June 17th, 2011 // Add A Comment » // Joe's Blog

There comes a time in our lives where we have to face those things that haunt us deep down emotionally, mentally and inevitably… physically. To face such a mountain of an obstacle isn’t easy, nor is it something we as humans are used to doing, but doing so will open a floodgate of joyful jubilation that our bodies cannot contain. It’s hard to face the facts, and more hard to confront your fear head on. Many of us will live our entire lives going to the grave still holding on to those things in which we fear most. How does one overcome?

The answer is simple… Hope. Hope is the anticipation of positive outcome, in efforts to broaden and better our lives. By surrounding yourself with hope, one can achieve a level of thinking and spirituality that others can only dream, but it’s so simple to get there. Often times, some stroll throughout life and neglect the one simple thing that helps them find the inner peace within. Hope is something we all must have. A hope for a better day, a hope for a better doctor’s visit, a hope for a better job, a hope for a better life for yourself and your family. Whatever it is in your life, hope is the key to overcoming your deepest fears. Though you may not be able to conquer your fears at the first battle, keeping your mind and eyes set on hope and the ambition of something greater and better will help you cope with life’s struggles. A little faith and prayer with God won’t hurt either, trust me, prayer can change lives… I’ve seen it too many times to deny it’s true awesome power.

How does Joe cope with the life and woes of fear, doubt and my own little pity party? Something my wife Alexandra and I done tonight was the key. In a joyous, serious and heart to heart conversation, we both promised to hope for a brighter future, a better outcome and pray for the desires of our heart. The simple affectionate touch of your soul mate’s fingers caressing your face can offer so many wonderful new frontiers. Promise yourself to wake up each morning bright and new, glancing at your spouse or loved one and tell them how much you love them and how special they are. For you husband and wives out there, a simple ear to the chest to hear the Earth shattering sounds of your lover’s heartbeat can redirect your paths to new horizons in your search for things positive.

Hope can come in many different forms, but it’s always key to keep the positive in sight, and leave the negative behind. Surround yourself with white light, let the angels protect you and keep your chin up for the hope of a brighter tomorrow. God’s Kingdom is a powerful place, hoping to be there one day is sometimes all the hope you’ll ever need. Overcome, live, endure and persevere… Easier said than done, but once done easier by the day.

Blessings,
Joe

A New Chapter

// June 1st, 2011 // 2 Comments » // Joe's Blog

Like many married couples, the wife and I are now seeking a more permanent residence. I will admit, I’ve grown incredibly fond of this apartment complex that I’ve spent the past 3 years of my life. This apartment is dear to me, as it symbolizes our sprouting love between Alexandra and I, the wedding, the ups, downs and humble realities of life. But, growing older, and more into a mature mindset after marriage, our focus as a couple has now been set on purchasing a home that we can call our own. We’ve begun our search around the greater Orlando area, and have found many potential opportunities with homes. It’s a daunting ordeal dealing with banks, getting pre-qualified, trying to find the place to spend the majority of your life and potentially raise your children there. Yes… Joe said children.

At this point, the wife and I are praying diligently over the next few months that God will deliver to us the perfect home, opportunity and open the door we need when we need it. I have to remind myself that God has a plan for us, and we just have to be patient and wait upon him. God has been so faithful to deliver amazing things to Alexandra and I over the past few years. The wedding alone was heavenly and filled with perfection, joy and love. My pastor preaches many times on Sunday morning that we often times want things now or in the middle of a crisis that we usually get ourselves into in the first place. Even though I would give anything to have the perfect home right now, I know something deep down is brewing and God has yet to reveal that perfect plan to us. I’m sure when the moment arises, we’ll see the door open and know this is our chance to take charge.

It’s funny how perspectives change when you’re married. You have to put your “big boy” pants on and be a man. Even though the nerd/geek side of me always will have a place for things like Star Wars, Marvel Comics, video games and movies, I have to really concentrate of the upcoming months and pray on this goal for our lives. It’s said in the bible in Psalm 20:4 “May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” I believe if I can get all my Christian friends to help and pray with me, Alexandra and I can be blessed abundantly with a new future home and permanent housing. We’re already blessed beyond our wildest dreams, we have each other for starters. I know… Mushy right? But really, my life is so perfect right now, it makes me ponder the storms ahead in my life. I’ve seen the card played too many times in life where things sail good for a while and then all of a sudden the storm rolls in, and we have to endure some tragedy. I don’t want to jinx my prosperity, but I must admit, I’ve been the most spiritually sound and happy the past few years since I met Alexandra that I can’t imagine anything better or worse. I’m sure whatever storms arise, with her by my side, we can face any obstacle great or small. She’s my very essence and backbone, and I proudly say that my wife is my best friend, partner in crime, companion, soul mate and Godsend.

A new chapter begins soon… We’ll keep you updated. Please pray for us in agreement that we can find the right housing, and God will have us where He wants us. Simple as that!

See you on the Grid,
-Joe

Star Wars Fun in Orlando

// May 14th, 2011 // 1 Comment (Add Comment) » // Joe's Blog

Hanging out with C3PO and R2D2 at the Florida Mall in Orlando.

Jedi Mickey Mouse at the Florida Mall Star Tours 3D Preview Event

Star Tours is true to it’s former counter part, but very updated with the latest digital 3D technologies and visual effects. The theme of the line cue has been for the most part revamped drastically, complete with bio luggage scanners that guests get to see the humorous contents of the luggage. I saw random items in the briefcases ranging from mickey ears, an ewok, Madame Leotta’s head, Mickey’s sorcerer hat, broomstick from Fantasia and even scuba gear, bowling balls. The luggage scanner also projects in 3D, much like the end of the line cue at Haunted Mansion. Pretty amazing to see it up close in the second room of the line cue. The motor conveyor belts are gone, and a new LED wall of celeb Star Wars passengers shows up, much like the one in DLC. There’s also a thermal imaging camera as you make your way up the last walkway toward the loading areas. I won’t spoil every little detail…

The ride itself is perfected in terms of motion, visuals and sound. C3PO whisks you away to random areas through the Star Wars universe. There is an “in-ride” camera that takes a picture of a guest, and you become part of the ride, and part of the rebel spy alliance. I saw some repeats on the ride, but for the most part, each of my 5 rides were different. I saw two different intro sequences, two different endings, three different hologram messages from 3 of Stars Wars noted rebel alliance Akbar, Yoda and Leia. The holograms are stunning 3D, and done in the style of R2′s holographic message system. I visited a number of planets, each ride being unique and in different orders. My favorites are Hoth, Naboo and Tatooine. The new 3D glasses are form fitted, much like the same style of IMAX 3D glasses.

All in all, fans will not be disappointed, it’s a nostalgic look back, and a giant leap forward in terms of today’s neatest modern tech tricks of the trade. It would be well worth a long wait to see this, and you’ll be thrilled and cheering aloud much like I was I’m sure.

May the Force be with you.

Joe’s Vlog #9

// April 2nd, 2011 // Add A Comment » // Joe's Blog

In this Vlog, I talk about my recent marriage, my new job for Blue Man Group as an “Insider,” reveal our new pet Bella in all her sweetness, The Spirit Seekers paranormal research team that both Alex and I founded, the return of the Blue Man Message Boards online community and finally I talk about our favorite place in all of Orlando, our church at Christ Church of Orlando.

Love is Sometimes Bitter & Sweet

// April 1st, 2011 // Add A Comment » // Joe's Blog

One thing I’ve always faced when dealing with the general public is those individuals that for whatever reason tend to just despise me and everything I’m doing. It’s odd sometimes how lack of communication can snowball into a trickling avalanche of mass confusion and bitterness. I’m not one to be the center of the controversy, and despite what some believe, I’m actually pretty much a loner in many situations, simply because I choose to be. Some people have a hard time understanding me, and I don’t expect people to. A lot of people don’t logically process why I make certain decisions in life, and judge me more by my actions than the physical evidence of why I’m doing what I’m doing in the first place.

But why can’t we just ‘love’ what we’re doing, and be caught up in the moment? Why does everything always have to be conflicted with mass confusion, and over seasoned with myths, rumors and lies? This blog isn’t directed to any one person, or any one event that happened, not even recently. It’s just a general observation that has been over 12 years in the making, and I feel the need to talk about it. I feel that if people stop for a minute, and listen, they would actually flow with the rest of this cycle we call life. But I guess that’s where the unchanging act of love and kindness comes in.

I’m often told I’m a push over. People walk all over me, use my abilities and talents for their own personal gain. Even my wife tells me sometimes I need to stop saying “Yes” to everything, and for once say no. Just like the Hollywood film starring Jim Carrey called “Yes Man,” I have a crazy ability to do everything that everyone tells me, to a certain extent of course. I’m mainly referring to those things that I’m good at, and people utilize those gifts in particular situations. Sure, I do everything my church asks of me, and am always willing to help, because I believe deep down, God’s Kingdom and His work should be done without hasten or decision. I do it with love and pride when it comes to God’s work.

But, those that I’ve had confrontations with in life, I’d love to sit down with them, show them the love I have in my heart, and with an open mind resolve all the conflicts I’ve ever had in my life. I know this isn’t that easy, but it is my ultimate wish one day. I just don’t get people in this new age social media world. Sure, I’m caught up right in the middle of it having a Twitter, Facebook and YouTube account. But some people take things too literal, and instead of approaching me about something that has been said or done, they retaliate and clam up. This results in built up hard feelings, and then you’re dealing with a whole mess of miscommunication and dismay, in text based format no less. Really? What ever happened to meeting up for lunch or coffee and sitting down like human beings and discussing things?

If you’re reading this blog, and it touches a nerve with you, good! It should! But if you’re reading this, and it really has no effect or relevance to you, that’s good too! One thing I’ve learned in life, love is the ultimate tool and weapon. The nicer you are to your enemies, the more a situation can have a chance to heal itself. I’ve never been one to stray from my friends or my online social network allies. Over the years, I have many hardships and squabbles that has left a bitter taste in my mouth. God sometimes gives us enough sense to know when a situation is pointless to keep trying, and the old saying of “beating a dead horse.” If the situation is stagnant, there is no resolve and love can’t conquer, than it’s time to move on.

I’m not really sure why I was compelled to blog this, but I did anyway. Always love your enemies, continue to forgive and subject yourselves to those around you. It truly is the best medicine anyone can have in any situation where controversy is at hand. Your emotions can be a great sensory device, but your heart ultimately will lead you in the right path. I pray for you, and you don’t even realize it. Love is sometimes bitter and sweet, and the choice ultimately resides in your hands. In the end, I’m responsible for me, and I want the best for myself when that time comes, anyone would, it’s human nature.

The Other Side

// March 8th, 2011 // Add A Comment » // Joe's Blog

This morning I uploaded the final mix edit of “The Other Side,” a brand new song that envisions the transition of the afterlife, our journey to Heaven, and the euphoric feeling of sheer bliss surrounding our souls as we see the creator for the first time. I’d love to hear your feedback, so close your eyes and imagine with me a place your mind can’t comprehend yet.

The Number 27

// February 15th, 2011 // 2 Comments » // Joe's Blog

This is something I haven’t shared with many people, up until now. More recently the number has become more prominent in my life, even on a multiple daily basis. It all started when I graduated high school in 1998. I didn’t pay much mind to it at first, but the number 27 had popped up multiple times in some very odd instances of my life, strangely enough and more elaborately, during my early Christian experiences with my family. Things like Psalm 27 in church one Sunday, or I’d earn $27 for helping out mom and dad pack and load in sound equipment or something unique would happen on the 27th day of the month.

All my instances with the number 27 have been positive and good in nature. Nothing bad has spawned from these instances. More recently, and especially 2009-2011, I see the number 27 more times in one day, than I do any other number. Subtle instances that are make you stop, scratch your head and go, “huh?” For example, on a recent doctor visit, my car was empty on gas. Not knowing how much fuel I needed, I let the pump run until it stopped automatically. It stopped on $27 even. The same day, we were at a cafe grabbing lunch, the bill came to $27 and change.

Our new pet Chihuahua, Bella, was born on July 27th, 2010. Alexandra, my wife, works on state road 27 in Davenport, FL at the Heart of Florida Hospital. The periodic table for the color of Cobalt is 27, Cobalt is the specific shade of Blue Man Group blue, and everyone knows my association there, if not click here. On June 27th, 2010 Alexandra and I were baptized together at Christ Church of Orlando as a couple. It’s also exactly 27 miles from my apartment to our church in downtown Orlando and back (13.5 miles each way). On April 27, 2008, Blue Man Group played at Rupp Arena in downtown Lexington, KY, and joining me that night was Mike Ippolito, who would later be the best man at my wedding. On September 27th, 2008, my best buds from Chicago, eclectically known as the “Pool of Frogs” played Summit City one final time before I moved in 2009. Elaine Meils, a dear friend of mine and Alexandra’s, who was a guest speaker at my wedding also was at the very same show. I unknowingly released my second album on iTunes and Amazon music store on April 27th, 2010. More Blue Man for you, on July 27th, 2001 I flew to Chicago for the first time in my life, and saw Blue Man Group as a newbie. It was my Blue Man Group first show ever, and first time meeting my friend Tom Galassi.

Some people may assume that this is all gibberish and jargon that has no validity, to them I say, “It get’s better.” Since I’ve married Alexandra, she now too has become under the spell of 27. Random things happening to hear multiple times a day involving the number 27. Instances like patient lab results, patient discharge times, patients that are 27 years old with interesting characteristics you just can’t put your finger on it. The doctor asking Alexandra to site a medicine at 10:27am, then hours later at 1:27pm, then finally at 5:27pm. It’s odd that her mind randomly glances up at the clock to chart her patients, and majority of the time, it’s on the 27th minute of the hour.

Here’s some more interesting 27 fun facts. There’s exactly 27 books in the New Testament, with the last ending in Revelation. The last book of the New Testament, the 27th, is the Revelation John and his feast is celebrated on December 27. 27 letters in the Hebrew alphabet. 27 is a perfect cube. There are exactly 27 generations from King David in the Bible to Jesus Christ. There are currently 27 Amendments to the United States Constitution. It is at the age of 27 years old that Jesus preluded to his evangelization, according to visions of Mary Agreda.

Is it me, or am I just going nuts here? The number 27 has always in some form been associated with goodness, purity and positivity. It, of course, is now my favorite number. I just curious if I’m the only one out there that see’s this number as much as my wife and I?