The Body of Christ - With and Without Mucus

I've had a cold for a couple weeks now. It has now moved from my sinuses into my chest and I've been coughing and wheezing since Thursday. As a pastor I have a lot of close proximity to people, and Sunday mornings, especially mean shaking hands, hugging, placing the Body of Christ into people's hands. On healing service Sundays it also includes listening closely and having my hands on people's shoulders and heads.

So, this Sunday, I gave that up. I always have at least one lay person helping with the laying on of hands and anointing for healing. And both had agreed to help in today's service long ago. We were contemplating having three stations, instead of the usual two, and so it worked just fine with the two.

Instead of me serving the bread, I went and sat in the pew after presiding at the altar. I got to kneel at the altar for both the laying on of hands and for communion. I got to pray ('cause I couldn't sing) for all of the people that I usually look in the eye and say "The body of Christ, given for you." I knew what particular prayers that many of the people would ask for, and prayed for them.

It's nice every once in a while to have the place where I sit - my point of view - be turned around. It's nice to see the church in action. It's nice to not have to stifle my cough and constantly sniff worried that I'm going to spread whatever it is I have.

Also - I made this "Radicchio-Porcini Risotto" (pg 88):

It doesn't look like much, but it was very yummy. I couldn't find Porcini anywhere (looked at a number of stores throughout the week) but it still tasted good w/ Portabella. The book describes it as "Ultra-comfort food." And, it was.

The Good of It All

Well, a number of my things on my list are over and done with. A new week is beginning. I still have a cold that has been hanging on for 2 weeks - which will limit my elderly visiting, but shouldn't hinder anything else.

Cold weather and a head cold sure can bring a person down. But, there are some things that have been bringing me up.

First - my bed. It's comfortable, and I've been getting enough time in it.

Secondly, a little over a week ago, I was able to enjoy the beauty of a freshly fallen 14" of snow while Cross Country Skiing. Here are a couple pics:
Third, though it was cold, there was an attempted Karaoke party held. We missed those who couldn't make it, but still had a good time. I have some pics, but they don't do the event justice.

Finally, I have prepared another recipe for my New Year's resolution. This time it was Potato, Turnip & Carrot Gratin with Garlic-Herb Bechamel Sauce (pp 86-87). Andrew asked about recipes. I would highly recommend buying the book (The Vegetable Dishes I Can't Live Without by Mollie Katzen), but if there are one or two that you would like, shoot me an e-mail and I'll send 'em to you.

On the gratin, I could have actually done without the bread crumbs and cheese on top (but, is that what makes it a gratin?). It was really good though - and I don't think I've truly eaten turnip before.

Hope Comes in the Morning

Things are always better in the morning. They just are for me. I don't know if others feel similarly - but I get that phrase "hope comes in the morning" 'cause I tend to be more grounded...and hopeful during the day. I also am more willing to take risks at night - I wonder why that is...hmmm.

Anyway, I'm unfreaked out. I no longer feel like my life is out of control. After blogging last night, I wrote some thoughts for my sermon and then slept for about 5 hours, got up and got "hoped on" by Barack Obama and then had lunch with a friend. I have accomplished a few things on my lists (yay - the garbage is out!), have plenty more, but feel like I can take a nap (while my clothes are agitating in the washer).

Maybe they'll even be time for a movie.

Freak Out

Man it feels like there is just too much going on right now. And, my freak outs always tend to be at the times when productivity is unreasonable. (Tonight it's only 12:30 and the night before my day off- sometimes it's the 3ams before a Sunday morning.)

In my head I know that failure is not the worst option. I know that I have been accomplishing a lot and that there is just so much more work than possible for one person. But the list of things yet unaddressed is running through my head and it makes it impossible to sleep.

* A number of my homebound really need visits. I'm behind, as I have been for about a year.
* I would have like to have visited the woman in ICU today and now probably won't until Sunday, if not Monday.
* My sermon is barely started.
* Urrgh. Taxes.
* Laundry - which isn't urgent, but looking at my schedule ahead it may soon well be.
* The Christmas present that I've intended to buy and send - and the 2 Christmas cards I've intended to write and send - and the 5 thank you notes.
* I need to return some stuff to the library.
* I have a Bible Study to prepare to lead on Sunday. Haven't started.
* My council report should really be in people's boxes by Sunday am.
* I didn't call my parents today to thank them for the Valentine's treat they sent. Or, just to say I love them.
* I still have the intent to make the vegetable dishes, but haven't don't so since my last post about it. And, I've let some vegetables go to waste because I failed to make anything with them.
* My garbage really needs to be taken out.

Tomorrow is my day off - but it is already full. Of some really good things. But, I just don't know where I'll have any time. And really, I'd just like to sleep. Because I'm worked up now and the sheep seem to have left the building.

I think the freak outs come when I feel alone in responsibilities - even when it's my own mess. Each of those bullet points are things I need to handle. Sure, I'll hand off the taxes to someone else, but I need to gather it together. Yeah, if I get it in her hands soon enough, my secretary will distribute the council report, but I still need to write it.

Just by writing (and processing) I'm calming down - freaking out less. By the time I shut down the computer I might already be asleep. It just really sucks to feel this anxiety - especially when I'd much rather be sleeping.

The Right Place at the Wrong Time

There are many reasons I do what I do (obv. the big bucks and the free wine every Sunday), not the least of which is that I am regularly in the right place at the wrong time.

Milwaukee is in the midst of a blizzard. Somewhere between 10 and 14 inches have fallen today. It's beautiful, heavy, wet stuff. My dead-end is a mess - no plow has been in it at all - and I'm parked one block over (taking over a kind man's spot who helped me as I attempted to cross the street - but got stuck before I even entered the intersection).

Many churches canceled their Ash Wednesday services, but we did not. I'm from Minnesota. You don't cancel things because of a little snow. Actually, my main thought was for the Soup Kitchen - there are some people whose best hot meal of the week is our Soup Kitchen.

Throughout the afternoon I kept second guessing myself. Should we have canceled? Could we yet?

The cooks called and said they could come. Ok - it's on. Other volunteers called. Some to say they were not coming - others to say they were. People watched the news to see if we had canceled - and then called when they didn't see our name to make sure.

The organist called - plowed into his subdivision. We tweaked the service.

Slowly people started to trickle in. A handful of homeless people, but just as many volunteers. I kept reminding myself - we all need the church - not just those who seem needy.

Then, one of our homeless guys - who had been out shoveling (who had been at it all day and was yet as I left) came in with a kid saying his mom had kicked him out.

A 16-yr old who had been jumped in October - by a bunch of kids who wanted him to join a gang. His family moved into our area after that...away from the other kids. Money was tight, his mom was angry with him for disrespecting her...he recognized that it was at stressful times that he and his mom got in the most fights. This was the second time this week he'd been kicked out - and this time he had been out in the blizzard for 5 hours.

I wasn't exactly sure what to do, but I told him to come in, dry off - we would get him some food and make sure he had a place to go and stay. I had no idea where that place would be...could I put a 16 yr old up in a motel? What if all the shelters were full?

I called the emergency number and got the numbers for a couple of youth shelters. The first one was full - but they said to call back at 9 in case everyone who was supposed to show up didn't. They also gave me the number of the other shelter I had gotten. I called there and explained the situation - and Mary, the woman on the other end of the phone, was so incredibly helpful.

The youth shelter is for youth 11-17, for up to 2 weeks at a time. The catch? They need parental permission. They can house a certain number of youth for 12 hours without permission, but if that were to be the case we would want to time when he came in - so he wasn't being pushed out into the streets at 6am.

It turns out it sounded like him mom would give permission - after our Ash Wednesday service, the council president (who has 4-wheel drive) and I drove him to the house. I was relieved to see it had a number of different accreditations posted on the door - including The United Way. After making sure it was legit and he wasn't going to be kicked out in a strange neighborhood (and after giving him the church's phone number) we left him there.

I know the journey isn't over for him - and perhaps not with us involved. But, I am so thankful that we were there tonight. I am so thankful that one of our homeless guys struck up a conversation in the middle of a blizzard and invited him in. I am so thankful that there was an opening for him at the youth house. And I pray that he will received needed help.

Shroomin (and Rice Fried Vegetables)

My latest vegetable dishes: All-Purpose Mushrooms (pg 76) to be alongside the yummy soup made by Jen, Steve and Ella.

Sue joined me for Rice-Fried Vegetables (pg 122). Though, I've been eating it almost every day since.
Tonight I made a quarter portion of Creamed Spinach w/ Mushrooms (page 102).

The Weather Outside is Frightful

I'm feeling a little bit pensive. There are a few people on the street that we have a relationship with who either won't accept any more help or who we didn't connect with in order to give them more help.

It was below 0 for the second night in a row. Two nights ago we put one of our homeless women up in a motel room. I'm not sure what she did last night.

I talked Wed night with two of our campers who were all bravado about the cold and their tent and how they stay warm. They were laughing and macho - but....it's still cold.

One of our guys recently lost his apartment and has been living in his car. He's selling his plasma for money for gas for his car. I suppose that's the heating bill for him right there. I tried to give him some extra blankets, but he wouldn't accept them and said that he was okay.

Others have told me that "there is a plan" and "they'll be ok" without going into details. I know that certain options come out of the woodwork, but, I still worry.

During a 10pm news weather report in December, the newscaster highlighted how cold it was by interviewing a homeless man who had been kicked out of the mission. In my opinion it was actually done quite well - neither demonizing the man nor the mission - but calling attention to the fact that there are people who on the streets in this cold.

As a child I know I was ignorant. In Tacoma - it never got this cold. In Chicago, I was able to ignore it. Here and now, I have to admit that I am no savior...and there are limits to how I can help. I have to recognize that it's not up to me to force people to accept help or to behave in the way I would say is socially acceptable. I have to recognize it and lead others in continuing to care for people where they are.

Caught on Tape

As the last two January's have been, this is once again a chaotic time. I'm not always sure I'm going to get everything done that I need to. In fact, today...on my day off...I need to do some work. One of the things is for something I leading tomorrow morning, the other is my sermon - because of other things going on (including a fantastic concert experience in the evening) I'm not going to have time to work on it much tomorrow.

Even with all the busyness, it's still been a good month. Last year at this time a number of my folk were falling apart in different and serious ways. This year, not so much. Thank God.

But yesterday I received what may very well be the highlight of my month (it even tops the upcoming fantastic concert experience). My great-aunt sent me tapes that my family had sent to my great-grandma from 1979 until 1990. I've only gotten through 1983 so far, but it is fascinating and fun to hear us at those times/ages (including my parents - in the tapes they're just a tiny bit older than I am now).

By listening I have gained some insights - I talked fast even at a young age. I often yelled (in tune) as my singing. My parents really loved us (still do) - you could hear it in their voices as they talk to us, coaxing us to talk to "Grandma Dede" in the microphone. I guess I saw the news about President Reagan getting shot (and I think I said something about "I love him, I don't like him, but I love him" into the microphone at that....was I a Christian liberal even then??? Loving my neighbor, but not liking the president?). And, even then, I loved to make up stories (there was one about Santa Claus getting bitten by a fox).

As we're getting older it's getting to be more music performing than talking, but I do hope that those interactions continue.

Coconut-Ginger Carrots

This is "Coconut-Ginger Carrots." Page 37 of "The Vegetable Dishes I Can't Live Without."

Turned out well - I could have cooked it a little longer - but it's carrots - you can eat them either raw or cooked.

Next up - Bitter Greens with Sweet Onions and Tart Cheese.

2008 New Year's Resolution

For the last few years I have taken my New Year's resolutions seriously. Not that they've been serious resolutions, but that I've followed through - or at least made an effort throughout the year.

2006 was the year of visiting all of the bars in my neighborhood. I didn't come close, but it was a valiant effort. In 2007 I went to at least one show per month (I missed March, but more than made up for it in the rest of the year).

2008 will be the year of cooking vegetables. I received this book:That is - "The Vegetable Dishes I Can't Live Without" by Mollie Katzen. (Like my arty arrangement? Too bad I wiggled the camera.) My resolution is to make all of the recipes in the book - except for the ones with brussel sprouts (maybe I would like them if prepared in the fashion suggested in the book, but I always like to leave some wiggle room).

I have already made three of the dishes, and have the ingredients for 2 more.

Brave friends Sara and Gail joined me for the inaugural meal on January 4th in which we had "Eggplant, Green Beans, Pumpkin, and Basil in Coconut-Tomato Curry" (pg 47) and "1-Minute Spinach" (pg 106). Here are pictures from that meal:Sara and Gail before the meal...we didn't take an after picture.

The beautiful presentation (it did taste really good too).

Earlier this week I made "Roasted Beets with Tart Pink Grapefruit Glaze" (pg 15). I had never made beets before, and it was relatively easy - although, they are very red/pink and do seem to stain. Here is a pic of the beets:
So, one of the notes I should make is that I also (somewhat obviously) have now purchased a digital camera (and I love it). I was able to because of some very generous Christmas gifts - so yay!

Hope in the Land of Blog

Not only is this my first post of 2008, but it is also the 200th post of this blog.

So, what better way to celebrate it than talking about hope.

I'm feeling hopeful in so many areas of life right now. I'm hopeful at work because of some plans of actions that we will be putting into place that will provide vision and focus and hopefully continue to more solidly bring this gathered group into transformed life. It feels like we've got most of the pieces already, we just need to put them together.

I'm feeling hopeful because of the large number of people who showed up to caucus last night - and from the reports I've heard (both from people I know and those I don't) about the atmosphere. I'm feeling hopeful because of the new caucusers...and that it seems that people are getting involved....and that my generation is getting it and making a difference. It also helps that many of the younger participants are excited about Obama. The last time I remember my generation making an electoral difference was when Jesse Ventura was elected in MN....I did not vote for him and I was frustrated with his election.

I'm feeling hopeful because, although I've got a busy month ahead of me, some of the busyness includes concerts and dinners and fun. It's not all work. And it's always fun to have people around that you want to spend time with.

I'm feeling hopeful for some of my friends who have some pretty big things going on in life right now. Changes in job/family/location/outlook on life. I'm hopeful because I hear the realistic excitement and nervousness and fear - and then excitement about where this new change/event will lead. I'm hopeful because I'm getting to somewhat be along on the journey.

And, I'm feeling hopeful because I've found a way to escape the January gym - (with all the New Year's Resolutioners) - in Cross Country Skiing. Now I'm off, to go live into my hope.

Another Round

I was sent a "choose you candidate" based on issues quiz. As was the case four years ago, Dennis Kucinich would be my president. Except, it's gotten to be less and less about issues for me - and more and more about how the future president will run the country.

I scored lowest on John McCain, but I would trust him more than many of the other candidates with whom I scored higher. No, I'm not going to be voting for McCain.

I have been reminded again that there really is no one person, organization or place with whom I will agree about everything. This includes the particular congregation that I lead. It includes the denomination in which I have promised to teach and preach. It includes my family, my friends. I definitely includes presidential candidates.

I scored very similarly for the three Democratic contenders. And, I do think each of them would make a fine president...even if I don't agree with them about each and every thing. But, when it comes to trust and integrity, and who I think will best lead the country, I feel hope with Obama. I appreciate his vision and his attitude.

If Clinton or Edwards is the Democratic candidate, they have my vote. But, I do heartily believe that Obama will lead the country better than anyone else running.

A Confession

Usually when I drive through WI between Milwaukee and the Twin Cities, I tend to either scan the NPR and Classic Rock radio stations or have my I-Pod plugged in. That is what I did today on my way back home from Christmas in MN.

However, as I plowed through Western Wisconsin on Christmas Day, global politics just wasn't going to satisfy my Christmasy mood. I scanned through all the NPR and Classic Rock stations and landed on - *gasp* - the Christian stations....and even worse....the Country Music stations.

At any other time of year I move on as soon as I recognize their Christian/Country-ness. But, for one (relatively) short drive on Christmas Day, their sappiness fulfilled my musical needs.

Please don't judge me poorly for it.

How Can A Picture Tell This Story??

On Sunday we blessed boilers. Well, actually, we blessed the people who have made the boilers possible and those who will benefit from them. (Strictly speaking, we dedicated the boilers). Such an oddity, and fun in its strangeness.

There was an article in the local community free paper about homelessness, telling the story of three people who I know well. I had met the reporter while dressed as a gypsy (at the Halloween party I attended...I don't generally dress like a gypsy) and he knew about my church's Soup Kitchen. He called about a month later saying that the paper was wanting to write an article about homelessness in our neighborhood. He asked if he could come and talk to some people at the Soup Kitchen. I said I would ask some specific people - and they were willing and happy to talk about their situation with him. The article was well done, really long, and told an honest story.

Yesterday, God knocked on the church door a few times...but most strikingly in the form of two individuals who entered within 1/2 an hour of each other. One who wasn't intending to ask for a handout, but who was invited in and was in need of a specific thing that we had plenty of, and another who stopped in to share some wealth...in the form of cash.

Today, I am brokering a snow removal deal between a member of the congregation and a homeless man.

When my mom's side of the family gathers together we are supposed to bring a picture of something that tells a story about our year. I'm not sure where to start...if this less than a week, what does a year look like?

I might just see if I can get a picture of myself in front of one of the new boilers. I'd love other suggestions.

Yet Another Way My Secretary Rocks!

The Senior Center is closed this morning due to an ice storm. The director called me at 6:45 to let me know.

We have a brand new phone system at work. While I have learned how to check my messages, I guess I wasn't really listening when they were telling us how to change messages. So, after receiving the news of the closing I called and got into one of the menus of the phone system but could not figure out a thing.

I hung up, resolved to get ready and go over to church right away in order to change the message so little old ladies weren't breaking hips in an effort to get to the center. Not 1/2 a minute after I hung up, my secretary called to say that she was changing the message.

I really wish we paid her well. Regardless, I am so thankful for her.

Change of Plans

Well, Andrew and Moe, thank you for the information about cameras. It is now unlikely that I will be purchasing one anytime soon. Instead, I have purchased a new hard drive and a new windshield.

Separate issues.

Both costly.

The biggest pain is that I have been deficient in saving things from my computer anywhere else but the hard drive. So, I unfortunately lost quite a bit.

Such is life. And, I'll be smarter the next time.

Bleh.

Shutterbug

When I first started working I made a list of things I wanted to purchase that I had put off during my volunteer and school years. Big ticket items = a bed, a car, an I-pod, a CD player for the car (to which I can attach my I-pod), a DVD/DVR player, and hmmm...I feel like there was something else....anyway - all of these have been deliberating researched and purchased in the last few years.

I have been without a functioning camera for about 3 1/2 years now. Maybe more. I love taking pictures, and am actually pretty good at it (thank you 4-H). Important to me features include the ability to zoom in and out, different lighting options, a timer (to be able to set the camera to take an inclusive group shot), durability (I am a little clumsy), and probably a fairly good sized memory...since I'm looking at digital.

Anyone have any recommendations?

Also - I'm trying to decide - do I attempt to purchase the camera now - during holiday sales? Or wait until after Christmas...with post-holiday sales, but perhaps not the greatest selection?

Code Resentment

Every once in a while the very first conversation I have in the morning is with the voice from the church's alarm company. The alarm can go off for a number of reasons - usually because someone either forgot or mis-typed their alarm code (there is a little bit of time and a few chances...but for some reason this alarm pad intimidates a number of my members).

I'm the 4th on a list of people to call....and the alarm company is supposed to call until they get a live person. It seems that every time they call, however, all of the other 3 are out of commission. (Of course, they don't call me if one of the other three gets called...but, the others haven't mentioned receiving calls).

On a side note - it's like we're those guardians of the grail in the book The DaVinci Code. Although, it's much less dramatic and romantic - we are merely the four guardians of the alarm system.

The alarm went off this morning - in the office. I looked - no doors were unlocked (and if it had been a person, it would have also registered whichever method they entered the office), no big disturbances.

I'm aware that I'm feeling a little resentful that I had to rush around to go and police the building. So, I decided that I just needed to take it as a reason to go and buy myself an already- brewed cup of coffee from the cool local coffee shop. If this doesn't work....perhaps I'll need to find some chocolate.

Dress Me in Corduroy

I recently found a wonderful corduroy jacket on sale for $20. I love it. I wear it all the time. I also regularly wear 3 pair of corduroy pants - and one long corduroy skirt (individually...not at the same time).

My dilemma comes when I wear one of the pairs of pants or the skirt and I want to put a light jacket on.

Is there ever too much corduroy?

Should I avoid the corduroy jacket when I'm wearing one of the other pieces of corduroy?

When we had the search for the new secretary (by the way - my secretary kicks ass!) I was prepared to mourn the fashion relationship I'd had with my last one. Turns out, my current secretary (who...did I mention kicks ass!) has some good fashion sense as well. I have yet to pose the corduroy question to her though. I'll have to do that next time I wear the two corduroys together. I missed my opportunity today.

Any fashion advice from peanut gallery?

Hope and Trust - blocked by fear, Springs up despite

The Fountain
by Denise Levertov

Don't say, don't say there is no water
to solace the dryness at our hearts.
I have seen

the fountain springing out of the rock wall
and you drinking there. And I too
before your eyes

found footholds and climbed
to drink the cool water.

The woman of that place, shading her eyes,
frowned as she watched - but not because
she grudged the water,

only because she was waiting
to see we drank our fill and were
refreshed.

Don't say, don't say there is no water.
That fountain is there among its scalloped
green and gray stones,

it is still there and always there
with its quiet song and strange power
to spring in us,
up and out through the rock.

This has been a difficult week. Well, really - a difficult Tuesday-Wednesday. I have not felt strong, or like a leader who knows what she is doing. I keep getting reminded by these situations that I really don't know what I'm doing and all I can do is rely on what God has given me - which includes inner strength, other people's wisdom, and a community of support.

Inter-personal things I get. Business ones I don't. And every once in a while the panic of "I don't know what to do" overrides better wisdom and trust. Thankfully, wonderful people were safe for me to express that...to be overwhelmed with and offer support and prayer.

I still don't know what I'm doing. But, I do know that I'm no longer panicking.

A Different Kind of Good News

My job, at its heart, is about good news.

Good News that conquers sin & death. Good News of goodness within each person, createdness as God's children. Good news that someone cares. Good news that life is about more than one's own little opinions and needs - that we're connected to one another. Good News of love.

This weekend my job is about other good news as well.

Half of our building has heat! (Which is good news when two weeks ago we weren't sure where we'd be). Our programs will be able to continuously be held without worry that the homeless folk won't have a place to warm up or that the little old ladies will be shivering. Sure, worship will continue to be held in the fellowship hall rather than the sanctuary, but we'll be warm with more than just the Spirit.

and
We are receiving some money from one of the grants I submitted earlier this fall!! We have yet to hear from another. But, this is good (and stress reducing) news!

and
I'm going away for a week. Good news because although I love my people, and my work...my sermons have been suffering and my brain and my pre-preaching nerves need a bit of a break. And, while most of the times I go away are preceded by extra preaching (for a funeral or a wedding), this time...I can safely say now that it's the day before I leave...that will not be the case.

Good news for me. Not the holy kind. But...maybe a little bit of the wholly kind - physical comfort, economic help, mental health break. That seems like good news to me.

Highlights of my work week

* I tied for first at the Senior Center's marshmallow blowing contest on Tuesday. My prize - a Santa figurine. (Doesn't that seem off? It should have been something Halloween-y). I'm still accepting it - no matter that I was decades younger than the other participants and I only tied.

* My Confirmation class loved that I found a song on YouTube to play for them and discuss. And, they started singing Bible songs spontaneously a few different times (like our ever-so-dignified Wed. text study does). And, they are excited about the Lenten series to be described below. And, one of the students got really excited about going on a mission trip - even going home right away to research and e-mail the info to me. **Favorite quote of the night - "So, what you're saying is the world needs hippies."

* Some members of my text study took off for Sun-Mon to brainstorm a Lenten series based on "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and strength and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself" and The Wizard of Oz. It was good to brainstorm - and I'm looking forward to this work (as I focus on the cowardly lion and strength).

* Today my secretary and I are having lunch together. It's a working lunch where we'll touch base about how things are going and what we can do better in our working relationship. But, we also have fun together.

* Last night a new congregation cooked for the Soup Kitchen. They made a FANTASTIC meal, were excited about their experience, and one of the volunteers said to a member of mine: "This is where I belong." Lots of laughter - also meant a lot of time freed up for me to visit with others that were there who needed it.

* A good worship service last night - one actually full of comedy for some reason. Good discussion, a full house (9) for a Wed. night. A cell phone rang in the middle of our "silence." People held it together during the silence and then when the silence ended everyone erupted in laughter. It felt like a great community - half of whom were sleeping outside last night.

* Because I will be gone for a little over a week, I'm needing to prepare to get a lot of information to other people. I've gotten worship planned now through mid-December and have already gotten some Christmas stuff figured out. I've got people to open up the church on Sunday and to lead Wednesday evening functions. I've got to put together instructions for leading the Confirmation Class next Monday and to get my sermon ready for this Sunday...but I feel like things are pretty well under control. Yay!

Commending all for whom (and what) we pray

On Wednesday night, one of my fellow worshipers spoke of his wife praying for strength. He said that perhaps she should stop praying for strength because God then keeps giving her situations in which to use that strength. Maybe she should pray for peace instead.

I don't believe that is how God works.

But, I wonder if I should stop praying for strength....and perhaps wisdom as well.

I'm not going to stop praying for strength and wisdom in my work, but it does make me recognize that sometimes those are the two qualities for which I pray the most. I don't pray for lightheartedness or a restful time for myself. I don't pray to have a light work week or a full social calendar.

I'm realizing...regardless of how one believes prayer works...that I would like to be more well-rounded in my prayers for myself. Prayers for others tend to be holistic. Prayers myself tend to focus on work.

So, today I'm going to pray that my time at the orchard is invigorating and dry (rain is in the forcast) and that the brewery birthday party is joyous and energizing. Amen.

A Visit From Mom

My easy going mom has been visiting. Her visits are always good for me. We eat well but not too much, I usually end up learning something, and we walk (outside or in a museum or at some other entertainment venue).

It's nice to have someone - the person from whom I probably learned the most about attending church - to recognize the same idiosyncrasies of my congregation as I do. Like the incredibly long sharing of the peace, or the fact that a couple people carry their hymnals with them to coffee hour (because after that they are heading home...and since they sponsored the hymnals they believe they should be able to bring them home and bring them to worship each Sunday).

It's also nice to not talk about church and to hear about experiences that she is having and has had. To change certain assumptions I've had. To get her take on current events and life in general. To get hugs from my mama.

It wasn't technically vacation, but it felt a bit like it.

Unexpected Visitors

I've had a number of surprise visitors in worship recently. Last Sunday members of the congregation in which I grew up popped in. (Unfortunately it was one of the rare Sundays in which I wasn't preaching...but that just means they'll have to come again.)

This Sunday a dear friend...who told me that he warned me earlier in the week, but I don't recall it.

Next Sunday...well, I suppose that's not unexpected, but a visitor nonetheless - my mom.

But, today there was one potential unexpected visitor that did not show up - and I'm a bit relieved.

Today we held a pet blessing in the afternoon. This is an annual tradition held near the commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi (Oct 4th). We read some scripture, say some prayers, I bless each animal (I think we had about 12 dogs and one picture of a cat present this afternoon). Some congregations are brave enough to hold this pet blessing during the regular Sunday morning worship - with the pets sitting through the service. I am not that brave - and I'm not sure some of the animals would have made it either.

Just prior to the regular morning service the organist told me that his good friend was thinking about bringing her dog to the service....the regular morning service. She wasn't able to make the afternoon blessing and wanted her pup to be blessed. He (the organist) mentioned that I would know if the dog arrived.

Well, neither the dog nor its owner showed up. But, I did bless the dog that may be the ring bearer for the couple I am marrying in another year.

From Their Mouths to God's Ears

I got the giggles yesterday during worship. I was sitting closer to the congregation because we had a guest preacher who was going to preach from the aisle instead of the pulpit (and if I was in my usual spot I would have had to turn around the entire time to see him).

I wrote here about the chance-taking of chanting the psalm, well, today the attempts at praising the Lord with chanting were a bit reversed. It has been traditional for our congregation to speak the psalm, responsively...and so many of those who avoid singing the hymns are chanting the psalm. Yesterday the leader did a wonderful job (it's something he just started working on last spring and it's so fun to see him get better and bolder). But the congregation responding was completely off key and out of tempo. Because I was sitting closer, I got an even louder experience of it.

It was just so charming. Voices raised earnestly with joy, and some trepidation. And, I bet to God it was beautiful.

Ms. Jekyll and Hyde

I had a dr's appt yesterday - just regular procedural stuff.

One of the things I wanted done was to have my cholesterol checked. That requires a fast...meaning no food. My appointment was at 1:15.

Just a warning to one and all - I'm not a very pleasant person when I haven't had any food or caffeine - at all. It was scary...and I don't think I liked myself very much.

After the appt I went to a local coffee joint and had some coffee and a sandwich. Then I came home and took a nap.

All was right in the world once again. And it's a good thing too - I taught Confirmation last night.

Amazing Grace

Today, aided by well loved hymns, I convicted.

My sermon was all about sin - about owning up to it - about no longer being ignorant to the amount of grace and mercy we receive.

There was Gospel, but the weight of the knowledge of sin was heavy.

Then as the Hymn of the Day we sang "Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling...come home..." and most powerfully of all - "Amazing Grace" as I handed the bread to people who were sniffing, tearing up, fragile.

It hurts. I'm not telling them - or myself - anything that isn't true. I'm not making them feel any particular way. But, I am calling forth truth. And it's painful.

But the grace came in the meal - that overflowed with abundance - that helped people to know that they had been made right by God.

I'm still feeling fragile. I pronounced the post-communion blessing "May the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you, and keep you in his grace" a bit choked up and with tears dripping out of the corners of my eyes.

Early Bird

Up until my second year of college I was one of those annoying people who would practically leap out of bed. It's not that I would wake up naturally, but when my alarm went off I was up and ready to go.

Something about those late college nights and extra responsibility removed that immediate bounciness and I started to have to drag myself out of bed, even setting more than one alarm for a while.

Now, however, I've been waking up naturally more and more - earlier too. I am also finding myself somewhere in between these two states. My current mode of operation when I wake up is to be calm and relaxed. I've recently enjoyed a little bit of extra time in the morning in which I get to drink my coffee, read the paper, maybe go for a run and just be.

Ooops - there goes my alarm for the day.

I like this morning time and am thankful for it because while evening time like this - calm, centered around books or music or some task - is nice...it's good to start the day this way.

Now on to tackle this one...

Pests - Just Trying to Show the Love

For the first time since I started wearing contacts (periodically) again, no one at Soup Kitchen commented on whether I was wearing glasses or not.

It's because all the comments were reserved for my newly curly hair.

I don't like it, but I do understand that for some people it is their way of connecting - commenting on appearance. I (probably like most people) appreciate it when someone tells me I look nice, but when it's just general comments about my appearance - I get annoyed. (It also depends on who is saying it, and of course, how it's said.)

I watched a member make the rounds of Soup Kitchen last night and probably experience the same thing I do...she is one that makes an effort to know everyone and is amazingly caring and welcoming.

As people would walk by her (as she was talking with someone else), many would place a hand on her back or shoulder, or flip her hair. It was obviously done out of endearment...and she held her cool.

The same thing happens to me, and I sometimes have to really work to not be incredibly annoyed by it. But, what I saw last night was the beauty of people feeling connected to her. Feeling they had a friend in her. People who probably wouldn't say they have a friend in very many others.

It still is annoying - the same kind of pestering that little kids do to one another when they like each other - but, on the other hand, it's a good sign of relationship and the good work we are doing.

Taking a Chance

I'm not the best singer.

I think I can hear tune and tone and all the important musical things, but I can't always make my voice do that.

So, I've regularly chanted the liturgy, and in the last 6 months we've started to have those Lectors who were interested in chanting chant the Psalm. It's been a set few and I've come to expect that some but not others would.

I've also been working on a worshipful environment that allows us to take chances. That we don't have to be perfect in what we do in order to worship and praise God. Sometimes even saying that we're going to try something that is a little out of our comfort zone - and asking people to remember that what we're doing is about God - not about how we perform. (Although I do also talk about not giving crap to God - but trying our best).

Yesterday I got tears in my eyes as one of my older adults - a woman who I've come to expect to be a bit stuck in her ways - decided to chant the Psalm. Her voice cracked a little - she had to start over for one of the stanzas - but it was beautiful.

Presents from God

God was so present at church last night - it was overwhelming.

Among other ways, God showed up:

* In the new volunteer who was moved to tears as he observed what was going on at the Soup Kitchen. And who recognized that he will be filled as he breaks bread with others (and helps to clean up afterwards).

* In the calming presence of a homeless man as he recommended that the hotheaded one give me a call to tell me what was bothering him. And, the hothead listened and set up a time to call me today.

* In the Free Clinic's calm approach as they realized they were short a nurse. And the matter-of-fact and loving way in which people were handled. (I love nurses!)

* In the church members who stepped up (not thinking they were going to have to) during Soup Kitchen...which was especially needed because it was a 5th Wednesday.

* In the hoards of people who came to Soup Kitchen for the first time last night.

* In a member who I've been working with who really needed a connection that was made.

* In the people who had been regular visitors to worship last Spring but stopped coming due to physical ailments....who stopped by because they learned there is a Free Clinic here - and who said they'll be back on Sunday.

* In the small worship service.
- First with the amazing tale of calling someone's bullshit out - that resulted in anger...but then the transformation that happened and the peace offered.
- Then, in the very real conversation about how we are motivated to do things for others.
- But most amazingly, in the woman - who happened upon our service - who has experienced tragedy, abandonment and disappointment in loved ones - who is truly trying to follow Jesus - not in a passive way, but in a very real, active way. In her story of forgiving others. In her strength. In her excitement for Jesus.
- Also, in the connection that was made as our member who is homeless walked up to her after the service and quietly asked if she needed anything to make it on the street. He who is a guardian angel to so many street people - and an eye opener to members of my church.

* In the reuniting with the guys from AA that I have not seen almost all summer - the jokes, the hugs and their delight in seeing me.

God is so good.

8-6-7-5-3-oh-what?

I've been back at work for a week after being gone for two. This past week has been full of catching up and details and getting things together. I've got a bit more work to do in order to feel on top of things, but that end is in sight.

So, tonight, after my church's book club and after a nice long walk with a friend, I come home and decide that having not eaten dinner (at 9pm) it'd be a good pizza and beer night.

I call up the local pizza delivery establishment and do just fine until she wants my phone number....I say it, the woman taking my order repeats it back to me incorrectly and then for the life of me I cannot remember my phone number. I could get out the first three numbers...and I knew the last 4 had a 9 in it someplace. It was a total block.

I ended up hanging up the phone, regrouping and calling back (at which point she called me 'dear').

I guess my mind can be responsible for only so much.

Hermitage

I've had an intense 2 weeks. And work-wise I do believe this next one will be fairly intense.

As I left my parents' home last night I broke down into tears for just a few minutes. It had been a full day - saying goodbye to my home congregation for really the last time, saying goodbye to my family - with both my brother and sister moving cross country in the next couple weeks, which just changes the family dynamic. That change is fine...and really, I believe, good - but change is emotional for me.

It's been a great two weeks - and a couple of weeks with little to no alone time. I've felt like I've had a good balance of work, play, family and friends - a balance with which I hope to always live my life. But what hasn't been balanced has been the "being with other people" and the "being just with me."

I wouldn't give up a second of that time I spent with another person - even those times when I was hard to deal with ;). But, I do recognize that I am in need to some me-time.

So, following this time away, I'm going to be a little hermit for a few days.

But...Even More Exciting...

My brother called last night to tell me that he and his awesome girlfriend (see here) ARE ENGAGED!!!

They don't plan to be married until after she participates in a year-long program next year - but I'm just so happy. Although it was over cell phone static we had a short conversation about why they wanted to get engaged now. (They offered...I didn't question). It was a great witness (in my opinion) to purpose of marriage at all. My brother said, "This doesn't really change our relationship, but it let's people know our intent."

He's so wise. (It's also something I've said about marriage in general).

YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!!

I just cannot express my joy enough here.

My Inner Geek Squad

I love when I'm able to just figure something out.

On Saturday night, before I left for 4 days away I discovered that my computer had died. This had been building up - and I figured it was that it wasn't receiving power. This isn't all that amazing since the cord that feeds the battery (I believe) had some loose wires in it and would regularly need to be wiggled to make it work.

So, I ordered a new cord from Dell - having done so about a year ago as well. It seems that this particular product sucks and people have to regularly repurchase this part for their computers (but $50 is better than $1,000 when you're not in the market for a new computer). On impulse I also bought a new battery for my computer - thinking that it would be nice to again be able to take my computer places an outlet and cord do not go.

I arrived home late last night and my new purchases had arrived. But, alas! I plugged the cord into the computer and nothing happened. It sucked. I was really disappointed. Since I'm heading out (in 3 hours) for vacation, I decided just to put it off.

This morning I woke up to the realization that - the battery had been dying for a while...perhaps the battery just finally said enough and retired itself.

So, without having my morning coffee I set to work to figure out how to change my computer's battery.

Success! The battery is changed - and the computer works!!

I feel like I'm the smartest person in the world. Or, at least sitting in my chair.

I hate being the one to set other people's boundaries. I don't like having to tell people what to do.

I don't like confrontation. Especially when it involves me needing to set boundaries (my own and others). I do it because it's necessary. While I might initially step back, I don't shy away from it.

I especially don't like it though, when it involves my personal life. Here I drag my feet.

Just Wait

A couple minutes ago I went to get rid of some flowers that are over a week old when I noticed that a couple of the more hidden, tiny ones are just starting to bloom. Sure, the more showey flowers are dead - brown even (and should have been thrown out a few days ago), but there is new, subtle beauty opening up within the death.

This morning I led the Outreach committee in some visioning - some evaluation. It was a bit nerve wracking to be the leader because of some strong personalities...but it was a productive morning, with good conversation.

There have been some showy examples of how we are involved in the community, but I think the true testament is the continued relationship building that is going on. We named that, and noted that we need to continue to work on that. It might not be a big production of show, but a quiet build up of community.

There has also been a quiet build up for my own support network. It sometimes explodes in recognizing (as I did last night) that I've got some pretty cool friends - and they're not all pastors (!). As I somehow ended up at one friend's performance with four other friends who either barely knew each other - or had never met. Add to that, the work support network that continues to emerge - I think as a vision is being knit together and communicated. They aren't so much a support of me as a support of the work that I think we're all working towards...but it's so much nicer than attempting the work alone.

My Mailman ROCKS!

This morning as a friend and I left the house to go to the Farmer's Market we ran into my mailman as he was organizing his route. He asked if I was waiting for Harry Potter and I excitedly responded that I was and did he have it???

He did and I squealed and jumped up and down as someone 20 years younger than myself would (tee hee!!!!). He handed me the book and then looked at me thoughtfully and said, "Seeing your reaction, I wonder if I should go deliver these other books right now."

My friend and I went on our way and soon saw him drive by. When we returned from the Farmer's Market he was back on my street and I asked if he did deliver them. He said that he had and that all but one of the recipients was really excited too.

My mailman rocks.

Flexibility

I love that I get to set my own schedule.

I decided that I was going to primarily work from home today. I've been in intense situations with a lot of people - and have had to make a lot of decisions lately. Now, I'm home. My secretary knows where to find me. But, for the most part I'm working on writing. I need to - I have a lot to put together and write.

I rarely take advantage of the flexibility I have in my schedule, because I so often overwork. Not this week though.

The flexibility of my schedule - and my failure to keep time for myself - then leads to body aches and pains. I do hold tension - often from the pains of others - in my body. I feel it. I try to stretch, to breath, to do what I can to let go of it. But, it doesn't always work.

So, in essence, the flexibility of my job hinders the flexibility of my body....only when I allow it to. Crap. It's all on me again.

Blasted - updated

A Sunday morning post again.
I'm prying my eyes awake this morning after one set of my blasted neighbors decided to race a buzzing motorcycle or scooter on my street for a couple hours after midnight and then my downstairs neighbors (perhaps the same ones who were riding the motorcycle??? I dunno??) decided it was a fantastic idea to set off (blasted) fireworks....the big kind...between 2:45 and 3:15.

I would really love to curl up under the covers this morning and have a lazy Sunday morning. I'd like to do that many weeks - but especially today. Currently, after forcing myself to get up and start getting ready I've got that combination exhaustion/alertness quality going on. The one that feels a lot like anxiety.

Oh well. Today I think I only have a short time of work and can hopefully be back home (under the covers) by 11:30....earlier than normal. I just have to make it through the next four and a half hours.

UPDATE
It's just after 11:30 and I'm home with definite plans to spend some quality time in my bed. However, worship was really good today. Despite my half-comatose state...it was energizing and warm (in emotion, not temperature). Yay!

For the first time since last Fall... (Possibly TMI for some)

I love the way my skin feels.

My skin ailments are many:
Eczema
Folliculitus (infection of hair follicles and a darn fun word to say)
A multitude of Allergies (including, I believe to my own sweat)

Compounded by stress, dry winter weather and the fact that sometimes I like to try random things like waxing my legs (which was actually a positive move in my opinion)...my skin has taken a bit of a beating.

But now, although it has a few scrapes and bruises....It feels good.

Hooray!

5 Things I Dig About Jesus

I was tagged by Backwoods Rev for this meme:

1. I dig that even though he was so anticipated, he was so unexpected.

2. I dig that he wasn't always a nice guy...but there was usually not-niceness in order to call people to be transformed. (Like a favorite movie quote says, "God loves you just the way you are. But He loves you too much to let you stay that way." Junebug) I don't trust guys that are too nice.

3. I dig that because of him, I know God better.

4. I dig the whole equality thing - the lack of care for societies rankings - the focusing of attention not on petty rituals, but on what was really important - relationship with God - through relationship with others.

5. I did that he formed a community to continue the work of living in God's kingdom, not Caesar's (or Bush's). A community to love one another, to support one another in this tough work, to call one another into accountability.

So, I originally posted this thing without tagging...it feels a bit like a chain letter. And yet, it was so much more fun than I had originally thought it would be. So, I'll tag: Abba, Jessica, Meckhead (even though she hasn't blogged in over a year), Kendi, and um, well - you....whoever you are.

Rules for this meme:
a)Those tagged will share "Five Things They Dig About Jesus".
b)Those tagged will tag 5 people. (if they can find someone untagged!)
c) Those tagged will leave a link to their meme in the comments section of the blog of the person who tagged them (meaning this post) so that everyone can keep track of what's being posted.

Moms

It happens to be my mother's 60th birthday today. She is in Tanzania and so a Happy Birthday phone call will not be part of today's celebration.

As I was preparing for a devotion for some older adults, I came across these two poems/prayers from the book Soul Weavings: A Gathering of Women's Prayers, edited by Lyn Klug.

A wandering Aramean was my mother.
In Egypt she bore slaves.
Then she called to the God of our mothers.
Sarah, Hagar, Rebeccah, Rachel, Leah.
Praise God who hears, forever.

A warrior, judge, and harlot was my mother.
God used her from time to time.
She gave what she gave, and was willing.
Rahab, Jael, Deborah, Judith, Tamar.
Praise God who takes, forever.

A Galilean virgin was my mother.
She bore our Life and Hope.
And a sword pierced her own soul, also.
Mary, blessed among women, mother of God.
Praise God who loves, forever.

A witness to Christ's rising was my mother
What angels said, she told.
The apostles thought it was an idle tale.
Mary, Mary Magdalene, Joanna, women with them.
Praise God who lives, forever.

A faithful Christian woman was my mother.
A mystic. Martyr. Saint.
May we, with her, in ever generation,
Julian, Perpetua, Clare, Hilda,
Praise God who made us,
Praise God who saved us,
Praise God who keeps us all forever. Amen.
-Martha Blacklock, Mother Thunder Mission, New York City

My God, I praise you, I thank you for my mother.
For all that she could give me,
for all that she gave of herself,
a true, living school of love and humility.
She reveals to me your mystery -
thank you for her revelation of your truth.
Now, O God, I pray for all the children
of Africa, of Asia, of America and Europe.
For all the children of the world.
Give me a heart like that of a mother
the heart of a black woman for her children.
-Mamia Woungly-Massaga, Cameroon

They Love Me...Or Maybe They Really Like Cake

The second anniversary of starting at my congregation is Thursday.

Today, they threw me a surprise anniversary coffee hour.

With lots of "You're staying for 30 years, right?" and "Has it already been 2?" but, the ones that feel like they mean something: "We're glad you're here."

Messy, Chaotic Reality

I'd like to think that I can be an example of *yes, you too could be a pastor* for the young adults (and perhaps some youth) that are spending time at my congregation this summer. This week there are at least 2 that are looking to further education to possibly head in this direction - and these are the two that sought me out - who knows who else there is.

But, this week has offered observations of chaos and the unknown rather than an attractive future job possibility.

They have personally encountered the helplessness of someone who comes for "help" but who really just wants someone else to fix them. They have encountered people who seek to lambast anything that has to do with organized religion (as they seek out a place of sanctuary). They have seen me running around like a headless chicken trying to figure out where in the gosh darn building the messed up fuse boxes are - and having to deal with overloaded circuits. They have been lectured for being too loud for the people who come to the free clinic.

Not really the picture that would draw anyone to the ministry. I only hope that the other experiences they are having balance out the experience at my place.

I just want to tell them: It is really great! Believe me...it's not always like this. And sometimes, there's blessing in all this messed up crap too.

Maybe they'll still go into this particular track of education but specify - I don't want to be in a building that is falling apart or someplace where random people come in. Maybe they'll build up tough skins (mine has become steel - figuratively) and realize that there is amazing goodness in being intimately involved in people's messy lives - even when they hate what you represent. Maybe they'll see in this craziness something that appeals...affirmation of a call.

God, help them.

NOT Burning Down the House

A while I go I mentioned I'd blog at some point about automatic shut offs. If I'm able to trust them they make life so much simpler. It's trust that's the issue.

In November of 2005 I headed out from Milwaukee to meet a friend in Madison. We met to do some Christmas Shopping, go to the Nutcracker (? right? I think so) and just hang out. I was running late and left the house in a hurry. When I was 1/2 way to Madison I couldn't remember whether I'd shut off the iron.

My iron was supposed to have an automatic shut off, but it had never been consistent in this task. I fretted as I drove and convinced myself to keep going.

While the weekend was wonderful, the fear that I would arrive home to a burned down house due to my lack of iron unplugging was a cloud over the entire trip. When I returned home (to a fully standing and unburnt house) I discovered that I had unplugged the iron and everything was just fine.

I have a new iron now that does shut off automatically. As does my coffee maker and my computer. I really like these things that shut off. I'm somewhat compulsive in some of these behavioral things (I always drive with my lights on...and I always habitually turn them off as I turn off my car). But every once in a while something I didn't do will catch me by surprise (like setting my parking break - oi!).

Fortunately, I now don't have to worry about burning down my house with my iron. Now, about those candles...

Getting out of the way.

A paraphrased conversation with my dad:

Me: "Things are just feeling really good. And, it's not about me. People are feeling invested, like it's a place they're proud of and want to be. And that's catching."

Dad: "Ironically, it's precisely because of you."

I wonder how often pastors get in the way. I do think that the reason people are feeling invested has something to do with me - but in some ways it has more to do with the fact that sometimes I don't know what the heck I'm doing and so need to rely on others in a different way than a more seasoned pastor would. (Depending on the seasoning, of course).

These last couple weeks have been huge ego boosts - and so of course I don't trust them. I got a call today from a nearby pastor who many of my church ladies love (he comes and gives a devotion at our senior center about once a month...they love his weeks). He called to tell me of his lunch conversation with a bunch of my members in which they were just praising me for all that's going on. Again, it's more because I've gotten out of the way, I think.

Either that or it's the beautiful weather. I know I've been in an obnoxiously good mood lately. Maybe someone leaked a happy gas into the air and everyone who comes to the church breaths it in. Hey, if that's what it takes...

Resolving Disagreeableness

I sometimes wonder if I'm disagreeable (as in disagreeing with someone...not the way I'm received, although for some it's one and the same) because I think it's honest, or because I want to change someone, or because I'm wanting to be in good relationship, or just because I'm crabby.

I feel crabby when I disagree with someone. It's against my nature. But, it's also against my nature to be dishonest. And, I don't want to be a "yes-woman." I don't respect "yes-people."

I wonder, though, how fair it is to some of the relationships I have - those in which I tend towards the most disagreeable. When someone is always disagreeing with me I get tired of it. On the other hand, I get tired if someone is always saying things with which I completely disagree.

Yet, I value diversity of opinion and of individuals. And, I value being able to share my opinion.

There could be something in this about desiring harmony and similarity - a colleague today said we tend toward the familiar. Does that mean of thought as well as practice? There is beauty in dissonance too, but the beauty is in the ache for resolution.

I wish I had a good sense of how my disagreeableness is received - especially by the people with whom I disagree most (and they haven't been invited to this blog). I wonder, if I knew people understood my reasoning, my impetus in my disagreement, if I would find some resolution. Just in that understanding.

Edit Schmedit

I obviously was quite tired last night when I posted - and I didn't think to push the spellcheck function. So, while I could go back and edit, I think I'll just acknowledge that what you got from last night was truly me - unedited...mistakes and all.

I also should say that as I was writing I thought it was a pretty positive post, but as has been pointed out to me (and after rereading it, I do agree) it doesn't come off that way.

Ah well.

The Bable of What's Going On

Since I last posted I've been on the lower end of the mood spectrum. A combination of overwork, underplay, yearning for some specific kinds of relationships I don't have, and just plain old questions of purpose.

Last week was especially low. But, I don't want to talk about that.

This week was much better. And, I've had fun. Many times. I needed some of that grounding.
Tuesday night - went walking with a (non-church) friend.
Wednesday night - had a fun time with a (church-related) friend over margaritas.
Friday night - the friend who was "the-only-friend-who-lived-here-that-knew-me-before" and now has turned into "the-only-friend-who-used-to-live here-that knew me before" was back in town for the weekend and gathered a group of her friends (most of whom are now my friends too) for dinner.
Saturday - a huge interfaith service day where I got to be the cool adult (although the organized one who made them count off). They weren't to the point of testing boundaries with me yet - and I so love that part of a youth to adult relationship when they revel in the fact that you care about them and so that's the most important action - caring. (Plus, for some reason the 3 youngest kids (6-8 year olds...all three Muslim) decided I was really cool and followed me around all day and kept asking "do you need any help?" and thought it was awesome that I was the religious leader at my church.)
Then tonight - a recently acquired friend's birthday party (Sue - I went to duckpin bowling!) - and having a good time with all her eclectic friends. By the way - I rock at duckpin bowling.

In a week I go away for a few days. And, I need it. I am exhausted. I am feeling crabby with my tried and true ones who just want some support. I don't feel like I can support them at the moment. I'm having a hard enough time supporting my own self. I haven't had more than one day off in a row since February.

This is simply spurting out what's in my head. Nothing profound. (Although I may post soon about automatic shut offs). Almost a reminder to myself that sometimes I do have good days - even after hard ones.

Some Days...

Some days can hold me for an entire week. Yesterday was a fun, exciting, somewhat momentous day - one that might hold for even longer than a week.

Yesterday I:
- started the morning walking with a new friend
- got my oil changed and a new battery put in my car (In my opinion the battery could have waited until next winter, but knowing me I wouldn't do it until the battery died and then that would take a ton of time. So, I'm telling myself I just saved time and headache.)
- met with a real estate broker...haven't committed to anything yet - but at least I know what I'll be looking towards and what is possible
- bought two books with a gift certificate
- drove home with my window open and music blaring
- got my taxes mailed off...and my estimated taxes...without going into the account that I set up recently to save money for my taxes (!) (it's because I got enough back from my 06 taxes that it covered some of my first estimated payment for 07). Also got my checkbook up to date and (I'm fairly certain) all of my bills paid.
- did two loads of laundry
- did dishes
- had a wonderful night out with a friend - dinner at a nice restaurant that she and I have been attempting to go to for a little while and then to the HILARIOUS musical "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change"

It was good and I've got to celebrate that, especially as I look forward to this upcoming day that needs total creativity and work (haven't even started my sermon, or the speech I give next Wed, or the Bible Study I lead tomorrow). Well, here I go - hopefully buoyed up by yesterday, I plan to take on this weekend. Here goes...

The Downside of an Extraordinary Life

I visit a woman who most people would characterized as having "lost it." She talks about knowing the Queen of England and other important people. She has told me of her great importance in many different incredible circles. Every time I visit her she tells me she's going home that day. Her world is extremely different than the one I, and most other people, live in.

Today though, her world was a bit more honest with mine. Her world was most likely the same for her. But, today she told me that it's really hard because people don't believe her.

She's bright - I think in her early 60's. And she knows that people don't believe what she believes. Since she started allowing me to visit (the first few times I tried really aggrivated her) I have gone in with an eagerness of hearing about her world. I simply ask her to tell me more about what she is thinking about. It's not my job to contradict her. And, her theology is always right on (which would be my job).

I had previously thought that she was somewhat oblivious to the way she might be perceived. But, she's not. And I feel sad that she's not.

Maybe it's not so easy to live an extraordinary live.

A Lesson From Childhood That Doesn't Carry Over.

In sixth grade I was a crossing guard. I'm not exactly sure what appeal that role held for me, but nonetheless, I was one for one year. (After that year they asked me to go to crossing guard - or patrol - camp in order to become a captain, I declined and stopped being a crossing guard altogether).

One morning a fight broke out in the commons area between two boys who were each much bigger than I. I got in there and tried to break it up. I don't remember all that much of what happened then, but I do remember sitting in the assistant principal's office later that morning. She was a member of my church and it was a bit odd to have my worlds collide like that.

I remember that she was usually a very tough person, but that this morning she was more motherly toward me. I did receive a lecture though - I should not have gotten involved in that fight. I should have gone for the help of an adult.

Now I look around and I'm the adult. As I came home from work on Sunday I passed a car that was stalled in the middle of the road. No one was honking or impatient, but just calmly driving around the stalled car. As I passed I looked in and there was a man with his chin lowered to his chest. It almost looked like he was sleeping.

I drove by, made my turn, then circled the block and came back. He was still there, although now his head was up. As I pulled into the gas station I realized that the cashier was out in the parking lot, trying to both help this man and take care of any customers who happened to come.

I ran into the middle of the street and as I neared the man in the stalled car started to roll up his window. I asked him if he was alright (I wondered if he'd had a stroke or something) and he lowered the window just a crack. (Keep in mind, I had my clergy shirt on - and was wearing a necklace one of my confirmation kids gave me - a cross). The cashier came back and told me he'd been trying to help the man for some time - but kept having to go back into the store. So, we finally managed to convince the man to put his car in neutral and we pushed it over into a nearby parking lot. The cashier dashed off. I tried to see if I could help the man anymore, but he didn't seem to want any more help. I asked if he knew what he was going to do and he said he'd just keep starting his car.

I wonder how many people passed that man and did nothing. The skinny kid of a cashier and I (still not all that big - and definitely not someone who would be chosen first for any feat of strength) could have used more help.

I worry that too many people got that message as a kid that we shouldn't get involved in other people's problems. It makes sense in some ways - don't be dumb. At one point I wondered if I should offer to give this man a ride somewhere, but decided against it - it would be dumb to give an unknown (and rather large) man a ride. Don't be dumb, but that doesn't mean not to be involved at all.

For this I'm thankful

I am thankful for today.

For the beauty of honesty and forgiveness. For the willingness of one to confess.

For two delightful women - living yards from each other in the same nursing home. Neither remembers much from our conversations. Both laugh, joke, cajole and perk up when I visit. It would have been nice to have known them before Alzheimer's, but it's pretty great to know them now as well.

For my secretary.

For my finance committee chair.

For people who are thinking of the church when possibilities arise.

For teenagers.

For the other congregation and their pastor who come on the 4th Wednesday to make supper.

For colleagues.

For a full house tonight - at dinner, at the clinic, at worship.

For members who reach out.

For members who allow themselves to be reached.

For creative nurses, who see the need for a $4 medicine and figure out a way to get it.

For the trust of a homeless man.

For being in the right place at the right time.

For a warm dry place to sleep.

For a glass of red wine.

For all this I'm thankful. Right now, today. I'm tingling with thankfulness. My eyes are brimming. Sometimes everything seems so very overwhelming and stressful. Sometimes I forget about how very lucky I am.

I feel very blessed.
Thank you, God.

Repetition

Am I repeating the same year over and over again? Second post in a week that I'm referencing a post from last year.

Last year on March 20th I posted this. I had come down with a sinus infection and very much appreciated my trip to Urgent Care.

Well, this year on March 21st I started with a little cough and a sore throat. It was difficult to lead the mostly singing liturgy at the Wednesday evening service, but it went okay. Yesterday (the 22nd) it went full blown and I came home from work - sore throat, achy body, cough. Because I have limited contact with the elderly population for these next few days I'm going to try to stick it out.

It seems I don't have to look out for the Ides of March. But 5-6 days after the Ides. Maybe it's Lent, maybe it's Spring, maybe it's a delayed reaction to turning older.

All I know is that next year for my birthday I'm asking for Vitamin C and Zinc.

GS is for Cookie

The last few years I've been amazed at the speed in which the Girl Scout cookies I've ordered have disappeared.

It would seem like I had just opened a box and it was empty.

Seriously. Like 1/2 an hour later. No more cookies.

This year I was only hit up by one girl scout. I only ordered 2 boxes from her (one of each of my favorites - S'Mores (or whatever they're called now) and Thin Mints) because I thought other badge-earners would soon be following. Alas! Only two boxes this year.

The S'Mores were gone after 3 days. I was purposely limiting myself because of the supposed scarcity of the cookies. But, then, it was at least 3 weeks before I even opened my Thin Mints. And, I only ate 2 when I first opened them (two days ago). And, I still am on the first sleeve of cookies.

I'm almost fearful that something is wrong with me. I always devour these cookies like they're good for me or something. I still like the taste, but for some reason I'm naturally limiting myself.

Scary.

Involved, Invested, Inspired...Irritated

A little over a year ago I posted this. To sum it up - it's about acting as if I was into something to be polite.

It happened again. Except, this time, I was masking some stronger feelings than boredom.

Retreats are supposed to be relaxing and inspiring. Relaxing it was, inspiring - not so much. I also went in expecting to have 2 of the other retreatants irritate me the entire time. Good news: One of them was incredibly tolerable - even enjoyable. Bad news: the other was in top form and I had to be incredibly aware of my facial expressions whenever she spoke (which was often).

But, with one exception, I think I faked my way through it. I think people will have thought that I was involved, invested, and inspired. The one exception was addressing this one irritant and a particular comment she made that was offensive to me. (She made others that were too, but this was the only one I reacted to).

Do other people just not say something? Am I hearing her completely wrong? Maybe to both.

The retreat did have some very good parts. A parishioner of mine was there. I got to spend time with the two other pastors who were there and some other people who are quite enjoyable. The sisters at the retreat center were amazing and they had a fantastic book store. I got to walk by the lake and eat good food prepared by other people. I got to be part of and lead worship that felt meaningful.

I just wish I didn't feel like I was faking it during the cheesy parts.

Cheers to me.

Last night 18 fabulous friends joined me in celebrating my 30th birthday. As someone who is habitually single, I've often hosted "gatherings" or "get-togethers" in my own honor.

I love celebrations - it's one reason I love worship (good worship that is...). And, I like to mark occasions. I notice when my odometer turns, I recognize anniversaries of various events (although, I must admit...I'm good at doing this with my own things, not others - how horribly self-involved that makes me seem).

It does feel a little odd to invite people to come and celebrate me and I hope that I am able to maneuver the line of being celebratory of me, and helping others have a good time. And it helps when I have such cool friends who enjoy getting to meet each other and can entertain themselves.

It also helps when the location is a brewery.

In my head I have this running commentary that has helped me realize that it's okay to invite people to come and celebrate me. Part of it is something my mom helped me learn - that I have high expectations for some things - that I can't always expect others to fulfill. If I don't want to be crying in my milk (or beer) about no party or no specified time to mark the occasion of entering another decade, then I should just go ahead and do something that I'll enjoy.

So, raise your glass to this blogger entering another year/another decade even.

The Paper Whole

I'm filling out the information to turn into my tax preparers. It's a nifty bit; I'm able to fill out a computer worksheet without ever printing anything.

Except I get nervous about missing something. It's so much easier for me to catch mistakes when it's printed out, so I'll probably print it out when I'm almost done anyway - just to make sure that I answered everything I was supposed to.

It's why I love books and prefer magazines and real newspapers to on-line versions. I think it has something to do with the way I learn - but what it comes down to is that I'm able to see the whole of an item at one time. I think it's that I get a sense of seeing the breadth, depth and length of what it is I'm tackling.

When it's nice and tidy on a computer screen I have no sense of any of those things.

*** OH - D and B made it safely to their friend's home in London. D didn't eat any of the plane food, but everything stayed down once they left my house. It sounded like they got some good sleep and were relaxed and ready for the rest of their adventure.***

Can't get a fix

I'm hoping that by the time my brother might read this, what I'm about to write will be one of those stories you tell and not still an uncomfortable memory.

My younger bro and his wonderful girlfriend are currently flying over the Atlantic Ocean and will land in London, hopefully around 4:30am our time. They came into Milwaukee yesterday and spent the night with me until I brought them to O'Hare this afternoon.

It was wonderful to see them before their adventure...but, both became extremely sick in the night. Not only did they have no food in their stomachs, not only were they unsure about how much they could keep down, but they also had very little sleep. And, then their plane sat on the runway for an hour and a half prior to take off.

Yes, they will survive. Yes, they're heading first to London for about a week and a friend's home from college - so they'll not only know the language, but at least will know a friendly face. But (and now it becomes about me...), I've got this pit in my stomach.

Last night and this morning I've just wanted to make it all better - to make it more comfortable for them. I wanted to give them the time to sleep it off, to not be anxious about an 8 hour plane ride, to take away the upset stomach. I couldn't do any of it. I couldn't fix a thing. I hate that.

I'm praying for D. and B. tonight - that they might be able to rest on the plane. That they might be able to keep some food down (and the food will taste alright). That they are safe and comfortable. That they'll find their way to the place they are staying easily. That their entire trip is much better than this beginning.

I guess, prayer is about all I can do.

Pre-written

This week, like many recently, was all about finishing something in time, but with no extra lag time. I'm just barely pulling it through.

I am grateful for this blog - and the opportunity to put metaphor to my life differently than I do elsewhere - because I just stole the majority of the previous blog about tools for my newsletter article. I changed it and had it talk about tools for returning to God during Lent, but because I had previously written the story out, it flew out of me so quickly that the newsletter article was done in no time.

Now, if only there was a way for my taxes to be done that way.

Having the Right Tools

Earlier this month I bought this from IKEA. It's been partially put together in my living room since I got it home. It seems I was missing a particular tool (maybe an awl?) that would make it easier to put the wheels on.

I persistently worked on the screws enough that I had stripped one and didn't really want to torture my hands any more than I already had, so I decided I needed an electric screwdriver. I thought about buying one, but have not made it to the store to even price them or do any research, and I would think I'd like to know what I was getting into with something like that.

So, I finally borrowed one and got the wheels on....only to have multiple other problems that finally got (almost) figured out. I love doing this kind of building-by-number thing...and could see myself getting into further projects that don't come with ready-made pieces. But, I really need the right tools.

So, as many of these posts go, this too goes back to how I'm managing at my job. February has been so much better than January. People are starting to know of some of the happenings in January - and that feels a little bit like wading through some unknowns as to how to lead. BUT - I do feel like I have some competent, good, newly-in-place "tools" in the form of people who are stepping into certain positions.

Before now I feel like I've been trying to do every single job with a Phillips Head Screwdriver and a hammer...my tool box is expanding...I just hope these new tools feel competent, challenged and fulfilled.

Sunday Wishes

It's the same story every week.

On Thursday I say, "I'll get it done Saturday."

I get the big stuff done on Saturday.

But, on Saturday, I say, "I'll get all the odds and ends done on Sunday."

And then I wake up worrying that I'll forget the odds and ends and have little bits of paper all over the place and multiple e-mails to myself.

I wish I was more organized. I wish I could look forward to Sunday morning for what I hope it is for everyone else. I wish this could all be more laid back.

Insider

I was allowed in tonight - into a frigid camp under a freeway.

I was allowed in tonight - into the pain of a father's concern for his (grown) son whom no insurance company will accept - and whose medication costs $1500 a week.

I was allowed in today - into excited expectation for the coming role.

I was allowed in today - into the homebound woman's fears...even if she won't allow me in her home.

I admit, I take some joy and glee at reading celebrity gossip rags. I also enjoy many different forms of reality television. In some ways, each of these are ways people are allowed into others' lives.

I think I have it better being allowed in to real people's lives.