Monday Medley: Memorial Day Edition 2013

Memorial Day 2013 is here. I won't say "Happy Memorial Day"  just does not seem appropriate.  Today I pause to think of all those who have fought, were injured and killed fighting for freedom in all conflicts. 

Today I fly my flag their honor.  Today I also share a youtube video I in honor of the day. 

http://youtu.be/UmCbiibZvX0

 

Tuesday This and That

As I sit here doing my morning computer tasks, I am listening to the President speak on the devastation of the tornado's.  I can not begin to imagine what it must be like to lose everything like that.  I know the fear weather can cause, where I live is prone to hurricanes, which can be devastating as well.  Still I cannot imagine losing a home, and possessions' to such a storm.  Everyone in the path of these storms, who have been or will be impacted are in my prayers. For practical ways to help visit the Red Cross web page. Also keep in prayer those who respond to help that they be strengthened, and enabled to provide the help needed.

A few days ago, I received an offer of a debit card, and a proposal to promote the card on this blog. It was a card that donates to marriage equality, and LGBT issues.   I gave it some thought at least briefly, but decided that was not something I wanted to do with this blog.  I write here to share my journey, to put forth  my own agendas not someone else's agenda.  So no $25 for me, no promotion here.

Seminary update, I am in the process of selecting my classes for next year. I have enough cash squirreled away to pay for one class. So I think it will be on campus Old Testament for the fall. I may continue with the second half of OT in the Winter Term or perhaps an online class since I won't have to travel. I am looking forward to this portion of my journey.

Once the weather is more stable on a day I have time to get out and work in the patio "garden" I will have some pictures to share. I have taken a few already but will share those at that time as well.  I do miss a yard to putter around in.
Stay tuned! 

 

A Classical Monday Medley

Today is a warm, cloudy, with some rain kind of Monday.  For my on call last night there were no calls for two Hospitals. Highly unusual, but I appreciated being able to rest. at least apart from my normal waking to "check" the pagers. The only downside, is  no call back pay, but rest is just as nice. 

Today, I want to share some classical music, just my mood. Its a medley of classical runs about nine minutes, listen, relax, reflect, just CHILL. 

http://youtu.be/buFcwgOWuEk

Monday Medley: Stay Rihanna

A mixed Monday weather wise, it cooler, overcast,  rain possible.   Just have to see what the day brings. I was on call last night, but NO CALLS! Very unusual for this particular hospital.  I even woke up in the wee hours and called the Hospital operator to make sure no one had tried to call. Fortunately no, I rolled over and went sweetly back to sleep. 

Next Sunday I will be on call for two Hospitals, so I think I will be making up for this no call night.

Today I am sharing a song by Rihanna Stay

http://youtu.be/JF8BRvqGCNs

Hope its a good week for all

A MILESTONE FOR THIS BLOG

I check my blogger dashboard frequently, mostly to see the blogs I follow. Its interesting to see where the readers are from, some all over the world.  As well as the posts they view, I only wish there were more comments or dialogue.  I guess there is not much to say?  I started blogging to express myself, and write about my journey out of the closet.  I also wrote about some of my experiences, and hope and dream for a relationship.  My blogging has evolved overtime to include not only my personal journey and thoughts on gay issues, also anything that comes up I want to comment on.  a regular post I started is Monday Medley, where I share songs I like. some by a theme, others are random selections I hear on the radio. 

The milestone?  This blog has had over ten thousand views!  I hope some of my blogging will give a different perspective on being gay and Christian. Sometimes I blog to express myself and invite your thoughts, experiences, to see if I am off track, on track or whatever. 

I thank you for your interest in my blog, your comments, emails, encouragement. Please keep reading! Speak once in a while!

A Micro Eco System

The apartment complex where I live shares a lake with another complex next door.  Its a nice large lake which attracts a variety of wildlife.  The time of year when birds migrate, one can see all manner birds, it can be interesting.  A pleasant walk around the lake can be an interesting experience. Recently, I saw an example of the food chain in nature on our lake. 

On a recent morning walk, I witnessed something out of the ordinary.  Being spring the population of geese has swelled, the nesting geese have hatched their young.  Its cute to see the families waddling around the complex. however, on this particular morning, I saw a goose family on the lake. I stopped to watch as they swam by. There were 6 goslings when I noticed the 4th one in line, was pulled under the water by something. the parents had a fit.  Apparently, something, most likely a bullfrog  made a meal of the gosling! I felt for the parents as they frantically searched for their baby and got the remaining babies to the safety of  land. 

Then on an evening walk this past weekend, I witnessed another sight.  There is a gorgeous white egret or loon that visits the lake frequently.  I saw it that evening near the fishing deck, I paused to try an take a picture of it with my phone's camera.  In a split second the bird dipped it's head in the water and came up with a big frog by the leg, and took off with it!   I have never seen anything like that before in my life! I was startled but in a strange way thought of it as nature's payback for the little gosling. 

A great example of the Eco system at work.


 

Monday Medley: Songs of Faith, Come Thou Fount

Today I begin a once a month Monday Medley post titled songs of faith.  I thought it appropriate since this is the Monday after the first Sunday of the month. In many churches who do not celebrate Communion or Lord Supper each week, the first Sunday of the month is Communion Sunday.  So in a nod to my faith background, my ongoing faith and work, this Monday Medley is a song of faith. 

Just as I enjoy all types of music, I enjoy all types of Christian music.  From traditional, praise and worship, to  rock, even Christian rap.  So here is an opportunity for me to share some of my favorite hymns, songs, and perhaps highlight something different.

Today an old favorite I remember singing as a child, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

http://youtu.be/nXVwHONoLjEg.

I wish you peace

 

Gay in the News

What a week or so of news for a world wide gay community!

 First France, legalized Same Sex Marriage nationwide, unfortunately the vocal minority took to the streets which led to violence.  That is sad  a major victory for marriage equality to be marred like that.

Second, for the first time we saw a pro sports player still playing come out of the closet.  What a big bold step for Jason Collins! I hope he will not be discriminated against in the coming season or in the promotional contracts he could have in the future.  I was struck by and could relate to  how relieved he said he was.  Just the opportunity not your mind, and spirit. to hide who you are, is a load off.  I have experienced that relief.  It is a  sweet relief and release. Way to Go!

Third, Rhode Island became another state to legalize Same Sex Unions, the difference here is without religious protections so that could present a problem in in the form of litigation in the future. Still the fact another state approved marriage equality brings the number of states to 10, plus the District of Columbia and three Native American Tribes.  Three states it was by popular vote!

 Then,  Jóhanna Sigurdardóttir, Iceland’s outgoing prime minister and the first openly LGBT person to head a national government, leaves a mixed legacy, with advances on gay rights but only partial success in addressing the nation’s economic problems.  Still she has made history, I hope her ground breaking position is not marred in history by her mixed results. Some thing's one just cannot help.

Lance Bass has said a member of the group One Direction is "probably gay". Well if which ever one he is referring to is or is not, its not up to him to "out" him.  I don't think that is right, its up to the individual to decide when or if to go public about his sexuality.  Its no one's business if whoever is or is not gay! So a thumbs down to Lance.

That's all I want to highlight for now, Happy Friday to all!

Monday Medley- Usher Dive

Its a rainy Monday.  A good  day to sleep but not able to,  Too much left over adrenalin from my on call.  My sleep was interrupted twice, then I thought I would be called again, so I dozed in my recliner. 

Today I'm sharing the song Dive by Usher. 

 http://youtu.be/OIOntfVPBsw

Earth Day Prayer Service

Today we had an Earth Day Prayer Service which I was asked to formulate and lead.  The resulting program although short, hit the mark! I was pleased that those who asked me to prepare the service were pleased! I share the program here with you.
 

EARTH DAY PRAYER SERVICE

Welcome/Invocation

Genesis 1:1, 26

For The Beauty of the Earth V.1

Psalm 139:13-17

Prayer of Thanksgiving

For The Beauty of the Earth V.2

Romans 8:18-22, 25 

Beatitudes for Stewards of Earth by Father Ed Eschweiler  

·        Blessed are they who understand that creation is like a beautiful tapestry, with every strand depending on others.

·        Blessed are they who see the beauty of Earth as a reflection of the beauty of God, who creates

·        Blessed are they who do not waste or spoil Earth's resources, which are for everyone, even those not yet born

·        Blessed are they who reverence all created things as sacred: in God's eyes all creation is good.

·        Blessed are they who reverence the air--the breath of God and the Spirit of our life.

·        Blessed are they who reverence the life-giving waters that sustain the Earth's climate and nourish Earth's inhabitants.

·        Blessed are they who reverence the soil that supports our homes and our footsteps and yields abundant harvests.

·        Blessed are they who reverence the trees and other plants that call down the rains, stabilize the soil, and freshen the air.

·        Blessed ore they who reduce what they consume, re-use what they can, and recycle what they can no longer use.

·        Blessed are they who praise God the Creator in their reverent and gentle use of all things on Earth.

 

 For The Beauty of the Earth V.3

Prayer of Commitment

Father we come before your throne today to commit our lives to the care of your creation. You gave us the earth to use and be stewards of. Now please give us your wisdom to honor you by not abusing what you have created.  Please give us your guidance in doing all we can to restore your creation and use it as you meant it to be used for all generations.  Amen

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monday Medley: It Girl

The third Monday in April, you would think spring is well underway, and it is in most parts. Here its a little cooler than usual, but trees are in full bloom, the azalea[s are bursting forth.  Still its chilly!

Enjoy the music and the Spring Day

http://youtu.be/gbFllvUICKo


Happy Earth Day

Sounding Off

The tragic events of the week are on my mind this morning. As I watched the search and arrest unfold on TV last night, I had enough.  I turned to Netflix and watched something else. The loss of life and limb is so senseless, but  it always is. 

One of the reports talked about the perpetrators posts on Social media. Looking for what caused them to be radicalized and carry out terror.  A comment by one of the brothers  was reported, he apparently said he had enough of this country.  If so my response to that... this is the USA, its a free country.  He was free to leave and go somewhere else.  If indeed he did not like it here,  he was free to go where he would like it. However, I know its not that simple.  At least the one at large suspect is now in custody. 

The tragedy in Texas, all I can say is I pray for the families and all those effected by the plant explosion.  I hope the investigation will help present something similar in the future.

Two tragedies that effected two entire communities this week.  

 

For Boston

Yesterday Boston suffered an attack.  Home grown or foreign, terror is terror.  Looking at the news this morning, it appears this was a detailed attack targeted spectators,  people who were there for family and friends who seemed to target were running in the Marathon. 

My prayers are for the victims, those who lost loved ones, their families, the first responders, the healthcare providers, the people of Boston.

Please join me in praying for these and law enforcement who investigate and plan security. 

 

 

BE ALERT

SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING!

 

 

 

Monday Medley JT: Mirror

Today I want to share a song by Justin Timberlake I heard on the radio.  however, I have not found a version to post that plays the bass the way they don on the radio. This one sounds better, so here it is. Im adding glad you came by the wanted as well. hope you enjoy! 

Happy Monday!

http://youtu.be/U41KPUfOSFk Mirror

http://youtu.be/2ggzxInyzVE  Glad You Came

http://youtu.be/wPn-zUfcZUY  Say the Words

If you have someone in your life you love, let that person know it, don't assume they know how much you love them. One thing I hear so often as a Chaplain, is "I wish I had told him or her how much I love him/her." its usually too late then...


 

Dogs or Cats

Pets in general are such a joy.  They add so much to our lives, bring such pleasure.  Did you know pets are good for us?  They help us by always bringing us love, unconditional love, playing with us.  They help reduce our blood pressure, give us an emotional outlet. It has been proven that patients often do better when they have a pet, hence the rise of pet therapy. people with pets often deal with stress, grief , depression.  So you have a pet?    Good for you! For me I like dogs.

Dogs are more therapeutic!!! Cats...not as much.

 

 

 

THATS WHY DOGS GO STRAIGHT TO HEAVEN!!!

AND

 

CATS GO TO .....

 

PURRRRRGATORY LOL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monday Medley Forever Young

Welcome to the second week in  April!  Spring is finally showing up!  Monday is always a mixed bag of exhaustion, relaxation, reflection for me.  Sometimes too much reflection. The last 24 hours were rough at work, an unusual number of calls. a total of 15 altogether from 0800 to 0800.  It kept me from making my normal rounds.  I was running from call to call day and night. Some situations out of the norm. when it was finally over, I came home and went back to bed. something I don't usually do, I did not sleep  very long, but my body seemed to say ENOUGH!  I'm recovering, thing is tomorrow I have to do another overnight, this time an evening shift and on call till 0800. I have been promised relief from all the on call, but so far...  I am an adapter and  survivor! At least I hope to continue to be.

Today I am sharing  Forever Young.... at least at heart.
http://youtu.be/E1nbvplgElw

Good News To Share

So I'm sitting at a stop light in a little place called Phoebus.  The phone rings and its a Richmond area number.  The person on the other is the Director of Admissions of the School I applied to.  After exchanging pleasantries, she congratulates me on my acceptance to the MTS program!  Needles to say I am very pleased and relieved! 

This morning I took the next step and filled in the confirmation form for my acceptance and paid the fee, (which will be applied to my tuition)  so its official!!!

Next I will make an appointment with the Admissions office to go and map out my degree plan and financing.  There will be a written plan to follow, I will be attending on a part time basis.  Since I am in ministry. From what I understand a new schedule is in the works, one that is more friendly to people in my position. They call it a hybrid schedule, which includes online and an on campus class schedule which allows the student to come to campus one day a week and take  classes they need.

The only wrinkle in my plan is they do not allow clinical classes in the program I have been accepted to..  However, I am looking at what closely related classes can be taken as electives.  My Clinical Pastoral Education Units will not transfer, which is actually better since the Association of Professional Chaplains would not count them toward certification. 

Perhaps when they retool the Master of Divinity, I may re-visit that degree program so I can add clinical courses.  For now I am happy with the direction things in my life are taking. 

Easter Monday Medley

Its a late post for Monday Medley, but I have a good excuse...I was busy, tired, and had computer issues.  I was on call last night and spent several hours up and out at the Hospital.  I don't usually sleep well during the day so I'm tired.

In honor of Easter Monday I want to share several tunes that have special meaning to mean.  Sort of a tradition in my faith background with a bit of a twist.

First  a hymn we always sing Easter Sunday at my church. This version done by the Kings College Choir, they do it it justice.

Christ The Lord is Risen Today: http://youtu.be/rMwPEmUMP7U

Another Easter tradition is to sing the Hymn

Crown Him With Many Crowns   http://youtu.be/JWCEFKsZqLY

A Chorus that is often sung at both Christmas and Easter is the Hallelujah Chorus


    http://youtu.be/IUZEtVbJT5c

Have a Great Easter Week

 

Happy Easter 2013!!!

The Scripture tells us the disciples had a greeting, it went like this...

HE IS RISEN! to which the response would be...HE IS RISEN INDEED!

Today is a busy day in my life, I am working, I will be rounding at one facility and on call for another facility.  In all honesty, I am not looking forward to running back and forth all day. Then again there may not be any calls... just maybe. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maundy Thursday 2013

Tonight is Maundy Thursday, and I was able to attend the service at my church.  It was nice we had Communion, music, and Scripture readings.  Its a particularly meaningful service. 

In honor of this day I want to share a passage of Scripture which tells the story of the Last Supper.

Luke 22:7-23 Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8 Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.” 9 “Where do you want us to prepare for it?” they asked. 10 He replied, “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, 11 and say to the owner of the house, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ 12 He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there.” 13 They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

14 When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15 And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16 For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” 17 After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. 18 For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 20 In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.

21 But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. 22 The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him.” 23 They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this  

 

The religious leaders of the day sought ways to destroy Jesus Christ, He would not to conform to their norm. He came to bring a new normal. he came to change the status quo.  Even today those who don't conform to the religious traditions are marked as outcast, and even persecuted. how this must grieve our Lord!

 

A song to share Secret Ambition by Michael W. Smith. http://youtu.be/2vHedm6ycsY  

 

Signs of Spring and a Trip to Richmond

Yesterday I was in Richmond for a few hours, and to my amazement, there was snow on the ground!  On Sunday/Monday we had rain, Richmond had three inches of snow.  It was odd seeing blooming trees, and bulbs with the white stuff on the ground.  I wish now I had the presence of my mind to take a few pictures. Alas and the blossoms I did not.  as I drove there and back, I noted the bird songs I heard, and the blossoms I saw.  Forsythia, crab apple, pear, daffodil, hyacinth to mention a few.  I look forward to seeing the azalea and dogwood blossom.

My mind was on my purpose for being in Richmond.  An interview with the Admissions Director of  graduate program I have applied for. it went well I think.  The next step is for my application package to go before the admissions committee. I do not anticipate any issues at this point.  Some exciting news is they are retooling the Master of Divinity program, pending Association of Theological Schools approval.  I may take another look at that program in the next year.  For now I'm sticking with my application for the Master of Theological Studies degree. My interviewer is suggesting I need to have a conversation with the dean concerning transfer of my Clinical Pastoral Education Units into academic credits, especially if I transfer into the new M.Div.  I will pursue this, and I hope most if not all of the credits I have will transfer into my program. 
   
First though is the official  acceptance into the program must be attained. .


 

Monday Medley: Holy Week Edition

It Holy Week Monday.  Today begins Passover for my Jewish friends as well.  This week in many Christian churches there will be a service on Thursday call Maundy Thursday which commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus and his arrest. On Good Friday there are vigils commemorating the Crucifixion.  All leading up to Easter Sunday!  In honor of this week I want to share several songs with you Hope you enjoy
Have a great week!


 http://youtu.be/WBaEA0H02fI   All Glory laud and Honor (organ)



http://youtu.be/_ajFnnKFivY Hosanna Hillsong United.

http://youtu.be/EqmLkLDE82U  Blessed is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Michael W. Smith

 http://youtu.be/FHrRJVjQCMw   Passover Seder Song

Gay In The News

Another State has legalized Same Sex Civil Unions!  Thank you Colorado! This brings the number of States with some form of legalized Same Sex Unions to eighteen. The forms of approved Same Sex Unions are marriage, Civil Unions, Domestic Partnerships.  Its nice to know progress is being made on this front.  Though my preference is marriage, any movement toward same sex marriage is a positive development. 

Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz has defended the company's support of same-sex marriage.
Mr. Schultz stated the decision to back marriage equality was not for economic reasons, but for "respecting diversity." a very good reason, I like companies who value diversity. 

Chik Fil A, an update according to various sources, the company no longer supports or lobbies against Marriage Equality.  I may reevaluate my avoiding this Chicken.

Here is a link to a Stephen Colbert comment piece on the challenge to DOMA.

http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/423360/january-30-2013/the-word---it-gets-worse

Happy Friday to All

Monday Medley: In Honor of St. Patricks Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day. .a day late.  For today I thought I would share an Irish song,  hope you enjoy.


http://youtu.be/8ozdTZjaZyE

So There Is A New Pope!

Though I am not Catholic,  I watched with interest for the selection of the new Pope. So now the selection has been made, Pope Francis is set to be officially installed next week. I like the name he selected for himself, Francis, obviously a nod to St Francis of Assisi.  I wonder what kind of leader he will turn out to be? How will the trappings of his office and power impact him as time goes by?  Well only time will tell.

He is the first Pope from this hemisphere! That is a good change, from Argentina, South America, I am told this area of the world has forty percent of the Catholics in the church.  I also understand the part of the world he is from holds to a liberation theology.  I wonder if or how that will carry over to his Papacy?    Again time will tell. 

Pope Francis is conservative, traditional which does not surprise me.  This means we will not see any movement on LGBT issues, female Priests, or other social issues. In Fact I read in Jeremy's blog,  My Side of the Street, his post  title New Pope Francis believes same-sex marriage and gay adoption are the Devil’s work, where the new Pope has made anti LGBT comments in the past.  I do not expect this to change.

So no surprise it will be the status quo. yet there maybe changes in other ways on other issues. As stated before only time will tell!

Monday Medley: Hand of Providence

Today is the beginning of my new position within the health system I work. Its a small promotion, but big to me. I will be in orientation, which is kind of odd as I am not a new employee. Its a step in the process. I thought an appropriate song for today would be this song by Michael W. Smith, "Hand of Providence"  A Scripture I want to share here that is meaningful to me and appropriate to the occasion. 

Jeremiah 29:11-13

New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

http://youtu.be/K2HbrNcfmYs

Hope you enjoy and this is meaningful to you!  Happy Monday!