Nyiko
Living in Van Buren, AR
Total page views: 213,440
Published Content: 86
Fans: 20
On AC since: 04.01.07
Bio:
I'm 25, happily married, and currently working on education-related development projects in South Africa. My wife and I hope to soon move to Madagascar to become full-time missionaries.
I'm 25, happily married, and currently working on education-related development projects in South Africa. My wife and I hope to soon move to Madagascar to become full-time missionaries.
Education/Experience:
Oral Roberts University - BA - French & Pastoral Christian Ministries: Missions
Oral Roberts University - BA - French & Pastoral Christian Ministries: Missions
Interests:
Foreign Languages, World Cultures/Anthropology, Travel, Hiking, Literature, Christianity, Fine Arts, Music, Movies, Home Gardening
Foreign Languages, World Cultures/Anthropology, Travel, Hiking, Literature, Christianity, Fine Arts, Music, Movies, Home Gardening
Motto:
"Par la grace de Dieu, je suis ce que je suis!"
"Par la grace de Dieu, je suis ce que je suis!"
Showing Results 1 - 86 of 86
South Africa has just finished its fourth democratic elections. For an outsider, many parts of the process here are confusing. Here is a detailed explanation of the political system and current events surrounding the recent South African elections.
By Nyiko | Published 4/25/2009 | Read more »
This is a first-hand account of the traditional family structure in South Africa and how it's changing in often dysfunctional ways when confronted by Westernization. It also describes our attempts at dealing with the repercussions as Christians.
By Nyiko | Published 4/10/2009 | Read more »
South Africa is known as the "Rainbow Nation" for its broad ethnic diversity. But South Africa is even more diverse economically and the collision of its two distinct socio-economic classes isn't always pretty. Education may be the only way forward.
By Nyiko | Published 3/20/2009 | Read more »
This is a story of how adapting to the scorching climate of South African summers gives insight into the enduring resilience of South African people, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.
By Nyiko | Published 2/25/2009 | Read more »
There are many challenges to moving overseas, but one that most people never think of is availability of a clean supply of water. Here's a first-hand account of water shortages in rural South Africa.
By Nyiko | Published 2/23/2009 | Read more »
This story is a personal account from South Africa, detailing the kind of attention (both wanted and unwanted) an American is likely to receive when visiting and living in a third-world country. It's like being a celebrity with nothing to be famous for.
By Nyiko | Published 2/23/2009 | Read more »
A personal account of the obstacles faced when doing development work in South Africa. One of the biggest challenges is xenophobia and racism.
By Nyiko | Published 2/19/2009 | Read more »
"Ubuntu" is a foreign word to most people, though recently it's gained recognition as the name of a Linux distribution. But have you ever wanted to know what 'Ubuntu' really means? There's much more to it than computer programs. This is what 'ubuntu' means in South Africa.
By Nyiko | Published 10/4/2008 | Read more »
In my previous article, I examined the historical facts behind St. Patrick and his life. This article examines the reason behind St. Patrick's legacy - his missions work in Ireland. St. Patrick was the type of missionary that others can model themselves after today.
By Nyiko | Published 3/14/2008 | Read more »
When people hear the name of St. Patrick, many thoughts may enter their minds. The first may be of the holiday on March 17th when everyone is supposed to wear green. They may think of clovers or of leprechauns. But who was St. Patrick really?
By Nyiko | Published 3/14/2008 | Read more »
Ever since this year's People's Media Awards, AC's Content Producers have been recognized, congratulated, surprised, perplexed, and downright confused! It seems that no one can really understand what it takes to be in AC's "Top 1000". Well, I've discovered the answer!
By Nyiko | Published 2/4/2008 | Read more »
The classic token of love, a rose... or a sonnet? How about both? Here's a classic Shakespearean sonnet to enjoy and with Valentine's day coming up soon, maybe you can even write your own!
By Nyiko | Published 1/22/2008 | Read more »
French has been described as the language of love and a few words in French can make many girls melt. At the same time, what's more romantic than a sonnet declaring your love? In this sonnet, I combined both, French and a romantic poem.
By Nyiko | Published 1/22/2008 | Read more »
Since when did starving yourself become a Christian practice? Well, for thousands of years really, and many people still do it. This article will tell you what Christian fasting is and how to do it yourself.
By Nyiko | Published 1/10/2008 | Read more »
Just after Christmas, Kenya erupted into violence and rioting over Kenya's disputed Presidential elections leaving hundreds dead so far. Here is a personal interview with a Peace Corps volunteer currently stationed in Kenya.
By Nyiko | Published 1/7/2008 | Read more »
Worried your kid's letter to Santa will get lost in the mail? Here's a surefire way to make sure St. Nick receives it -- and answers back.
By Nyiko | Published 12/11/2007 | Read more »
In today's philosophy of science, evolution is generally accepted as fact. So is the apparently obvious need for conservation of environment and species. However, a true evolutionist can't also be a species conservationist and broad environmentalist. It just doesn't add up.
By Nyiko | Published 12/3/2007 | Read more »
Big changes have been happening recently at Oral Roberts University. Richard Roberts is gone for good, ORU will soon be out of debt thanks to a $70 million pledge, and the Board of Regents is listening to alumni. Yes, things are changing for good at Oral Roberts University.
By Nyiko | Published 11/30/2007 | Read more »
As the investigation continues in the Oral Roberts University scandal, Richard Roberts and his lawyers have attempted legal action to force the professors' lawsuit out of the court system, disqualify their lawyer, and prevent the professors from speaking publicly about it.
By Nyiko | Published 11/5/2007 | Read more »
Televangelism is prominent enough that by now everyone's seen someone be touched on the head by a minister and fall over, often convulsing. But what exactly is being "slain in the spirit" anyway? Is it an authentic spiritual experience or is it simply social conditioning?
By Nyiko | Published 10/28/2007 | Read more »
Until now, Richard Roberts has denied all claims made against him as well as requests for him to temporarily step down. But today, Richard Roberts has announced that he will be temporarily taking a leave of absence from his position as president of Oral Roberts University.
By Nyiko | Published 10/18/2007 | Read more »
I've taught in many different settings for years now and I've rarely been satisfied. There are flaws in today's society and educational culture that just ruin the experience for aspiring teachers. That's why teaching public school sucks. Here are suggestions for fixing it.
By Nyiko | Published 10/16/2007 | Read more »
The recent scandal at Oral Roberts University alleges illegal political maneuvering, lavish spending by the Roberts family at the expense of students and donors, and hints at sexual misconduct. But what do the University's students, alumni, and employees think about it?
By Nyiko | Published 10/10/2007 | Read more »
There are several important reasons why I'll be shortly beginning a career as a missionary, but they all come down to one: God gave me a supernatural vision. This is the story of that vision, told in complete detail.
By Nyiko | Published 10/5/2007 | Read more »
Several recently fired professors file lawsuit against ORU, President Richard Roberts, and several administrators. Allegations include political maneuvering (a violation of their tax exempt status), serious abuse of financial assets, and a cover-up of sexual harassment.
By Nyiko | Published 10/3/2007 | Read more »
The Black Hills in southwestern South Dakota are something of an oasis in the otherwise barren Great Plains. Amid the beautiful granite mountains and lush forests are located Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Monument, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, and Badlands National Park.
By Nyiko | Published 10/1/2007 | Read more »
The final leg of our trip covered a great stretch of road through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas. These roads provided some great scenery and some great stops. This is what you can expect.
By Nyiko | Published 10/1/2007 | Read more »
Beautiful, lush scenery. Towering mountains rising above pristine lakes. Hidden waterfalls. Grand Teton National Park in northwestern Wyoming is truly a monument to natural beauty.
By Nyiko | Published 9/24/2007 | Read more »
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the United States and it's the oldest. And there's good reason for it: Yellowstone has beautiful natural scenery and otherworldly oddities and it's lots of fun!
By Nyiko | Published 9/21/2007 | Read more »
North Cascades National Park in northern Washington is a largely unknown national park that contains plenty of hidden beauty, majestic views, and recreational activities. I'd like to return to the North Cascades more than any other place we visited on our trip.
By Nyiko | Published 9/7/2007 | Read more »
Washington is a state of great contrasts and beauty. In the northwest corner of the United States, Washington has both lush rainforests and harsh deserts. It's even close enough to make short excursion into Canada and it all makes for a very scenic drive.
By Nyiko | Published 9/7/2007 | Read more »
Throughout our entire trip, Oregon was probably the single most beautiful state. It's not full of great contrasts, just gentle beauty. It's got a great coastline, too!
By Nyiko | Published 9/4/2007 | Read more »
Seattle is known for many things, not the least of which are rain, coffee, and a thriving music scene. There's also plenty to see and do for visiting tourists. Here's the best spots to visit to maximize your time in Seattle.
By Nyiko | Published 9/4/2007 | Read more »
Rob Zombie's new remake of Halloween has no suspense, no intrigue, no creativity, and ultimately, no thought in it whatsoever. There's plenty of blood and gore if you're dying to see some, but it's a dull and pointless movie.
By Nyiko | Published 8/31/2007 | Read more »
Crater Lake in Oregon is without a doubt one of the most serenely beautiful places on earth. Nestled high up in Oregon's mountains, it's a great place to spend a weekend and enjoy the outdoors.
By Nyiko | Published 8/24/2007 | Read more »
The Giant Sequoia's coastal cousins - the Redwoods - take the prize for tallest trees in the world. These dense and lush forests are spread along California's northern coast and a visit here is like a trip to the Amazon, vibrant and otherworldly.
By Nyiko | Published 8/24/2007 | Read more »
California's Napa and Sonoma Valleys are widely celebrated as the crown of "New World" wineries. But navigating through the hundreds of wineries available can really take some work. Here are tips for getting the most out of Wine Country, California.
By Nyiko | Published 8/24/2007 | Read more »
San Francisco's a pretty popular tourist destination. And for good reason: there's plenty to do and see! Here's my review of the most fun to be had in San Francisco.
By Nyiko | Published 8/24/2007 | Read more »
The Invasion is a remake of an earlier sci-fi classic, Invasion of the Body Snatchers. However, The Invasion is anything but tired. It's big on suspense and high production values. If you're looking for a thrill, this is it.
By Nyiko | Published 8/17/2007 | Read more »
Rush Hour 3 is the newest trilogy-finale of the summer. But it doesn't seem new. The same old jokes (though more boring) the same old plot (but worse) and the same old actors (and they're really old now, not much action left in them). This movie doesn't provide a rush.
By Nyiko | Published 8/10/2007 | Read more »
The Bourne Ultimatum has some big shoes to fill, with the popularity of the previous two movies and the success of the book series. The Bourne Ultimatum also pulls it off, with big action, a consistent plot, and all-around high production values. It's a fitting finale.
By Nyiko | Published 8/3/2007 | Read more »
Although people have worried about The Simpson's declining humor in recent years, I can tell you it's not because the writers are all out of jokes. It's because they've been saving them all for The Simpsons Movie. This movie will make you laugh non-stop.
By Nyiko | Published 7/27/2007 | Read more »
Sequoia National Park doesn't immediately present itself as anything more than a nice bit of forest and rolling hills. But hidden within are thousands of the largest living things on earth: the Giant Sequoias. Nothing else even comes close.
By Nyiko | Published 7/24/2007 | Read more »
Yosemite National Park in central California has some of the most serene and magnificent sights in the world. But it's also very crowded. These are the pro's and con's of Yosemite National Park.
By Nyiko | Published 7/20/2007 | Read more »
California is an immense state and although we stayed mostly in the northern portion of California, it still has an immense variety of beautiful and intriguing landscapes. These are road notes from central and northern California.
By Nyiko | Published 7/16/2007 | Read more »
Death Valley is a foreboding name, but it deserves it. In summertime, it's one of the hottest places on earth and any journey here has to be carefully undertaken. We took a short stint through Death Valley and learned a lot about this fascinating place.
By Nyiko | Published 7/11/2007 | Read more »
Three people died here from accidents the week before we arrived. This is a place whose magnificent beauty may be matched only by its danger. But I survived this harrowing ordeal and I immensely enjoyed it.
By Nyiko | Published 7/6/2007 | Read more »
Everyone knows Las Vegas, Nevada is the gambling capital of the world. But even if you're not a big gambler, there's plenty to do in Las Vegas. Pretty much anything you enjoy, Las Vegas has it in excess and much of it is even free.
By Nyiko | Published 7/6/2007 | Read more »
Some people may think that if they want to see a canyon, the Grand Canyon is all they need to see. But Bryce Canyon stands alone and is completely amazing in its own right. It's almost like looking at bizarre cave formations in broad daylight.
By Nyiko | Published 7/6/2007 | Read more »
As we drive further west, we often have the choice to take the direct 4-lane freeway routes or the scenic routes. Our road trip is based on scenic viewing and flexibility, so we take the scenic routes. These are road notes for Utah and Nevada.
By Nyiko | Published 7/6/2007 | Read more »
Everyone knows what the Grand Canyon is. Everyone who gets the chance goes, and for good reason. But there are some things I learned on my visit that can help you make the most out of your Grand Canyon experience.
By Nyiko | Published 7/1/2007 | Read more »
The United States is full of geological wonders and prehistoric monuments. They only increase as you journey into the Southwest. Near Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Petroglyph National Monument is famous for both.
By Nyiko | Published 6/21/2007 | Read more »
As our road trip continues we spend less time on the road between each stop and we're starting to get used to the distances. But the scenery on the road can still make or break the enjoyment of the trip. This is the second installment of road notes.
By Nyiko | Published 6/21/2007 | Read more »
Petrified wood exists in every state in the USA and most people have a seen a piece sometime. But here is an entire forest of petrified wood, covering hills and filling valleys, and it's in the middle of the most colorful desert in the United States, maybe the world.
By Nyiko | Published 6/21/2007 | Read more »
The United States regularly suffers from hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and the occasional earthquake. But lava eruptions spewing 40 miles long? I found out that the US is more seismically active than I previously thought.
By Nyiko | Published 6/20/2007 | Read more »
At first glance, Roswell, New Mexico looks pretty much like any other small mid-western town. But with a closer look, Roswell reveals something extraordinary, maybe even extraterrestrial. Read more to find out what make Roswell, NM exceptional.
By Nyiko | Published 6/15/2007 | Read more »
I've always enjoyed spelunking as a kid. But Carlsbad Caverns is not just spelunking, it's something different. It's like exploring a vast, underground palace. And it's one of the most beautiful places on earth.
By Nyiko | Published 6/11/2007 | Read more »
On any road trip, the goal is to see the great sights: big cities and national parks. However, you often spend as much time driving to them as you do actually seeing them. So you want to make sure you have something to see while you're driving.
By Nyiko | Published 6/11/2007 | Read more »
The television show Lost is a huge success, but their writers didn't come up with the story out of thin air. Learn about just how much of the show comes from William Golding's classic fiction, Lord of the Flies.
By Nyiko | Published 6/1/2007 | Read more »
Our country's most fundamental conflict between science and faith rests on the interpretation of one chapter in the Bible. But with a proper understanding of Genesis, the barriers between Christianity and Science are removed.
By Nyiko | Published 5/31/2007 | Read more »
At the beginning of June, my wife and I will engage in a classic American tradition: road trip! We'll spend the entire month of June touring the entire US west of the Mississippi. Part 1 is what we'll bring.
By Nyiko | Published 5/23/2007 | Read more »
The game Guitar Hero has swept the nation with true musicians and wanna-be's alike. Recently, some guys figured out how to use the controller to make a real band. Are they rock stars or nerds? See for yourself.
By Nyiko | Published 5/23/2007 | Read more »
Writing poetry, prose or anything can be at times fulfilling and at times incredibly frustrating. This is my ode to writing.
By Nyiko | Published 5/22/2007 | Read more »
Everyone loves pizza. At least, I've never met anyone who doesn't. Pizza is best at a local pizzeria, but even pizza at home can be quite a treat. Learn about two major brands of frozen pizza and which is beter.
By Nyiko | Published 5/22/2007 | Read more »
Pringles is promoting both their current product line and Spider-Man 3 by offering 2 free movie tickets for buying $10 worth of Pringles until the end of June. But they don't intend to follow through. Don't fall prey to their scam like I did.
By Nyiko | Published 5/21/2007 | Read more »
Work is an unavoidable aspect of life. But does it really have to be this bad? In Max Barry's new book, Company, he uses his usual wit and corporate satire to try to bring meaning to what can often seem a meaningless work life.
By Nyiko | Published 5/21/2007 | Read more »
Summertime is quickly approaching and everyone needs a good pair of shorts. I found a new pair this year that's way better than my old ones. Find out why.
By Nyiko | Published 5/18/2007 | Read more »
Anyone who likes to cook knows that a little bit of spice adds a lot to your cuisine, and it becomes necessary if you're cooking Italian. I used a cheap Italian Seasoning by 5th Season until I found Dean Jacobs' 4 Bread Dipping Seasonings and realized what I'd been missing.
By Nyiko | Published 5/18/2007 | Read more »
Vodka is a crucial ingredient for making a good martini and the quality of the vodka can make all the difference. Find out how Grey Goose compares to Svedka.
By Nyiko | Published 5/17/2007 | Read more »
Everyone knows of soy sauce and there isn't a much bigger brand than Kikkoman's. However, some recent imports (Knorr's Liquid Seasoning) are giving Kikkoman's a run for their money. Find out the pro's and con's of each.
By Nyiko | Published 5/16/2007 | Read more »
Digital music is all the rage, but I still like to buy an album for its artwork and for the ease of use of a CD in my car or to play it at any friend's house. However, conventional CD storage is often a pain. Good thing cdProjects came up with a great solution.
By Nyiko | Published 5/15/2007 | Read more »
Sometimes people get bored of regular fish. Well, fiddler crabs are widely available and they're one pet you won't get bored of! They may seem easy to care for, but there's a few helpful tips to give them a long, healthy life.
By Nyiko | Published 5/4/2007 | Read more »
Most people agree that the universe started billions of years ago with a huge explosion, known as the "Big Bang." What people don't agree on is what caused it. Here are some scientists' very intriguing ideas about the ultimate cause of our existence.
By Nyiko | Published 5/3/2007 | Read more »
In A Doll's House, Henrik Ibsen creates a realistic story of social tragedy. One of the main character, Nora, often and elusively refers to suicide throughout the play. But what were her real intentions?
By Nyiko | Published 5/3/2007 | Read more »
A poetic examination of the oft-blurred lines between dreaming surreality and waking reality - concerning a relationship severed.
By Nyiko | Published 5/1/2007 | Read more »
Have you ever noticed that John seems quite a bit different from Matthew, Mark, and Luke? Here are some of the key differences I noticed after intensive study.
By Nyiko | Published 4/30/2007 | Read more »
In a day and age where violence seems to be increasing exponentially, especially among youth, violence in media is a prime target for accusations. But, is it possible that violence and graphic realism in media is actually good for you?
By Nyiko | Published 4/26/2007 | Read more »
Have you ever wondered why there are four different Gospels telling the same story about Jesus? Have you ever noticed that John told a very different story about Jesus than did the rest? Read to find out what those differences are and why.
By Nyiko | Published 4/26/2007 | Read more »
Recent governmental decisions to drastically raise royalty rates for internet broadcasters may spell the end of internet radio. Find out what you can do to stop this.
By Nyiko | Published 4/25/2007 | Read more »
Hillary may be the front runner for the Democratic candidate but, according to world history, women have rarely held the highest leadership positions. Is there a good reason why? Will this hurt her chances to succeed? This is a study of gender roles and political leadership.
By Nyiko | Published 4/20/2007 | Read more »
A narrative poem in iambic pentameter - concerning the stress of modern life in the industrialized/commercialized world.
By Nyiko | Published 4/17/2007 | Read more »
There's a lot of MP3 players on the market today, from trusted name brands like Apple's iPod to no-namers like the one I own. Learn about just how much MP3 functionality you can get for the smallest price.
By Nyiko | Published 4/17/2007 | Read more »
Joby's Gorillapod is one of the most innovative camera accessories to come out in a long time. With the digital revolution's effect on photography, this may be one tripod you can't live without.
By Nyiko | Published 4/16/2007 | Read more »
A critical review of the movie, Peaceful Warrior. The film is loosely based on true events in the life of inspirational author, Dan Millman. Whether or not you find inspiration in the movie, you may be inspired by this creative continuation of his inspirational franchise.
By Nyiko | Published 4/16/2007 | Read more »
A small, affordable camera, for beginners or pro's. This compact package, stuffed with features, offers something for everyone and is unlikely to disappoint anyone.
By Nyiko | Published 4/13/2007 | Read more »
There are more animists in the world than there are Christians and Muslims combined. Yet this world religion rarely receives attention. This is an introduction to animism followed by a short Christian response.
By Nyiko | Published 4/12/2007 | Read more »
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