Welcome to here we collide. A project by To Write Love on Her Arms.
This project is for you. We believe in stories; when something involves people, our story, and our lives intertwining with others’ it becomes important. Our stories collide. Something happens. And we believe there is significance in these smallest of moments in all of our lives.
You are breathing. You are alive with so much purpose, so full of potential. The future is wide open and full of beautiful things yet to be discovered. We believe in hope, in finding it amongst the chaos of life. We believe in sharing it with each other, and telling stories in our own unique ways.
This project is about moments. The photos, films, words and music we post are small glimpses of the world captured by strangers. We hope they are a light to your story and a daily reminder of possibility. We hope that you are inspired to capture your own moments as these stories collide with yours.
http://herewecollide.com/about
So I have written less and less on this site- and Yesterday I stumbled on a project by To Write Love on Her Arms, a description is listed above... and it brought me back. About three years ago I sketched out a project of my own: using art (photography, music, art, poetry) to capture community; people at work, living, struggling, overcoming, falling, and rising- everyday people- the good, the bad, and the ugly of little towns and big cities- Capturing it all, seeing what life looks like, what it feels like, what it is. How our world affects us and what we can do about it-
This idea, my idea, like so much of our school "work" gets buried away in the notebooks and letters past. I looked in vain for that notebook tonight.
Now I am not saying TWLOHA stole my idea, hardly. I am saying I had a similar idea, a little bit of energy and creativity that made it's way to paper and lit a spark in my heart- a spark that re-lit a lantern. See the "Daring Correspondence" is just that; a notion, an idea, that in everyday life, in all that is right and wrong in our world's, be they big or small, that you have a chance to relate, to correspond. That this chance, this choice, this idea corresponds to you, it hits you in the heart and shakes you to the core.
It could be the light on a group of kids playing in the park, making us feel as if everything is OK; it may be an elderly couple having coffee, allowing us to believe love and devotion to another can outlast the latest divorce statistic; it could be the smile of an old friend, allowing herself to be soaked in forgiveness or even praise, for both are long awaited- It is so normal, yet so daring, so bold.
Because, my friends and family, we have forgotten.
We have forgotten the beauty, the essence, the promise, of every little thing this life has to offer. we have forgotten to the point that to feel these things, to allow life to stir us and move us, we have to be daring. Our part is to be Daring, the Correspondence comes from beyond, from somewhere else, way bigger than us, way too beautiful to comprehend. The Daring Correspondence. A movement, a feeling, a way of life.
As if this little project of mine just began, it is time to put it away. I don't know for how long, I don't know if this is an ending. All i know, is that these principles and these Hopes take great courage, yet they are all worth every little effort. I encourage you to see yourself as part of a story, to believe in what is bigger and BRIGHTER. I cannot agree more with the encouragement to "capture your own moments as these stories collide with yours".
Sometimes people, songs, books, poems, and, experiences, serve us and change our worlds. Yet we experience all sorts of different stuff and certain things strike as at different times- sometimes for but a season in our life- and like the fading days of summer or the first flowers sprouting forth, we have to move accordingly, lest we be lost in the heat of the day, or frozen in time-
Goodnight and sleep well.
listen: Switchfoot- "restless" *new*
Switchfoot- *new* "restless"
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Are we really ready to pay for Love?
When the things that you can't hold on to
Are the things that you wish you could
Are you really ready to pay for love
If it costs you everything?
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
I believe in a world that's beyond me
I believe in a world I ain't seen
Past the glass, and shotgun shacks
Violent faceless racist facts
I believe in a world that's made clean
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
Ohhhh, yeeeaaahhhh
Underneath it all
Underneath these scars
Underneath it all
Underneath our walls
Underneath it all
Underneath the bullet holes
Underneath it all
We still don't know who we are
It's shining underneath
It's shining underneath
Is there a well that won't run empty?
Is there a friend that can't be bought?
You'll find them when you're thirsty
Learn the lesson that can't be taught
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
ALL OF GOD'S CHILDREN- Switchfoot
Are the things that you wish you could
Are you really ready to pay for love
If it costs you everything?
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
I believe in a world that's beyond me
I believe in a world I ain't seen
Past the glass, and shotgun shacks
Violent faceless racist facts
I believe in a world that's made clean
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
Ohhhh, yeeeaaahhhh
Underneath it all
Underneath these scars
Underneath it all
Underneath our walls
Underneath it all
Underneath the bullet holes
Underneath it all
We still don't know who we are
It's shining underneath
It's shining underneath
Is there a well that won't run empty?
Is there a friend that can't be bought?
You'll find them when you're thirsty
Learn the lesson that can't be taught
All of God's children
All of God's children
Shining underneath
Shining underneath
ALL OF GOD'S CHILDREN- Switchfoot
Monday, June 20, 2011
My little Poverty
I have been out of college for, let's see, 18 months and am finding it very hard to get "established" after making that final step out of your parents house, yet still needing them, financially every now and then. I am working quite a bit, at least hours wise, and am just beginning to see the light of enough resources to take care of myself fully, almost. Anyways, without disclosing many details I'd like to share a little bit about what my struggle means in the grand scheme of human life and share a story about time spent recently with a good buddy.
My buddy and I were strolling the streets of Concord, coffee in hand, and I asked him, "Ya know, I think people are the most important, I want to help people, what do you want to do?" and he answered, that He was more concerned with nature and the environment and our impact therein. We talked of poverty, riches, preservation, and peace. It occurred to me, very strongly indeed, that I myself, was considered poor, or otherwise, living in poverty, according to U.S. government standards. Yet, here we were, driving around, eating pastries and drinking coffee in a city. NOT POOR.
It made me think about "the gap", "the reality", and "the lie". First of all I am not by any stretch, poor, nor am I living in poverty. According to the world, i am quite wealthy, and, while my bank account may not agree, my heart and soul certainly do. Second, certainly this poverty is not like that poverty. We have different standards in different places, fair enough. But what does it all really mean? We buy a lie, as young people, as Americans, that we are and have the right to be comfortable and safe, at all times. We have no right. Freedom, is fought and earned. What about safety and comfort? Same thing. These are not rights but things to be earned or otherwise blessed with. A time for war, and a time for peace right??? But sometimes we forget, that the truth of it all, is that we often times have to enter into or overcome, dangerous and extremely uncomfortable situations first to find that safety and comfort. Oh, we don't know the half of it!
The reality of all of this, is that we still have poor people in America, absolutely. But the problem is, they are often hidden, or their may even be some politics within their poverty, such as welfare or a certain law pertaining to a certain group of people. We have systems (albeit flawed) to help the poor in our country. As for the ones who refuse help or otherwise do not receive the help they need, in America, well that is up to us, the body, the community to reach out, lend a hand, say a prayer, bake a lasagna, whatever it takes. The reality is, we all have a way here. Wouldn't it be cool if we took care of ALL the Americans and then went out to help the poor in other countries?
Finally, the Gap. No not the clothing store. But rather the space between. It seems there is a gap between these types of poverty. From rich to middle/lower class in this country; but especially from poverty to poverty. Like, for instance, my poverty versus the poverty in Mexico or Russia. Looks different. There is a space. How do we close the gap? How do we build a bridge? Why don't we want to? What is our human responsibility? What is our right (and isn't it a universal one)?
listen:
Shawn McDonald- "the space between us"
My buddy and I were strolling the streets of Concord, coffee in hand, and I asked him, "Ya know, I think people are the most important, I want to help people, what do you want to do?" and he answered, that He was more concerned with nature and the environment and our impact therein. We talked of poverty, riches, preservation, and peace. It occurred to me, very strongly indeed, that I myself, was considered poor, or otherwise, living in poverty, according to U.S. government standards. Yet, here we were, driving around, eating pastries and drinking coffee in a city. NOT POOR.
It made me think about "the gap", "the reality", and "the lie". First of all I am not by any stretch, poor, nor am I living in poverty. According to the world, i am quite wealthy, and, while my bank account may not agree, my heart and soul certainly do. Second, certainly this poverty is not like that poverty. We have different standards in different places, fair enough. But what does it all really mean? We buy a lie, as young people, as Americans, that we are and have the right to be comfortable and safe, at all times. We have no right. Freedom, is fought and earned. What about safety and comfort? Same thing. These are not rights but things to be earned or otherwise blessed with. A time for war, and a time for peace right??? But sometimes we forget, that the truth of it all, is that we often times have to enter into or overcome, dangerous and extremely uncomfortable situations first to find that safety and comfort. Oh, we don't know the half of it!
The reality of all of this, is that we still have poor people in America, absolutely. But the problem is, they are often hidden, or their may even be some politics within their poverty, such as welfare or a certain law pertaining to a certain group of people. We have systems (albeit flawed) to help the poor in our country. As for the ones who refuse help or otherwise do not receive the help they need, in America, well that is up to us, the body, the community to reach out, lend a hand, say a prayer, bake a lasagna, whatever it takes. The reality is, we all have a way here. Wouldn't it be cool if we took care of ALL the Americans and then went out to help the poor in other countries?
Finally, the Gap. No not the clothing store. But rather the space between. It seems there is a gap between these types of poverty. From rich to middle/lower class in this country; but especially from poverty to poverty. Like, for instance, my poverty versus the poverty in Mexico or Russia. Looks different. There is a space. How do we close the gap? How do we build a bridge? Why don't we want to? What is our human responsibility? What is our right (and isn't it a universal one)?
listen:
Shawn McDonald- "the space between us"
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Ruthless, Raw and Broken... Love and Easter lillies @ 3:16
"Love can be, such a non-word... sometimes, it loses its meaning, its potency, like, I really love cheeseburger... like, I really love, a sunny day, like, I really love my family... and all of those are different things. The love that I am singin about in this song is not a pretty, clean, Hollywood Hot pink sorta love. Its the kind of love that is willing to love things that are messy, and even the difficult, and, sorta, kinda gross, kinda things... " -John Mark McMillan (commenting on the meaning behind the song "How He Loves")
That's just it. Love can be used casually, love can be used intensely, love can be unrequited and Love can change the face of the world. Such a word, such an action has so much meaning that even God himself has taken the word to say that HE is it. I strongly feel that, through all of loves meaning, through all of life's defining love, that the sacrifice of a man, for all of his people, for His beloved, is the most brutal and real essence of Love their will ever be. Love is not just Roses or Easter Lillie's for that matter, but love is also answering a friends phone call at 1am, stopping to make sure that car that went off the road is ok, or meeting a friend for coffee even though they have blown you off the last seven times. Love is staring somebody in the eye and saying, "I forgive you". Love is leaving your heart on your sleeve, not looking for a response, or a reward, but because that's all you've got, and you would rather have the courage to put that forward than stifle your truest self into the skin and bones of your being. Love is not always pretty. It is hardly perfect. It may be messy and even gross, but Love, in all its forms, is the choice, is the action that we have to be willing to take, because maybe, just maybe, we experience a little bit of God's own heart when do. Maybe it is in the "pouring out" of oneself, in blood, sweat and tears, that we find what we so desperately seek.
Happy Easter
"We are only asked to love, to offer hope to the many hopeless. We don't get to choose all the endings, but we are asked to play the rescuers. We won't solve all mysteries and our hearts will certainly break in such a vulnerable life, but it is the best way. We were made to be lovers bold in broken places, pouring ourselves out again and again until we're called home." -ToWriteLoveOnHerArms
Video:
JMM- "How he Loves: a story"
That's just it. Love can be used casually, love can be used intensely, love can be unrequited and Love can change the face of the world. Such a word, such an action has so much meaning that even God himself has taken the word to say that HE is it. I strongly feel that, through all of loves meaning, through all of life's defining love, that the sacrifice of a man, for all of his people, for His beloved, is the most brutal and real essence of Love their will ever be. Love is not just Roses or Easter Lillie's for that matter, but love is also answering a friends phone call at 1am, stopping to make sure that car that went off the road is ok, or meeting a friend for coffee even though they have blown you off the last seven times. Love is staring somebody in the eye and saying, "I forgive you". Love is leaving your heart on your sleeve, not looking for a response, or a reward, but because that's all you've got, and you would rather have the courage to put that forward than stifle your truest self into the skin and bones of your being. Love is not always pretty. It is hardly perfect. It may be messy and even gross, but Love, in all its forms, is the choice, is the action that we have to be willing to take, because maybe, just maybe, we experience a little bit of God's own heart when do. Maybe it is in the "pouring out" of oneself, in blood, sweat and tears, that we find what we so desperately seek.
Happy Easter
"We are only asked to love, to offer hope to the many hopeless. We don't get to choose all the endings, but we are asked to play the rescuers. We won't solve all mysteries and our hearts will certainly break in such a vulnerable life, but it is the best way. We were made to be lovers bold in broken places, pouring ourselves out again and again until we're called home." -ToWriteLoveOnHerArms
Video:
JMM- "How he Loves: a story"
Monday, March 28, 2011
a stereotype, a generation, and a young man
Dear young man,
Young man with the beer in your hand, the beer that comes in a collectable set, the kind of set that comes in thirty (what comes in sets of thirty)?
Dear young man, I am sorry, but I just don't understand. I cannot see the point of so many drinks at once, you could come by this store again, then again, I've never quite understood, perhaps I should have asked you?
Dear young man, why is it you caught my attention? Why is it my heart has sunk? Do you even care what I think?
Dear young man, do I have the right to guess what you are doing with your purchase? Should I even care?
Dear young man, are you a student or statistic? Pretty content with life or reeling from the tension? Somewhat found or barely understanding? Where would you go tonight?
Is there a reason to drink alcohol at all?
Am I really Irish?
What color are your eyes?
Do you see me, right behind?
Or is there something you are trying to hide?
Are you escaping or looking to find yourself (or something else)?
What's the point? What isn't the point?
Will you you follow your dream tonight?
Will you forgive me?
Can we grab a cup of coffee sometime?
Listen:
Moving Mountains (cover)- "can't afford this color"
Young man with the beer in your hand, the beer that comes in a collectable set, the kind of set that comes in thirty (what comes in sets of thirty)?
Dear young man, I am sorry, but I just don't understand. I cannot see the point of so many drinks at once, you could come by this store again, then again, I've never quite understood, perhaps I should have asked you?
Dear young man, why is it you caught my attention? Why is it my heart has sunk? Do you even care what I think?
Dear young man, do I have the right to guess what you are doing with your purchase? Should I even care?
Dear young man, are you a student or statistic? Pretty content with life or reeling from the tension? Somewhat found or barely understanding? Where would you go tonight?
Is there a reason to drink alcohol at all?
Am I really Irish?
What color are your eyes?
Do you see me, right behind?
Or is there something you are trying to hide?
Are you escaping or looking to find yourself (or something else)?
What's the point? What isn't the point?
Will you you follow your dream tonight?
Will you forgive me?
Can we grab a cup of coffee sometime?
Listen:
Moving Mountains (cover)- "can't afford this color"
Monday, March 7, 2011
Internal (from the inside out)
Seems as we move faster and faster in the world, with all the communication, media, ideas, etc. that we are forgetting a big thing. OURSELVES. We have many personalities, a multitude of attitudes and faces and a wellspring of things to do with our time. Yet, we are struggling. There are new statistics on the rise and it seems like we young people just aren't as happy as we used to be. There are many, many reasons for this, but i believe the most prevalent one is found within the false self, or rather, as Brennan Manning refers to it, "the imposter".
The community in which I reside has really taken on a new focus as of late. Seems like many of my friends are not only Slowing down, but they are also facing things head on and seeking healing and truth in the process. I have used what I have seen to take stock of things in my own life and see where I am at in terms of being true to myself and the people around me. Scary what you uncover when you look to the past to go forward.
It is also scary that just slowing down, (i.e. sitting down and turning off your brain for a few minutes, meditating, reading or even sharing a cup of tea) with no distractions (school work, television, music) can actually be a terrifying ordeal. As we begin to discover our identity in society as a new age of communication and young people emerge, this may be the biggest threat to our well being and success as world changers and overall happy and fulffilled individuals and communities.
Can you sit and reflect, without being nervous or upset?
Can you sit and tell your mind to hush, if even for a moment?
Can you sit and not be consumed by the fear of a vintage Alfred Hitchcock film?
Can you sit and be... with yourself?
The answer to all of these questions is Yes. Maybe not right now, but it will be a convincing yes. With practice and letting go and slowing down. It may be our only option. So we are all people made for awesome and amazing things. After all, if you can sit and rest, within the "sound of silence" or even, as one friend says, "sit in the pain", then you can see the situation for what it really is, and, in the light of revelation, darkness has no choice but to flee. Once you understand the situation, once you see things for what they are, you can see how you have the strength to overcome, even when things speed up again.
It is only when you allow that spirit to embrace you, that you can see things with eyes of truth and make peace with whatever the "imposter" says, which is not you at all.
If we cannot find this in an increasingly fast paced society, we may never come to realize who we are or what we are actually doing here.
"Nor will people say, Look! Here [it is]! or, See, [it is] there! For behold, the kingdom of God is within you [in your hearts] and among you [surrounding you]."- Jesus
listen:
Damien Rice- "what if i'm wrong"
The community in which I reside has really taken on a new focus as of late. Seems like many of my friends are not only Slowing down, but they are also facing things head on and seeking healing and truth in the process. I have used what I have seen to take stock of things in my own life and see where I am at in terms of being true to myself and the people around me. Scary what you uncover when you look to the past to go forward.
It is also scary that just slowing down, (i.e. sitting down and turning off your brain for a few minutes, meditating, reading or even sharing a cup of tea) with no distractions (school work, television, music) can actually be a terrifying ordeal. As we begin to discover our identity in society as a new age of communication and young people emerge, this may be the biggest threat to our well being and success as world changers and overall happy and fulffilled individuals and communities.
Can you sit and reflect, without being nervous or upset?
Can you sit and tell your mind to hush, if even for a moment?
Can you sit and not be consumed by the fear of a vintage Alfred Hitchcock film?
Can you sit and be... with yourself?
The answer to all of these questions is Yes. Maybe not right now, but it will be a convincing yes. With practice and letting go and slowing down. It may be our only option. So we are all people made for awesome and amazing things. After all, if you can sit and rest, within the "sound of silence" or even, as one friend says, "sit in the pain", then you can see the situation for what it really is, and, in the light of revelation, darkness has no choice but to flee. Once you understand the situation, once you see things for what they are, you can see how you have the strength to overcome, even when things speed up again.
It is only when you allow that spirit to embrace you, that you can see things with eyes of truth and make peace with whatever the "imposter" says, which is not you at all.
If we cannot find this in an increasingly fast paced society, we may never come to realize who we are or what we are actually doing here.
"Nor will people say, Look! Here [it is]! or, See, [it is] there! For behold, the kingdom of God is within you [in your hearts] and among you [surrounding you]."- Jesus
listen:
Damien Rice- "what if i'm wrong"
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
We did it!
I admit that I am a bit of a dreamer. Some would call me an idealist. Regardless, I choose to believe in "the better part" as it were. That being said, something struck me recently and I just can't let it go.
Where I live in NH there is a mountain called MT Kearsarge that overlooks a better part of the area. In addition to being home to a fire-tower and the Colby-Sawyer annual "Mountain Day" destination, it is also home to a number of hiking trails. The longest trail, titled "Lincoln Trail", travels just under ten miles up the mountain and back to the original destination of Mt. Kearsarge. This trail first ascends the little brother to Kearsarge, called "Black Mountain".
Now what struck me about this situation is that Black Mountain was supposed to be purchased by a contractor and turned into condos on the side of the hill. That would have knocked out the trail and really been an eye sore for those who live in the area or travel south on Rte 89. So the nature conservation had to raise some money to save Black mountain.
Well, this story ends happily and Black mountain will remain conservation land. I am super excited and very grateful that they were able to make this conservation possible! However, what shocked me was the money it took to get there!
1.2 million dollars.
That's correct.
1.2 MILLION DOLLARS $1,200,000
That's a lot of money, and i do not know just where the money came from or even if it is to be paid over many years or what.
But what shocked me, besides the amount, was that a community could raise over a million dollars for a piece of land, but yet we can seldom give $20 to our church or put a five in a homeless man's cup.
The title on the flyer said, "we did it"
and
I am super pumped to keep playing in the forest on Black Mountain.
But it makes me wonder.
As if it hasn't been said enough, being the wealthiest (or at least second) wealthiest country in the world how come their is still so much poverty and pain due to problems that could simply be fixed by very small financial distributions.
Should we buy a mountain or a clean water for a village?
Should we buy a mountain or give some meals?
Should we buy a mountain or a battered w omen's shelter?
Is the world really a cruel an unfair place or are we?
Even though I love Black Mountain, when given the option, I would much rather spend, or rather, distribute my "expendable" financial resource elsewhere.
listen:
Sleeping at Last "emphasis"
Where I live in NH there is a mountain called MT Kearsarge that overlooks a better part of the area. In addition to being home to a fire-tower and the Colby-Sawyer annual "Mountain Day" destination, it is also home to a number of hiking trails. The longest trail, titled "Lincoln Trail", travels just under ten miles up the mountain and back to the original destination of Mt. Kearsarge. This trail first ascends the little brother to Kearsarge, called "Black Mountain".
Now what struck me about this situation is that Black Mountain was supposed to be purchased by a contractor and turned into condos on the side of the hill. That would have knocked out the trail and really been an eye sore for those who live in the area or travel south on Rte 89. So the nature conservation had to raise some money to save Black mountain.
Well, this story ends happily and Black mountain will remain conservation land. I am super excited and very grateful that they were able to make this conservation possible! However, what shocked me was the money it took to get there!
1.2 million dollars.
That's correct.
1.2 MILLION DOLLARS $1,200,000
That's a lot of money, and i do not know just where the money came from or even if it is to be paid over many years or what.
But what shocked me, besides the amount, was that a community could raise over a million dollars for a piece of land, but yet we can seldom give $20 to our church or put a five in a homeless man's cup.
The title on the flyer said, "we did it"
and
I am super pumped to keep playing in the forest on Black Mountain.
But it makes me wonder.
As if it hasn't been said enough, being the wealthiest (or at least second) wealthiest country in the world how come their is still so much poverty and pain due to problems that could simply be fixed by very small financial distributions.
Should we buy a mountain or a clean water for a village?
Should we buy a mountain or give some meals?
Should we buy a mountain or a battered w omen's shelter?
Is the world really a cruel an unfair place or are we?
Even though I love Black Mountain, when given the option, I would much rather spend, or rather, distribute my "expendable" financial resource elsewhere.
listen:
Sleeping at Last "emphasis"
Friday, January 7, 2011
ordinary 2K11
There is a line from the movie Garden State where one of the guys, Mark, answers his mom's prompting by stating; "I'm ok with being unimpressive. I sleep better."
Unimpressive. Boring. Lame. Unworthy. Second rate. Ordinary.
There is not a person in the world, not a single one, who is any of these things.
"You were a million years of work, said God and his angels, with needle and thread"- Sleeping at Last
Anyone who was created in that many years is nothing short of extraordinary!!! In a season of new beginnings, let 2011 allow you to feel and believe you really are something, cause its true.
Listen:
Sleeping at Last- "needle and thread"
Unimpressive. Boring. Lame. Unworthy. Second rate. Ordinary.
There is not a person in the world, not a single one, who is any of these things.
"You were a million years of work, said God and his angels, with needle and thread"- Sleeping at Last
Anyone who was created in that many years is nothing short of extraordinary!!! In a season of new beginnings, let 2011 allow you to feel and believe you really are something, cause its true.
Listen:
Sleeping at Last- "needle and thread"
Thursday, December 9, 2010
well said...SATELLITE
Listen: Satellite "ring the bells"
"We'll ring the bells that lead you home
Cause the only truth I've ever known
Is that nothing ever hurts us more than love
So circle up your best friends
And we'll celebrate the way it ends
At least we live tonight
At least we live tonight"- Satellite- "ring the bells"
May tonight change your life..., for the better.
God has a dream!
and you're part of it.
"We'll ring the bells that lead you home
Cause the only truth I've ever known
Is that nothing ever hurts us more than love
So circle up your best friends
And we'll celebrate the way it ends
At least we live tonight
At least we live tonight"- Satellite- "ring the bells"
May tonight change your life..., for the better.
God has a dream!
and you're part of it.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
the kingdom belongs to these...
"and I become a child when she moves my world"- Damien Rice
Yesterday was one of those days. I have recently been reminded (it is hard when you no longer work with them) that child-like elements are some of the best parts of living and we should always allow for these feelings and care free elements to be in our lives. Experiencing a beloved summer place with an amazing brother and allowing for all the memories and flood of emotion and change to arise made me feel as though I was simultaneously eleven again while also being well beyond my years. Its kind of like making a movie of the clouds passing by and then fast forwarding it. Life moves, yet what happens lingers.
Sebago lake Maine is and will continue to be one of my favorite places in all of new England. Point Sebago campground, Frye Island, and Jordan Bay, all painting a beautiful portrait of so many youthful lessons and experiences. I grew and learned so much there and when I sit down next week for thanksgiving dinner with my family I will share the same abundant excitement and bubbling enthusiasm as I shared with my friend who accompanied me and the girl at Subway who just wanted me to stop talking and order my sandwich.
I am twenty-three years old. I have graduated college and am slowly entering the "real world" and becoming an independent adult. Life is moving. Yet it is the places, like Sebago lake, that remind me what is important and what is worthwhile to spend my time on. I encourage anyone to make it a point to visit a place of your childhood, maybe even with a friend or lover. who knows, it might be just what you need, it may even change the current course of your life altogether. Maybe the goal of growing older is not to move beyond our childhood, but to move "in" it. To allow for the experiences, for better or worse, to move and mold us into the individuals we Hope to be and that we already are.
song:
Damien Rice- "dogs"
Yesterday was one of those days. I have recently been reminded (it is hard when you no longer work with them) that child-like elements are some of the best parts of living and we should always allow for these feelings and care free elements to be in our lives. Experiencing a beloved summer place with an amazing brother and allowing for all the memories and flood of emotion and change to arise made me feel as though I was simultaneously eleven again while also being well beyond my years. Its kind of like making a movie of the clouds passing by and then fast forwarding it. Life moves, yet what happens lingers.
Sebago lake Maine is and will continue to be one of my favorite places in all of new England. Point Sebago campground, Frye Island, and Jordan Bay, all painting a beautiful portrait of so many youthful lessons and experiences. I grew and learned so much there and when I sit down next week for thanksgiving dinner with my family I will share the same abundant excitement and bubbling enthusiasm as I shared with my friend who accompanied me and the girl at Subway who just wanted me to stop talking and order my sandwich.
I am twenty-three years old. I have graduated college and am slowly entering the "real world" and becoming an independent adult. Life is moving. Yet it is the places, like Sebago lake, that remind me what is important and what is worthwhile to spend my time on. I encourage anyone to make it a point to visit a place of your childhood, maybe even with a friend or lover. who knows, it might be just what you need, it may even change the current course of your life altogether. Maybe the goal of growing older is not to move beyond our childhood, but to move "in" it. To allow for the experiences, for better or worse, to move and mold us into the individuals we Hope to be and that we already are.
song:
Damien Rice- "dogs"
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Permission to Love
I Love To write Love on her arms and similar organizations, like Music Saves and the One campaign. It seems as though, although this adds good and bad aspects to charities, charity and doing good things have meshed with pop culture to raise awareness and increase the desire to do good. Young people are always at the forefront of breakthroughs big movements regarding peace and change. With the ease of communication, this has never been easier to voice our opinion and join up with a cause.
However, in working with college students and other young people (and being one myself) it all comes back to Love. "Love is all we need", go figure right. No really. The thing that nobody tells you, is that its hard. Damn hard. For some, its near impossible.
But as young people, we experience so very much. This is a world of influences; peer pressures, media pressures, family pressure, significant other stress, and, of course, in the world of higher education, information overload. Yet life seems to be a little more simple when you take a step back from it all. These influences, although many are actually quite good, can be at best time consuming, at worst, they can absolutely rule our lives. It is easy to get overwhelmed by it all. It is, perhaps, even easier to just throw in the towel. Life, love, happiness and all that. Right.
We become so inundated with all that's happening that we forget why it is we are actually roaming this blue and green expanse. Bogged down by the "weight of the world". So confused about what to think and who we actually are that are opinions and views are no longer our own. We feel like we need to wait on others to act so we can come up with an appropriate reaction. It's as if nothing we do seems quite right.
Well, it is not. The world has been turned upside down; many times over. The economies, the environment, the disasters, the wars; the oppression.
I can confidently say, most of us have it easy in America. Yet the hurt and affliction we experience are still present. Sure, we don't have disease epidemics so much or guerrilla warfare in our streets, but we have are not without. Our pain just takes on a different name. For young people, it is depression, despair and loneliness that seem to be our biggest issues. In a time where communication is at a surplus, we are feeling more alone than ever. Call it what you will,we are oppressed. The oppressed are held captive. Although we are not so much held captive (depending on how you look at it) we are still in need of an escape; we need to be freed; we need a command; its as if we need permission.
Although there is always more to the story, I believe it can all be summed up by allowing ourselves and others the permission to Love.
Tell some one you love or even somebody you barely know, Tell them its ok to love. To them to go ahead. It may seem strange at first, but imagine if we all felt it? If we all knew it? If we all lived it?
However, in working with college students and other young people (and being one myself) it all comes back to Love. "Love is all we need", go figure right. No really. The thing that nobody tells you, is that its hard. Damn hard. For some, its near impossible.
But as young people, we experience so very much. This is a world of influences; peer pressures, media pressures, family pressure, significant other stress, and, of course, in the world of higher education, information overload. Yet life seems to be a little more simple when you take a step back from it all. These influences, although many are actually quite good, can be at best time consuming, at worst, they can absolutely rule our lives. It is easy to get overwhelmed by it all. It is, perhaps, even easier to just throw in the towel. Life, love, happiness and all that. Right.
We become so inundated with all that's happening that we forget why it is we are actually roaming this blue and green expanse. Bogged down by the "weight of the world". So confused about what to think and who we actually are that are opinions and views are no longer our own. We feel like we need to wait on others to act so we can come up with an appropriate reaction. It's as if nothing we do seems quite right.
Well, it is not. The world has been turned upside down; many times over. The economies, the environment, the disasters, the wars; the oppression.
I can confidently say, most of us have it easy in America. Yet the hurt and affliction we experience are still present. Sure, we don't have disease epidemics so much or guerrilla warfare in our streets, but we have are not without. Our pain just takes on a different name. For young people, it is depression, despair and loneliness that seem to be our biggest issues. In a time where communication is at a surplus, we are feeling more alone than ever. Call it what you will,we are oppressed. The oppressed are held captive. Although we are not so much held captive (depending on how you look at it) we are still in need of an escape; we need to be freed; we need a command; its as if we need permission.
Although there is always more to the story, I believe it can all be summed up by allowing ourselves and others the permission to Love.
Tell some one you love or even somebody you barely know, Tell them its ok to love. To them to go ahead. It may seem strange at first, but imagine if we all felt it? If we all knew it? If we all lived it?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Taking stock, counting blessings
"Hope for a better, November"- Jimmy Eat World
Dear friends, its time to stop and smell the, ugh, dying leaves and dried grass of another summer come and gone and a fall into the new year that is coming. Autumn. Fall. Here we are, we are here.
How is your life?
Where is your heart?
What new dreams have you dreamt?
Where in the world are you?
Do you believe?
WHat can you do to get there?
What do you need to let go of?
Have you given your best?
"Not all who wander are lost"- JRR Tolkien
listen:
jimmy eat world- "futures"
Dear friends, its time to stop and smell the, ugh, dying leaves and dried grass of another summer come and gone and a fall into the new year that is coming. Autumn. Fall. Here we are, we are here.
How is your life?
Where is your heart?
What new dreams have you dreamt?
Where in the world are you?
Do you believe?
WHat can you do to get there?
What do you need to let go of?
Have you given your best?
"Not all who wander are lost"- JRR Tolkien
listen:
jimmy eat world- "futures"
Saturday, October 23, 2010
"Will you're name be recorded?"
learning how to wait... (the Almost)
I have had the opportunity to listen as of late. To listen instead of speak, and let me tell you, this is hard. To everyone who knows me, I am a person who loves good conversation and to prove a point. But, as the bible so often reminds me, this life is not about me. I have felt very anxious and impatient as i start a new season of life. It has been as if all the world and all the experiences, thoughts and emotions that have gone into my life, have hit a standstill; a dead end; a writer's block, an ellipses.
But,
this is a lie.
I had the opportunity to join a few older men at Panera Bread recently after work. My friend and mentor Benny was kind enough to buy me a salad and a coffee (no money) and allow me to "meet" with some friends in what was quickly becoming a weekly event. During the time I spent there (a little less than an hour) I got the opportunity to learn a great deal. These men had all been through the age and time period of my life I was currently in, not only that, but lo and behold, they had survived and were living great stories. Everyone present spoke to my life and my heart, but it was the man across from me, Wayne, whose words really pierced my young and stubborn mind.
After re-enforcing what I had learned all summer (that we cannot save/please/protect/teach EVERYONE we encounter) and sharing a bit of his background, he proceeded to explain the "meaning" behind his work, which has been with the Postal Service for 32 years. But, as you might imagine, we did not talk about mail or packages. He really got my attention when he spoke these words very firmly,
"Will you're name be remembered in the history books?"
I thought at first he was making some sort of theological or philosophical point, but he was dead serious.
"How about you?"
Everyone around the table said no, and he promptly continued to explain that his name is recorded in Washington D.C. int he national archives as he was the post master of two towns for a good deal of those 32 years. He told this story, not out of pride, but out of the fact that his story mattered. His seemingly simple job was important. Well beyond a name being recorded, he got to supervise, to watch over others. To serve them in a multitude of ways, above and WAY beyond the standard postmaster. He was a friend, a counselor, a mentor, a nurse, an aide, a shoulder, a friend. He had truly made the most of his profession and used it for the will of the one who sent him. You see, Wayne studied guidance and counseling in grad school and even had his own practice for over two years. But it was not in an office or school where he most used his acquired skill and his heart for service, but rather in delivering mail and supervising mailmen.
I finished my first statement by saying " this is a lie". It's so true. I have put so much pressure on myself to live and love and serve, serve, serve; that I have forgotten why I serve. That I have let anxiety and worry overcome "doing". That I have let stress de-rail my train and that I have only "felt God" when I actually let go and let the truth and beauty held within the flesh that I am shine forth. Actually let go.
But worst of all, I have not even comprehended the blessings that have come my way over the past month. Namely that I have a new job and a renewed chance at Love.
and for that,
I am truly sorry,
yet so overflowing with Hope.
What am I going to be? Who can I help? Will my name be recorded in history?
It is time to take my own advice,
It's time to "Let go and Let Love"
listen:
Sleeping at Last "Next to me"
I have had the opportunity to listen as of late. To listen instead of speak, and let me tell you, this is hard. To everyone who knows me, I am a person who loves good conversation and to prove a point. But, as the bible so often reminds me, this life is not about me. I have felt very anxious and impatient as i start a new season of life. It has been as if all the world and all the experiences, thoughts and emotions that have gone into my life, have hit a standstill; a dead end; a writer's block, an ellipses.
But,
this is a lie.
I had the opportunity to join a few older men at Panera Bread recently after work. My friend and mentor Benny was kind enough to buy me a salad and a coffee (no money) and allow me to "meet" with some friends in what was quickly becoming a weekly event. During the time I spent there (a little less than an hour) I got the opportunity to learn a great deal. These men had all been through the age and time period of my life I was currently in, not only that, but lo and behold, they had survived and were living great stories. Everyone present spoke to my life and my heart, but it was the man across from me, Wayne, whose words really pierced my young and stubborn mind.
After re-enforcing what I had learned all summer (that we cannot save/please/protect/teach EVERYONE we encounter) and sharing a bit of his background, he proceeded to explain the "meaning" behind his work, which has been with the Postal Service for 32 years. But, as you might imagine, we did not talk about mail or packages. He really got my attention when he spoke these words very firmly,
"Will you're name be remembered in the history books?"
I thought at first he was making some sort of theological or philosophical point, but he was dead serious.
"How about you?"
Everyone around the table said no, and he promptly continued to explain that his name is recorded in Washington D.C. int he national archives as he was the post master of two towns for a good deal of those 32 years. He told this story, not out of pride, but out of the fact that his story mattered. His seemingly simple job was important. Well beyond a name being recorded, he got to supervise, to watch over others. To serve them in a multitude of ways, above and WAY beyond the standard postmaster. He was a friend, a counselor, a mentor, a nurse, an aide, a shoulder, a friend. He had truly made the most of his profession and used it for the will of the one who sent him. You see, Wayne studied guidance and counseling in grad school and even had his own practice for over two years. But it was not in an office or school where he most used his acquired skill and his heart for service, but rather in delivering mail and supervising mailmen.
I finished my first statement by saying " this is a lie". It's so true. I have put so much pressure on myself to live and love and serve, serve, serve; that I have forgotten why I serve. That I have let anxiety and worry overcome "doing". That I have let stress de-rail my train and that I have only "felt God" when I actually let go and let the truth and beauty held within the flesh that I am shine forth. Actually let go.
But worst of all, I have not even comprehended the blessings that have come my way over the past month. Namely that I have a new job and a renewed chance at Love.
and for that,
I am truly sorry,
yet so overflowing with Hope.
What am I going to be? Who can I help? Will my name be recorded in history?
It is time to take my own advice,
It's time to "Let go and Let Love"
listen:
Sleeping at Last "Next to me"
Friday, October 15, 2010
Between the Trees- EmoPopSmilingPurpose- Do rock out!!!
So every now and (actually everyday) a band hits me and is a big part of my day. Bands (and signers) make music and therefore carry the melodies and messages of beauty and truth to our ears. Between the Trees is one of those bands. They are very near and dear to my heart and although they are officially coming to an end as a complete band, their story and their place in mine and others lives has been firmly planted.
I had the opportunity to see one of my favorite bands over the winter break from college. This band was anberlin and the concert was during a very confusing and vulnerable time in my life. Yet it was not anberlin, or even the great shared experience with my best Friend Evan (and his first modern rock concert), but the opening band that really stood out that evening. This was where i first met Between the Trees. 
(Wes, courtesy of Flicker)After hearing about BTT discontinuing their musical pursuits, I didn't feel a bit of remorse. I know they are awesome guys and will be off to do many cool things, music related or not. I think the reason I was not so bummed was because of their lasting impact, and their involvement in my favorite charity, To Write Love on Her Arms. As a matter of fact, two of their first albums songs are dedicated/inspired by Renee Yohe- video:
Between the Trees and Renee Yohe talk--
The more I go on in this adventure of life and love, I learn about the importance of story. BTT's first album, "A story and the song" is all about that. Renee's story was a big part of that album. But they also played a big part in my story and I'm sure many of the other fans they touched over the last few years. This was a band that always wanted to leave an impression of Hope and purpose with everything they did, in a genre of music often known for songs of bad break-ups and utter loneliness. BTT is a band that will forever live on, and the Love and Hope that drives them is going to propel them into beautiful things for a long time to come. THANK YOU!
and
GOD BLESS!
song from first album, "The story and the song" "its not the intimacy that brings me closer to you..."
"Red lines and white lights"
song from second album, "Spain" "i know, things aren't quite like what they used to be, yeah..."
"We can try"
Sunday, October 3, 2010
transition: mntn life
So i have reached a very new season in my life. After working very hard this summer with the NOST after school/summer camp program and taking a break from bike riding, I have moved on to a new adventure. The job is new, the adventure is a bit of a returning. I will be working part-time (hopefully full time soon!) with Eastern Mountain Sports and continuing to guard the night as the NLI nightwatchman. Working at EMS has re-opened many doors in terms of outdoor adventure and racing, and I am very hopeful about competing and SHARING adventures this coming year. After all, life is not about me; but then again, God knows our hearts and the things in life we love, the elements and purpose in all we do. Our passions are not just things, but they also help us write the story of who we are. They tell us what we really want and what matters most-
I Hope whatever season you are in, or if things are changing quickly and you don't really understand why, that you can hang on for the ride and know it will all make sense soon.
Post script: Whenever I write the word "Hope" i try to capitalize it. I know that you are only supposed to capitalize proper nouns and such, but i believe Hope is a special word. Maybe the most special of them all. Hope is a feeling, Hope is a smile, Hope is an inspiration, Hope is a movement: Hope is real. Check out Romans 5:5 for further details...
listen:
Switchfoot (Jon Foreman)- "thrive"
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
talk to me
So much of our humanity's ability to get along and co-exist relies upon the simple passing of messages from one to another. Communication. Language. Message. These things are used everyday, by every person in the world. There are many differences of course, many dialects and tongues, cultures and styles of communicating. Yet there is a sudden, or rather recent shift in communication. Yet this is not related to any of the pre-existing differences but rather a new age. Social networks and the mobility of communicating.
Its getting bad. A few days ago I went for a run at dusk and also the folowing morning as I had to work all day. As I was heading out of town that evening, I ran by a woman riding a bicycle, by herself, and I could hear her talking rather loud. As I got closer and we passed one another I realizaed one hand was on the handlebars, the other on a cell phone and she was carrying on a conversation while pedaling up hill. The following morning I was running on a dirt road about 2 miles from any populated housing and I spotted another woman (what I thought at first was an animal) and she was sitting by the edge of the road, no houses and sight, alone, talking on her phone.
Now at the risk of judegement I would like to comment on what I think was the same woman. I have run through all the scenarios and I still cant believe you would be talking on the phone, in the middle of engaging in another activity, especially as dangerous as bike riding can be. Seriously. Even if their best friend or soul mate was on the other end of the line, and they were very sick or something serious, why would you be engaging in other activities while trying to talk to them?
I believe we have settled. We, as a progressive culture of young people in an emerging world have settled for lackluster communication and poor connections. This leads to misunderstandings, hurt feeling, lack of focus, and a completely scattered social scene. I have come to believe that if somebody really wants to communicate with me they will tell me whats on their mind. Instead, we often times just do it with a text, or a short internet message that may not even be received for some time.
They call it rude when you don't pay attention to someone. Even careless. We owe it to ourselves to speak the truth and take the time. Is that not what you would want from somebody? Want to plan a trip or make time to hang-out with someone? Call them. Have a serious topic to discuss? Sit down for a cup of coffee. I know your busy. Who isn't? It's worth it, it's important, it must come back.
I really appreciate my Buddhist brothers and sisters. They truly take the time to slow down, to connect. In America, everything moves, fast. Always has, always will. It is up to us to connect with one another, on a real level, on a level where we understand eachother, where we know where the other person is coming from. Our fate as a nation and our Hope of belonging and understanding in a world of so many different types of people relies on this communication. Lets not settle for second rate. Let's give our full attention to one another (as best we can) and Hope that, although we may never be able to fully embrace and co-exist, that we can, "not agree, but proclaim love; and communication."- Mae
After all, that is what this blog is about. Its about taking the time to connect with one another and sharing daily life, good, bad, REAL. The only reason it is daring is because we don't do it so much anymore.
listen:
anberlin- "Impossible" (acoustic)
Its getting bad. A few days ago I went for a run at dusk and also the folowing morning as I had to work all day. As I was heading out of town that evening, I ran by a woman riding a bicycle, by herself, and I could hear her talking rather loud. As I got closer and we passed one another I realizaed one hand was on the handlebars, the other on a cell phone and she was carrying on a conversation while pedaling up hill. The following morning I was running on a dirt road about 2 miles from any populated housing and I spotted another woman (what I thought at first was an animal) and she was sitting by the edge of the road, no houses and sight, alone, talking on her phone.
Now at the risk of judegement I would like to comment on what I think was the same woman. I have run through all the scenarios and I still cant believe you would be talking on the phone, in the middle of engaging in another activity, especially as dangerous as bike riding can be. Seriously. Even if their best friend or soul mate was on the other end of the line, and they were very sick or something serious, why would you be engaging in other activities while trying to talk to them?
I believe we have settled. We, as a progressive culture of young people in an emerging world have settled for lackluster communication and poor connections. This leads to misunderstandings, hurt feeling, lack of focus, and a completely scattered social scene. I have come to believe that if somebody really wants to communicate with me they will tell me whats on their mind. Instead, we often times just do it with a text, or a short internet message that may not even be received for some time.
They call it rude when you don't pay attention to someone. Even careless. We owe it to ourselves to speak the truth and take the time. Is that not what you would want from somebody? Want to plan a trip or make time to hang-out with someone? Call them. Have a serious topic to discuss? Sit down for a cup of coffee. I know your busy. Who isn't? It's worth it, it's important, it must come back.
I really appreciate my Buddhist brothers and sisters. They truly take the time to slow down, to connect. In America, everything moves, fast. Always has, always will. It is up to us to connect with one another, on a real level, on a level where we understand eachother, where we know where the other person is coming from. Our fate as a nation and our Hope of belonging and understanding in a world of so many different types of people relies on this communication. Lets not settle for second rate. Let's give our full attention to one another (as best we can) and Hope that, although we may never be able to fully embrace and co-exist, that we can, "not agree, but proclaim love; and communication."- Mae
After all, that is what this blog is about. Its about taking the time to connect with one another and sharing daily life, good, bad, REAL. The only reason it is daring is because we don't do it so much anymore.
listen:
anberlin- "Impossible" (acoustic)
Monday, September 20, 2010
Rescued and speechless
listen:
the Almost- "dirty and left out"
Redemption is different from reconciliation or forgiveness even. Redemption is a building up, whereas forgiveness is most often a plugging the hole in the dam and hoping it will hold. We often get caught up in what others think and what they will think if we do something or make a certain statement or action. Yet it is not the act of forgiving, although this is nothing short of an amazing feat in itself, but the redemption that comes later, where we find the truest beauty in the frail human heart.
Take for example the story of the prodigal son. He probably doesn't feel that great telling his father all the things that had happened and especially not in the fact that he had already come to the conclusion (in his mind) that he would be lucky to sleep and work with the servants. Yet we all know that his fate is sealed in his Father's love, the complete and unconditional love that accepts with open arms and leads to redemption. I cannot imagine somebody being received in such a way and actually having the attitude or sickness to go back to the evil they had vacated.
All this to say, although there are great amounts of pain in this life, when it comes to redemption, when it comes to light breaking through, when it comes to relationships being restored, it is all possible. But we have to see it through. I am so very thankful that redemption is a reality. That we can bust out the other side, not just better, but wiser and more hopeful.
Redemption can mean deliverance; but it can also mean rescue. I cannot even begin to count the ways I have been redeemed and rescued over my relatively short life and this is available to all. So why doesn't everyone feel redeemed? If its available to everyone, what does it matter?
Because not everyone has been given the chance, and not everyone has been redeemed. There are many situations in my own life where I have not felt redemption or even forgiveness, yet I can still find peace somewhere in between the Hopes and the brokenness. Even though the redemption may never come, I take great comfort in knowing it exists, and no matter how messed up the situation is, deliverance is always possible.
Would that we would all find redemption, that when we offer "deliverance" and "atonement" that we would follow our words with a quiet prayer or a silent praise.
This is life; and redemption is a reality we all need,
and,
I; rather WE, are never too far gone.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
feeling ok
anberlin- "Down"
As a young man, I still think I can change the world. I am fired up, here and there, about the social and political ills of the world, and am quick to rush to the side of the oppressed and open my mouth to speak about how things should be better. But one thing they forget to tell you in the inspiring books and amazing stories of world changing people, is that when you actually are in it, when you are in the midst of a mission or a charity; almost all the luster is gone and it is just plain hard (hence the reason others have either tried and failed, or just given up completely).
I had to tell my Boss I got a new job and would be leaving in two weeks. I waited the whole afternoon to tell her and the anticipation was really awful. But as I spoke words of ending, I was greeted with even greater words of what was to come. "Sad for us, but happy for you" and then of course, on the walk out to the parking lot, a beautiful and full double rainbow. Any reservations, any regrets?
I believe we are our own worst enemies. Sure our parents, significant others, professors, and mentors can add to the dynamics and pressure of an already wild and crazy world, yet usually our worst and most intense critic is the one that stares you in the mirror. As I smiled at the sights and sounds of the early evening, and was so thankful to have such a comforting and understanding boss, I felt like God was saying well done. That's not to say that I did a perfect job or even that I won't be back to try again, but it was a special feeling going home that day.
I think it was so special because, beyond the natural beauty, i came to the stark yet simple realization that this is not about me at all. I saw a friend in the store yesterday, a humble and Wise man, and after explaining the story to him, he simply said, "I think that's what we are called to do". Meaning the little things add up. They matter. So instead of focusing on what "I" can do for this place, for that situation (key word being "I"), the focus should rather be what can happen if we let go, and let Love. What could happen if we let the presence of Hope and Truth, that which dwells in all who believe, lead the way in this dance of life? I may not have seen the impact of "my" works and actions, but that is no matter; just being in a place and believing and Hoping in and for those people present makes everything worth it.
At the end of the day we are all lost causes, trying to walk the road home. Can it be OK? Can we change the world?
Can we go together?
Sunday, September 12, 2010
stay close: Light IS a place
That's not to say that I don't love the new album, I do. Yet it is definately different. Personally, I really love the sound, but i think the lyrics could be a little more complex, a little more meaningful. Then again, sometimes simple words make the most impact (see: "I have a dream" or "come home"). Truth be told, anberlin is my favorite band. And even though this new album may not be my favorite of theirs, if I truly love the band I have to really give this record a chance. I think giving things a chance this day and age, hearing them out so to speak, even our favorite things, can be seen as a burden or even uneccessary all together. Now this notion is not limited to music.
So many people are quick to write off a new record, or a new song for that matter. Sometimes people hate the change, other times they go with the simple, "well, I just liked the old stuff better." Our relationships can be like that too. Not just romantic, but friends and family too. With the rate at which life changes, with the way people's status's change so quickly, it is easy to write them off or forget them altogether. But that is not the right choice.
Granted, people change; tastes in music change; life leads us down different roads, some for better, some for worse. But we have to give it a try. Our lives and the people in them are so important, so significant. We can't just give it the ghost because we feel a bit different, we can't let our friend (or out favorite band) go because they are suddenly too popular, we can't let Love pass us by because we're scared of what "could happen"-
Real commitment and pursuit of true connection is really lacking in our culture, even in our world at large. It is up to the next generation to bring it back. To look beyond the latest and greatest and seek truth and consistency; to be dedicated. There is something to be said about a loyal fan. There is even more to be said of a true friend; about a steadfast lover.
We would be well served and even better pursued by such hearts.
That's the kind of fan i'd want to have,
That's the kind of community I am blessed to be in,
That's the kind of place that is Light many times over.
Listen:
Corey Asbury- "everything you do"
Monday, September 6, 2010
what we deserve (LOVE)
I think we have to start from the fact that we have a lot. If you are reading this, chances are you have internet and a working computer. You probably have a roof over your head and maybe even a chance to pursue education, a place to put your stuff. Even these couple items are more than many in this world will ever have. Yet in America we think we deserve so much. We think we are entitled to all things under the sun. "Life, liberty and the pursuit right?
Well I have worked hard for a lot of different elements of life, in a lot of different ways. Yet the things that really excite me, the parts of life that I have desired most, even deserved, have not come to pass. So why can't we have what we deserve? Why can't I ever reach the place where that deserving is met?
Well for me, i think it all comes back to Love. Then again, doesn't it always? Love is the core of life, the true mission of the human heart. As a Christian, i believe God loves me, as does his son Jesus. That said, we enter into a whole new area of deserving here. For all I've done, all i've sacrificed, all I've fallen short, all I've messed up; I still don't deserve this kind of love. Love that is real, love that is true, love that is infinite. Even the most righteous and selfless people in this life still don't deserve the love that never fails. Yet we are told, yet we have seen, that we are all granted this very love.
Christ doesn't care about your mess,
and
God doesn't keep score,
and
when you think of it this way, you suddenly feel a little smaller, and a little less deserving. We are given the rights of this country, to pursue, to be free, to be alive- yet these are not rights at all, but gifts. We truly are miracles, each one of us, in a place where all the nations of the world can be found, and can pursue those very gifts. Freely, openly, truly- WE have to get to the place where we realize we don't deserve nearly anything, yet we are given so much.
You know that expression, "all the best things in life are free"
If that is indeed true, and I believe it to be so, do we deserve even these? YES
That everyone may Love and be Loved, that all people would feel as though they have a place, as if they matter.
Because they do,
and we do too,
and,
YOU deserve to know.
listen:
Shane & Shane- "the answer"
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