I've already heard "the Rant" on a local television station about some community changing the name of their "Christmas" parade to "Holiday" parade. Here we go again. Why are some Christians in such an uproar, expressing hurt and anger when the word "Christmas" is deleted from a community/ cultural event? It seems to me that the true meaning Christmas was stolen by the culture years ago, when "Merry Christmas" replaced "Thank You" from retailers. Christmas has become a Consumer holiday rather than a true Holy Day.
This morning's news talked about the economy hurting local charities (http://www.enidnews.com/localnews/local_story_336001950.html). And at the same time "Black Friday" (where merchants measure the sales to post their profits) seems to measure the christmas spirit of shoppers. Is that what Christmas is all about?
Mayhaps, I'm out of step, but we best remember the Prophets of old about providing for the widows and children and least among us, rather than the profits of greed and selfishness. Something has gone terribly wrong when a WalMart worker is trampled to death upon opening the store for black friday christmas shoppers ...(http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2008/11/28/2008-11-28_worker_dies_at_long_island_walmart_after.html)
With a prayer of confession in my heart, maybe tomorrow I will sing again.
SoulSongWriter
Monday, December 1, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Serenity Prayer
It's been two weeks since my last posting. I guess I haven't had anything to say. A good friend passed away yesterday, and his family shared with me the full version of the Serenity Prayer to be read at his memorial service. I've been familiar with this quote for many years, and now with this writing, I guess it is obvious that I didn't pay enough attention to everything that Reinhold Niebuhr wrote for here is the full version:
God grant me the serenity
Living one day at a time;
Rienhold Neibuhr (1892-1971)
The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.
Rienhold Neibuhr (1892-1971)
Grace and peace, with a song in my heart
SoulSongWriter
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Results
It's almost lunch time, 11:45 a.m. on November 4, and I am ready to be the first to publicly declare a winner in today's election. The winner is...
The American People!
At 7:30 a.m. this morning the church parking lot was full. Why? Because a polling place is located in the lobby of the apartments behind our building. The parking lot has filled and emptied all morning long. I voted down the street at the location of another church that held a polling place. The line went out the door and down the sidewalk. It took thirty-five minutes to vote. Where else but in America is there such a demonstration of Freedom and the right of the people to Choose leadership! I truly wish the turnout was this good on every election, local and national. Could it be that our greatest threat is complacency?
In my young life, this was my tenth time to have the privilege to vote in a presidential election. I asked the couple behind me in line, how many presidential elections have you voted in? "I don't know", she said, "Eisenhour, 1952 was our first election." I thought to myself, that was just a few years before I was born.
I simply want to lift up and accentuate the positive today, that even with all of the bad news, there remains some good news. People of America, we all won the election today. We all have the right to vote on our governing leadership.
Thank you Lord, for letting me live in a corner of the world where my opinion officially counts.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
The American People!
At 7:30 a.m. this morning the church parking lot was full. Why? Because a polling place is located in the lobby of the apartments behind our building. The parking lot has filled and emptied all morning long. I voted down the street at the location of another church that held a polling place. The line went out the door and down the sidewalk. It took thirty-five minutes to vote. Where else but in America is there such a demonstration of Freedom and the right of the people to Choose leadership! I truly wish the turnout was this good on every election, local and national. Could it be that our greatest threat is complacency?
In my young life, this was my tenth time to have the privilege to vote in a presidential election. I asked the couple behind me in line, how many presidential elections have you voted in? "I don't know", she said, "Eisenhour, 1952 was our first election." I thought to myself, that was just a few years before I was born.
I simply want to lift up and accentuate the positive today, that even with all of the bad news, there remains some good news. People of America, we all won the election today. We all have the right to vote on our governing leadership.
Thank you Lord, for letting me live in a corner of the world where my opinion officially counts.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Monday, October 27, 2008
Final Week of Sabbatical
Wow! What a wonderful journey this has been. Since my last writing, words came to me for the tune “healing waters” and the title is changed to “A Saint’s Prayer”. Late in the night the words came to me based on the outpouring of the man’s life at the laundry. In summary, “I know you’re there Lord, just hear my plea.” We’ve all said that at one time or another.
For worship Sunday I attended worship with the Episcopalian congregation where Padre Steve is one of my Lectionary study buddies. (I’m actually meeting with my buddies to help me prepare to return this Sunday before I take my last few days to visit my mother.) As I entered the worship service, I felt that my journey had come full circle. Episcopalians share much in common with the Roman Catholic tradition at the Pecos Benedictine Community and having begun my journey I felt it unique that I was concluding at a worship experience so very similar, but with one important difference, the Eucharist. Having been excluded from the full fellowship of the table at Pecos, it brought tears to my eyes to receive communion at the altar rail of the Episcopal church. All our traditions are near yet so far!
I am grateful to all who have made this Sabbatical journey possible. The dedicated Lay Leadership at Christian Church of the Covenant has made a huge difference in this Pastor’s life. I’ve been given the freedom and resources to pursue a dream of music. In many ways the song is only just begun. Some exciting adventures lay ahead with the Seasons of Thanks, Advent, and Christmas. I’ve been invited to participate in an Ordination the first Saturday of December. Thanks for sharing this journey with me. I will try to keep the blog going from week to week.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
For worship Sunday I attended worship with the Episcopalian congregation where Padre Steve is one of my Lectionary study buddies. (I’m actually meeting with my buddies to help me prepare to return this Sunday before I take my last few days to visit my mother.) As I entered the worship service, I felt that my journey had come full circle. Episcopalians share much in common with the Roman Catholic tradition at the Pecos Benedictine Community and having begun my journey I felt it unique that I was concluding at a worship experience so very similar, but with one important difference, the Eucharist. Having been excluded from the full fellowship of the table at Pecos, it brought tears to my eyes to receive communion at the altar rail of the Episcopal church. All our traditions are near yet so far!
I am grateful to all who have made this Sabbatical journey possible. The dedicated Lay Leadership at Christian Church of the Covenant has made a huge difference in this Pastor’s life. I’ve been given the freedom and resources to pursue a dream of music. In many ways the song is only just begun. Some exciting adventures lay ahead with the Seasons of Thanks, Advent, and Christmas. I’ve been invited to participate in an Ordination the first Saturday of December. Thanks for sharing this journey with me. I will try to keep the blog going from week to week.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Two Songs, Well Almost
I know it’s been over a week since I’ve written. Linda was here and we attended our first ever War Eagle Mill Craft Weekend and still didn’t make it to all the craft shows in the area. We spent Saturday night with Mindi and her boys Carson and Cole in Fayetteville and attended the early worship “praise” service at First Christian with Mindi. It was a delightful service. We appreciated the wonderful hospitality. When I returned to my campsite, I encountered my first real problem of the stay, no water. My one neighbor explained that a major water leak had shut down the back side of the camp. She helped round up enough hose to cover a football field and helped me hook up to water at the front of the camp.
I finished an instrumental song… no words yet and perhaps it doesn’t need any words. I’ve decided to call it “Healing Waters” after visiting the Blue Spring Heritage Center and gardens, and learning the history of Eureka Springs. I visited there on Tuesday. Words alone cannot describe. I’ll try to remember to put the pictures on my church web site. And I would hope that the song might convey, even without words, the feeling of the place.
My first song, “Time Won’t Wait for Friends” is close to completion. I just need to spend some time on the computer manually correcting my “midi” mistakes. I’m still no musician but I’m finding it easier to play, the more I play. The music is definitely all around me. If I had another month I’m sure I could write several songs now. However, I am having a few technical problems with my computer.
I met an interesting man at the laundry yesterday. He told me a good bit of his life story. It is truly interesting what happens when you simply listen. I even visited his home where he showed me a video of his work with big cats, you know lions and tigers and more, oh my! We then went out to the game reserve he founded. The rain chased us back inside before we could complete the tour. I suppose our meeting was another one of those “God” things. We just happened to cross paths at the laundry. I wish I had met him sooner in my stay here. Hopefully, if the weather clears, I will visit with him again before I leave. He would like to show me a place he describes as a “Holy Place”.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
I finished an instrumental song… no words yet and perhaps it doesn’t need any words. I’ve decided to call it “Healing Waters” after visiting the Blue Spring Heritage Center and gardens, and learning the history of Eureka Springs. I visited there on Tuesday. Words alone cannot describe. I’ll try to remember to put the pictures on my church web site. And I would hope that the song might convey, even without words, the feeling of the place.
My first song, “Time Won’t Wait for Friends” is close to completion. I just need to spend some time on the computer manually correcting my “midi” mistakes. I’m still no musician but I’m finding it easier to play, the more I play. The music is definitely all around me. If I had another month I’m sure I could write several songs now. However, I am having a few technical problems with my computer.
I met an interesting man at the laundry yesterday. He told me a good bit of his life story. It is truly interesting what happens when you simply listen. I even visited his home where he showed me a video of his work with big cats, you know lions and tigers and more, oh my! We then went out to the game reserve he founded. The rain chased us back inside before we could complete the tour. I suppose our meeting was another one of those “God” things. We just happened to cross paths at the laundry. I wish I had met him sooner in my stay here. Hopefully, if the weather clears, I will visit with him again before I leave. He would like to show me a place he describes as a “Holy Place”.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Monday, October 13, 2008
God Understands Giggles in Church (I hope)
Is it OK to get the giggles in church? It doesn’t happen to me very often (I can’t remember the last time), but there I sat during Holy Communion, no less, doing my absolute best to hold back the giggles. You see, we didn’t read the fine print in the bulletin well enough. I did glance at it to see the “trespasses… trespassed” part and that “everyone who believes is invited to partake…” but I missed the part about “hold the elements for unison participation.” We received the bread and placed it in our mouths, when the lady deacon said, “don’t take that until the end.” I removed the wafer from my tongue (you know those round ones that are almost like Styrofoam anyway) and picked up a cup, but she was in such a tizzy to correct us, that the deacon went on before Linda was served. So I handed my little cup to Linda, and that’s when the absurdity of it all hit me, and I jiggled as I stifled my giggle. So, here’s my reflection on attending church at a Disciples church near Eureka Springs…
Lord, I got the giggles today,
The Deacon corrected me then she turned away,
Lord, I know it is time to simply pray
But I thought it funny how she removed the tray.
Lord, I didn’t mean any disrespect.
The Deacon’s reprimand I didn’t expect.
The instructions I missed, I was not correct.
Does this mean I’m doomed at the resurrect?
The sermon had gone on and on,
Eight points is simply much too long.
That deacon told me I was doing it wrong
I guess at this church I just don’t belong.
Don’t worry Miss Deacon I won’t be back.
Unwanted attention I don’t like to attract.
I was just a visitor, didn’t mean to distract
And from your Order I won’t again subtract.
In a few weeks I’ll be back at my home.
I’ll try to remember what it was like to roam,
And when someone’s different I won’t moan,
I’ll think of my giggles and be glad to be home.
Hmmm. Now what about a tune?
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Lord, I got the giggles today,
The Deacon corrected me then she turned away,
Lord, I know it is time to simply pray
But I thought it funny how she removed the tray.
Lord, I didn’t mean any disrespect.
The Deacon’s reprimand I didn’t expect.
The instructions I missed, I was not correct.
Does this mean I’m doomed at the resurrect?
The sermon had gone on and on,
Eight points is simply much too long.
That deacon told me I was doing it wrong
I guess at this church I just don’t belong.
Don’t worry Miss Deacon I won’t be back.
Unwanted attention I don’t like to attract.
I was just a visitor, didn’t mean to distract
And from your Order I won’t again subtract.
In a few weeks I’ll be back at my home.
I’ll try to remember what it was like to roam,
And when someone’s different I won’t moan,
I’ll think of my giggles and be glad to be home.
Hmmm. Now what about a tune?
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Friday, October 10, 2008
The Jesus Prayer
I have a much greater appreciation for song writers now. I’m seeing that at the worst I will have a draft of a song when I conclude. It seems like such an uphill journey at this time. The software and keyboard are working together just fine, they simply have problems with the aspiring SongWriter, or as when trying to learn to drive a standard shift automobile, we are encountering “operator problems”. But the journey is worth it all. At least I’m only inflicting pain upon the critters around me. It might be encouraging to hear a song-bird instead of a crow. Then again, the crow just might be in closer harmony with my sound presently. I’m no song crooner, but I’ll croon a song to the song crooner comes.
I’ve been reading an interesting book written by and about the spiritual journey of a Russian peasant, The Way of a Pilgrim. His travels are primarily an interior spiritual journey. The peasant seeks to learn how to pray without ceasing. Early on he is encouraged to pray “The Jesus Prayer.” Are you familiar with the Jesus Prayer? I had not encountered it before. At first I thought perhaps the Lord’s Prayer, but it is not. The Jesus Prayer is stated as, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me a sinner.”
I’ve found it to be a profound prayer. I’ve even wondered if perhaps all these years we would be bettered identified as members of the sinner’s church instead of the Christian church. Imagine coming into a community and encountering the “First Sinner’s Church” or “Sinner Church of the Covenant.” I’ve noted that the word “Harvest” is a frequent word in new churches where I’ve travelled. Almost every community has a “Harvest” church. But I have yet to see a Sinner Church. Even the Apostle Paul recognized he was first among those least likely to become followers of Jesus.
If you put the Jesus Prayer on the forefront of your thinking, it does begin to influence your thinking. Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me a sinner. (I’m a sinner and I approve this message.)
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
I’ve been reading an interesting book written by and about the spiritual journey of a Russian peasant, The Way of a Pilgrim. His travels are primarily an interior spiritual journey. The peasant seeks to learn how to pray without ceasing. Early on he is encouraged to pray “The Jesus Prayer.” Are you familiar with the Jesus Prayer? I had not encountered it before. At first I thought perhaps the Lord’s Prayer, but it is not. The Jesus Prayer is stated as, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me a sinner.”
I’ve found it to be a profound prayer. I’ve even wondered if perhaps all these years we would be bettered identified as members of the sinner’s church instead of the Christian church. Imagine coming into a community and encountering the “First Sinner’s Church” or “Sinner Church of the Covenant.” I’ve noted that the word “Harvest” is a frequent word in new churches where I’ve travelled. Almost every community has a “Harvest” church. But I have yet to see a Sinner Church. Even the Apostle Paul recognized he was first among those least likely to become followers of Jesus.
If you put the Jesus Prayer on the forefront of your thinking, it does begin to influence your thinking. Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me a sinner. (I’m a sinner and I approve this message.)
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
HOSPITALITY
I’m well on my way now with my first song. “Time Won’t Wait for Friends”. I shared a bit of it last week and even that has changed now. It’s about relationships and the passage of time. It’s a story that we can all identify in our friendships, but also about a story shared with me by another friend.
While visiting the Monastery in Pecos, N.M. last month I said something about their hospitality and wanting to talk a little more on the subject. Just the other day, I overheard a manager and crew meeting at McD’s. You tend to overhear a lot of things when you spend some time in solitude. Some would call it “eavesdropping”, but I just call it listening to my surroundings. I heard the manager say something like this, “I don’t care what they look like to you. Even if their dressed shabby and smelly, I want you to treat them just like any other customer.” Isn’t that the essence of hospitality? Sure, we’re more comfortable when we’re with people just like ourselves, but the object of hospitality is to make the stranger feel at home. I’m beginning to understand exactly what it feels like to receive genuine hospitality.
Even the words that we use trying to show hospitality sometimes fall quite short of our intentions. I remember receiving a note in my early days at Covenant from Dr. Masters after he had visited calling my attention to my use of the phrase, “It’s so nice to have you with us this morning.” I knew what he meant when I was told that repeatedly one Sunday morning and realized that I’m not a ham sandwich. One might have a ham sandwich, but you’re not having me.
I have a minister friend in Louisiana who was accused of “radical hospitality” last month. I received a note from someone who was helping a family member relocate to Ruston, Louisiana over the Labor Day Weekend. They had some special needs and found tremendous help from this minister and his congregation there. In the midst of it all, this person was able to connect the Ruston minister with me (once again it is a small world) and then sent me an email about the experience. The last time I called his number, it had changed, so it was great to get back in touch with my friend.
If McD’s is concerned about hospitality, how much more should we be concerned about it in the church? I seem to recall one of the ways that Jesus separated the sheep from the goats had a lot to do with hospitality. I experienced hospitality at worship last Sunday. Yes, I was back in Enid for the weekend. I found out that one of my “lectionary” friends were serving hamburgers after church, so I worshipped there. Actually it was one of the most unique and friendly services I have attended. It was held in the midst of one of the Habitat for Humanity Houses being built in Enid.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
While visiting the Monastery in Pecos, N.M. last month I said something about their hospitality and wanting to talk a little more on the subject. Just the other day, I overheard a manager and crew meeting at McD’s. You tend to overhear a lot of things when you spend some time in solitude. Some would call it “eavesdropping”, but I just call it listening to my surroundings. I heard the manager say something like this, “I don’t care what they look like to you. Even if their dressed shabby and smelly, I want you to treat them just like any other customer.” Isn’t that the essence of hospitality? Sure, we’re more comfortable when we’re with people just like ourselves, but the object of hospitality is to make the stranger feel at home. I’m beginning to understand exactly what it feels like to receive genuine hospitality.
Even the words that we use trying to show hospitality sometimes fall quite short of our intentions. I remember receiving a note in my early days at Covenant from Dr. Masters after he had visited calling my attention to my use of the phrase, “It’s so nice to have you with us this morning.” I knew what he meant when I was told that repeatedly one Sunday morning and realized that I’m not a ham sandwich. One might have a ham sandwich, but you’re not having me.
I have a minister friend in Louisiana who was accused of “radical hospitality” last month. I received a note from someone who was helping a family member relocate to Ruston, Louisiana over the Labor Day Weekend. They had some special needs and found tremendous help from this minister and his congregation there. In the midst of it all, this person was able to connect the Ruston minister with me (once again it is a small world) and then sent me an email about the experience. The last time I called his number, it had changed, so it was great to get back in touch with my friend.
If McD’s is concerned about hospitality, how much more should we be concerned about it in the church? I seem to recall one of the ways that Jesus separated the sheep from the goats had a lot to do with hospitality. I experienced hospitality at worship last Sunday. Yes, I was back in Enid for the weekend. I found out that one of my “lectionary” friends were serving hamburgers after church, so I worshipped there. Actually it was one of the most unique and friendly services I have attended. It was held in the midst of one of the Habitat for Humanity Houses being built in Enid.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Too Bountiful
October 2, 2008
As the calendar turns to October the leaves are starting to turn, but many of them are already falling. I begin to wonder will there be any leaves left for Fall Colors? The campground road is practically covered in leaves. And yet, there remain many more on the trees. Is bountiful a word that applies to how you view God? It seems like I remember Jesus telling many parables to describe God’s love and grace as bountiful, indeed too bountiful for many of His listeners. The leaves which remain and will show us bountiful colors, might serve to remind us of God’s bountiful love.
Speaking of bountiful, I guess my words are too bountiful to bring to music. I must figure a way to use fewer words, and still convey texture and meaning and then add music. I’m sure someone might say to me, “Hey, if you can figure out how to convey meaning and texture of feelings with fewer words, your sermons might be better.” One songwriter told me that the process is similar to writing a sermon, just using fewer words and being more precise.
I’ve been told that there is bad financial news all over the world. It is convenient to be without television news right now. Life is simpler without so much input, especially the campaign rhetoric. But if I’m right about the bountiful leaves representing the bountiful God, then sooner or later we might set aright our economy by living as true stewards of all that God has bountifully given us.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
As the calendar turns to October the leaves are starting to turn, but many of them are already falling. I begin to wonder will there be any leaves left for Fall Colors? The campground road is practically covered in leaves. And yet, there remain many more on the trees. Is bountiful a word that applies to how you view God? It seems like I remember Jesus telling many parables to describe God’s love and grace as bountiful, indeed too bountiful for many of His listeners. The leaves which remain and will show us bountiful colors, might serve to remind us of God’s bountiful love.
Speaking of bountiful, I guess my words are too bountiful to bring to music. I must figure a way to use fewer words, and still convey texture and meaning and then add music. I’m sure someone might say to me, “Hey, if you can figure out how to convey meaning and texture of feelings with fewer words, your sermons might be better.” One songwriter told me that the process is similar to writing a sermon, just using fewer words and being more precise.
I’ve been told that there is bad financial news all over the world. It is convenient to be without television news right now. Life is simpler without so much input, especially the campaign rhetoric. But if I’m right about the bountiful leaves representing the bountiful God, then sooner or later we might set aright our economy by living as true stewards of all that God has bountifully given us.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Monday, September 29, 2008
SOLITUDE or COMMUNITY
September 29, 2008
It’s been five days since my last confession, I mean blog. I guess the “c” word came to mind because I’ve been debating whether or not to confess that we went to the OU vs TCU football game on Saturday night. But the most extraordinary thing happened, that it simply must be told. The game wasn’t much for TCU, the Christians were slain by the gladiators this time, but the experience of community was beyond words.
Do you remember how before I started Sabbatical that I talked about how connected we are in this world? Well, there were 85,500 folks at the coliseum on Saturday. We parked and made our contribution to the mission trips for the youth of FCC, Norman and began the walk toward the stadium three hours before game time. As we walked I struck up a conversation with another fellow wearing a purple shirt. He was a funeral director from Pampa, Tx. I spotted an empty space on a bench, but by the time we had finished talking, the space was filled. Still looking for a place to rest in the shade we started toward a planter box to sit on the edge, when another space on a bench opened up. We chose the bench.
In conversation with the other couple on the bench we learned that they were from Fairview and season ticket holders for some time. They asked about our TCU attire and we explained that we were born in OKC but graduated from TCU. He said, “I can understand that. Where did you grow up?”
“Oklahoma City,” we told the story of our high school romance. “What school?” he asked. “Capitol Hill” we replied. “Where did you live?” asked he. Linda said, “Just off of SW 29th and Portland.” He leaned forward and said, “What street?” Long story short, he and Linda grew up on different ends of the same block, went to the same elementary school, junior high, and we were all graduates of Capitol Hill High School. I wish I could describe the look on his face as we made connections, but until this day on a bench in a crowd of 85,000 plus our paths had never crossed. He graduated in 1971, I in 1972, and Linda in 1973. We visited for over an hour and a half about memories of high school and how painful it was to survive in the era of racial “desegregation” that actually resulted in more fights than harmony. WOW, it was worth the trip to Norman just for this powerful encounter with a stranger that shared our common community of time and place some 35 plus years ago.
Sunday we worshipped at First Christian Church, Midwest City and had a delightful lunch with Les and Joyce Brown. Les has been pastor there for 22 years. 7 years ago the church relocated and built a new sanctuary and this was our first chance to visit there. During lunch we made further connections of common friends and experiences, although a decade apart, in Perryton, Texas. How small is our world? How great is our Creator!
I’ve returned to my solitude in Arkansas. This week it truly is solitude. My only neighbor at the campground told me on Thursday that she would be gone this week, visiting family in Iowa. Solitude has its place, but I’m beginning to see the power of community. Oh, and a song has started to develop. Melody and words are beginning to come together:
“Like a pebble cast on a pond,
The ripples go on and on and on.
But time won’t wait for me.”
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
It’s been five days since my last confession, I mean blog. I guess the “c” word came to mind because I’ve been debating whether or not to confess that we went to the OU vs TCU football game on Saturday night. But the most extraordinary thing happened, that it simply must be told. The game wasn’t much for TCU, the Christians were slain by the gladiators this time, but the experience of community was beyond words.
Do you remember how before I started Sabbatical that I talked about how connected we are in this world? Well, there were 85,500 folks at the coliseum on Saturday. We parked and made our contribution to the mission trips for the youth of FCC, Norman and began the walk toward the stadium three hours before game time. As we walked I struck up a conversation with another fellow wearing a purple shirt. He was a funeral director from Pampa, Tx. I spotted an empty space on a bench, but by the time we had finished talking, the space was filled. Still looking for a place to rest in the shade we started toward a planter box to sit on the edge, when another space on a bench opened up. We chose the bench.
In conversation with the other couple on the bench we learned that they were from Fairview and season ticket holders for some time. They asked about our TCU attire and we explained that we were born in OKC but graduated from TCU. He said, “I can understand that. Where did you grow up?”
“Oklahoma City,” we told the story of our high school romance. “What school?” he asked. “Capitol Hill” we replied. “Where did you live?” asked he. Linda said, “Just off of SW 29th and Portland.” He leaned forward and said, “What street?” Long story short, he and Linda grew up on different ends of the same block, went to the same elementary school, junior high, and we were all graduates of Capitol Hill High School. I wish I could describe the look on his face as we made connections, but until this day on a bench in a crowd of 85,000 plus our paths had never crossed. He graduated in 1971, I in 1972, and Linda in 1973. We visited for over an hour and a half about memories of high school and how painful it was to survive in the era of racial “desegregation” that actually resulted in more fights than harmony. WOW, it was worth the trip to Norman just for this powerful encounter with a stranger that shared our common community of time and place some 35 plus years ago.
Sunday we worshipped at First Christian Church, Midwest City and had a delightful lunch with Les and Joyce Brown. Les has been pastor there for 22 years. 7 years ago the church relocated and built a new sanctuary and this was our first chance to visit there. During lunch we made further connections of common friends and experiences, although a decade apart, in Perryton, Texas. How small is our world? How great is our Creator!
I’ve returned to my solitude in Arkansas. This week it truly is solitude. My only neighbor at the campground told me on Thursday that she would be gone this week, visiting family in Iowa. Solitude has its place, but I’m beginning to see the power of community. Oh, and a song has started to develop. Melody and words are beginning to come together:
“Like a pebble cast on a pond,
The ripples go on and on and on.
But time won’t wait for me.”
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
September 24
What do you do when things just won’t go as planned? The last time I wrote, it was my intention to post and then go to the laundry mat. As it turned out I was fortunate to get it posted. You see, I write this at the campsite. Then when I get access to internet, I just copy and post. And I thought I had it all figured out the other day. I decided to go to the McD’s in Berryville since I’m halfway between B’ville and Eureka. Also there is WallyWorld and I thought a laundry there.
Well, B’ville’s McD’s does not have Internet (but they do have Red Box, if I decide to rent a movie), and the laundry was there but not self-serve but full service and more than I wanted to pay for my towels, t-shirts and bvd’s. So, I went to WallyWorld, picked up a few things, then headed to Eureka Springs. The laundry is self-serve, next to the grocery store and McD’s has Internet but not Red Box. So, I got everything done, just not in the way I had planned. Any other time, it would have frustrated me, but at least I’m relaxed enough to not get flustered over something so small.
While at the laundry in Eureka, I met an interesting little ole’ lady. There’s lots of interesting folks at laundry mats I found out. She was eating and feeding her dog outside with the same fork and same food she was eating. Trying not say, “yuck”, I said, “Boy he sure is spoiled.” She said, “He’s 15 years old, and deserves to be spoiled.” I said, “Hm, over a 100 huh?” “105! She corrected me.”
When she came in, she moved her laundry to the dryers and told me she was getting these blankets washed to go camping and attend the National Fiddler’s Contest at Mountain View this weekend. The other fellow interrupted and asked for directions as he said he’d like to play in the competition, but had thought it was at Little Rock. She gave him directions and said it would be a two day competition. He was deflated, he had to work on Sunday, so he guessed he wouldn’t be going then.
She turned back to me and told me she’s got a bed for the back of her van and the lady where she’s camping “Doesn’t mind dogs.” In other words, wherever she went the dogs must be accepted there as well. She put her blankets in the dryer and told me, “I’ll be back. I’m taking the dog to the Basin Spring so he can get a good drink.”
I learned quite a bit without saying much of anything. I was in the presence of a fiddle player and a bluegrass fan but they didn’t talk music at all. He could only fiddle for one day, so he was devoted to something else. She was a music fan but mostly devoted to her dogs, she wouldn’t go if there wasn’t a place for her dogs. The music came second.
I haven’t found any music yet. I must ask myself, “To what are you devoted?” Two praying mantis insects showed up at my trailer. Seems to me that my Creator was hinting to me, to stay with prayer, and let the music take care of it self. Centering Prayer, like I learned from the Benedictines is a daily endeavor.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Well, B’ville’s McD’s does not have Internet (but they do have Red Box, if I decide to rent a movie), and the laundry was there but not self-serve but full service and more than I wanted to pay for my towels, t-shirts and bvd’s. So, I went to WallyWorld, picked up a few things, then headed to Eureka Springs. The laundry is self-serve, next to the grocery store and McD’s has Internet but not Red Box. So, I got everything done, just not in the way I had planned. Any other time, it would have frustrated me, but at least I’m relaxed enough to not get flustered over something so small.
While at the laundry in Eureka, I met an interesting little ole’ lady. There’s lots of interesting folks at laundry mats I found out. She was eating and feeding her dog outside with the same fork and same food she was eating. Trying not say, “yuck”, I said, “Boy he sure is spoiled.” She said, “He’s 15 years old, and deserves to be spoiled.” I said, “Hm, over a 100 huh?” “105! She corrected me.”
When she came in, she moved her laundry to the dryers and told me she was getting these blankets washed to go camping and attend the National Fiddler’s Contest at Mountain View this weekend. The other fellow interrupted and asked for directions as he said he’d like to play in the competition, but had thought it was at Little Rock. She gave him directions and said it would be a two day competition. He was deflated, he had to work on Sunday, so he guessed he wouldn’t be going then.
She turned back to me and told me she’s got a bed for the back of her van and the lady where she’s camping “Doesn’t mind dogs.” In other words, wherever she went the dogs must be accepted there as well. She put her blankets in the dryer and told me, “I’ll be back. I’m taking the dog to the Basin Spring so he can get a good drink.”
I learned quite a bit without saying much of anything. I was in the presence of a fiddle player and a bluegrass fan but they didn’t talk music at all. He could only fiddle for one day, so he was devoted to something else. She was a music fan but mostly devoted to her dogs, she wouldn’t go if there wasn’t a place for her dogs. The music came second.
I haven’t found any music yet. I must ask myself, “To what are you devoted?” Two praying mantis insects showed up at my trailer. Seems to me that my Creator was hinting to me, to stay with prayer, and let the music take care of it self. Centering Prayer, like I learned from the Benedictines is a daily endeavor.
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
Monday, September 22, 2008
September 22
Just before my sabbatical began Regional Pastor Tom recommended that I read The Shack by William P. Young. I picked it up at the Enid Christian bookstore. Last week I began reading it. I rarely recommend a book before reading it all the way through, but I am a slow reader, and even if you only read halfway through, it is worth the read. Walk no run to the bookstore and pick up this book today. I’m already looking at things through the lens this book has created for my thinking. Everything important in life boils down to relationships, love, and how less self-serving we can be.
Sunday I visited First Christian Church, Bristow where I served from 1985 to 1990. It is a small church and we arrived a few minutes late. Well, I should have guessed it, but what a loving and expressive greeting we received. I apologize that we disrupted and delayed the start of the worship service. I also must add that amazingly, right in line with my journey of music and song, special guests from FCC, Sand Springs presented the message in music, through gospel hymns and special music.
They were accompanied by no less than their own pianist from FCC, Sand Springs, even though she was actually playing back at the service in their home church. In this age of technology, she had played all the accompaniment on the keyboard and it was digitally recorded on the instrument. All they did was push play and the instrument played itself. What a marvelous age of technology. This kind of technology is the only way that I can reasonably pursue my dream of song writing.
I truly enjoyed visiting with the pastor at Bristow. He is “retired” from ministry, but felt called to serve this congregation. Bill’s background is Southern Baptist by tradition but filled by love in contrast to tradition. Bill had served as a Professor at Southwest Baptist Seminary in Fort Worth, when the denomination and its schools were politically taken by the strong fundamentalist conservatives. When the President of the Seminary was summarily fired for having the “wrong” theological perspective (you know, things like critical thinking) Bill felt it was time to retire.
Yes, Bill is older in years, but you simply cannot tell it by talking to him. He is an avid Harley Biker and this includes a life-long involvement in Biker Ministry. He is as comfortable in black biker leathers as he is in his Sunday suit and pulpit attire of a striking white robe (which reminded me of the attire of the Benedictines I visited a few weeks ago). All of which is to say that, I felt that in visiting with Bill I was indeed visiting with a Holy Person! Bill is not simply comfortable with whatever attire he wears, he is comfortable in his own skin. And that kind of comfort enables him to transmit a loving spirit!
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
PS. I’m off to find a laundry next. By the way, if you see Mr. Crabbs, please tell him that the sanctuary in Bristow is carpeted with blue carpet.
Sunday I visited First Christian Church, Bristow where I served from 1985 to 1990. It is a small church and we arrived a few minutes late. Well, I should have guessed it, but what a loving and expressive greeting we received. I apologize that we disrupted and delayed the start of the worship service. I also must add that amazingly, right in line with my journey of music and song, special guests from FCC, Sand Springs presented the message in music, through gospel hymns and special music.
They were accompanied by no less than their own pianist from FCC, Sand Springs, even though she was actually playing back at the service in their home church. In this age of technology, she had played all the accompaniment on the keyboard and it was digitally recorded on the instrument. All they did was push play and the instrument played itself. What a marvelous age of technology. This kind of technology is the only way that I can reasonably pursue my dream of song writing.
I truly enjoyed visiting with the pastor at Bristow. He is “retired” from ministry, but felt called to serve this congregation. Bill’s background is Southern Baptist by tradition but filled by love in contrast to tradition. Bill had served as a Professor at Southwest Baptist Seminary in Fort Worth, when the denomination and its schools were politically taken by the strong fundamentalist conservatives. When the President of the Seminary was summarily fired for having the “wrong” theological perspective (you know, things like critical thinking) Bill felt it was time to retire.
Yes, Bill is older in years, but you simply cannot tell it by talking to him. He is an avid Harley Biker and this includes a life-long involvement in Biker Ministry. He is as comfortable in black biker leathers as he is in his Sunday suit and pulpit attire of a striking white robe (which reminded me of the attire of the Benedictines I visited a few weeks ago). All of which is to say that, I felt that in visiting with Bill I was indeed visiting with a Holy Person! Bill is not simply comfortable with whatever attire he wears, he is comfortable in his own skin. And that kind of comfort enables him to transmit a loving spirit!
Grace and peace with a song in my heart,
SongWriter
PS. I’m off to find a laundry next. By the way, if you see Mr. Crabbs, please tell him that the sanctuary in Bristow is carpeted with blue carpet.
Friday, September 19, 2008
September 19
Have you seen the movie, August Rush? It’s been out on video for some time now. August was right, “the music is all around me.” I hear the music, especially at night. A symphony of rhythm and tones can be heard. Oh, and talk about surround sound, wow! Then there is the highway just over the hill, US Hwy 62. Traffic is flowing all the time, and if you listen there is a rhythm to it as well.
There’s a bunch of motorcycles in town, none at my campground. But you can hear them roar down the highway. It’s the sixth annual homecoming for Kawaski enthusiasts. I've noticed that most of the Kawaski riders wear helmets. Good! I’m content with my little Nissan Versa. I even call it a Vespa every now and again. You must know a little about motor scooters to know what a Vespa is. I’ve digressed as usual, but there is a rhythm and tone to motorcycles as well.
The key, now that’s a little different. My fingers are slow to catch back up to playing the keyboard. It’s been too many years without playing, and then there are all those sharps and flats. The key for me now, continues to be to listen. Listen for the rhythm. Listen for the tones. Listen for the Creator.
Then there is the harmony. My inner harmony still needs to be fine-tuned. There was the visitor, night before last. Invading my cupboard, he chewed a hole through the wrapper and nibbled on the bread. That meant a trip to town yesterday. I found a plastic storage container with a snap on lid for my bread, cereal, crackers, and chips. I also found the good old package of mouse traps. Did you know it costs $1.25 for four mouse traps at the Dollar Store? Anyhow, I caught him last night and never heard the “Snap”!
The mouse, that and a few calls from my daughter about a sick Alexis, didn’t contribute to inner harmony. She was up a good bit of the night on Wednesday night complaining of pain in her hand. She tried her best to doctor it herself. So, Christina took Alexis to the doctor. She had blistered her hand on the “monkey bars” last week, now the wound was infected. She didn’t complain much last weekend, but now it’s infected. Bandaids just won’t stick to the palm of the hand. Better ointment and bandages from the doctor. Hope it wasn’t the infection, but she was having tummy troubles too. Phenegran and a little pain medicine for the hand.
Be still, Be still, Be still. The music is all around me. Be still and listen. The song will come.
Grace and peace, SongWriter
There’s a bunch of motorcycles in town, none at my campground. But you can hear them roar down the highway. It’s the sixth annual homecoming for Kawaski enthusiasts. I've noticed that most of the Kawaski riders wear helmets. Good! I’m content with my little Nissan Versa. I even call it a Vespa every now and again. You must know a little about motor scooters to know what a Vespa is. I’ve digressed as usual, but there is a rhythm and tone to motorcycles as well.
The key, now that’s a little different. My fingers are slow to catch back up to playing the keyboard. It’s been too many years without playing, and then there are all those sharps and flats. The key for me now, continues to be to listen. Listen for the rhythm. Listen for the tones. Listen for the Creator.
Then there is the harmony. My inner harmony still needs to be fine-tuned. There was the visitor, night before last. Invading my cupboard, he chewed a hole through the wrapper and nibbled on the bread. That meant a trip to town yesterday. I found a plastic storage container with a snap on lid for my bread, cereal, crackers, and chips. I also found the good old package of mouse traps. Did you know it costs $1.25 for four mouse traps at the Dollar Store? Anyhow, I caught him last night and never heard the “Snap”!
The mouse, that and a few calls from my daughter about a sick Alexis, didn’t contribute to inner harmony. She was up a good bit of the night on Wednesday night complaining of pain in her hand. She tried her best to doctor it herself. So, Christina took Alexis to the doctor. She had blistered her hand on the “monkey bars” last week, now the wound was infected. She didn’t complain much last weekend, but now it’s infected. Bandaids just won’t stick to the palm of the hand. Better ointment and bandages from the doctor. Hope it wasn’t the infection, but she was having tummy troubles too. Phenegran and a little pain medicine for the hand.
Be still, Be still, Be still. The music is all around me. Be still and listen. The song will come.
Grace and peace, SongWriter
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
September 16
Before I can even think about writing music, I must pick up again the centering and serenity I found at Pecos. Strange how I said to myself as I drove home just a week ago, maybe I don’t really need this sabbatical. I’ve found the inner peace through the guidance of the spiritual direction. It didn’t take long to resume a frantic schedule. Just a few days and once again I must hear that voice, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Yes, Lord, and so I return to solitude. Now settled into a wonderful trailer just East of Eureka Springs Arkansas at the Shepherd’s Inn Retreat Center.
Perhaps the road I travelled today is a good illustration of the path to serenity. I arrived in Tontitown and Springdale just in time for five o’clock rush hour. I didn’t know there could be so much traffic in Northwest Arkansas. Waiting in line through three four cycles at two stop lights. Then turn North on Interstate 540, wow, 70 mph bumper to bumper. And so it went, exit onto US 62 East toward Eureka Springs. The traffic followed. Now it’s bumper to bumper and the road narrows just past Pea Ridge (another Civil War site), the curves begin, still traffic, brake lights, 40… 30… 20… mph, there I see it, about a quarter mile ahead leading the traffic, a road tractor/grader. Five minutes later he pulled to the side and let us autos pass on by.
Finally, a junction, the commuters exit and curve by curve I become all alone. Every few minutes there’s oncoming traffic, but going my way, no one behind and no one ahead, just curve after curve, some slow you to 15 mph, at best you average 30 to 35. I can almost feel myself slowing down. I’m still a little frantic, I want to get to the camper, light the pilot for hot water, get the electricity on, and unload the car.
A quick call to Ken and Sue to tell them thanks, and that everything is up and running at the trailer. Now a sandwich, and a call to Linda to tell her I’m here safe.
Now it’s a little past 11:00 p.m. The computer just locked up, there I’ve restarted. Hum, maybe this blog session is over, it’s time to be still, and get some rest. I’ll post this on 09/17 when I can get some internet space. Did I tell you how awesome the sounds of the Ozarks are in the moonlight? Oh, and the path to serenity is narrow and tricky with lots of unexpected curves and a few slow moving vehicles. Slow down, you move to fast!
Grace and peace, SongWriter
Perhaps the road I travelled today is a good illustration of the path to serenity. I arrived in Tontitown and Springdale just in time for five o’clock rush hour. I didn’t know there could be so much traffic in Northwest Arkansas. Waiting in line through three four cycles at two stop lights. Then turn North on Interstate 540, wow, 70 mph bumper to bumper. And so it went, exit onto US 62 East toward Eureka Springs. The traffic followed. Now it’s bumper to bumper and the road narrows just past Pea Ridge (another Civil War site), the curves begin, still traffic, brake lights, 40… 30… 20… mph, there I see it, about a quarter mile ahead leading the traffic, a road tractor/grader. Five minutes later he pulled to the side and let us autos pass on by.
Finally, a junction, the commuters exit and curve by curve I become all alone. Every few minutes there’s oncoming traffic, but going my way, no one behind and no one ahead, just curve after curve, some slow you to 15 mph, at best you average 30 to 35. I can almost feel myself slowing down. I’m still a little frantic, I want to get to the camper, light the pilot for hot water, get the electricity on, and unload the car.
A quick call to Ken and Sue to tell them thanks, and that everything is up and running at the trailer. Now a sandwich, and a call to Linda to tell her I’m here safe.
Now it’s a little past 11:00 p.m. The computer just locked up, there I’ve restarted. Hum, maybe this blog session is over, it’s time to be still, and get some rest. I’ll post this on 09/17 when I can get some internet space. Did I tell you how awesome the sounds of the Ozarks are in the moonlight? Oh, and the path to serenity is narrow and tricky with lots of unexpected curves and a few slow moving vehicles. Slow down, you move to fast!
Grace and peace, SongWriter
Sunday, September 14, 2008
I Missed Communion Today
The closest I came to communion today was with fellow travelers around the self-serve waffle iron at LQ this morning. It was fun making waffles with strangers, but I couldn't exactly claim that we formed enough community in the nine minutes it took to cook three waffles. It was a rare treat to spend the weekend in OKC with family, prematurely celebrating my birthday, especially today with my grandkids.
To answer last week's question about communion in the United Church of Christ, I chose to attend Mayflower Congregational Church (UCC) in North OKC. The sermon was excellent and closed with a Fred Craddock story, after all Dr. Robin Meyers told me after church he was a graduate of Phillips Theological Seminary when it was still located in Enid. His topic today followed the lectionary reading from Romans 14 and he talked about all those things we tend to fight over in churches. He challenged the congregation to consider if the church existed for "gratification or transformation?" He asked us to consider that in the end, Jesus would ask us, "Did you love? Did you forgive? Did you encourage?" Too bad he's in OKC, Robin would make a great addition to our weekly lectionary study.
But still, I missed communion. You can find a great sermon most anywhere. You can occasionally find communion around the table with your coffee group. But you can only find Communion when welcomed to Christ's table. It is Christ who fed the 5,000 and who feeds us with the kind of nourishment it takes to make it through each day.
Grace and Peace,
SongWriter
To answer last week's question about communion in the United Church of Christ, I chose to attend Mayflower Congregational Church (UCC) in North OKC. The sermon was excellent and closed with a Fred Craddock story, after all Dr. Robin Meyers told me after church he was a graduate of Phillips Theological Seminary when it was still located in Enid. His topic today followed the lectionary reading from Romans 14 and he talked about all those things we tend to fight over in churches. He challenged the congregation to consider if the church existed for "gratification or transformation?" He asked us to consider that in the end, Jesus would ask us, "Did you love? Did you forgive? Did you encourage?" Too bad he's in OKC, Robin would make a great addition to our weekly lectionary study.
But still, I missed communion. You can find a great sermon most anywhere. You can occasionally find communion around the table with your coffee group. But you can only find Communion when welcomed to Christ's table. It is Christ who fed the 5,000 and who feeds us with the kind of nourishment it takes to make it through each day.
Grace and Peace,
SongWriter
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Blogging at McDonald's
I'm at McDonalds with Linda and my granddaughters. I've come to test my internet capabilities remote, since it appears that while in Eureka Springs, I will only have internet access at McDonald's.
What an age we live in! I can sit at MickeyD's while the grandkids play and be connected to the world. My prayers are with all of the victims of Ike during its massive path of destruction. I did hear from my good friend, Alan, who lives in the Houston area after the storm had passed. He said that all cell phones were out, the electricity was out (he has a generator), but for some reason his land-line phone was working. Lot's of tree limbs down.
Also, here are the updates on my good friend Laura in hospital in Little Rock:
Friday, Sept. 12, 2008
4:10 p.m.
Day 31
Laura is sitting up more in her wheel chair and is working hard in physical therapy. She's still being fed calories through the feeding tube but is able to have clear liquids and soft things like jello. She's in good spirits and is eager to work hard so that she can improve. Her pneumonia seems to be breaking up nicely and they continue to be agressive on her physical therapy. Laura had a "field trip" last night as we wheeled her down to the hospital lobby and walked with her walker. Laura has made many new friends (doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.) and seems to be well-known throughout the hospital. She has been extremely cooperative and polite all the way through this experience.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
3:00 p.m.
Today is day 30. Though Laura will be 22 years of age in a little less than four months, her condition allows her to be treated at Arkansas Children's Hospital. We're extremely blessed as we know there is no better place for Laura to be. She has excellent care.
Last night was a wonderful "graduation" for Laura as she was moved to the rehab floor. She has come such a long way. They had to readjust her feeding tube which was traumatic for her, but she did very well through the procedure. She was given clearance to begin drinking again today and she has had some Sprite. Laura continues to get nourishment from the feeding tube. They have kept Laura busy with Respiratory and Physical Therapy, so she's anything but bored.
Trela's mother, Helen, as well as Trela's sister and brother-in-law, Mike and Karla, are here with us. Other family members are waiting in line to come and help as needed, so we continue to have such great support from our family and friends.
Laura would want us to remember in our prayers the tragic events that happened on this day 7 years ago. Please pray for the families who have lost loved ones and that there will come an end to terrorism and war in this world. Also, we invite you to pray for those who have already been and will be affected by Hurricane Ike.
That's all from Mickey D's.
Grace and Peace,
SongWriter
What an age we live in! I can sit at MickeyD's while the grandkids play and be connected to the world. My prayers are with all of the victims of Ike during its massive path of destruction. I did hear from my good friend, Alan, who lives in the Houston area after the storm had passed. He said that all cell phones were out, the electricity was out (he has a generator), but for some reason his land-line phone was working. Lot's of tree limbs down.
Also, here are the updates on my good friend Laura in hospital in Little Rock:
Friday, Sept. 12, 2008
4:10 p.m.
Day 31
Laura is sitting up more in her wheel chair and is working hard in physical therapy. She's still being fed calories through the feeding tube but is able to have clear liquids and soft things like jello. She's in good spirits and is eager to work hard so that she can improve. Her pneumonia seems to be breaking up nicely and they continue to be agressive on her physical therapy. Laura had a "field trip" last night as we wheeled her down to the hospital lobby and walked with her walker. Laura has made many new friends (doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.) and seems to be well-known throughout the hospital. She has been extremely cooperative and polite all the way through this experience.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
3:00 p.m.
Today is day 30. Though Laura will be 22 years of age in a little less than four months, her condition allows her to be treated at Arkansas Children's Hospital. We're extremely blessed as we know there is no better place for Laura to be. She has excellent care.
Last night was a wonderful "graduation" for Laura as she was moved to the rehab floor. She has come such a long way. They had to readjust her feeding tube which was traumatic for her, but she did very well through the procedure. She was given clearance to begin drinking again today and she has had some Sprite. Laura continues to get nourishment from the feeding tube. They have kept Laura busy with Respiratory and Physical Therapy, so she's anything but bored.
Trela's mother, Helen, as well as Trela's sister and brother-in-law, Mike and Karla, are here with us. Other family members are waiting in line to come and help as needed, so we continue to have such great support from our family and friends.
Laura would want us to remember in our prayers the tragic events that happened on this day 7 years ago. Please pray for the families who have lost loved ones and that there will come an end to terrorism and war in this world. Also, we invite you to pray for those who have already been and will be affected by Hurricane Ike.
That's all from Mickey D's.
Grace and Peace,
SongWriter
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Back from Pecos
I did not have any internet connection at Pecos. The last two nights in "Super 8" Motels did not give me a way to update my security software. So, while I can I have posted the following in chronological order - my thoughts over the past eight days. I have been so blest by my time at Pecos. The journey to Eureka Springs will begin after I fix a few things around the house and celebrate my birthday with family in Oklahoma City.
God is Good!
Grace and Peace,
God is Good!
Grace and Peace,
September 2
Day Two – September 2
I arrived at the Pecos Benedictine Community a little after 4:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. OK time) today September 2. They say it is all about the journey, well, today’s drive was a wonderful day. Oh, there’s not much to be said for I-40 West of Amarillo, except that when you cross into New Mexico the legal speed limit becomes 75 mph. I was determined to exit the interstate as quickly as possible. Directions at the visitor center confirmed for me to exit at Tucumcari and take State Hwy 104. She said it is the most scenic, and by the way it is a 55 mph two lane. There were 102 beautiful miles with absolutely no cellular signals.
Scenic it was, and yes it was a speed limit of 55 mph. Which at first seemed a little tedious after driving 70 mph for hours in Texas and 75 mph for half an hour in New Mexico. Then it occurred to me, “This is part of the process. Slow down, Patrick. Take in the scenery.” I dropped the agenda. So what if I arrive at 5:00 p.m. instead of 4:00 p.m. I felt the weight just ease off my shoulders as I slowed down and rolled through this 100 miles of scenic vistas! I even giggled to myself about the cell signal.
I called Linda when I reached I-25 at Las Vegas. Cell was restored along the interstate. But it was only 37 miles from Las Vegas (yes New Mexico) to the Pecos exit. I called Christina to wish her well. (Her ambulance partner was a young man who grew up in the same house in El Reno that Christina grew up in. We bought the house from his parents. Talk about small world, they left the markings of his height behind a doorway. We marked Christina’s height there as well.)
I called Linda one last time as I dropped into the valley of the village of Pecos. Guess what, the call dropped. No cell signal. I had to turn around and go back up the incline to finish the conversation. It was in the middle of Pecos National Park. I thought a ranger was pulling up behind me. Turned out it wasn’t a ranger just a worker in a truck with yellow lights on top who was stopping at the same place for the same reason, to use his cell. There is absolutely no cell at the monastery. No internet either. But I did observe a satellite receiver on the roof of the convent. Yes, there are both Monks and Sisters here.
I attended vespers. Had supper in silence. It seems I entered silence accidentally, before I intended to. Everyone is silent for Breakfast and Supper. Does that mean I can talk at lunch tomorrow? I will meet my Spiritual Director tomorrow. This person will help guide me in the process of silence and centering prayer.
The sunset was beautiful behind the mountain. The Pecos River runs through the West side of the compound of buildings. I went for a walk and skipped the Eucharist, after all, since I’m not Catholic, that is the one barrier here, but still I found a bridge across the Pecos River. Thank you Lord for safe travel!
I arrived at the Pecos Benedictine Community a little after 4:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. OK time) today September 2. They say it is all about the journey, well, today’s drive was a wonderful day. Oh, there’s not much to be said for I-40 West of Amarillo, except that when you cross into New Mexico the legal speed limit becomes 75 mph. I was determined to exit the interstate as quickly as possible. Directions at the visitor center confirmed for me to exit at Tucumcari and take State Hwy 104. She said it is the most scenic, and by the way it is a 55 mph two lane. There were 102 beautiful miles with absolutely no cellular signals.
Scenic it was, and yes it was a speed limit of 55 mph. Which at first seemed a little tedious after driving 70 mph for hours in Texas and 75 mph for half an hour in New Mexico. Then it occurred to me, “This is part of the process. Slow down, Patrick. Take in the scenery.” I dropped the agenda. So what if I arrive at 5:00 p.m. instead of 4:00 p.m. I felt the weight just ease off my shoulders as I slowed down and rolled through this 100 miles of scenic vistas! I even giggled to myself about the cell signal.
I called Linda when I reached I-25 at Las Vegas. Cell was restored along the interstate. But it was only 37 miles from Las Vegas (yes New Mexico) to the Pecos exit. I called Christina to wish her well. (Her ambulance partner was a young man who grew up in the same house in El Reno that Christina grew up in. We bought the house from his parents. Talk about small world, they left the markings of his height behind a doorway. We marked Christina’s height there as well.)
I called Linda one last time as I dropped into the valley of the village of Pecos. Guess what, the call dropped. No cell signal. I had to turn around and go back up the incline to finish the conversation. It was in the middle of Pecos National Park. I thought a ranger was pulling up behind me. Turned out it wasn’t a ranger just a worker in a truck with yellow lights on top who was stopping at the same place for the same reason, to use his cell. There is absolutely no cell at the monastery. No internet either. But I did observe a satellite receiver on the roof of the convent. Yes, there are both Monks and Sisters here.
I attended vespers. Had supper in silence. It seems I entered silence accidentally, before I intended to. Everyone is silent for Breakfast and Supper. Does that mean I can talk at lunch tomorrow? I will meet my Spiritual Director tomorrow. This person will help guide me in the process of silence and centering prayer.
The sunset was beautiful behind the mountain. The Pecos River runs through the West side of the compound of buildings. I went for a walk and skipped the Eucharist, after all, since I’m not Catholic, that is the one barrier here, but still I found a bridge across the Pecos River. Thank you Lord for safe travel!
September 3
Third Day – September 3
Today was a talking day at all meals. OK, I confess, I talked at meal time, all of them. Today was a talking day for the monks. I also talked at the gift store. I shared with the storekeeper about Father Liam Lawton and his praise music from Ireland. So I have not maintained 100 % silence. I met a retired priest from Lubbock, TX at breakfast. One of the Monks engaged me in conversation at lunch. He was from Poland and has been here in the USA for two years. He knew all about Oklahoma, though. He was stranded in OKC for a day since when the bus arrived late for 8:00 a.m., it was already full. He had to wait for the next bus. He explored downtown OKC. At supper I was ready to talk. The Monk seated next to me was preparing for a sabbatical himself. He said, “I’m not taking one of those $4,000 trips to Europe.”
Cynthia, an Oblate who has just been placed in charge of the registration office said, “You could go as a Spiritual Director for free.” And I chimed in, “but that would not be a sabbatical, would it?”
Though he seemed surprised he smiled and nodded agreement. I wonder, where do you go for sabbatical when you live at a retreat center?
I finally met my Spiritual Director after supper. His name is Sam. We set a time to meet at 11:00 tomorrow (Thursday).
I set my own theme for today based on Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God”. My goal was to simply Be Still. It’s hard to be still. My mind keeps rushing on. I even thought about going up the hill to call Linda about something at the house. It seemed important at the moment, and then I told my mind to “be still.” I rested this afternoon, dozed off telling myself to be still. The thought just occurred to me, that before I can Be Still, I need to simply Be. Imperfect though I am at silence today, I can feel my self relaxing some. If I’ll just stop trying so hard to relax, and simply be.
Thanks Lord, for the walk this evening. For hearing the Sister sing praises to You from across the river. And for another beautiful sunset.
Today was a talking day at all meals. OK, I confess, I talked at meal time, all of them. Today was a talking day for the monks. I also talked at the gift store. I shared with the storekeeper about Father Liam Lawton and his praise music from Ireland. So I have not maintained 100 % silence. I met a retired priest from Lubbock, TX at breakfast. One of the Monks engaged me in conversation at lunch. He was from Poland and has been here in the USA for two years. He knew all about Oklahoma, though. He was stranded in OKC for a day since when the bus arrived late for 8:00 a.m., it was already full. He had to wait for the next bus. He explored downtown OKC. At supper I was ready to talk. The Monk seated next to me was preparing for a sabbatical himself. He said, “I’m not taking one of those $4,000 trips to Europe.”
Cynthia, an Oblate who has just been placed in charge of the registration office said, “You could go as a Spiritual Director for free.” And I chimed in, “but that would not be a sabbatical, would it?”
Though he seemed surprised he smiled and nodded agreement. I wonder, where do you go for sabbatical when you live at a retreat center?
I finally met my Spiritual Director after supper. His name is Sam. We set a time to meet at 11:00 tomorrow (Thursday).
I set my own theme for today based on Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God”. My goal was to simply Be Still. It’s hard to be still. My mind keeps rushing on. I even thought about going up the hill to call Linda about something at the house. It seemed important at the moment, and then I told my mind to “be still.” I rested this afternoon, dozed off telling myself to be still. The thought just occurred to me, that before I can Be Still, I need to simply Be. Imperfect though I am at silence today, I can feel my self relaxing some. If I’ll just stop trying so hard to relax, and simply be.
Thanks Lord, for the walk this evening. For hearing the Sister sing praises to You from across the river. And for another beautiful sunset.
September 4
Day Four – September 4
It was easier to be silent today for most of the day. The monks only talked at lunchtime, breakfast and dinner were silent. Andrew joked with me at lunch, “are you silent today?” I told him I would be silent after lunch until lunch tomorrow and see how that goes. “Good, you have a plan.” He smiled and said.
I met with my spiritual director, Sam for the first time just before noon day prayers and lunch. He encouraged me to simply relax and rest. He said the time after lunch was called “napsio divina”. In other words, “time to take a nap.” Sam is eighty five years old, and in December will have been a Benedictine Monk for sixty years. He shared some of his life story with me. He was in the Navy during WW II. During training he was hurrying to catch a bus in order to avoid being late from leave, and thus “put on report,” when he fell and was run over by the back wheels of the bus. His pelvic and hip bones were crushed. He said he should have died, but his mom and dad were praying for him every day by going to daily mass and pray for his safe keeping during the war. He survived. He noted how ironic it was to be saved from battle by being run over by a bus, but many of the young men with whom he trained still perished in the war. A few years later he received word of the death of his best friend back home. It affected him enormously and turned his life toward a church vocation.
The hour went by quickly as he shared his story and encouraged me not only to rest now, but to create for myself a disciplined schedule for prayer. He said to consider time spent with a best friend. He also told me how important the Eucharist (communion) is to him. Unfortunately, that is the one barrier for me. We are close regarding communion, but still very different. They take communion every day here. I’ve about decided to drive into Santa Fe, nearest Disciples church for Sunday service and communion. There is also a United Church of Christ in Santa Fe, but I cannot recall if the UCC takes communion every Sunday.
After my “napsio divina”, I walked for two hours. I even found a walking stick. It’s a keeper. I can’t wait to sand it down and stain it. I followed a path down by the river, and eventually came to a lake. I walked around the lake, enjoyed watching some folks fishing. They were having a good time. I kept my distance so I wouldn’t be tempted to talk. I took their picture from across the lake. They are so small as to be unidentifiable. This evening I enjoyed a wonderful sunset beside the still waters of a pond between the buildings and the river. I read all of Psalm 46, Psalm 23, and a friend’s special paraphrase of Psalm 23. I discovered a river was referenced in Psalm 46 and I thank God for the time beside the still waters.
It was easier to be silent today for most of the day. The monks only talked at lunchtime, breakfast and dinner were silent. Andrew joked with me at lunch, “are you silent today?” I told him I would be silent after lunch until lunch tomorrow and see how that goes. “Good, you have a plan.” He smiled and said.
I met with my spiritual director, Sam for the first time just before noon day prayers and lunch. He encouraged me to simply relax and rest. He said the time after lunch was called “napsio divina”. In other words, “time to take a nap.” Sam is eighty five years old, and in December will have been a Benedictine Monk for sixty years. He shared some of his life story with me. He was in the Navy during WW II. During training he was hurrying to catch a bus in order to avoid being late from leave, and thus “put on report,” when he fell and was run over by the back wheels of the bus. His pelvic and hip bones were crushed. He said he should have died, but his mom and dad were praying for him every day by going to daily mass and pray for his safe keeping during the war. He survived. He noted how ironic it was to be saved from battle by being run over by a bus, but many of the young men with whom he trained still perished in the war. A few years later he received word of the death of his best friend back home. It affected him enormously and turned his life toward a church vocation.
The hour went by quickly as he shared his story and encouraged me not only to rest now, but to create for myself a disciplined schedule for prayer. He said to consider time spent with a best friend. He also told me how important the Eucharist (communion) is to him. Unfortunately, that is the one barrier for me. We are close regarding communion, but still very different. They take communion every day here. I’ve about decided to drive into Santa Fe, nearest Disciples church for Sunday service and communion. There is also a United Church of Christ in Santa Fe, but I cannot recall if the UCC takes communion every Sunday.
After my “napsio divina”, I walked for two hours. I even found a walking stick. It’s a keeper. I can’t wait to sand it down and stain it. I followed a path down by the river, and eventually came to a lake. I walked around the lake, enjoyed watching some folks fishing. They were having a good time. I kept my distance so I wouldn’t be tempted to talk. I took their picture from across the lake. They are so small as to be unidentifiable. This evening I enjoyed a wonderful sunset beside the still waters of a pond between the buildings and the river. I read all of Psalm 46, Psalm 23, and a friend’s special paraphrase of Psalm 23. I discovered a river was referenced in Psalm 46 and I thank God for the time beside the still waters.
September 5
Day Five – Friday September 5
Well, I cannot find words to describe, and it’s just too personal to even write about. I’ll just say I had a good heart to heart talk with God last night. That’s enough for now.
I came out of silence at noon today. If any of you were wagering on my ability to stay silent for this entire, week, which would have been foolish in the first place, anyhow those who bet I couldn’t stay completely silent for the week can now place your winnings in the offering plate. Yes, every last nickel of them. At best I maintained two periods of twenty hours each plus one stretch of fifteen hours.
Anyhow, about lunch today: Lunch is a time for talking. Usually not breakfast or supper, but lunch is OK. Well I sat at a table with two women. One was a Benedictine Sister from the Anglican Church, protestant, but dressed in classical nun attire. I introduced myself as a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The third person at the table said, “Which congregation?” I told her CCC at Enid. And she introduced herself as “Rae” (not sure of spelling) from Western Oaks CC in OKC. She is here because her minister has asked the Elders to consider taking a retreat here. She is here for a few days to see for herself, the Benedictine way. She came through for a weekend a month ago on her way to her cabin in Colorado and is on her way home on Sunday.
This afternoon, I walked through the ruins of ancient pueblos, and the ruins of two Catholic Mission churches at Pecos. The pueblos date back 12,000 years and the Catholic Missions were part of the Spanish Colonial Period. Tonight was a magical night as I stayed out, first by the river, then by the pond closer to the compound, and watched the stars come out. The view is magnificent.
Well, I cannot find words to describe, and it’s just too personal to even write about. I’ll just say I had a good heart to heart talk with God last night. That’s enough for now.
I came out of silence at noon today. If any of you were wagering on my ability to stay silent for this entire, week, which would have been foolish in the first place, anyhow those who bet I couldn’t stay completely silent for the week can now place your winnings in the offering plate. Yes, every last nickel of them. At best I maintained two periods of twenty hours each plus one stretch of fifteen hours.
Anyhow, about lunch today: Lunch is a time for talking. Usually not breakfast or supper, but lunch is OK. Well I sat at a table with two women. One was a Benedictine Sister from the Anglican Church, protestant, but dressed in classical nun attire. I introduced myself as a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The third person at the table said, “Which congregation?” I told her CCC at Enid. And she introduced herself as “Rae” (not sure of spelling) from Western Oaks CC in OKC. She is here because her minister has asked the Elders to consider taking a retreat here. She is here for a few days to see for herself, the Benedictine way. She came through for a weekend a month ago on her way to her cabin in Colorado and is on her way home on Sunday.
This afternoon, I walked through the ruins of ancient pueblos, and the ruins of two Catholic Mission churches at Pecos. The pueblos date back 12,000 years and the Catholic Missions were part of the Spanish Colonial Period. Tonight was a magical night as I stayed out, first by the river, then by the pond closer to the compound, and watched the stars come out. The view is magnificent.
September 7
Days Six and Seven – September 6-7
I was too tired to write last night, today is about the same. I’ve explored two mountains that are a part of the Benedictine Community. Yesterday, I went up the mountain that is West, across the Pecos River. I made my way to nearly the top (I could see fully in two directions) where I found what I think might be a rock scraper from the ancient natives. Then coming down I found an opening in the fence and a marked path that led me to a white cross with a sacred heart, and to another cross marking a memorial for all those fallen in war. A helmet there appears to be from WW II. The view of the stars tonight revealed the “milkiness” of the Milky Way. I haven’t seen that since childhood. The altitude and lack of city lights make for an ideal view.
Today, Sunday after attending a Disciple Church in Santa Fe, I climbed the mountain to the East in search of Indian ruins that are at the top, but the mountain and the dark clouds (I was climbing via a ravine) got the best of me. Even at that, it was still a two and a half hour hike.
I am planning to leave something behind tomorrow when I depart, a frantic pace of life. Instead of leaving right after breakfast, I’m staying for a Mass which celebrates the birth of Mary, Mother of Jesus. I am told that at this Mass, Brother Andrew will make his “profession” of complete surrender to the Order of Monastic life. And tonight I was invited to stay through lunch which is promised to be “feast” in its own way.
Slow down, you move too fast!
I was too tired to write last night, today is about the same. I’ve explored two mountains that are a part of the Benedictine Community. Yesterday, I went up the mountain that is West, across the Pecos River. I made my way to nearly the top (I could see fully in two directions) where I found what I think might be a rock scraper from the ancient natives. Then coming down I found an opening in the fence and a marked path that led me to a white cross with a sacred heart, and to another cross marking a memorial for all those fallen in war. A helmet there appears to be from WW II. The view of the stars tonight revealed the “milkiness” of the Milky Way. I haven’t seen that since childhood. The altitude and lack of city lights make for an ideal view.
Today, Sunday after attending a Disciple Church in Santa Fe, I climbed the mountain to the East in search of Indian ruins that are at the top, but the mountain and the dark clouds (I was climbing via a ravine) got the best of me. Even at that, it was still a two and a half hour hike.
I am planning to leave something behind tomorrow when I depart, a frantic pace of life. Instead of leaving right after breakfast, I’m staying for a Mass which celebrates the birth of Mary, Mother of Jesus. I am told that at this Mass, Brother Andrew will make his “profession” of complete surrender to the Order of Monastic life. And tonight I was invited to stay through lunch which is promised to be “feast” in its own way.
Slow down, you move too fast!
September 8
DEPARTING THE BENEDICTINE COMMUNITY
It was a little after two this afternoon when I departed from the Pecos Benedictine Community. It was a most unique of all days. This day is marked as the Feast of the Birth of Mary, Mother of Jesus. Additionally, Andrew became Symeon today as he made his profession to the Monastic Order.
Somewhere in heaven I’m sure, Mrs. Danforth, my Latin teacher was smiling down and saying, “See Patrick, I told you that you would need your Latin one day.” It was “high mass” at its best. Most of the Mass was in Latin, and of course in the tradition of the Benedictine Order all of it was Cantor and Response, and Singing of Canticles from alternating sides of the congregation. I have not talked about this before, but every day begins and ends with prayer services, as well as at noon time and they are all in the form of canticle singing of the Psalms and Scripture Readings. The day also includes two times of Lectio Divina, (the silent prayer they have taught me). I will talk about that in days to come.
Following Mass came a huge feast! Since Brother Symeon is a native of Poland, a Polish Feast was prepared. It was indescribably delicious.
I thanked them all for the wonderful hospitality. Hospitality is something I must address soon also. I received a blessing from the Abbot, and a special Benedictine Blessing from Brother Sam, my Spiritual Director.
I will post all of these several thoughts, as soon as I resolve some “security” measures on my computer. Until then, I leave you with the message from this morning’s mass. Brother Steve, Abbot of the Community, concluded his homily (sermon) by quoting the entire song, “Try to Remember the Kind of September”. And his point was so simple, yet so profound, “REMEMBER and FOLLOW!”
It was a little after two this afternoon when I departed from the Pecos Benedictine Community. It was a most unique of all days. This day is marked as the Feast of the Birth of Mary, Mother of Jesus. Additionally, Andrew became Symeon today as he made his profession to the Monastic Order.
Somewhere in heaven I’m sure, Mrs. Danforth, my Latin teacher was smiling down and saying, “See Patrick, I told you that you would need your Latin one day.” It was “high mass” at its best. Most of the Mass was in Latin, and of course in the tradition of the Benedictine Order all of it was Cantor and Response, and Singing of Canticles from alternating sides of the congregation. I have not talked about this before, but every day begins and ends with prayer services, as well as at noon time and they are all in the form of canticle singing of the Psalms and Scripture Readings. The day also includes two times of Lectio Divina, (the silent prayer they have taught me). I will talk about that in days to come.
Following Mass came a huge feast! Since Brother Symeon is a native of Poland, a Polish Feast was prepared. It was indescribably delicious.
I thanked them all for the wonderful hospitality. Hospitality is something I must address soon also. I received a blessing from the Abbot, and a special Benedictine Blessing from Brother Sam, my Spiritual Director.
I will post all of these several thoughts, as soon as I resolve some “security” measures on my computer. Until then, I leave you with the message from this morning’s mass. Brother Steve, Abbot of the Community, concluded his homily (sermon) by quoting the entire song, “Try to Remember the Kind of September”. And his point was so simple, yet so profound, “REMEMBER and FOLLOW!”
Monday, September 1, 2008
Day One
I’ve arrived at my room in Amarillo. Tomorrow I will travel on to the Benedictine Community at Pecos and hope to enter silence tomorrow (Tuesday) night.
Question: Are you allowed to Blog while you are in silence? If you can blog, what about email? Have the contemplatives entered the www? I don’t even know if I will have Internet access there. But while it will be interesting to ask them, I’ve decided that this blog, if it is like journaling, is permissible. Email and Internet Surfing are a violation of “silence” in my thinking. It would be the same as talking and watching TV. With that in mind, tonight I’m watching my last football until I depart the Community next Monday.
Beginning this Sabbatical was more emotional than I had anticipated. Saying goodbye to my Covenant family brought some near tears from me and I think I saw a few tears among Covenant friends. Many told me they will miss me. I know I am blest and thank God for ministry with this special church family. I felt both anxious and numb yesterday afternoon. Anxious like getting ready to go off to camp and numb from the reality that I was given permission to relax for an extended time. Though I appear calm and collected, my red cheeks tend to give away that relaxation is something I am still learning and it will be good for me.
And yes, saying goodbye to Linda for just this week was emotional for both of us. God has blest us so richly over the years and we do so much together. What a blessing the World Convention in Nashville was for us this summer. Maybe I should look at this as a field training exercise for spiritual health.
Before signing off I have three major prayer requests. First, please join me in continued prayer for Laura Cook. http://www.lauracook.info/What_s_New.html Today is day 20 for her at Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, Ark. Laura is in a step-down from ICU unit. She is in strict isolation because her immune system is completely down and still suffers from swelling in her brain and needing oxygen for her lungs. Laura is the 23 year old daughter of Miles and Trela Cook, Miles is minister of Park Hill Christian Church in Little Rock.
Second, Noah Isaac Brown, born last Wednesday night (August 27). Though full-term his ability to breath is still developing. He was life-flighted to Oklahoma Children’s Hospital on Friday. His condition is stable and improving as of late Sunday afternoon.
Third, pray for all those affected by Hurricane Gustav. I served the church in Lafayette, La. From 1980 to 1985 and still have many friends there. The evening news said that Gustav was a category one when it crossed Lafayette. We remember a category one when we lived there. Power was out for the better part of a week and there were lots of areas flooded and extensive tree damage. In her work, my daughter Christina, a paramedic for EMSA in OKC, transported a patient from the evacuee shelter to a hospital today. OKC was preparing for 400 evacuees yesterday. By this morning there were 1,800 there, most from New Orleans. Pray for the residents of the Caribbean, all the residents of the Gulf Coast, the emergency personnel working throughout it all, and for those still in the storms path for possible widespread flooding.
Grace and peace from Amarillo, Texas.
Question: Are you allowed to Blog while you are in silence? If you can blog, what about email? Have the contemplatives entered the www? I don’t even know if I will have Internet access there. But while it will be interesting to ask them, I’ve decided that this blog, if it is like journaling, is permissible. Email and Internet Surfing are a violation of “silence” in my thinking. It would be the same as talking and watching TV. With that in mind, tonight I’m watching my last football until I depart the Community next Monday.
Beginning this Sabbatical was more emotional than I had anticipated. Saying goodbye to my Covenant family brought some near tears from me and I think I saw a few tears among Covenant friends. Many told me they will miss me. I know I am blest and thank God for ministry with this special church family. I felt both anxious and numb yesterday afternoon. Anxious like getting ready to go off to camp and numb from the reality that I was given permission to relax for an extended time. Though I appear calm and collected, my red cheeks tend to give away that relaxation is something I am still learning and it will be good for me.
And yes, saying goodbye to Linda for just this week was emotional for both of us. God has blest us so richly over the years and we do so much together. What a blessing the World Convention in Nashville was for us this summer. Maybe I should look at this as a field training exercise for spiritual health.
Before signing off I have three major prayer requests. First, please join me in continued prayer for Laura Cook. http://www.lauracook.info/What_s_New.html Today is day 20 for her at Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, Ark. Laura is in a step-down from ICU unit. She is in strict isolation because her immune system is completely down and still suffers from swelling in her brain and needing oxygen for her lungs. Laura is the 23 year old daughter of Miles and Trela Cook, Miles is minister of Park Hill Christian Church in Little Rock.
Second, Noah Isaac Brown, born last Wednesday night (August 27). Though full-term his ability to breath is still developing. He was life-flighted to Oklahoma Children’s Hospital on Friday. His condition is stable and improving as of late Sunday afternoon.
Third, pray for all those affected by Hurricane Gustav. I served the church in Lafayette, La. From 1980 to 1985 and still have many friends there. The evening news said that Gustav was a category one when it crossed Lafayette. We remember a category one when we lived there. Power was out for the better part of a week and there were lots of areas flooded and extensive tree damage. In her work, my daughter Christina, a paramedic for EMSA in OKC, transported a patient from the evacuee shelter to a hospital today. OKC was preparing for 400 evacuees yesterday. By this morning there were 1,800 there, most from New Orleans. Pray for the residents of the Caribbean, all the residents of the Gulf Coast, the emergency personnel working throughout it all, and for those still in the storms path for possible widespread flooding.
Grace and peace from Amarillo, Texas.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Sabbatical Countdown Begins
Thursday, August 28
Wow, I can't believe it. One sermon, three visits, one more yard mowing, and the packing concludes. As September 1 approaches I am so thankful for the gift of this Sabbatical. 28 years and this is my first sabbatical. I've had some extended time off before, but hospitals, doctors, surgeries, tubes, physical rehab do not a sabbatical make.
The journey I've chosen is truly a quest to find my soul's medley. "What Makes Your Heart Sing?" someone asked.
Well, that's it. The question is enough. I've always played the piano/keyboard by ear. I feel music. I have minimal music theory, but I feel it at the center of my being. Nothing has ever moved me to tears faster than a song. I have my older siblings to thank, perhaps. They gathered 'round my crib and sang, "Poor little lamb has lost its way, bah, bah, bah" and they laughed watching me cry.
Now I have the chance of a lifetime to do one of those things "I've always wanted to do." I get to try to find my soul medley.
Grace and peace. God is Good!
Wow, I can't believe it. One sermon, three visits, one more yard mowing, and the packing concludes. As September 1 approaches I am so thankful for the gift of this Sabbatical. 28 years and this is my first sabbatical. I've had some extended time off before, but hospitals, doctors, surgeries, tubes, physical rehab do not a sabbatical make.
The journey I've chosen is truly a quest to find my soul's medley. "What Makes Your Heart Sing?" someone asked.
Well, that's it. The question is enough. I've always played the piano/keyboard by ear. I feel music. I have minimal music theory, but I feel it at the center of my being. Nothing has ever moved me to tears faster than a song. I have my older siblings to thank, perhaps. They gathered 'round my crib and sang, "Poor little lamb has lost its way, bah, bah, bah" and they laughed watching me cry.
Now I have the chance of a lifetime to do one of those things "I've always wanted to do." I get to try to find my soul medley.
Grace and peace. God is Good!
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