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"
Showing posts with label Hope. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hope. Show all posts
Sunday, July 31, 2011
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"
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"
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?
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"
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
sister(s)
I said Sister, here is what I know now
Here is what I know now
Goes like this..
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, in your love, in your love"
-ALEXI MURDOCH
There are certain points in our lives where we feel old, or just older, as if our biological age was not a reality and all the people around us would stay the same age forever. There are certain milestones, regarding age, where you just go, "whew" and wonder where you had been for all the time leading up to this said milestone. One of those is for your little sister to go off to college.
Even though I just graduated college, I still haven't felt like my sister is getting much older. I must be careful here, that is, not to say that she hasn't matured and showed signs of moving into a new phase of life, but sometimes you spend so much time watching the snowflakes, you end up confused by the new foot of fresh powder under your foot. There have been two main experiences that have really allowed me to realize my sister's age, and also get excited knowing she is ready for the new challenge of college. The first was her singing in a musical with her school (i had never even heard her sing, no joke) and the second was her going out to Kansas City for the Skills USA competition (yeah bronze medal!). These experiences, along with many others, are aligning her up with a beautiful end to the chapter that is high school and I Hope she is as thrilled for WSC, as she has come so far, and with so much good and beauty to come!
I also want to share about two other special sisters attempting to move mountains in their new adventures...
First off, my friend and sister for over three quarters of my life is heading off on a world wide missions trip called "World Race" no, not the amazing race. I will let you read about it here and support her too:
Ash WORLD RACE
I Have known Ashley for a long time, and she is a beautiful image of Hope and truth. She believes, she works hard and she is SO thrilled to take all of her gifts straight to the peoples around the world who need it most, I cannot wait to hear about and pray for her journey- and the journey of all those helped and helping!
Finally I have this other sister. Now she also has a brother, just like Ash and just like my sister and I, but he's a good guy, so I think he'd be OK if I was in the fam. This girl is also venturing forth into a new land, this time, not in a world race, but to study and learn. She is going to do great, and Love well, but I can understand why she is nervous. It just occurred to me how we have such similar hearts! But fear is not the heart of love, and just as this girl inspires and surprises me every time we get to talk, she will triumph and take in every detail of this beautiful trip. Remember Jeanne Clark, perfect Love drowns out fear; may it find you well.
I always wish I had a brother. I always wished time would stop and we could start it up again when we were ready. Well, neither of these are an option. Yet I am one of the happiest and most blessed people in the world, and it is in a large part due to the hearts and Hopes of my sisters, biological or otherwise.
May God guide you on the straight and narrow,
and may the light each one of you share and carry so, so well,
guide you into and over whatever this new season brings.
Love, in Hope and in gratitude,
Bud, B2, Brandon
Listen:
Switchfoot- Hello Hurricane (you CAN'T silence my Love)
Here is what I know now
Goes like this..
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, my salvation lies
In your love, in your love, in your love"
-ALEXI MURDOCH
There are certain points in our lives where we feel old, or just older, as if our biological age was not a reality and all the people around us would stay the same age forever. There are certain milestones, regarding age, where you just go, "whew" and wonder where you had been for all the time leading up to this said milestone. One of those is for your little sister to go off to college.
Even though I just graduated college, I still haven't felt like my sister is getting much older. I must be careful here, that is, not to say that she hasn't matured and showed signs of moving into a new phase of life, but sometimes you spend so much time watching the snowflakes, you end up confused by the new foot of fresh powder under your foot. There have been two main experiences that have really allowed me to realize my sister's age, and also get excited knowing she is ready for the new challenge of college. The first was her singing in a musical with her school (i had never even heard her sing, no joke) and the second was her going out to Kansas City for the Skills USA competition (yeah bronze medal!). These experiences, along with many others, are aligning her up with a beautiful end to the chapter that is high school and I Hope she is as thrilled for WSC, as she has come so far, and with so much good and beauty to come!
I also want to share about two other special sisters attempting to move mountains in their new adventures...
First off, my friend and sister for over three quarters of my life is heading off on a world wide missions trip called "World Race" no, not the amazing race. I will let you read about it here and support her too:
Ash WORLD RACE
I Have known Ashley for a long time, and she is a beautiful image of Hope and truth. She believes, she works hard and she is SO thrilled to take all of her gifts straight to the peoples around the world who need it most, I cannot wait to hear about and pray for her journey- and the journey of all those helped and helping!
Finally I have this other sister. Now she also has a brother, just like Ash and just like my sister and I, but he's a good guy, so I think he'd be OK if I was in the fam. This girl is also venturing forth into a new land, this time, not in a world race, but to study and learn. She is going to do great, and Love well, but I can understand why she is nervous. It just occurred to me how we have such similar hearts! But fear is not the heart of love, and just as this girl inspires and surprises me every time we get to talk, she will triumph and take in every detail of this beautiful trip. Remember Jeanne Clark, perfect Love drowns out fear; may it find you well.
I always wish I had a brother. I always wished time would stop and we could start it up again when we were ready. Well, neither of these are an option. Yet I am one of the happiest and most blessed people in the world, and it is in a large part due to the hearts and Hopes of my sisters, biological or otherwise.
May God guide you on the straight and narrow,
and may the light each one of you share and carry so, so well,
guide you into and over whatever this new season brings.
Love, in Hope and in gratitude,
Bud, B2, Brandon
Listen:
Switchfoot- Hello Hurricane (you CAN'T silence my Love)
Saturday, August 21, 2010
small glimpses and a heart of service
Some days, of course, were harder than others. Some days the kids behaved, some days they didn't, still other days it rained, and others we splashed; all day. That is the natural progression of life, this is the good and the bad, the tough and the true, all around us, in particular, to those places where light doesn't seem to shine quite as much. The kids I work with have tough many of them. And to make some impact, what ever it is, is to move a mountain. To see a smile in days of frowns and downcast eyes, means a lot. To make a new friend. Small glimpses.
I know some friends who have had struggles this summer, haven't we all? For me the work I did and the struggles I encountered were new and maybe even more difficult then any in the past. Yet I was reminded of those who are MUCH less fortunate in other countries and I had a multitude of reasons to keep my heart soft. I thought of the many who are still controlled by corrupt governments and those who work jobs that don't even pay a wage to sustain one person, much less a whole family. I thought about kids who had to sneak to school and Hope to not get caught in violence or worse. But mostly I thought of the little things that make life so spectacular, the things that make it worth it. Sometimes, when we are tired or really taken advantage of, or even in a bout of depression or grief it is nearly impossible to see anything good or worthwhile. Yet we must, even if it is small.
This world is not even, or fair. Sometimes it doesn't even make sense. Some work a ten hour day and make $2. Some people spend their life chasing a goal and right before they reach it, they lose everything to sickness or a thief. Sometimes we only have one reason, one second during the course of a day with which to crack a smile. We must not let these moments go to waste! For where there is one, there can be another also. Where there is three, why not twelve. Life is made of of tiny pieces. Eventually they will come together for good. Someday, one day, we could live to see a completely different side of life and people. One day we could spend all our time searching for a reason to not be happy. Salvation is here, and there is beauty and Hope in all, if we are just patient enough to find it, or let it find us.
listen:
John Mark Mcmillan- Death in his grave
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Book Review: Love & War
To go forward we must first go back. A Number of months ago John and Stasi Eldredge, some of my favorite Christian authors put out a new book. It happened to be a marriage book, called Love and War. I was excited for the book, but quickly realized I was neither married nor did I have the extra funds to be a book to stick on the shelf and read at a time that was more applicable then when I was a single young man with a few part-time jobs. But low and behold, Ransomed Heart ministries was offering the first 200 copies to those who would review the book on their blog. I figured, I had a blog, it was worth a shot. Here is my end of the bargain!
Although I concluded the book approximately a month and a half ago, I am finally ready to give this review thing a GO. I am particularly excited to review the book for many reasons, but particularly because I have quoted the book many times over the last few days. Ever since I finished school, I have had a lot of extra time (normally spent doing homework) thinking about and pondering love and marriage in particular. It is interesting to first note the title. This is a marriage book, not a movie title or a lesson in battlefield relationships or a fictional drama; this is a marriage book. Yet the two seemingly contradictory words that make up the title are fitting, as the authors unveil over the course of the book. This is Love, in the romantic and relational sense, and yet it is a war, a battlefield, a great fight. Why do we so seldom see it this way?
I Love the intro to this book. The intro cuts from an actual wedding ceremony (with John performing the service) to the thoughts and ideas of onlookers and the narration of the authors. You are immediately captivated and you feel part of the story; and of course, you desire this for yourself, or rather, you enter yourself into the equation with your own "dearly beloved." I also enjoy how John and Stasi describe things in terms of the epic and extraordinary importance of the stories we all have and share, in this particular example, within the context of marriage. The story of marriage is that special.
Each chapter is wittingly titled, speaking on everything from a new roommate, to a shared adventure to, (gulp) even a chapter on sex! But each chapter does a good job summarizing the themes and presenting proof for said ideas in a Christian sense. I think the most important aspects covered include spiritual warfare and the importance of couples praying with one another, for these are often topics that are difficult to speak about and even more difficult to apply to couples lives.
The final chapter sums up the entire book well, and is aptly titled, "Learning to Love". This chapter is neat because much of the chapter is applicable to all of life. Is this not the aim of all? Yet learning to Love in a marriage sense is even more profound and delicate. The chapter speaks on choices, sacrifice, and forgiveness, and continually refers back to the reason and source for it all; to God. John and Stasi are so good at using quotes from others (C.S. Lewis and George MacDonald in particular) to bring home their point. They also include daily prayers on marriage and sexual healing which are particularly important in this capacity.
The only aspect of this book I did not care for was the details that we're shared. Sometimes both John and Stasi reveal a little too much in a relation to their own personal experience. hence the subtitle of "taboo topics". Some things must be revealed, but the depth of their details may take away from the actual message being presented. Real world examples are good, but sometimes a little too much just causes a whole lot of confusion for the reader.
All in all, this is the first marriage book I have read. But, having read a number of John and Stasi's books, I believe they have a good idea on the subjects they speak and they always remind us of the core of what we are searching for. In this case, we are looking for Love.
Then again, is that not what we are always seeking?
Love really is a war, yes, even Love in the romantic sense. But over and over it is confirmed, that it is worth it, and God is for it. May John and Stasi continue to be great vessels of that Love, of that co-mission- I just Hope I should be so blessed to have such an opportunity
"It does not come easy. Falling in Love is how God gives us a push in the right direction. But then we have to choose...
When we abandon ourselves to Love, we find ourselves closer to the one who is always doing that himself. We find ourselves closer to God." -John and Stasi Eldredge
Listen:
Brandon Heath- Love never Fails
Sunday, August 1, 2010
alex
I was in need of an adventure, in need of a break.
This week offers some alternatives to work (see conference) and a concert with some of my favorite people (and I am not even talking about the bands) before the bump and grind commences on Thursday... and I couldn't be more thrilled at the timing. Just a couple weeks left for my Americorps post!
So staying local but trying something completely new and intriguing was the theme of today. After skipping out on Fridays race due to an injury today was meant to be a get away into the woods and some light hiking to limber up and rest my tired body and mind. Sitting down after the days adventures, "rest" or "light" was no longer in the books as words to capture the day. But rather the day was summarized by "adventure" and "encounter". After speed hiking about a quarter of Kearsarge's hidden gem, the Lincoln trail, I spotted another hiker just above me on the ridge, moving slowly but confidently. Just as I caught up with him, we reached the top of this hill and the trail entered an exposed section with full sunlight. We exchanged greetings and shook hands and i quickly moved forward. But he was not in the rear-view. Oh no, rather he was was literally breathing on me and quickly asked if he could get by. After he moved by I quickened my pace and decided to follow. The encounter quickly turned to conversation, which led to questions, which further turned to the great tradition of hiker's sharing stories, sharing life;
and Alex, as I later found his name to be,
had stories, upon stories,
adventures, upon adventures.
This man had been places.
Among those mentioned were Warner, NH (of course), Argentina, Peru, Patagonia, Norway, and his current place of work, the Atlantic sea. That's right, Alex is a lobsterman. Tried and true, strong and adventurous.
All of a sudden, the quiet Sunday hike turned into something more.
A shared adventure,
a comparing of stories,
a companion for the ride.
After a conversation with another Colby-Sawyer friend at the top (Ricky), it was time to descend;
for myself back down Lincoln, for Alex, down the access road and over off into the dirt of one of NH's many class 6 roads and eventually back to the place where he would spend the night and prepare to go back out on the boat the following day.
This encounter has done more for my spirits and energy then I can even explain,
and it taught me a few important lessons that I believe to be universal to all-
That perhaps it is not about the speed or the distance, but rather the adventure itself,
That perhaps the work we do is only done to earn the means by which to pursue our true passions,
That perhaps each person's story, even our own, has the capacity to be marvelous and exhilarating,
That perhaps each one of us has a mission, a great task, and it likely involves helping another, perhaps some person or group of people that have otherwise been ignored...
So as for when we depart our homes in the morning, looking for a break and an adventure,
Let us leave with soft hearts and open minds,
for we never know who we'll meet, but,
you can rest assured,
that the craziness and seemingly random connections and correspondences along the journey of life are somehow weaved together to form extraordinary stories;
Would that we can share these stories often,
and play our part well.
"I watched the changes
(I watched the changes)
through your eyes
like a movie of my life"
Listen:
As Tall As Lions- "if I'm not out burning bridges, I'm buying more matches"
http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/200283828-001/The-Image-Bank
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