The giving "clause"...

This weekend...I saw sincere giving and love...passed from some wonderful people to the women of the shelter and their children. It was humbling for me. Observing so much genuine love and kindness can't be described. But in its presence it is received and felt... A blessing to say the very least.

such a "pretty place" to be in

My life is busy. Busy of me. My desires. My wants. My needs. My goals. My problems. And sometimes, I forget to take note of the world around me...and the other people living in it. This past weekend...I was able to stop, many times and take note of the people who roam this land with me. And to absorb and marvel at their beauty.

Viewing each person as neither good nor bad, but as honest...as true pieces of art skillfully crafted by a divine painter. I found myself thinking that the flaws seemed to be the most perfect and endearing part of each "painting" (person). Though their stories were abstract and their intentions unclear...I knew they were not without purpose. I loved each one for it's uniqueness but my vision was and is still so limited.

And though I appreciated each of the works of art (each person) as they were, with their vibrant colors, splendid shapes and amazing textures...I knew their artist, their painter, their creator loved them immeasurably more than I could imagine. Because indeed they are a reflection of Him...His passion. His soul. His heart. His hope. His love. His beauty. His art.

"We can only see a little of the ocean Just a few miles distant from the rocky shore: But out there--far beyond our eyes horizon, There's more--immeasurably more. We can only see a little of God's loving--a few rich treasures from His mighty store; But out there--far beyond our eyes horizon, There's more--immeasurably more." --Author Unknown (just the way I like it)

when it rains it pours...

As it continues to pour outside forming a baby lake and several major rivers with tributaries running to my front door, I begin to wonder when I should begin building a raft. Perhaps another ark is in order.

How often do we let ourselves tread water to the point of panic before we reach for the life vest that has been right next to us all along. Sometimes we do things just to prove we can, sometimes we sink just to show we can swim. It takes strength to stay afloat at times, but it only takes a little wisdom to realize you can't always rely solely on yourself. It's not necessarily "weak" to use the flotation (historical spelling: floatation) devices on hand, sometimes it's intelligent.

(Poster in one of the high schools I visited)

Simply thankful for simple thank yous.

Some students at one of my high schools gave me some thank you cards. And it made me smile. And smile. And smile. :)

"The beauty of what is exchanged with a few small, kind words is truly underestimated..."

wisdom from my sister.

Watch out for people who try to dazzle you with big words and intellectual double-talk. They want to drag you off into endless arguments that never amount to anything. They spread their ideas through the empty traditions of human beings and the empty superstitions of spirit beings. But that's not the way of Christ. Everything of God gets expressed in him, so you can see and hear him clearly. You don't need a telescope, a microscope, or a horoscope to realize the fullness of Christ, and the emptiness of the universe without him. When you come to him, that fullness comes together for you, too. His power extends over everything. (Colossians 2:8, The Message)

... ... ...

don't let life pass you by. look out every window. open every door.

and if you have time go to nyc. :P

Falling into fall...

I haven't been doing the best job at keeping up with this blog lately. Between moving into a new apartment, switching jobs, football season, road trips and contra dancing...I've barely been able to breathe.

But I've been learning...learning a lot about who I am...who He made me to be. And it's humbling.

I wish I could document every amazing moment from the shelter (the domestic violence shelter that houses women and children who are victims of abuse that I work for). Or every observation I've made from the girls I help lead at church. But alas, I barely have time to wash my dishes and fold my clothes. So, for now I will have to shove all these experiences into clear, short points:

* I am blessed. I am fortunate. And I am lucky that I was raised in a home where I was loved and taught my worth and value. Others are not so lucky. This breaks my heart.

* We make many excuses for a multitude of reasons...when we fear something/someone. when we want to be selfish. when we are uninterested. when we want to feel better about who we are and what we choose to do with our time and the time of others. we make excuses...because we know we are disappointing at times...excuses are our way of coping with our view of failure. or our intentions to fail. our suspicions of failure.

I hope everyone is doing well, and enjoying the breeze of fall and the beauty of the autumn leaves.

He comes first...

iamsecond.com

pick a person. watch. be humbled. get inspired.

i enjoyed watching brian welch, ex-band member of korn.

the thanks is for the thanker

"In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich."

-Dietrich Bonhoeffer

(Sketches for a "thank you" project that was made for some mountain friends.)

Practice often the art of saying thank you...even if the art is less than inspiring.

Guess that image...

Started a new job with the non-profit Safe Harbor, a women's shelter for victims of domestic violence. Awesome stuff to share. More to follow, plus stories of the nomad from Asheville, the rescued duck, and the day I moved into a one bedroom. Check back soon. Hope everyone is doing well! Much love from me.

not fire, not ice...

So this past week's lesson for my wonderful 4th and 5th grade church ladies was about "only God being worth of our worship." And I found myself speaking outloud to 10 and 11 year old eager faces, but the real listener was my own sinful heart. I spend more of my time on TV, food, friendships, and music that please my own selfish soul than I do on praising and acknowledging God.

In order to serve another, you must be selfless. Often to show love, you must be selfless. Going out of your way to show love, praise, affections, and admirations to another...often involves a moment or moments of selflessness. So, today as I played pandora through my earphones at work..Ben Harper's "Not fire, Not ice" became more than a song to please my selfish soul, it became a song of worship. A song of love and selflessness (even if for just a moment) to my God.

self·less: Having, exhibiting, or motivated by no concern for oneself

NOT FIRE, NOT ICE (ben harper)
There is not a river wide
Not a mountain high
And neither sin nor evil
Could change how I feel inside
Could change how I feel inside
Not all the strength of the ocean
Not all the heat from the sun, from the sun
Now, others have tried, I just can't deny
To me you are the one
To me you are the one
The true love is priceless
For true love you pay a price
But there's nothing can keep me from loving you
Not fire no not ice
Not fire no not ice
Like a hero or a champion
You are the best, you're the best
Like religion or superstition
With you I am blessed
With you I am blessed
Now the river may grow wider
The mountain may reach past the sky
But my love shall never die
My love shall never die
The true love you give and take
The true love is sacrifice
But there's nothing can keep me from loving you
Not fire no not ice
Not fire no not ice

to trade or not to trade.

Ok, so I've had quite a lot going on lately. Although I love staying busy, working 6 days a week can get tiring...and I've relocated to a new "temp" home...where we do not have internet. So, working on blogs at night when I used to read and write...just hasn't happened. I'm still reading though...and part of my current job even requires that I gather and read pastor devotionals for my weekly paper. It's been a huge blessing and I feel like they general speak to my soul and uncover some of the sin in my own life...and through prayer and conviction, draw me closer to Christ. I've had some amazing talks with people lately...that I hope I can write about soon when I have more time.

(Reminder to myself: David, Mr. Beard with no Beard, and more).

I look forward to writing some of my own thoughts down soon...But for now I will have to borrow from a pastor devotional. It's a good one though.

"Is your relationship with Jesus something your friends, co-workers or neighbors would be willing to trade for? We always say that as Christians we want to live in such a way that people will see something different in us. I fear that one of the reasons why unbelievers are not attracted to Christianity is because they don’t see the point of giving up what they have for what we have to offer. Unfortunately most unbelievers see Christians as inward looking, outward condemning, know-it-all, holier than thou, judgmental, “come to my church” type people. Instead of seeing Christ-like, generous, hard-working, unselfish, forgiving and hearts breaking for those who do not know Jesus type people. And we wonder why more people don’t go to church?

I pray that our lives and our churches will be a light for others. Not one that is so bright that it is repelling, not a light that only shines in a church building so no one in the world can see it, but a genuine, beautiful light that helps lead people to Jesus." (Written by Pastor Dan Atkins at Discover Church)

"if we had ONLY a tinge of the sense of revulsion that God feels toward sin, we would be moved toward HOLIER living..." (from Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster)

...forgive in order to grow...

Even if I'm the only one who reads this, I wish I could be more consistent with it. But having two jobs (working over 50 hours a week) has left little to no time for me to do anything, but pack my lunch and sleep. However, I'm learning a lot about God through people at both jobs. Just watching. Observing. Seeing myself in others. And often seeing something in others I'd like to see in myself.

God has more than equipped me for the road ahead: I've been blessed with a loving and supportive family. A mother who is beyond amazing and supports me in all my foolish endeavors. And the ones she does not support, she acknowledges with love and compassion (and perhaps an occassional touch of frustration). My sister is a rock...solid in her role as a wife and a mother, and as a listener...(even with two screaming kids in the background). I appreciate her patience and often pray more of it upon her. My brother is a true blessing...a nurturing friend with a gentle spirit...he has my mother's heart with my father's wisdom...my mother's rationale with my father's understanding. (I could say so much more about the three of them. And that's not even including my sister-in-law whom I admire for her ability to make the people that she loves a priority, for her fearlessness, and for her determination to bring peace to all situations. Not to mention her fashion sense. My grandma...the most humble woman I have ever met...with the smile and innocence of a saint. Her love is unconditional, but from her lips pour Truth. She is so full of grace. My brother-in-law, a provider, a protector, and one of the most even-keeled people I know (especially in our family). And I could go on and on...to my cousins, my aunts, my uncles, etc. If you are about to leave...don't...I'm not going to continue with the family praise.

All that was just to say, that I am blessed. I am grateful. And I am significant. To them. And to Him. So, why does it feel sometimes like I'm not worthy? Why do I feel like I want to see more in the mirror? More of Him.

As I was reading, "You're Late Again, Lord" (Thanks to my sister, Marilyn)...the chapter fell on forgiveness. How does my forgiveness apply to my worthiness? I realized I feel unworthy because I don't forgive. Myself. Others. In order to feel worthy and to know that I have purpose, that He has purpose for me...I have to forgive myself, for my past...for my mistakes...so that I can move forward without the shortcomings of yesterdays gone by blocking my way.

"Forgiving yourself is hard, when you feel unworthy of God's help..." but "learning to forgive myself was not about justifying or rationalizing past mistakes. It was about learning the difference between the past and the future...Without forgiveness, it's like sitting in a car with all the windows painted black---the road is there, but you can't see it. The car is useless and you get nowhere. Clear away what's blocking your view, and you reveal the path and have the means to travel it. I had to believe that the Lord would no longer remember my shortcomings, but instead, welcome me and help me, not because I had never failed, but because I had chosen to grow again..." (from the book, "You're Late Again, Lord")

And now as I begin to grow again, to strengthen my roots, and stretch toward the light...I realize I should learn from my past, be taught through my experiences....and not wallow in them. God knows where I've been, but He seems far more concerned with where I'm going.

another borrowed devotional... (that I needed to read)

Best part about my job is being able to get devotionals from Pastors and proofing them because they often say something I've been needing to hear...

The Myth of Free Speech
James 3

Americans have long held to the right of free speech. The Founding Fathers even went to the extent of declaring it in written form in the Bill of Rights. But is there really such a thing as free speech? For example, I am not free to stand up in a crowded movie theatre and yell "fire" when there is no fire. If I do so, I can assure you the other movie goers and law enforcement officials will have something to say about it!

The Bible teaches that Christians have freedom in Christ, but that freedom is tempered by personal responsibility (Galatians 5:13). Believers are not free to speak as they please. Believers are to choose their words carefully because words have the ability to hurt and destroy. Once careless words are spoken, the damage is done and we may never be able to repair the damage.
In the New Testament book of James, the writer explains how powerful our words can be.

I. Words have the power to influence
The power of speech is one of the greatest powers God has given us. The ability to speak words that influence and inform others is a great gift that we often take for granted and misuse.
James writes to caution us to guard our lips.

The person who is able to discipline his tongue and control his speech shows spiritual maturity. Likewise, the inability to control our speech is a sign of spiritual immaturity.

James says that if we can control our speech (tongue) then we can control our whole body. Since words usually lead to deeds, if we can control our words we can control our actions.

II. The tongue has the power to inflame (vv. 5-8).
James compares the tongue to a fire because, like a fire, our words can leave in their wake both damage and destruction. Careless words said out of anger, frustration, envy, or meanness can make a bad situation worse.

We must learn to control our speech, and in order to do that, we must first learn to control the attitudes and feelings of our heart. Untamed words come from an untamed heart.

The Bible says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

Our speech should seek to help lift up, build up, and hold up others. We are to speak the truth in love---not bitterness, pride, or anger.

III. The tongue has the power to inform (vv. 9-12).
Finally, James uses two types of imagery to portray the positive effects of the tongue: a fountain and a tree.

The fountain represents water which was as precious a commodity in ancient world as it is in the modern world. Without water, we cannot sustain life. But for the water to be useful for drinking it must be pure, without harmful chemicals that could make us sick or worse. Likewise, our words must come from a pure heart and help build others up, not tear them down.
Trees were important in Bible lands because they provided beauty and shade, helped hold down soil and produced fruit. The most important part of a tree is its root system. The deeper the roots go into the soil, the stronger and healthier the tree will be. Likewise, for our words to be positive, encouraging, and a delight to the Lord our spiritual root system must run deep. We develop a strong root system by spending time in God's word and by communicating with God in prayer.

James concludes by saying that you only get one kind of water from a spring and one kind of fruit from a tree. Thus, only one type of speech should flow from our lips or be produced by our mouths. If our speech is inconsistent then it means something is wrong with our heart.
The Bible says, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." Matt. 12:34 (NIV).

What kind of language do you use? Profanity and gossip are not the only kinds of ungodly speech. Christians are called to have speech that is "seasoned with salt." (No matter what the situation we should) speak the truth in love.

---Edited version of a devotional by Associate Pastor Michael Beeks of Standing Springs Baptist Church---

*sigh*

Let's go paint a sunset, so we won't forget who painted the sky...

the end of the day ahead of me, as a new day creeps up from behind

There's no one in town I know. You gave us some place to go. I never said thank you for that. I thought I might get one more chance. What would you think of me now, so lucky, so strong, so proud? I never said thank you for that, now I'll never have a chance. May angels lead you in......On sleepless roads the sleepless go. And if you were with me tonight, I'd sing to you just one more time. A song for a heart so big, God wouldn't let it live......

(missin' a part of my heart. last week. this week. and forever.)

Veronica: more than just a woman on a bench

Sometimes when our mind is dark and our heart is heavy, we get the desire to "run away"...to go anywhere but "home." As I approach a very sad date in my life next week, I have found this to be the case for me...I'm running. To what or to where, I don't know. The people I'm finding along the way however, seem to be more beneficial than the "run."

A few weeks ago, J.M. and I (and two of her friends) stumbled upon a homeless lady, Veronica. We helped her find shelter and food, but I came home feeling like we didn't feed or shelter her soul. How could we help Veronica long-term and give her more than a night of refuge, more than just a glimpse of hope.

To make a long story short(er), we invited her to church, I gave her my number, we looked for her and she didn't show up...yada yada yada. Well tonight as I traveled home...seeking something to do, someone to listen to me and someone to listen to...I happened to find Veronica. She was not on her usual bench, but she was in her usual attire and wearing her usual smile. I approached her and greeted her (by using her name...I think we should all be on a first name basis more). She was happy to see me and also happy to ask me to go get Subway. I got Subway and as I sat there with her...I found myself finding true investment in her, in her soul. I wanted to know what those eyes had seen, those ears had heard, and that heart had felt. I wanted to know her deepest secrets and her darkest fears. I wanted her to know that she was handmade by a wonderful God...that she was loved.

She asked if I was going to visit my father this weekend for the holiday and I told her he was no longer alive. (The perfect time to talk about my heavenly father right?) I prayed with her and though I did decline when she offered to come stay with me at my own house...I will see her again I'm sure.

As I walked away she said "Bye Britteni. I love you." and I knew she meant it. I knew she was sincere. And for some reason all my little problems of today, didn't matter...because I had given and received love.

My relationship with God is one where I'm usually receieving and not giving...I thought tonight how much I could gain if I treated my relationship with God like I did my interaction with Veronica. Instead of just passing Him by, I would stop. I'd hear His orders (in her case, a sub) and I'd obey. I'd sit with Him and enjoy His presence. I'd call Him by name. I'd get excited to meet with Him again. And I'd listen closely because I wouldn't want to miss Him say "I love you, Britteni"...

the spirit of strangers

Hebrews 13:1-2---Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. (NKJV)

Hebrews 13:1-2---Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. (NIV)

Hebrews 13:1-2---Stay on good terms with each other, held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it's needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it! (The Message)

Sorry I've neglected to write more lately...I will catch up eventually. I've been working a full and part-time job and trying to actively seek God's face in the community. While occassionally finding a spot to be silent and still.

Dear Yous that I've yet to know,

i don't know what you smoke or what countries you've been to

if you speak any other languages other than your own but i'd like to meet you

i don't know if you drive

if you love the ground beneath you

i don't know if you write letters or panic on the phone still i'd like to call you

all the same, if you want to, i am game.

i don't know if you can swim or if the sea has any draw for you

if you're better in the morning or when the sun goes down i'd like to talk to you

i don't know if you can dance if the thought ever occurred to you

if you eat what you've been given or push it round your plate still i'd like to cook for you

all the same, i would want to, i am game

i don't know if you read novels or the magazines

if you love the hand that feeds you

i assume that your heart's been bruised

i know i'd like to know you

(I don't know by Lisa Hannigan)

Well said...

Ok, so I kind of feel like I'm cheating a little, but today at work I read a devotional and it expressed some things that I needed to hear and had been praying and thinking about concerning myself and some of my peers.

Here it is:

“Disease to Please”

How many remember the 80’s? It was a time of parachute pants, acid washed jeans, Ocean Pacific t-shirts, big hair, neon clothing, Member’s only jackets, huge earrings, penny loafer shoes, Izod shirts, (with the collar up) and let's not forget the baggy blazer with the sleeves rolled up.

No matter what decade you grew up in, there was a certain look, a certain style that all of us tried to obtain so we could simply “fit in.” Why? All of us want to be liked. All of us want people to be happier when we walk into a room then when we leave. However, I have learned as a pastor (We struggle with this more than anyone) that there is a very fine line between someone who cares about people and someone who is a people pleaser.

The “Disease to Please” is something that is very contagious and hard to fight off. It plays no favorites. Everyone is a potential casualty. What are some symptoms of this disease?

-We take criticism WAY too personal. Consider this, when you are secure in Christ, your need for human acceptance decreases. When you aren't secure in Christ, rejection kills you.

-Fear of rejection secretly and quietly drives a lot of our choices. When you are secure in Christ, you easily obey the voice of God. When you are not secure in Christ, you constantly fear the opinions of people. The reality of the situation is that insecurity is the root of this disease.

Therefore, the cure for this disease is an understanding of where our security comes from. Man’s opinion or God’s perspective? The question is, who are we living for? Now please remember, there is absolutely nothing wrong with dressing in the latest fashion or design. Be as cool as you want to be.

We simply need to be careful that God's opinion is shaping our decisions and attitudes and not just the opinions of the people around us. Other people have NOTHING to do with how God looks at you. Unfortunately, I have learned the hard way that people pleasing is not a relational issue, it is a spiritual issue. I’m learning to live for an audience of One. May I encourage you to do the same? After all, His opinion is really the only one that matters anyway.

Dan Atkins, Pastor at Discover Church

Because the news never stops...

Ok, so I have a lot of blog catching up to do, but for now:

I work part-time at the Brew and Ewe...come get a root beer float! They're good and cheap!

(It's a root beer bottle mom...)

Breaking News to come:

My new friend, L.J.

Officer Dingle and the Boys

And I'm not allergic to nuts.

good people (period)

Who am I? Who are you?

Hebrews 4:12-13 (I'm not going to type it out. Take the time to look it up, we never do enough of the work and discovery ourselves anymore).

On the thought-side: I find it fascinating how we all define things so differently from each other. What a co-worker defines as fun...I might define as terrifying. What a friend defines as irrational...I might define as reasonable. And vice versa.
I have encountered a lot of people recently whose definition of Forgiveness, Truth, and Unconditional Love seem vastly different than mine...
I don't know whether there is always a right or wrong in these situations, but if some people would "act" half as much as they read or half as much as they talk...God's kingdom would be much larger. I'm fed up with people who preach and stand on their soapbox and forget that we are all here, now, together. And if they would just shut-up for half a second, they might actually be able to listen...And hear God speak. We forget that God doesn't always talk through burning bushes. Maybe he wants us to hear Him speak through someone else's voice. So, if you think whatever you have to say is more important than anyone else because you know how to articulate and manipulate the English language...perhaps you should spend less time on adverbs and adjectives and more time on the subject. While you're busy getting tangled up in trivial verbal nonsense...your co-worker, neighbor, friend, cousin is wishing someone cared what she/he has to say when they open their mouth. Their salvation is the subject...(I could insert some stupid pun here...like "so act like a verb, " but that would contradict a portion of my point).
So many places in the Bible I recall people running up to Jesus and asking Him, begging Him for things, but he didn't silence them before they were able to speak. He waited. He listened. And then because he cared, He acted.

(This is not typically my style of communication: the whole bitter, ranting, raving route. But I'm working on a book...and well, sometimes you have to get into character)

"a thirty dollar for a dead duck style" situation

Here are some of my recent ponders, poems, pictures and plainsongs (any simple and unadorned melody or air):

From an April sermon (Ponder): "Your lifestyle will eventually scream who your God is..."

***To the man in the picture: I'd like to meet you, if you are out there...find me.***

From a famous poet (Poem): "I want you to know one thing.

You know how this is:

if I look at

the crystal moon, at the red branch

of the slow autumn at my window,

if I touch near the fire

the impalpable ash

or the wrinkled body of the log,

everything carries me to you,

as if everything that exists,

aromas, light, metals,

were little boats

that sail

toward those isles of yours that wait for me."

From Company of Thieves (Plainsong): "I am angry all the time*No one’s fault but mine*Tell me how you fashion kind when you’re out of style*I have tried hard to answer* All the questions that you’ve posed*Tell me now how should I care when I feel so alone and so unloved*The pressure is rising*I mean it, it’s binding*I’ve been compromising for you..."

I dropped the camera and it can no longer provide panos. I'd like to honor past panos and mourn the panos that will never be... Here is a memorial of a few since I got the camera in December.

Wishin' I was with the fam. Missin' the father.

"One love, one blood, one life, you got to do what you should...one life with each other, my sisters and my brothers. One life, but we're not the same, we get to carry each other..."

iLu.iMu.Dad.

(Happy Birthday to my sister's awesome kids. Sorry I wasn't able to come Marilyn. I hope you know how much I love you.)

One can have all the facts and miss the truth (speaker at a college graduation)

(I apologize if a google search led you here when you searched for "something awesome.")

Spring Cleaning...

Sometimes we ignore the clutter, we let the past pile up so high...the present can be hard to find and the future is definitely covered up. I started a spring cleaning (which I personally like to call the spring purge). I cleaned out unneeded texts on my phone, I piled up unworn clothes, I threw away bits and pieces of the past...and I found myself feeling a sense of freedom. It's like the things I owned and the memories I was letting dust live on, were weighing me down. We do the same thing with God, we let the clutter of our past, our bad choices, and our doubt...keep us from being able to focus on the present with Him. As I clean up my room (physically) I also pray that I will clean up my relationship with God...focus on the present with Him so that He can continue to build my future.

Noteworthy: Cars break. Jobs don't always pay enough. But occasionally if you ask, you might get something worth its price...(pizza below was five dollars in total. thank you katherine).

Bear fruit?

So this is what happens as a result of "be fruitful and multiply..."

(The baby who lost at the Strawberry Festival's Miss Tiny Strawberry Contest...to a baby in a pink outfit. Yes, I did say LOST...I know what you're thinking "injustice exists even at the Strawberry Festival"...)

***

***

***

First page of a book I opened to at a shop in Saluda, NC. Awesome. Enough said. Period.

Listen up clover hunters everywhere.

Walks are a great way for me to clear my head and work off all the cookies and coco puffs I tend to enjoy nightly. On this particular walk, my goal was to blare Adele's sultry soulful voice into my ears and sing loud enough that the neighbors would alarm police of a possible crime in the area. I did not bring out Greenville County Police Squad, but I did find five four-leaf clovers. I wasn't looking for the clovers. I just kind of "happened" upon them.
It got me thinking about how we find good solid friendships. Four-leaf clovers are rare, but they aren't impossible to find...and well, if you find one you make sure to treat it with care and keep it. And usually with a little time, one will lead you to another one.

That leads me to this story: Once upon a time at a place we'll call "The Trigger," I found myself in a kitchen surrounded by a diverse group of people who shared a common love: Jesus. I was invited to the Trigger by my artistic, intelligent, and sincere friend Keller Bean. I was immediately introduced to Rene Hips and Ame Gaine, who were cooking in the kitchen. As the night progressed, we were all joined by Grady Pine, Clare McClary and Milton Wents. Each "character" was so distinct, we had Rene (the northerner), Ame (the very southern belle), Grady (the midwest comedian), Clare (the gullible Texan), and Milton (the All-American jock). But what captivated me most about this experience was what I could learn from each person in that room.

Keller made me think about my own sincerity and intentions. His actions were direct. And his affections toward his friends and myself were genuine. He was insightful, but not someone who had to draw the limelight and conversation to himself. He was satisfied in the shadows of the room, a mild patient man. I enjoyed that kind of patience. It was clear that he thought before he spoke and he made me aware of the truth in the old saying, "think before you speak." He doesn't voice an opinion on everything, but when he does voice...his opinions are strong. His creativity and talents were sprinkled throughout the location...in the forms of furniture and art.

Rene was sweet, but strong and bold. There was no doubt in my mind she was extremely intelligent. I could learn from her, the art of articulation. Her words were clear and came out with power, backed by discernment. She was a nurturing and maternal figure amongst the group. Seemingly someone you could count on in a bind.

Ame had the warmth of a southern woman, with a gentleness about her. There was no doubt her vocabulary included frequent "ain'ts" and "ya'lls," but her personality was endearing. I could learn from her to be more welcoming and warm, not to put up the guard before words are even exchanged.

Grady could make a mule laugh (if such things are possible). He had the gift of humor. His words seemed completely uncalulated or premeditated, yet all the punchlines fell in the right place. I could learn from him the value of a laugh and a smile. His presence seemed to fill all the awkard silences and bring a sense of comfort to the group. He complimented the two girls who had cooked...and reminded me how important it is to verbalize thanks.

Clare was adorable. I found her enchanting with a real southern charm. Her innocence made me want to be more Godly: pure in thoughts, words, and actions. She smiled constantly and her naiveness was something I admired. I pray that she will always remain so unpretentious.

Milton, whom I believe showed up last, was the founder of the Trigger. He seemed like someone you would respect, but that you wouldn't be afraid to approach. He was just country enough to make it charming, but not enough to make him a redneck. His location was very open to anyone. Though he showed up last, you could tell his God and his service (job) came first. His discipline and willingness to share his space made him easy to appreciate.

As we play our part in life, we should never ignore the cast of other characters. It is through them that we learn about ourselves and the role we will play for an Audience of One.

What a "berry" pleasant weekend!

I will start by saying, that the posts about this weekend...will be week long, because one post would not do it justice. The weekend was "berry" eventful and "berry" fun...

Since Thursday, I accomplished: DTA, Greek Festival, Main Street Jazz, Brass Band Courtyard, Soby's Sidewalk Acoustic Session, Warehouse Attire and Tunes, Strawberry Festival in Slater and the Arts Fest in Saluda.

Food for thought: Sometimes you can't just look at the outside of something and know what to assume or expect about what it's filled with...

Music for thought: They don't sing on key, they need a better drummer, and they are far from charting Billboard record album sales anytime soon. But if you listen...you may learn from their lyrics.

Art for thought: They might make it, even create it, but you discover it's value. It's only worth, what you will invest in it.

Thought for thought: I want to be more local, more home-grown. I want my first name used at the coffee shop and a predictable order at the diner. I want to walk dogs with the Jeffersons and talk about antiques with the Smiths. And on occasion I want to share dreams and play a game of scrabble with John Doe.

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Side item--Artis Overchurch, a new friend of mine (whose name has been changed not for his protection, but in fact to remind him of the significance of "his choice"), was conflicted by two different options for the weekend. My advice to Art was to think and decide what he wanted to do, and then choose the opposite or other choice. Selfless selection is always rewarding. Mr. Overchurch did not listen to me...but I think with time he will see the painted picture or steel sculpture is often created through sacrifice, not at the gallery.

(Mr. Overchurch, I am aware that your personality is such that you can handle such criticism...and that is why you and your actions unknowingly became blogworthy (in terms of my definition, which is not yet official on dictionary.com)) .

Breaking News: assistants serve up some sugar and share some smiles

Katherine, a lovely Godly co-worker of mine whose name has not been altered or changed for this blog, and I decided to serve up some sugar. The workplace (which will remain nameless) can often seem a little "bitter." And for the sake of our souls' taste buds....we wanted to add some sweetness to the seemingly sour week. The cookies, featured above, were well receieved and even brought a few people out of their healthy new year's resolutions. See, what simply seems like $10 dollars and 90 cookies to some, to us represented serving Him (Jesus) by serving others. We may have only given out free cookies, but the smiles we got were so much sweeter than all that sugar. In other unrelated news, you know how you feel when you give up chocolate for lent or sodas and french fries for bathing suit season...and then there's that day you get to taste it again. And oh how you savor it! Today was that day... I got a gift from a friend...that piece of chocolate...that medium-sized waffle fry with polyonesian sauce. And I'll still be savoring it's sweet taste tomorrow...and appreciating the gift giver for knowing how to satisfy the craving (aka sweet tooth). I had an awesome dinner with two genuine awesome female friends. And an unexpected e-mail from a long time friend finished off a great Thursday night. I hope that everyone will find moments to savor and people to truly appreciate.

...how to live among the wolves...

Patrick Kenzie: I always believed it was the things you don't choose that makes you who you are. Your city, your neighborhood, your family. People here take pride in these things, like it was something they'd accomplished. The bodies around their souls, the cities wrapped around those.....
When I was young, I asked my priest how you could get to heaven and still protect yourself from all the evil in the world. He told me what God said to His children. "You are sheep among wolves. Be wise as serpents, yet innocent as doves."
(From GoneBabyGone)

While I do highly recommend the movie, it does have quite an extreme amount of language and violent content that I am not normally in favor of watching.

"Be careful, then, how you live- not as unwise, but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15)

Thoughts formed based on the movie and my current scripture readings:

Christians need to become more unified (and not in a clickish way) and flock together...allowing the Shepherd to govern over all that we do and say, hour by hour, day by day.

Trials and Trails, both have art in them...God's art.

Turtles are synchronized swimmers. I wish I had more legs. Mountain Laurel is the new black.
(The picture collage from my hike today...)

"This is my life work: helping people understand and respond to this Message. It came as a sheer gift to me, a real surprise, God handling all the details. When it came to presenting the Message to people who had no background in God's way, I was the least qualified of any of the available Christians. God saw to it that I was equipped, but you can be sure that it had nothing to do with my natural abilities. And so here I am preaching and writing about things that are way over my head, the inexhaustible riches and generosity of Christ...When we trust in Him, we're free to say whatever needs to be said, bold to go wherever we need to go..."

(Ephesians 3:7-13 from The Message)

Lights, Camera, Call to Action...

As a theatre minor, I'm familiar with the glare of the spotlight--that rush that comes before you enter stage right or left, where you completely fear forgetting your lines. And then as you step out into the light...the character takes over you and for a brief moment you become Betty, the coal miner's daughter, an emotional wreck and a struggling single mom.

Isn't that a lot like our view of life? We play different characters--desperately seeking the one that fits us best. You know that one that feels the most natural, the most like who we think we are. Sometimes we forget who is in charge of the casting, the directing, the staging...GOD. Christ is the real star and sometimes we just need to Clear the Stage so that He can perform.

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CAUTION: Awesome and potentially moving song lyrics and video link included below!

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6MvZLDBFpU

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Clear the Stage (Song by King Ross)

Take a break from all the plans that you made

And sit at home alone and wait for God to whisper.

Beg Him please to open up his mouth and speak

And pray for real upon your knees until they blister.

Shine the light on every corner of your life

Until the pride and lust and lies are in the open.

Then read the word and put to test the things you've heard

Until your heart and soul are stirred and rocked and broken.

Cause you can sing all you want to.

Yes you can sing all you want to

you can sing all you want to

But don't get me wrong, worship is more than a song.

You can sing all you want to, but don't get me wrong...WORSHIP is more than a song...

Prepare for flight...

Welcome to my blog.
My opinions are often heavy, my mood is not always light, but My God is real.
And what and whom I seek is beyond the clouds.

Dear Father,
I've been "spiritually packing" for a long time, but you've yet to reveal where I'm going or when you intend for me to arrive there. I think this is a feeling that many believers can share. And I feel like without knowing all the details, I can't guarantee that I packed the right things (although I can guarantee that I overpacked, seriously...I'm a woman...enough said). I'm excited and I think I'm ready. But how do I know it'll be any better than where I am now? See, I've prepared for the flight...but I haven't prepared for the landing...or for really anything that comes after the free nuts and water on the plane. In these moments God, it should be our prayer that you will gives us the ability to be patient and to trust and to know that when I get off that flight, I may be somewhere even more vulnerable than I am now. Somewhere even more foreign to me, but it is not my job to book the flights, or even to coordinate the landing...it is only my job to pack and be prepared for whatever destination you place me in.