Do you remember the story of Dr. Dolittle? If you do, you likely also remember the Pushmi-pullyu - a sort of two-headed llama who was never sure what direction to take. How like all of us as we try to figure out our lives. What's the best path? I'd like to, but... Stay or go?
Decisions...decisions...decisions.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Black Dog
Winston Churchill called it the black dog in the corner - that sudden dark mood that springs out of nowhere and overtakes one's world. I think he said it well, certainly describing the experience better than the sterile scientific term: clinical depression.
The scientific approach sounds so cold - as though emotional pain is just a condition to be addressed analytically and coolly. But those of us who struggle with the black dog know that it takes some whispering, some empathy, some understanding to overcome the darkness. Bless the listeners of the world for their willingness to do just that.
The scientific approach sounds so cold - as though emotional pain is just a condition to be addressed analytically and coolly. But those of us who struggle with the black dog know that it takes some whispering, some empathy, some understanding to overcome the darkness. Bless the listeners of the world for their willingness to do just that.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Looking Back - And Moving On
We attended a 30th anniversary party last night - but rather than honoring two people, this party honored hundreds. The celebration marked the 30th year that the UNC-Greensboro Summer Music Camp has operated. The brainchild of Dr. John Locke, the camp has enriched the lives of 57,000+ young musicians over the years and last night was a celebration of that mission.
Fred was a part of this effort from the outset, and last night he and 37 others were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their contributions. What a wonderful gesture - and well deserved. It warmed my heart to see all the recipients honored in this way - and struck me as particularly meaningful for Fred just as he's transitioning from ministry back to music.
And in the midst of all the plaudits and success stories came the memory of the very early years, when a few of us met for pizza and beer after sessions. What wonderful times - and their memory was enriched by encountering so many of Fred's former students - now successful, committed teachers. They continue to pass on the love of music and others, a legacy passed on from their own teachers. I am so grateful for their efforts, which add richness and meaning to the lives of our children - and so to us all.
Fred was a part of this effort from the outset, and last night he and 37 others were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their contributions. What a wonderful gesture - and well deserved. It warmed my heart to see all the recipients honored in this way - and struck me as particularly meaningful for Fred just as he's transitioning from ministry back to music.
And in the midst of all the plaudits and success stories came the memory of the very early years, when a few of us met for pizza and beer after sessions. What wonderful times - and their memory was enriched by encountering so many of Fred's former students - now successful, committed teachers. They continue to pass on the love of music and others, a legacy passed on from their own teachers. I am so grateful for their efforts, which add richness and meaning to the lives of our children - and so to us all.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Relief
After nearly two weeks of unrelenting heat, we heard thunder last night. However that sound has been a part of the daily routine for the entire heat wave - often with a total absence of rain, occasionally with a drop or two, once with a sprinkle that did nothing but add to the humidity. Our lawn and gardens lay gasping, baking in the relentless heat and light.
But last night was different; the thunder rolled through gently and rain began to fall. And fall. And fall. This morning we found 1 3/4 inches in the rain gauge, temperatures in the low 70's, and a garden that seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Thank you, God, for lovely, renewing, restorative rain.
But last night was different; the thunder rolled through gently and rain began to fall. And fall. And fall. This morning we found 1 3/4 inches in the rain gauge, temperatures in the low 70's, and a garden that seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Thank you, God, for lovely, renewing, restorative rain.
Friday, July 6, 2012
Dog Days
After a full week of temperatures in the 90s and above, I can only say I wouldn't wish these days on any dog, anywhere, any time. Who can continue to deny the possibility of global warming? Oh, right. The North Carolina legislature; they have chosen to ignore warnings of higher sea levels in coastal planning regulations. On the other hand, anyone who builds a home on shifting sand should expect to encounter a problem or two. And those folks shouldn't depend on the legislature to protect them from their own short-sightedness. Nor should they rely on FEMA to bail them out when the inevitable occurs.
I am reminded of a friend who retired from the ministry 20 years ago and built his home on two lots of sand:-) He and his wife eventually tired of evacuating before the yearly hurricanes and moved inland.
All of these rumination add to my continuing amazement at our human ability to perform mental gyrations that allow us to see the world we wish to see. Is that a strength or a weakness?
I am reminded of a friend who retired from the ministry 20 years ago and built his home on two lots of sand:-) He and his wife eventually tired of evacuating before the yearly hurricanes and moved inland.
All of these rumination add to my continuing amazement at our human ability to perform mental gyrations that allow us to see the world we wish to see. Is that a strength or a weakness?
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