good and beautiful things

 I have been keeping a daily gratitude list for several years now.  It tends to consist of simple things, usually nothing too spectacular. But aren't the simple things often spectacular as well? Perhaps it's how we choose to view them.  

>My girlfriend and I watched Unsung Hero in the movie theatres a few days ago. What a great movie! I do love films that tell a good story, based on actual facts, and this one was that. Hope you get to watch it! What did I love about it? It reminded me of the value and blessing of family and how bonds can be strengthened if we are willing to support each other and work through hard times together.  

>Spending time in the garden, planting seeds, with some 'help' from my spunky five year old granddaughter. Playing with dirt and water and dandelions while chattering away in her own little world, she was a joy to observe. I wish I had taken a photo of the dandelion crown she was wearing, until she decided it was time to discard it ;)  But, it's not like we can't make another one.... 

>Heading out tonight to enjoy our local (fantastic) symphony orchestra present Mozart's Requiem, "one of the most captivating and powerful works ever composed", which will include soloists and a chorus. Music to soothe the soul! 

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched-they must be felt with the heart.     

                                                                                             Helen Keller 

Christmas In Our Hearts

Sometimes a song says it best. These lyrics are from the  group Downhere's song Christmas In Our Hearts from their album How Many Kings. It's quite timely, although it's an older song (and the band, one of my favorites,  is no longer together). It just reminds me that you can't really shut down Christmas! 

Land adorned with snow, trees silver and gold, a fire crackling along

Red and green decor, carolers at the door, and that family feeling is strong

Would it be less Christmassy, if all of it were gone? 

Even if nobody said Merry Christmas, if even the choirs and belfries made no sound, 

There would be peace on the earth, and forgiveness 'cause it's Christmas in our hearts. 

Everywhere you go, the poor and orphans know the Spirit is stirring the soul,                                        

as love and caring dare beyond the standard fare, to get back what the world stole. Is anything more

 Christmassy, more sweetly apropos?

Even if nobody said Merry Christmas, if even the choirs and belfries made no sound, 

There would be peace on the earth, and forgiveness 'cause it's Christmas in our hearts. 

Sacred night so timeless, we through shadows roam; 

Lend Your star to guide us to our heart's true home. 

Even if nobody said Merry Christmas, if even the choirs and belfries made no sound, 

There would be peace on the earth, and forgiveness 'cause it's Christmas in our hearts. 

Oh, if every sleigh bell on earth just disappeared, the 24th of December we'd start ringing a new year

There would be peace on the earth and forgiveness, 'cause it's Christmas in our hearts, 

Christmas in our hearts. In our hearts. 

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

~Together~

Day 29 Together

Several of our area churches came together on Friday night for a fundraiser in support of our local Pregnancy Care Centre.  Various musicians and worship leaders from several denominations s played together as one band in a worship concert experience and it was wonderful. The music was loud, energetic, and inspiring. Each vocalist was distinct and the quality of singing was superb. 

It was heartwarming to see so many people come together for this cause and support it both financially and simply by showing up. The new Executive Director of the PCC in our city was so grateful for the visible support shown by each person who attended. As well as music, there was a food truck and several firepots and chairs outside for socializing. It was well organized and the atmosphere was one of hope and camaraderie. 

One young mom gave a testimony via video and reminded us all of the impact the Pregnancy Care Centre makes in the lives of moms and their children. Together we can make a difference. I hope there’ll be another opportunity for our city church musicians to come together in support of this good work.