O God of all;
Creator of the universe.
I thank you for this day of life
And home and family.
Give me, Lord, this day - strength,
To see it through,
And knowledge to know what to do,
When life's trials beset me.
Make me Lord this day,
An instrument of your will.
Help me Lord to do and say that which
Is pleasing to You.
In all that I meet and do today, Lord,
Let me not bring harm or hard feelings
And let my efforts toward all
Radiate Your love, light and will.
Protect this day all who are in danger
or harm's way, dear Lord.
Bless the dying and bring them Lord
To a quiet and peaceful end of this life,
And open-wide for them the gates of that heavenly place
Where all of us long to be.
Bless the sick, and bestow your Peace and
Healing grace upon them dear Lord,
Comfort them in their affliction,
And if it be Your will Lord,
Restore them to a measure of health.
All this Lord, I ask in the name of your Son, our Saviour,
Jesus.
Amen
Monday, July 19, 2010
Skin Don't Matter - Effort Do!
White and black
Red and brown;
Yellow, too.
Colors only
Makes no difference
What the skin.
It's the result of the effort
That the person makes,
Which tell the measure of the man.
Made by God,
One and all
Each a value to Him,
A joy to his sight
Is each person,
Not his skin.
Red and brown;
Yellow, too.
Colors only
Makes no difference
What the skin.
It's the result of the effort
That the person makes,
Which tell the measure of the man.
Made by God,
One and all
Each a value to Him,
A joy to his sight
Is each person,
Not his skin.
Wasted Time
Time is like an ever moving stream
It carries all away.
Like a restless wave upon a shore,
Once there - is gone forevermore.
A day that is lost - a time that is wasted -
not shared or spent in joy,
Is a time that cannot be recovered,
And a life that is spent - is lost forever.
It carries all away.
Like a restless wave upon a shore,
Once there - is gone forevermore.
A day that is lost - a time that is wasted -
not shared or spent in joy,
Is a time that cannot be recovered,
And a life that is spent - is lost forever.
True Love
A love that is not given freely,
is no love at all.
A love that is wanting,
is a love that is wasted.
A love that has a price upon it,
cannot be returned.
A love that is freely shared and given,
is a love that will last forever.
is no love at all.
A love that is wanting,
is a love that is wasted.
A love that has a price upon it,
cannot be returned.
A love that is freely shared and given,
is a love that will last forever.
Solitude
From far out at sea
The errant wave begins
Pushed onward by a restless tide and wind.
Rushing head-long toward the shore
In a mad dash to find a home
On some lonely and distant place.
The sound of the wave
Crashing down upon the surf
Brings a constant and noisy roar
Only to summon another to repeat its chore.
Never-ending tide and wave
Crash constantly on the shore,
To make a symphony of sound
That lulls a nearby sun worshiper
Into a deep and restful sleep.
The errant wave begins
Pushed onward by a restless tide and wind.
Rushing head-long toward the shore
In a mad dash to find a home
On some lonely and distant place.
The sound of the wave
Crashing down upon the surf
Brings a constant and noisy roar
Only to summon another to repeat its chore.
Never-ending tide and wave
Crash constantly on the shore,
To make a symphony of sound
That lulls a nearby sun worshiper
Into a deep and restful sleep.
Day at the Beach
A trip to the beach at Gulf Shores, Alabama this past week spawned these thoughts and a lazy, relaxing time.
A clear sky dawned,
A hot summer breeze stirred;
And the tall sand grass swayed like majestic swans.
The heat of the day drove all from the beach,
Except a few hearty souls who strutted about,
And then sought cover under the umbrella's shade.
The water sparkled and then foamed
From the bright sun and the never-ending waves.
Eyes grew heavy from the heat and sun,
And soon closed to take a rest surrounded by
The rhythm of crashing waves.
A summer rest was here - and a lazy time was had -
While overhead sea gulls dove gracefully into the sea
In search of unsuspecting prey.
And upon the sand I lay,
watched the clouds float by,
And dreamed of faraway places,
And let life drift slowly by.
Life's Wave
White foam upon the surf
Crashing down upon the shore.
A crash of thunder peals the air,
A sound of a wave smashing upon the shore
And then followed by yet another encore.
The sea gods are angry today,
A wind blows from out at sea,
Pushing wave and tide even closer
and then sending them crashing to the shore.
High over head the sun is so bright,
Causing me to squint and shield my eyes,
From the glaring sight.
Life is like a restless wave,
Seeking a far distant shore
Upon which to find one's heart content.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Crisis Management
In life we learn a lot about a person when we see how they function in a crisis.
It has been said that in time of crisis, a leader will arise. George Washington is a good example, there are many more throughout our history.
In the current disaster relating to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico the lack of leadership demonstrated by our current President is appalling.
Did he cause the disaster? Certainly not.
Has he been able to assemble the necessary team to fix the problem? Not that we can discern.
It's said that Obama can give a great speech. There is a difference between a speech and talking. I would say that he is good at talking - John F. Kennedy could give a great speech. Both, I would suggest, were not accomplished at crisis management; though certainly Kennedy could be pointed out as doing somewhat a creditable job in the Cuban missile crisis. Obama has yet to reach the level of a good manager.
It all depends on who one surrounds themselves with. A good leader surrounds himself with the best and most competent in all fields - a small person usually brings in "yes" men and "boot lickers".
It can be said that Bobby Jindal, Louisiana's governor, has been trying. Has been coordinating and has shown leadership skills in this time of crisis. He showed it again during the hurricanes striking Louisiana in the past.
Confusion and inefficiency rein in the Gulf. Obama has failed thus far on his watch. The polls indicate the general public believe this to be so as well.
Will we survive this crisis? Probably so. But, not with the leadership that is so lacking today in Washington.
A crisis is not something anyone wants, looks for, or relishes.
But, in the time of a crisis it certainly separates the "men from the boys", and shows the true mettle of the individual - and proves who is a leader, and who is not.
America is waiting for its leader to arise - it hasn't happened yet.
It has been said that in time of crisis, a leader will arise. George Washington is a good example, there are many more throughout our history.
In the current disaster relating to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico the lack of leadership demonstrated by our current President is appalling.
Did he cause the disaster? Certainly not.
Has he been able to assemble the necessary team to fix the problem? Not that we can discern.
It's said that Obama can give a great speech. There is a difference between a speech and talking. I would say that he is good at talking - John F. Kennedy could give a great speech. Both, I would suggest, were not accomplished at crisis management; though certainly Kennedy could be pointed out as doing somewhat a creditable job in the Cuban missile crisis. Obama has yet to reach the level of a good manager.
It all depends on who one surrounds themselves with. A good leader surrounds himself with the best and most competent in all fields - a small person usually brings in "yes" men and "boot lickers".
It can be said that Bobby Jindal, Louisiana's governor, has been trying. Has been coordinating and has shown leadership skills in this time of crisis. He showed it again during the hurricanes striking Louisiana in the past.
Confusion and inefficiency rein in the Gulf. Obama has failed thus far on his watch. The polls indicate the general public believe this to be so as well.
Will we survive this crisis? Probably so. But, not with the leadership that is so lacking today in Washington.
A crisis is not something anyone wants, looks for, or relishes.
But, in the time of a crisis it certainly separates the "men from the boys", and shows the true mettle of the individual - and proves who is a leader, and who is not.
America is waiting for its leader to arise - it hasn't happened yet.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
The Storm and the Night
Lightning flashed across the darkened skies
The wind moaned loudly in a manner that made a soul shake
Rain beat down on plants and ground soon soaked
The world seemed to be coming to an end and I was wide awake.
What scary form awaited me in the dark of night
The house shook and all was a fright
The wind blew harder and in the dark
Strange forms seemed to grow out of every corner
Would this night never end?
And bring the rain and wind another way to send
Would I ever see the light of the sun?
A friendly face in an early morn.
A crash from a broken tree
Falling heavily to the ground
But not one that I could see
When was this night to end?
No stars in the sky could be seen
Only wind and rain smashing against my window pane
On the night seemed to drift
Making my soul to feel as though I was falling over some sightless cliff.
Slowly the storm seemed to drift on by
Wind and rain gave way to a more friendly sky.
Strange figures that seemed to long prevail
No longer taunted me as the wind lost its eerie wail.
The wind moaned loudly in a manner that made a soul shake
Rain beat down on plants and ground soon soaked
The world seemed to be coming to an end and I was wide awake.
What scary form awaited me in the dark of night
The house shook and all was a fright
The wind blew harder and in the dark
Strange forms seemed to grow out of every corner
Would this night never end?
And bring the rain and wind another way to send
Would I ever see the light of the sun?
A friendly face in an early morn.
A crash from a broken tree
Falling heavily to the ground
But not one that I could see
When was this night to end?
No stars in the sky could be seen
Only wind and rain smashing against my window pane
On the night seemed to drift
Making my soul to feel as though I was falling over some sightless cliff.
Slowly the storm seemed to drift on by
Wind and rain gave way to a more friendly sky.
Strange figures that seemed to long prevail
No longer taunted me as the wind lost its eerie wail.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
The Hunter and the Hunted
Night has fallen
dark and deep
creatures stir that had been asleep.
A light from passing cars flash into the dark
yellow eyes peer from the night
a scurrying movement catches the eye
then all is lost under the darken sky.
One of our furry friends goes on a hunt
looking for a meal
that is hiding in the nearby field.
Watching closely is another pair of eyes
seeking its prey
under that dark and cloudy sky.
The feline friend crouches low,
moving stealthily
eyes fixed
as an unsuspecting rodent scurries by
knowing that a meal is about to be served.
All the while in the dark of the night
another pair of eyes
gleaming yellow in the pass of the lights
watches as its meal is about to be had.
Silently without a sound
the pet approaches its prey
when out of the night the hunter
becomes the hunted
and dies in a most sudden way.
dark and deep
creatures stir that had been asleep.
A light from passing cars flash into the dark
yellow eyes peer from the night
a scurrying movement catches the eye
then all is lost under the darken sky.
One of our furry friends goes on a hunt
looking for a meal
that is hiding in the nearby field.
Watching closely is another pair of eyes
seeking its prey
under that dark and cloudy sky.
The feline friend crouches low,
moving stealthily
eyes fixed
as an unsuspecting rodent scurries by
knowing that a meal is about to be served.
All the while in the dark of the night
another pair of eyes
gleaming yellow in the pass of the lights
watches as its meal is about to be had.
Silently without a sound
the pet approaches its prey
when out of the night the hunter
becomes the hunted
and dies in a most sudden way.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
There is an Anger in this Land
There is an anger in this land
One that is not to hard to understand.
It comes from a lack of trust
Of those we elected to represent us.
This nation was created as one under God
It was built by workers of the sod,
People from all walks and faiths of life
Coming to a land free of strife.
From the humble beginnings of an early time
When a people who came with a yearning to be free
Throwing off the shackles of tyranny
Established a government elected to represent the many.
As time went on the government grew
Until it reached the point where it was run by a few.
Lost in time was the point of view
That the government is designed to keep the people free.
Full circle we are coming in this land that was free
To once more subjected to a form of tyranny.
Now that banner our forebears flew
Is again unfurled with its message for all to see:
“Don’t tread on me”.
One that is not to hard to understand.
It comes from a lack of trust
Of those we elected to represent us.
This nation was created as one under God
It was built by workers of the sod,
People from all walks and faiths of life
Coming to a land free of strife.
From the humble beginnings of an early time
When a people who came with a yearning to be free
Throwing off the shackles of tyranny
Established a government elected to represent the many.
As time went on the government grew
Until it reached the point where it was run by a few.
Lost in time was the point of view
That the government is designed to keep the people free.
Full circle we are coming in this land that was free
To once more subjected to a form of tyranny.
Now that banner our forebears flew
Is again unfurled with its message for all to see:
“Don’t tread on me”.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Lazy Day
The water was
dark and brown,
two turtles rested on a nearby log
soaking in the sun.
A large grey heron swooped lazily down
landing effortlessly
while looking around for a tasty morsel treat.
Overhead a squawking jay served as sentinel
to warn of my intrusion into its domain.
All I wanted was to sit and dip a line
into the cool brown pool.
Perhaps an unsuspecting fish would seek
the dangling worm on the end of my line.
Even if there were no takers
I wouldn't mind.
It just was a chance to visit
the calm and quiet of that dark and cool
pool as it just drifted by.
Thoughts of nothingness clouded an
otherwise empty mind.
It was just a lazy day,
warm and friendly sitting by that
dark and brown pool
with a drifting line.
Cares drifted away
like the white fluffy clouds high above.
So why spoil a beautiful day.
dark and brown,
two turtles rested on a nearby log
soaking in the sun.
A large grey heron swooped lazily down
landing effortlessly
while looking around for a tasty morsel treat.
Overhead a squawking jay served as sentinel
to warn of my intrusion into its domain.
All I wanted was to sit and dip a line
into the cool brown pool.
Perhaps an unsuspecting fish would seek
the dangling worm on the end of my line.
Even if there were no takers
I wouldn't mind.
It just was a chance to visit
the calm and quiet of that dark and cool
pool as it just drifted by.
Thoughts of nothingness clouded an
otherwise empty mind.
It was just a lazy day,
warm and friendly sitting by that
dark and brown pool
with a drifting line.
Cares drifted away
like the white fluffy clouds high above.
So why spoil a beautiful day.
Monday, March 29, 2010
The Slave
From a far away land he was brought in chains
In a dark hole of a black ship he was sold for gains.
His life belonged to another,
And to the highest bidder he was sold to his keeper’s brother.
He worked from first light to past the setting sun
And then did more until the work was done.
Six days a week, with rest on one
He toiled at hard labor under the scorch of the sun.
The crack of a whip
Brought no words from his lips
He just looked down
And worked without a sound.
For his labors he received not a cent,
He did and went where he was sent.
A crude shelter he called his home
Worn clothes were all that covered his bones.
Of family he was not allowed any
And friends, truly there were not very many.
When his life was ended in a rude bed he was laid,
And his worn body then placed in an unmarked grave.
In a dark hole of a black ship he was sold for gains.
His life belonged to another,
And to the highest bidder he was sold to his keeper’s brother.
He worked from first light to past the setting sun
And then did more until the work was done.
Six days a week, with rest on one
He toiled at hard labor under the scorch of the sun.
The crack of a whip
Brought no words from his lips
He just looked down
And worked without a sound.
For his labors he received not a cent,
He did and went where he was sent.
A crude shelter he called his home
Worn clothes were all that covered his bones.
Of family he was not allowed any
And friends, truly there were not very many.
When his life was ended in a rude bed he was laid,
And his worn body then placed in an unmarked grave.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
We Will Not Be Quiet!
Note: Written in response to the assertion by the elected officials in Washington that the citizens calling themselves Tea Partiers were a bunch of political radicals and crackpots.
They want the people to go away
To keep quiet
shhhh…. don’t say a word.
But…we’re not!
We the people elected them!
Why should we stay quiet?
This is our country!
We are the people!
We are the voters!
We own this country…not the elected officials!
So..why should we be quiet?
Why should we go away!
Who in the hell are those elected officials anyway!
Get out! Get out of my government! I don’t want you anymore!
“….when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security.” [Declaration of Independence]
They want the people to go away
To keep quiet
shhhh…. don’t say a word.
But…we’re not!
We the people elected them!
Why should we stay quiet?
This is our country!
We are the people!
We are the voters!
We own this country…not the elected officials!
So..why should we be quiet?
Why should we go away!
Who in the hell are those elected officials anyway!
Get out! Get out of my government! I don’t want you anymore!
“….when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security.” [Declaration of Independence]
Fading Memory
Things can come, things can go
With a mind that has become so slow,
I cannot keep a thought for long
As I continue to go along.
This river of time I find myself in
Just keeps on going and I can't remember when.
My thoughts stay jumbled and finally lost,
Will I not be able to have a mind on the mend?
Age and memory aren't much fun,
When that river of time keeps going and you have none.
A fading mind is like a day that is ending
All that's left is a thought that needs mending.
.....?? Nuts!!
With a mind that has become so slow,
I cannot keep a thought for long
As I continue to go along.
This river of time I find myself in
Just keeps on going and I can't remember when.
My thoughts stay jumbled and finally lost,
Will I not be able to have a mind on the mend?
Age and memory aren't much fun,
When that river of time keeps going and you have none.
A fading mind is like a day that is ending
All that's left is a thought that needs mending.
.....?? Nuts!!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Misty Rain
Misty rain is all I see
Misty rain all around me.
Lost in the storms of life somewhere
It's almost more than a soul can bear.
Time is an ever rolling thing,
Losing friends in a never ending game.
Lost forever in a world not the same,
Darken skies shedding its rain.
A veil of time like a sentinel stands
Waiting for the summons to enter its land.
Many a friend is lost to its call,
All will enter this misty wall.
Misty rain is all I see
Misty rain all around me.
Tell this story to all around
Friends depart and are not to be found.
Walk in a world dark and grey
Without old friends to light the way.
Misty rain is all I see
Misty rain all around me.
When in time a summons I hear
To my earthly cradle I go without fear.
There my old friends, with arms open wide,
Will lead me to the other side.
From that misty veil one cannot hide
All must enter to get to the other side.
A time of joy follows a day of tears
As friends are waiting to remove all our fears.
Misty rain all around me.
Lost in the storms of life somewhere
It's almost more than a soul can bear.
Time is an ever rolling thing,
Losing friends in a never ending game.
Lost forever in a world not the same,
Darken skies shedding its rain.
A veil of time like a sentinel stands
Waiting for the summons to enter its land.
Many a friend is lost to its call,
All will enter this misty wall.
Misty rain is all I see
Misty rain all around me.
Tell this story to all around
Friends depart and are not to be found.
Walk in a world dark and grey
Without old friends to light the way.
Misty rain is all I see
Misty rain all around me.
When in time a summons I hear
To my earthly cradle I go without fear.
There my old friends, with arms open wide,
Will lead me to the other side.
From that misty veil one cannot hide
All must enter to get to the other side.
A time of joy follows a day of tears
As friends are waiting to remove all our fears.
Monday, March 22, 2010
In the Arena
"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."
Theodore Roosevelt, "Citizenship in a Republic,"
Speech at the Sorbonne, Paris, April 23, 1910
Theodore Roosevelt, "Citizenship in a Republic,"
Speech at the Sorbonne, Paris, April 23, 1910
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Winter Blues
Brown and grey and sometimes green,
A smattering of color is seldom seen.
Dark and threatening is the day
But through it all shines forth an occasional ray.
Cold as ice, the wind blows strong
Cutting through coats and hats pulled down long.
The long days’ blues never seem to end
As I wait for the spring to begin.
Once in a while it seems to let up
But again comes the blast I never can get past.
A happier time I thought I had seen
Only to be forgotten with the loss of a little green.
The snow piles higher, the wind blows colder
And still the long days’ blues grow older.
Spring it seems will never arrive
No, not as long as the cold continues to thrive.
Brown and grey and sometimes green,
A smattering of color is seldom seen.
Dark and threatening is the day
But through it all shines forth an occasional ray.
Out on the lawn in the midst of it all
I looked to see what was searching for a nest.
A creature even lonelier than the sun,
It was a stranger with a red-breast.
Life and time do not stand still
There comes a change in all around
The days’ grow longer, the wind dies down
And with the warmth of the sun
Another season is done.
A smattering of color is seldom seen.
Dark and threatening is the day
But through it all shines forth an occasional ray.
Cold as ice, the wind blows strong
Cutting through coats and hats pulled down long.
The long days’ blues never seem to end
As I wait for the spring to begin.
Once in a while it seems to let up
But again comes the blast I never can get past.
A happier time I thought I had seen
Only to be forgotten with the loss of a little green.
The snow piles higher, the wind blows colder
And still the long days’ blues grow older.
Spring it seems will never arrive
No, not as long as the cold continues to thrive.
Brown and grey and sometimes green,
A smattering of color is seldom seen.
Dark and threatening is the day
But through it all shines forth an occasional ray.
Out on the lawn in the midst of it all
I looked to see what was searching for a nest.
A creature even lonelier than the sun,
It was a stranger with a red-breast.
Life and time do not stand still
There comes a change in all around
The days’ grow longer, the wind dies down
And with the warmth of the sun
Another season is done.
Friday, March 19, 2010
On The Wings of an Eagle
If I had the wings of an eagle
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
I can imagine all that our Creator does see
As He watches from heaven above,
Every creature, every thing that He has made,
Every beauty, each thing how he must love.
If I had the wings of an eagle
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
Can you imagine what it would feel like
To soar through the clouds way up above,
To kiss the edge of Heaven itself,
And feel the touch of God's own love.
Oh, if I had the wings of an eagle
How I could feel so free from earth beneath.
To soar to the very heights of the sky,
And enjoy the quiet of the clouds soaring by.
If I had the wings of an eagle
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
I can imagine all that our Creator does see
As He watches from heaven above,
Every creature, every thing that He has made,
Every beauty, each thing how he must love.
If I had the wings of an eagle
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
Can you imagine what it would feel like
To soar through the clouds way up above,
To kiss the edge of Heaven itself,
And feel the touch of God's own love.
Oh, if I had the wings of an eagle
How I could feel so free from earth beneath.
To soar to the very heights of the sky,
And enjoy the quiet of the clouds soaring by.
If I had the wings of an eagle
I would soar to the heights of the sky,
To look down on the beauty of life itself
And the marvels of creation from on high.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
There is a River Deep and Wide
Note: This was written following the funeral of a good friend
who passed away following a very long battle with cancer.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard,
And now I long just to see my Lord.
There is a time for everything in life we are told,
Work, and play and friends and all I've had.
But,all I have done is work to the bone,
Now I just want to go on home.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard
And now I long just to see my Lord.
Many a friend, foe and kin have all left this land
And now have taken their stand
On the banks of that river deep and wide.
Now I am left to stand alone
looking for a way to the other side.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard
And now I long just to see my Lord.
There is a glorious day coming
When I cross that river deep and wide
To take my stand on the other side.
For I have labored here long and hard
And then I will be with my beloved Lord.
who passed away following a very long battle with cancer.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard,
And now I long just to see my Lord.
There is a time for everything in life we are told,
Work, and play and friends and all I've had.
But,all I have done is work to the bone,
Now I just want to go on home.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard
And now I long just to see my Lord.
Many a friend, foe and kin have all left this land
And now have taken their stand
On the banks of that river deep and wide.
Now I am left to stand alone
looking for a way to the other side.
There is a river deep and wide
I am bound to find a way to the other side.
I have labored here long and hard
And now I long just to see my Lord.
There is a glorious day coming
When I cross that river deep and wide
To take my stand on the other side.
For I have labored here long and hard
And then I will be with my beloved Lord.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
There is a Grace in this Land
There is a Grace in this land
That comes from One who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But, a gift from the One whose voice is my command.
I walk through life as though a ghost,
Not knowing from one day to the next
Just what I am to do,
But, guided by One who knows that I am perplexed.
Faith and trust is the command,
I wait in hope of serving the Man,
And then a voice do I hear
Go and tell them who I AM.
Time and again I asked for His word
To let me hear in my time of fear.
In the dark I cried out,`Lord I hurt'.
Then I heard, `I'm here!'.
There is a Grace in this land
That comes from One who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But,a gift from One whose voice is my command.
Times of trouble and hurt I have seen,
By my efforts nothing could make me clean.
It was the Grace from He above,
Who saved this wretch with nothing but His Love.
There is a Grace in this land
That comes from one who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But,from a gift from One whose voice is my command.
That comes from One who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But, a gift from the One whose voice is my command.
I walk through life as though a ghost,
Not knowing from one day to the next
Just what I am to do,
But, guided by One who knows that I am perplexed.
Faith and trust is the command,
I wait in hope of serving the Man,
And then a voice do I hear
Go and tell them who I AM.
Time and again I asked for His word
To let me hear in my time of fear.
In the dark I cried out,`Lord I hurt'.
Then I heard, `I'm here!'.
There is a Grace in this land
That comes from One who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But,a gift from One whose voice is my command.
Times of trouble and hurt I have seen,
By my efforts nothing could make me clean.
It was the Grace from He above,
Who saved this wretch with nothing but His Love.
There is a Grace in this land
That comes from one who is close at hand.
Not from that which I can do,
But,from a gift from One whose voice is my command.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
I Heard a Voice in the Night-Time Calling
I heard a voice in the night-time calling
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling
It flowed about me as a gentle wind through the trees.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling
One that was as clear as a lark in the trees.
A sound that made me wonder,
If the call was coming on a far-off breeze.
My heart leapt at the sound
So gentle and yet so real.
It made me wonder if I was dreaming,
It all seemed just so surreal.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling,
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze,
I rose in the night, looked far and near,
And answering said, "I am here".
When a voice is heard in the night-time calling
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze.
When a voice is heard in the night-time calling
That it seems to flow as a gentle wind through the trees.
It is a voice calling each of us
A voice from far, yet so near.
It is the voice of the blessed one
Seeking - one to come here.
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling
It flowed about me as a gentle wind through the trees.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling
One that was as clear as a lark in the trees.
A sound that made me wonder,
If the call was coming on a far-off breeze.
My heart leapt at the sound
So gentle and yet so real.
It made me wonder if I was dreaming,
It all seemed just so surreal.
I heard a voice in the night-time calling,
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze,
I rose in the night, looked far and near,
And answering said, "I am here".
When a voice is heard in the night-time calling
As soft and gentle as a summer breeze.
When a voice is heard in the night-time calling
That it seems to flow as a gentle wind through the trees.
It is a voice calling each of us
A voice from far, yet so near.
It is the voice of the blessed one
Seeking - one to come here.
Searching
Like a restless wind that blows across our lives
Our souls search through doors only to find boundless sighs.
Always seeking, but not yet finding
Answers to questions that never stop hiding.
Many souls are always searching
Following the restless winds of life.
Like companions on a journey all seek to find
Unknown answers to questions that have no sign.
Not a stone unturned, not a road not traveled
Always looking as though with a common thread binding
This band of travelers seeking, but not finding.
A restless wind blows across our lives
Like the universe that never ends,
Searching, searching never growing weary
For the chase of an answer that life won't send,
Not too far, but yet so far, we run about
On a quest for life that has no end.
Quite a band of travelers are we
who seek to find, but yet cannot see.
Always searching, like a restless wind
Blowing across our lives
On another chase to send.
Who can be satisfied in a world of known
When there is so much to seek,
That is like the wind that has blown.
Always seeking, but not yet finding
Answers to questions that never stop hiding.
Dedicated to James Kavanaugh, whose writings of There are Men Too Gentle to Live Among Wolves gave me the inspiration to write this poem. I too am a searcher in life.
Our souls search through doors only to find boundless sighs.
Always seeking, but not yet finding
Answers to questions that never stop hiding.
Many souls are always searching
Following the restless winds of life.
Like companions on a journey all seek to find
Unknown answers to questions that have no sign.
Not a stone unturned, not a road not traveled
Always looking as though with a common thread binding
This band of travelers seeking, but not finding.
A restless wind blows across our lives
Like the universe that never ends,
Searching, searching never growing weary
For the chase of an answer that life won't send,
Not too far, but yet so far, we run about
On a quest for life that has no end.
Quite a band of travelers are we
who seek to find, but yet cannot see.
Always searching, like a restless wind
Blowing across our lives
On another chase to send.
Who can be satisfied in a world of known
When there is so much to seek,
That is like the wind that has blown.
Always seeking, but not yet finding
Answers to questions that never stop hiding.
Dedicated to James Kavanaugh, whose writings of There are Men Too Gentle to Live Among Wolves gave me the inspiration to write this poem. I too am a searcher in life.
Friday, March 12, 2010
A New Day Given
With the setting of the sun
Another day has been won
Deep purple and red skies blend together
Mark the memories of another day forever.
Once a long, long time ago
My days seemed so dark and forlorn
But then I realized that with the passage of each
I had but to listen to the words of a sage
With words that had been handed down through the age,
That from the beauty of the setting sun
Came the anticipation of the glorious sun-rise of another one.
Time can heal all wounds of pride and heart
Each day can bring bright rays of joy for a new start.
The beauty of the setting sun
Reminds me of another day being won.
How I love to see each day that I’m given
To know that I have striven
To bring to my heart a joy of a life lived
And the anticipation of the sun-rise of a new day given.
Another day has been won
Deep purple and red skies blend together
Mark the memories of another day forever.
Once a long, long time ago
My days seemed so dark and forlorn
But then I realized that with the passage of each
I had but to listen to the words of a sage
With words that had been handed down through the age,
That from the beauty of the setting sun
Came the anticipation of the glorious sun-rise of another one.
Time can heal all wounds of pride and heart
Each day can bring bright rays of joy for a new start.
The beauty of the setting sun
Reminds me of another day being won.
How I love to see each day that I’m given
To know that I have striven
To bring to my heart a joy of a life lived
And the anticipation of the sun-rise of a new day given.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Night Reflections
I was not able to sleep tonight and started thinking, which is always disastrous for me. I remembered attending a funeral of a friend some time back and the minister at the service told of his love for the 23rd Psalm. However, he said that for it to have greater meaning he said it in the first person - as though God was speaking directly to him.
I thought about that a lot, so I re-wrote the Psalm as he suggested, putting emphasis on the first person wording - and it truly did have for me, greater meaning.
See what you think.
Psalm 23
[God speaking directly to me]
“I am your shepherd,
and I will not let you be in want.
I will make you to lie down in green pastures,
I will lead you beside the still waters.
I will restore your soul,
and I will lead you in the paths of righteousness for My
Name’s sake.
Yea, though you will walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
you need fear no evil;
for I will be with you,
My rod and My staff will comfort you.
I will prepare a table before you in the presence of your enemies;
I will anoint your head with oil;
and make your cup to run over.
And My goodness and My mercy shall follow you all the days of your life,
and you shall dwell in My house for ever.”
I thought about that a lot, so I re-wrote the Psalm as he suggested, putting emphasis on the first person wording - and it truly did have for me, greater meaning.
See what you think.
Psalm 23
[God speaking directly to me]
“I am your shepherd,
and I will not let you be in want.
I will make you to lie down in green pastures,
I will lead you beside the still waters.
I will restore your soul,
and I will lead you in the paths of righteousness for My
Name’s sake.
Yea, though you will walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
you need fear no evil;
for I will be with you,
My rod and My staff will comfort you.
I will prepare a table before you in the presence of your enemies;
I will anoint your head with oil;
and make your cup to run over.
And My goodness and My mercy shall follow you all the days of your life,
and you shall dwell in My house for ever.”
Friday, February 19, 2010
Book Reviews
This is something a little new to me, writing reviews of some of the books I have read. I was asked to do so, by someone who knew how much I liked to read - and my enjoyment of good books. I hope my comments are not too boring or offensive.
Review of the book: Life of Washington by Anna C. Reed
This book was originally published in 1842 and is now being re-printed by the New Leaf Publishing Group for Attic Books.
The British spellings and formatting of the text have been retained in their original form in the re-publishing in order to maintain the historical content of that writing.
It is a somewhat small book in physical size with very good paper texture allowing for an easy reading of the printed material. The feel of the book, given the original spellings and formatting, is as though one is reading the original 168 year old copy.
The book is very well written, with the author obviously having access to a great deal of factual material dealing with not only the life of George Washington, but the military battles of the Revolutionary War, and the Continental Congress. The author was a niece of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, so it is only logical that through that source her material would be available.
The book reads very fast. It is some 290 pages long, and I completed it in 4 nights of reading.
Totally fascinating, it gives an insight into not only the life of our first President, but his view of life itself. A man given to great moral and religious thoughts - all of which guided his life from his earliest days until his death.
This book should be a required reading for all school age children. It should a required reading for any one qualifying for elected political office - up to and including the President of the United States.
It speaks clearly of the arrogance of power of some in high positions - giving those individuals a lesson in how prepare and conduct oneself in life and office.
It is a primer for life - and for public service. The examples set by George Washington - his faith and character are truly an example for all to try and emulate.
Today our faith and the practice of religion are for most - hidden. In Washington's time both were expressed freely and honestly. It is what carried both them and this country through a terrible ordeal to emerge as free men and an independent nation.
The book dealt with all aspects of Washington's life - his view of life, the offices he held, his trials in battle, his approach to a religious life and sustained him at the point of death itself. He talked to God in secret and his God led him safely through all of his life.
With a life clearly depicted in the book - Washington was elected unanimously to the office of President, and then re-elected unanimously - a feat that will never occur in the history of this nation again. He was offered a title of "king" and rejected it out of hand - something in today's world others might not do.
This is truly an amazing book, worthy of being read by young and old alike, a true primer for life - a life depicted by moral character and an expression of one's faith in God. It is a statement of what should be our nation's motto: "In God We Trust".
I rate this a 5 star book.
***************
Deadly Disclosures, a truly suspense filled mystery, written exceedingly well by Julie Cave.
Intrigue, suspense, multiple plots; all interwoven very well within a powerful story about the extreme efforts of a secret group espousing evolution over creationism.
The author skillfully developed the primary mystery plot with that of the leading character, Dinah Harris, an agent of the FBI who was investigating the crimes committed while at the same time suffering from deep depression in her own life resulting from a family tragedy and involving an abuse of alcohol culminating in her struggles to find and free herself..
The story line is well developed moving quickly along until the climax at the very end providing the reader with an unusual twist.
A book well worth reading, it flows quickly and well.
Truly a 5 star book – the first in a trilogy of stories presenting the reader with the excitement of anticipating the ones to follow.
Review of the book: Life of Washington by Anna C. Reed
This book was originally published in 1842 and is now being re-printed by the New Leaf Publishing Group for Attic Books.
The British spellings and formatting of the text have been retained in their original form in the re-publishing in order to maintain the historical content of that writing.
It is a somewhat small book in physical size with very good paper texture allowing for an easy reading of the printed material. The feel of the book, given the original spellings and formatting, is as though one is reading the original 168 year old copy.
The book is very well written, with the author obviously having access to a great deal of factual material dealing with not only the life of George Washington, but the military battles of the Revolutionary War, and the Continental Congress. The author was a niece of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, so it is only logical that through that source her material would be available.
The book reads very fast. It is some 290 pages long, and I completed it in 4 nights of reading.
Totally fascinating, it gives an insight into not only the life of our first President, but his view of life itself. A man given to great moral and religious thoughts - all of which guided his life from his earliest days until his death.
This book should be a required reading for all school age children. It should a required reading for any one qualifying for elected political office - up to and including the President of the United States.
It speaks clearly of the arrogance of power of some in high positions - giving those individuals a lesson in how prepare and conduct oneself in life and office.
It is a primer for life - and for public service. The examples set by George Washington - his faith and character are truly an example for all to try and emulate.
Today our faith and the practice of religion are for most - hidden. In Washington's time both were expressed freely and honestly. It is what carried both them and this country through a terrible ordeal to emerge as free men and an independent nation.
The book dealt with all aspects of Washington's life - his view of life, the offices he held, his trials in battle, his approach to a religious life and sustained him at the point of death itself. He talked to God in secret and his God led him safely through all of his life.
With a life clearly depicted in the book - Washington was elected unanimously to the office of President, and then re-elected unanimously - a feat that will never occur in the history of this nation again. He was offered a title of "king" and rejected it out of hand - something in today's world others might not do.
This is truly an amazing book, worthy of being read by young and old alike, a true primer for life - a life depicted by moral character and an expression of one's faith in God. It is a statement of what should be our nation's motto: "In God We Trust".
I rate this a 5 star book.
***************
Deadly Disclosures, a truly suspense filled mystery, written exceedingly well by Julie Cave.
Intrigue, suspense, multiple plots; all interwoven very well within a powerful story about the extreme efforts of a secret group espousing evolution over creationism.
The author skillfully developed the primary mystery plot with that of the leading character, Dinah Harris, an agent of the FBI who was investigating the crimes committed while at the same time suffering from deep depression in her own life resulting from a family tragedy and involving an abuse of alcohol culminating in her struggles to find and free herself..
The story line is well developed moving quickly along until the climax at the very end providing the reader with an unusual twist.
A book well worth reading, it flows quickly and well.
Truly a 5 star book – the first in a trilogy of stories presenting the reader with the excitement of anticipating the ones to follow.
Friday, January 22, 2010
A History - 150 years of Service - Trinity Episcopal Church, Cheneyville, Louisiana
For over 150 years people in the southern portion of Rapides Parish in Louisiana near the town of Cheneyville, LA have been going down to the Bayou Boeuf to worship at the Little Church on the Bayou - Trinity Episcopal Church.
A little church on the banks of the bayou where people of the area have worshipped continously in the same building - the oldest church building in continuous use in south Rapides Parish
The little church has seen good times and hard times, but still the church perseveres.
Shown at left is the original 1860 picture of Trinity Episcopal Church in Cheneyville.
Begun as a misson of St. James Episcopal Church, Alexandria, LA in 1856 it soon decided to organize as a parish on April 25, 1859.
But, before there was a church building, there was a cemetery.
The earliest presently marked grave is that of a young child, Josephine Ellen Johnson,[shown at left] who died in 1835 at the age of 19 months, 4 days. Certainly this child was not the first to be buried in Trinity cemetery; but the grave pre-dates the construction of the church building itself by more than 25 years. The cemetery was surely a major reason for the location of the construction of the church.
A number of prominent persons of the south Rapides Parish area are buried at Trinity. Among whom are: members of the pioneer Tanner, Pearce and Robert families; Mary McCoy, who was written about in the Solomon Northrup "Twelve Years a Slave" autobiography; Ralph Smith Smith, who built the first railroad west of the Mississippi River [1837], and veterans of the Civil War and political figures of times past.
Grave of Ralph Smith Smith [Shown at left] builder of first railroad west of the Mississippi, built in 1837 until destroyed by Union soldiers in 1864.
[Ralph Smith Smith picture shown below]
In 1856 a rectory was built on the rear of the cemetery site. In April 1859 the members of Trinity decided to organize the church as a parish, and a congregational meeting was held and a vestry and wardens elected.
General Montford Wells [shown at left] was elected as the first senior warden, together with Dr. Samuel Slaughter as co-warden.
General Wells' family was known for earlier being associated with the famous "Sandbar Duel" in which family friend Jim Bowie developed the fame of his "bowie knife" Also, Gen. Wells and his brother, Thomas Jefferson Wells, were owners of the famous racehorse of the day, Lecomte; but, this is another story for another day.
Money was subscribed for the building of the church in March 1860 with the request that construction be completed by November 1860. The construction was turned over to O. W. Bislies; with Major William Henry Chase serving as architect.
Construction began immediately with labor from the plantations - the slaves of the time being provided, under the supervision of Mr. Bislies. Materials for construction came from the surrounding woods of heart pine, oak and cypress; together with hand-made brick.
The cornerstone was laid on June 14, 1860. Though the stone itself has apparently been hidden by a later stucco covering of the church; records indicate that a time capsule type of box was included in the cornerstone in which were placed: a Bible, a Book of Common Prayer, a journal of the convention of the Diocese of Louisiana of 1860, a copy of the church Intelligence of the Red River Republican and the Louisiana Democrat [newspapers of the day]with the names of the Rector and Wardens and vestrymen of the church.
Construction was completed in November 1860 at a cost of over $6,000. It is a substantial brick building with 3 courses of hand-made brick. Gothic in order, with a well apportioned tower, its length is seventy-five feet, including the tower and thirty feet wide; the chancel is recessed, measuring fifteen by fourteen feet. The seating capacity is for 170 persons; including a gallery in which household slaves of some of the members attended as well.
The first service was held on January 1, 1861.
On April 7, 1861, the 2nd Sunday after Easter, records reflect that Bishop Leonidas Polk, 1st Bishop of the Diocese of Louisiana, consecrated the church to the service of Almighty God.
Interestingly, Trinity is probably the last church so consecrated by Bishop Polk as on June 25, 1861 he resigned as bishop to accept an appointment as a major-general in the Confederate Army. He became known as the "fighting bishop", and was killed at the battle of Pine Mountain, Georgia on June 14, 1864, barely 3 years from the date he consecrated Trinity Church. Fort Polk in Louisiana is named for him as well.
Today, Trinity Church is one of 12 examples of mid-19th century Gothic Revival architecture in Louisiana. It is the only church of its architectural type in Rapides Parish.
The glass in the windows of the church came from England and are of a type that are no longer available to us. The rose colored glass is not stained, but rather painted with a technology that we have not been able to duplicate. The edging around the rose windows indicating the Trinity motif is not painted on, but rather is etched into the glass.
The dominating symbolism in the church is that of the Holy Trinity. The clover-leaf motif is used in the dual rose shades in the border of the windows, in the ends of the pews, in the ornaments of the Bishop's chair, and on the chancel rail at the altar.
The windows are hinged to swing out, and when opened provide wonderful air-flow within the church. On a spring morning one can hear the sound of the doves in the trees nearby, a neighbor's dog barking and a tractor passing on the road in front all while in worship.
The stained glass window over the altar replaced a plain glass window, and was provided by Robert Munson and Roy Linzay in the 1950's by the gift of a bale of cotton from each to purchase the window.
In the mornings the rising sun casts a beautiful reflection of soft green and pink hues on the wall of sanctuary adding to the beauty of the worship service.
The chandeliers are the original kerosene latterns which were re-fitted for electricity in 1951.
Water and butane gas were piped to the church that same year - the butane replacing a wood burning stove in the rear of the nave of the church to provide for heating. Violet Hardtner, whose father was the pioneer lumberman, Henry Hartdner, used to tell a story when she visited Trinity and her maid opened the wood stove, found a snake curled up in it - which she quickly dispatched to another place.
The pews are the orignal hand-made by the slaves. The wood grain in the pews was achieved by running a comb through the wet varnish. Attached to the bottom of the pews can be seen a "modesty board [or ankle-hider]which was so placed in order to hide the ankles of the ladies attending services.
The baptismal font was a gift from the family of General Leroy A. Stafford, C.S.A. General Stafford was a Cheneyville resident in the Confederate Army at the time. His young daughter was dying and his wife wanted the child baptized. They, at the time were members of another denomination which did not baptize persons until they reached the age of consent. Mrs. Stafford turned to the priest at Trinity, who agreed to baptize the child. The child subsequently died, and in memory of their daughter, General and Mrs. Stafford gave the font to Trinity.
[General Leroy A. Stafford, C.S.A.]
During a later restoration work it took 6 members of the local volunteer fire department to move the font, as it was so heavy.
Above the vestibule [narthex] of the church, is a gallery where the household servants sat while attending services.
The register of the church notates a number of instances in which slaves were baptized and married by the rector of the church. On one occasion on February 22, 1863 [the first Sunday in Lent] the register lists 52 children being baptized at Chase Land Plantation [located behind what is now the old sugar mill at Meeker, LA]. They are recorded by first name only, and in the section in the register where the parents name is recorded "parent" is lined out and "owner" is recorded. In the section where "sponsor" is recorded, "sponsor" is lined out and the "parent" is added. Such were the times.
[Register indicating baptisms of children]
Bullet holes [now plugged up] in the front door were made by Union Army soldiers. The story is told that the Confederate soldiers were in the tower of the church while the Union soldiers were across the bayou and in the exchange of gunfire, bullets hit the front of the church. The stucco covering has since covered those in the brick of the church.
Entries in the register of the church indicate that in June 1864 burial services were conducted for two Union and two Confederate soldiers - none of whom are buried at Trinity cemetery. Apparently there was a running gun battle in the town beginning at Trinity, with 2 Union troops buried at the Christian cemetery adjacent to Trinity and the Confederate troops buried in the Old Cheneyville cemetery located in the town.
Original altar vessels and plates made of Britannia metal are still at the church along with an old Bible used originally in the services.
The bell in the tower came from the Norton-Robert Plantation.
In 1864 the rectory of the church burned in a fire set accidentally by a young child.
The church was struck by lightning in 1868 and the bell tower and a wall were severely damaged and had to be re-built. A feat considered remarkable considering the economic and physical state of the area at the time following the Civil War, which had only recently ended.
The church went through a period of decline, with a series of deterioration occurring over the years. In 1980 - 120 years following the construction of the church - the first major work to be performed on the church was begun on restoring the exterior of the church, with additional work following on the interior; carefully retaining all of the original features. A total of $102,000.00 was raised for this effort.
Trinity Church and the cemetery are on the National Register of Historic Places in the United States, having been included in that historic register in October 1980.
In 2001 work was begun on another restoration of Trinity - 20 years after the first work performed on the church. Following two years of efforts and the support of many "friends of Trinity", a total of $305,000.00 was raised. Work on the exterior -as well as the interior - was begun in 2003 and completed in 2004.
Trinity has never been a large church - and in all probability never will - but, while showing many faces to its building, people have still come to the little church on the bayou to pray and worship continuously for over 150 years.
[Trinity - about 1960]
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