Thursday, December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas!!!




There are some themes at this time of year that I cherish. Don't mistake me. My spiritual beliefs are not focused on a man who lived long ago. But there are some threads that run through this season that are very meaningful to me. It is a good christmas when these things are brought into focus for me.

One theme that runs through the stories and traditions of christmas is that of light....the star of Bethlehem, candles, the lights that folk put in their yards that illuminate the countryside....there are strong images of light in dark places that is truly a message of hope -- a good thing to think about, both for the whole at large and for us each individual little folk...

Then there is giving. Notice I don't say GIFTS, I say giving. Because there are all sorts of ways to do that. Sometimes something tangible is what is required. But many times, the things you remember have more to do with giving something of spirit that touches another human in some special way....

Finally, there is music. The songs of the angels, the carols we sing....everywhere there is music, and it is all ok, as long as it is done with spirit!!!!

May you find peace in the giving, in the light and in the music of this season.....and a happy new year too!!!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

My Charlie Brown style Christmas Tree....


Meet The Harmonica Man

Mackie says, "I tell them music is a gift, you give it away - you give it away and you get to keep it forever."


This is a simply WONDERFUL story....to donate and learn more, the web site is http://www.andymackiemusic.org/

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Michael Hedges - Like a Rolling Stone

My friend Deb shares......Once I heard Michael give someone advice regarding "how to play guitar". He said (paraphrased), "Don't play guitar. Play MUSIC. Forget techniques and the wood and strings, and let yourself create music."

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Karen

Karen passed away last night. I spent the evening on Facebook, writing about things I remembered about her. Things like the popcorn and cranberry strings on her Christmas tree every year....her constant laughter....adventures on Warren Street...many parties and gatherings and weddings and such.

I will miss her. I hope she is at peace...no, i think i KNOW she is.

I did one more sing for her....Christmas carols on Sunday. She was weak, but smiling and trying to sing along with us. The time went too quickly and we had to leave. She sure did look like she had a good time. Christmas was one of her favorite times of year, she went 'all out' as her brother commented to me.

I will miss Karen. I love Karen. I will continue to walk the Garbage Trail in May. I will keep singing songs for her...

Tuesday, December 1, 2009