“CALEB” (Kelev) means a “DOG” in the Hebrew language translation. In the Old Testament times, Caleb was chosen by Moses to scout the land in the second year after the Exodus. He and Joshua were the only two scouts out of 12 sent by Moses who encouraged the people to go up and possess the land of Canaan, otherwise known as the “Promised Land”.
As I was writing the following short essays for publication, my original plan was to title the book “GaeSoRi” (Dog Barking) which in Korean carries a derogatory connotation of B.S. (cow dung). Eventually the title was tamed down to “Cry of Caleb”. Throughout my life, I’ve never been a person to back down from making a statement based on gut-feelings. This book is another honest attempt to convey my personal philosophy as well as an expression of my worldview and some personal pet peeves I’ve had. However gently I’ve tried to write this book, I must also admit there is no escape from the fact that these essays are a collection of “GaeSoRi”.
When my father passed away in his 40’s, I foolishly thought my life expectancy would be about the same. As a result of this irrational fear, I wanted to retain some of my own Christian worldviews on paper for the benefit of my sons JooHyung-Nathan and TaeHyung-Aaron. Hopefully when they mature they can use this book as a reminder of their Father’s views and opinions. Eunhee-Happi will have to look towards her mother for guidance since this book is meant to be masculine in tone.
Here are some reasons for selecting “DOG” as the theme.
Dogs are man’s best friends.
Dogs are considered extremely loyal.
Dogs are most often used in slang, internationally.
Dogs adapt to their environment almost as well as humans.
There are mountains of lessons we can learn from DOGS, as well as tons of reasons why we must not emulate DOGS. Another obvious reason for using DOGS is the limitless supply of proverbs and old-sayings related to DOGS.
Because these writing are in a diary format and represent a snap shot idea, I arrived at totally different conclusions when observing the same events. Simply put, you may come across many paradoxical points of view and be left wondering “how can this be from the same author?” Oh well, I’ll just have to rely on intervention from above for those who don’t understand.
Born and raised in Korea, I was transplanted into America after completing the 7th grade. My life had to resume in different surroundings but has always revolved around the question “WHY?”. Are your lives filled with so much busy-ness that you are no longer asking, thinking, and wondering why the things are the way they are? If this book causes you to pause for a moment and ponder then I’ve accomplished my goal. I am certain that you will not agree with all my thoughts and opinions and I dare you to do otherwise. Whether you agree with me or not, read through “Cry of Caleb” and one day we could be seated across one another and enjoy fellowship arguing and debating its contents.
Shalom!
Kyung Yi