Puff is a boy. We took her to the vet - well Jim did - this a.m. and indeed what was once cradled, cuddled and cooed as a girl was revealed to be a boy, making all of her/his behaviours now quite understandable. Talk about mistaken identity. Poor little thing! It's very awesome though, cause he's able to come home this afternoon. No wonder he and Boobadee were having problems.
I'm home and reflecting on all of the kindnesses shown to me over the past days, and all of the work of course. I used up a lot of "emergy", but I believe it has come back to me two-fold.
My thoughts are too scattered to continue.
More before I leave for Halifax.
Peace to you all today in the midst of your lives. Write your soul story!
Emma Lee
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
From Now On, Day 3
We started early again today, with our final Taize-style worship at the Chapel. Okay - the heat was on. We needed it today, but had to open the doors to allow for air circulation and funnily enough nature just came right in to be with us. Nature's sounds, for me, filled the silences between the verses and sat with me during prayer.
My drum was then unpacked and taken to the drumming circle, which included just enough drummers, a tambourine, and some different patterns to follow, relaxing and smiling. A lovely setting of Exodus was our soundtrack and voices were raised without accompaniment nor pitch - but we did great. The future quilt pieces were delivered as part of the large past, present and future patchwork quilt that is being assembled. Amazing. I will post pictures once they are on the website.
Then rest.
This afternoon we will have an hour long choir practice for tomorrow's service. Bonnie, my friend, is being ordained. Karen is coming up for the rehearsal today. Trinity Jims are here, and gals that came from Amherst for the Julian service gave me an amazing prayer shawl and card. I'm soaking it all up. I am so happy I am here, where fear is overcome.
And rest.
We are singing an awesome Anthem called Give Us Your Peace. Couple of little tricky parts to keep us on our toes. It will be an amazing music team tomorrow: our team of Lloyd, Gwen, Kirby and me, The Message, and about 50 or so basses, tenors, altos and sopranos, and we will do the full From Now On as the final hymn, and then sing the assembly out (1000?) to the final refrain of From Now On - From Now On, love's the gospel that still guides us; From Now On - trust with faith the truth will find us; From Now On, the bright light of hope (my hope) shows God still knows the way. So how can we go wrong? From Now On. I have a feeling that song is going to be accompanying me into a few treatment rooms over the coming weeks. I have another song I'm going to work on with Karen, maybe starting Monday afternoon - see how tired I am. No need to rush. My Mary will be visiting too.
How can we go wrong?
Peace,
Emma Lee
My drum was then unpacked and taken to the drumming circle, which included just enough drummers, a tambourine, and some different patterns to follow, relaxing and smiling. A lovely setting of Exodus was our soundtrack and voices were raised without accompaniment nor pitch - but we did great. The future quilt pieces were delivered as part of the large past, present and future patchwork quilt that is being assembled. Amazing. I will post pictures once they are on the website.
Then rest.
This afternoon we will have an hour long choir practice for tomorrow's service. Bonnie, my friend, is being ordained. Karen is coming up for the rehearsal today. Trinity Jims are here, and gals that came from Amherst for the Julian service gave me an amazing prayer shawl and card. I'm soaking it all up. I am so happy I am here, where fear is overcome.
And rest.
We are singing an awesome Anthem called Give Us Your Peace. Couple of little tricky parts to keep us on our toes. It will be an amazing music team tomorrow: our team of Lloyd, Gwen, Kirby and me, The Message, and about 50 or so basses, tenors, altos and sopranos, and we will do the full From Now On as the final hymn, and then sing the assembly out (1000?) to the final refrain of From Now On - From Now On, love's the gospel that still guides us; From Now On - trust with faith the truth will find us; From Now On, the bright light of hope (my hope) shows God still knows the way. So how can we go wrong? From Now On. I have a feeling that song is going to be accompanying me into a few treatment rooms over the coming weeks. I have another song I'm going to work on with Karen, maybe starting Monday afternoon - see how tired I am. No need to rush. My Mary will be visiting too.
How can we go wrong?
Peace,
Emma Lee
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Tantramar Winds
Winds - not breezes! I would almost say in the early, early morning, the winds of God. At least that is how I felt. So many questions swirling.
We made the trip in record time yesterday, following a bunch of friendly and happy goodbyes with Honey. I did take some shots and will post next week. I miss her but this is all for the very best for all of us. I'm trying not to think about it really.
The sun came out as we crossed the New Brunswick border! The sun, blue skies, heat and black flies. Wow.
So, I was (I'm going to use this word) trepidatious about my song being sung, since Lloyd and I have only ever rehearsed it together - I had no idea how a group would react. (Can I tell you that the worship team are absolutely lovely people who love the song?) Our first worship was incredible. Last night, when we started to pick-up voices for our choir, we started to sing From Now On and I think it's going to grow wings. Although I had my back to the congregation, choir members are telling me the congregation is singing!! The congregation is singing!! Thrilling beyond words. So, thank you God. And, bonus God, the choir sounds sweet, just like I always imagined.
We had a beautiful hymn sing in the chapel this morning: an amazing little structure with the most inspiring stained glass. Holy. A place to draw in. The quiet is calling and answering at the same time. I arrived there after I had a little ceremonial walk, thinking about Jim and Honey in New Glasgow having their little farewell together.
Now, rest is calling. I don't know what is happening in my body but things are afoot. But, I could be sitting at home right now, worrying or anticipating or whatever, and instead, I am here, in the midst of the spirit, with the winds of the Tantramar Marshes and the sweet sounds of the choir and the birds and the congregation. And caring friends. I will continue to put my feet up and look forward to all of the opportunities I will have to sing with the choir and the congregation. Life is grand in those moments - no worries, no fears, no problemos!
Peace today,
Emma Lee
We made the trip in record time yesterday, following a bunch of friendly and happy goodbyes with Honey. I did take some shots and will post next week. I miss her but this is all for the very best for all of us. I'm trying not to think about it really.
The sun came out as we crossed the New Brunswick border! The sun, blue skies, heat and black flies. Wow.
So, I was (I'm going to use this word) trepidatious about my song being sung, since Lloyd and I have only ever rehearsed it together - I had no idea how a group would react. (Can I tell you that the worship team are absolutely lovely people who love the song?) Our first worship was incredible. Last night, when we started to pick-up voices for our choir, we started to sing From Now On and I think it's going to grow wings. Although I had my back to the congregation, choir members are telling me the congregation is singing!! The congregation is singing!! Thrilling beyond words. So, thank you God. And, bonus God, the choir sounds sweet, just like I always imagined.
We had a beautiful hymn sing in the chapel this morning: an amazing little structure with the most inspiring stained glass. Holy. A place to draw in. The quiet is calling and answering at the same time. I arrived there after I had a little ceremonial walk, thinking about Jim and Honey in New Glasgow having their little farewell together.
Now, rest is calling. I don't know what is happening in my body but things are afoot. But, I could be sitting at home right now, worrying or anticipating or whatever, and instead, I am here, in the midst of the spirit, with the winds of the Tantramar Marshes and the sweet sounds of the choir and the birds and the congregation. And caring friends. I will continue to put my feet up and look forward to all of the opportunities I will have to sing with the choir and the congregation. Life is grand in those moments - no worries, no fears, no problemos!
Peace today,
Emma Lee
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Morning Walk With My Darling
It was a grey one, and a slow one, but me and my darling had a little walk this morning, an early one. It's recycling and garbage collection day in our neck of the woods and despite everything (like no visible sunrise) the folks are out and about early and getting the world cleaned-up, house by house. I think I slept a bit last night - at least I missed Idol and Dancing with the Stars (or whatever); I know that Puff was pretty active, coming to check on me quite a bit. She likes to snuggle. She'll be moving next week. I did wake up for some of Jimmy Fallon, but quickly turned the world to black and asked the angels to come and comfort me. They did. I was told that all I have to do is ask - an elderly, wise lady told me that. Whenever you need their help, you just ask and they are there. I've put that into practice. Tomorrow I'll walk my darling again, cause I'll be leaving for conference and she will be in the boon docks of Pictou County by the time I get back on Sunday. Having fun I think. Loads of room to run, other dogs to terrify and get used to. Now when I tell her that Liz is coming, she's up and alert and runs to look out the back door. So, the magic is working. (She kind of acts the same way with Lloyd, but that's another story!)
I'm feeling terrible to be frank. I'm quite wobbly and will be taking life at a snail's pace over the next few days, being in the moment and sitting as much as necessary. Singing to my heart's content with any luck. I've found now that the tamoxifen is out of my system, it has let something in my voice come back to life and I am thankful for that. A song that I wrote will be used for the conference theme - Lloyd has been incredibly helpful in getting it transcribed to a readable musical format for the choir and the words will be displayed on the power point. It's called: From Now On, representing the past, present and future of our Church. Honey and I wrote it during our wintry walks these past months. God still knows the way, so how can we go wrong? Anyway, I will be tired, but a good tired, and then ready for treatments to begin next week. I wonder how long it will take before I begin to feel a bit better? So, when you ask me how I am, please excuse me if I tell the truth - terrible, but fighting it with every ounce of hope I have!
Lee has loaned me a laptop and I am hoping I can get it working if there is free wireless. If not, I shall post tomorrow and then not again until next week. I thank you all for your continuing support. It means the world to me.
I shall be opening the Relay for Life on Friday, the 3rd of June. That is something I shall be doing. The foot soldiers on the streets raising funds right now for Cancer-related initiatives are my heroes and I want them to know that. And Mary is putting the final touches on The Reason For Hope CD project, with net proceeds to go to metastatic breast cancer research. I am in discussions with the Canadian Breast Cancer Network to have them put our net proceeds - $100 or $1000 or whatever we can raise, to the best possible usage. It's going to be an amazing CD. We're waiting on funding to finalize. I am hoping to have a release here in New Glasgow, in Halifax and in Toronto. Who knows? A lot of young bands (who need to hear this message) and then stalwarts like me and Doris!
Anyway, that's enough for now. I had a great letter from Aunt Shirley yesterday: a beautiful handwritten letter, full of love and stories of her family. Let us all write a beautiful handwritten letter today to someone.
Peace to you all.
Emma Lee
I'm feeling terrible to be frank. I'm quite wobbly and will be taking life at a snail's pace over the next few days, being in the moment and sitting as much as necessary. Singing to my heart's content with any luck. I've found now that the tamoxifen is out of my system, it has let something in my voice come back to life and I am thankful for that. A song that I wrote will be used for the conference theme - Lloyd has been incredibly helpful in getting it transcribed to a readable musical format for the choir and the words will be displayed on the power point. It's called: From Now On, representing the past, present and future of our Church. Honey and I wrote it during our wintry walks these past months. God still knows the way, so how can we go wrong? Anyway, I will be tired, but a good tired, and then ready for treatments to begin next week. I wonder how long it will take before I begin to feel a bit better? So, when you ask me how I am, please excuse me if I tell the truth - terrible, but fighting it with every ounce of hope I have!
Lee has loaned me a laptop and I am hoping I can get it working if there is free wireless. If not, I shall post tomorrow and then not again until next week. I thank you all for your continuing support. It means the world to me.
I shall be opening the Relay for Life on Friday, the 3rd of June. That is something I shall be doing. The foot soldiers on the streets raising funds right now for Cancer-related initiatives are my heroes and I want them to know that. And Mary is putting the final touches on The Reason For Hope CD project, with net proceeds to go to metastatic breast cancer research. I am in discussions with the Canadian Breast Cancer Network to have them put our net proceeds - $100 or $1000 or whatever we can raise, to the best possible usage. It's going to be an amazing CD. We're waiting on funding to finalize. I am hoping to have a release here in New Glasgow, in Halifax and in Toronto. Who knows? A lot of young bands (who need to hear this message) and then stalwarts like me and Doris!
Anyway, that's enough for now. I had a great letter from Aunt Shirley yesterday: a beautiful handwritten letter, full of love and stories of her family. Let us all write a beautiful handwritten letter today to someone.
Peace to you all.
Emma Lee
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Looks Like Wednesday June 1st for the first Treatment
Just spoke with Dr. Rutledge. Looks like we will target next Wednesday, June 1st for the first treatment. I will not need to have a mask prepared - they will use the anatomy of my skull. Dr. Rutledge feels sure I will be the star at the Clinic! I will work towards doing that very thing!
Cutting back on the steroids as I haven't slept for hours and hours.
Thank you folks.
Peace,
Emma Lee
P.S. Honey's transition has begun! She like Liz a lot.
Cutting back on the steroids as I haven't slept for hours and hours.
Thank you folks.
Peace,
Emma Lee
P.S. Honey's transition has begun! She like Liz a lot.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Sunday Morning Coming Down
It occurred to me over the past few days - okay I know I'm slow - but that my name has become associated with "hope". Believe it or not I'm very pleased about that. There are two roads we can travel when we are facing news of this sort, and I hope you never have to face these issues. I was reminded of that last week during our Julian of Norwich service, and I am going to share these words of my worship team mate:
"Here is what I do know. I know that I have a choice between hope and despair when viewing the world and my future. How do I decide between them? I choose the one that brings the most joy, the most healing, the most compassion to my life and to the world. In despair I’m no good to anyone. So let us hold Julian’s mantra in our hearts: All will be well, and all will be well, and all manner of things will be well."
So, when it occurred to me that Hope and I were beginning to merge, I thought of those words and how true they are to me. Oh, don't be fooled. I can easily fall into the Valley of No Hope, which my former workmates will attest to, before metastatic disease was discovered, and I still can. It is very easy, easy in the dark in the middle of the night, or in the afternoon, or in the morning, but I can pull myself out of it, because I want hope in my life. I want it and need it. And everything that I am going to do is going to lead to it. It would be too easy to give in. I've said it before.
I am going to post my picture with Marie again. I think I posted it before. Once treatments start I will try and keep up with my blog, but I understand there may be cognitive issues, I'm hoping there will not. Anyway, I'm posting my picture with Marie again. She is the gal I roomed with in Indianapolis when I attended the metastatic breast cancer conference last October. She had whole brain radiation two years ago and there has been no further cancer activity since. I have had a few email communications with her over the past few days. She is another angel I consider to have found in my life. You are also angels I have found and I need. Thank you.
An update on pets: Liz, Lawyer Liz, good and dear friend Liz, will take Honey for respite. I have full and complete comfort with this arrangement. Liz is an animal whisperer and has always been since I have known her. The transition will take place over this coming week and will occur before treatment begins. Mary is looking for a home for Puff. I will keep Boobadee, my faithful little gal with me. One little animal angel should not be a burden for me and will allow me to continue to see the wonders of God in an animal, and to be able to talk to her and sing for her.
More later. I'm getting it together, but emotionally am still shakey. I'm much better than I was. Lee is home until mid-afternoon. He arrived yesterday and we are all feeling much more hopeful. Mary and her fellow Dave will be home next week and if I'm starting treatment, then Halifax will be our base together for a few days.
I am going to rest, as I continue to be dizzy. I will be very careful over the next while until treatment starts. I am the same as I was before the news, but somehow I feel different. I will be reviewing all of the things on board for Maritime Conference and looking forward to that gathering. That is my next goal and I look forward to it with hope.
More tomorrow.
Peace,
Emma Lee
P.S. Just so you know, the chemo I have been receiving was not able to penetrate into the brain, as our bodies have it set-up that way. Our brain is surrounded and safe from anything like that entering our bodies. That is why the cancer was able to continue to work its way there. Radiation will be directed there to destroy the active cancer cells.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Update
WARNING: This is not for the faint of heart.
Okay. MRI results were delivered today. As you know I was supposed to get an aredia and chemo treatment.
I'm keeping this short.
I was not given chemo. I was given aredia. I was given the results of the MRI.
I will be undergoing full brain radiation in Halifax within the next 2.5 weeks. I'm still going to Maritime Conference next weekend. I'm now on steroids to deal with any swelling.
Breast cancer mets are in my brain. They're small. The Doctor is optimistic. So am I.
We have now entered the next phase. I will be looking for a home for Honey and Puff. Boobadee is ill and we will tend to her. She's a beautiful little angelic cat who has been by my side through much of this journey, but she is now languishing. Honey needs a strong master/leader. I will not let her go to anyone who is not a strong dog master. Without that she will not thrive. She is demanding, aggressive and has a nasty streak, unless you are me. She is very protective of me. I think she is trying to protect me and is aware of what is happening. Puff is a beautiful house cat. She's lovely. She almost talks.
I leave it there for now. I can feel the arms of my family and friends wrapping around me as we continue on this journey. Let the sun shine tomorrow.
Peace,
Emma Lee
Okay. MRI results were delivered today. As you know I was supposed to get an aredia and chemo treatment.
I'm keeping this short.
I was not given chemo. I was given aredia. I was given the results of the MRI.
I will be undergoing full brain radiation in Halifax within the next 2.5 weeks. I'm still going to Maritime Conference next weekend. I'm now on steroids to deal with any swelling.
Breast cancer mets are in my brain. They're small. The Doctor is optimistic. So am I.
We have now entered the next phase. I will be looking for a home for Honey and Puff. Boobadee is ill and we will tend to her. She's a beautiful little angelic cat who has been by my side through much of this journey, but she is now languishing. Honey needs a strong master/leader. I will not let her go to anyone who is not a strong dog master. Without that she will not thrive. She is demanding, aggressive and has a nasty streak, unless you are me. She is very protective of me. I think she is trying to protect me and is aware of what is happening. Puff is a beautiful house cat. She's lovely. She almost talks.
I leave it there for now. I can feel the arms of my family and friends wrapping around me as we continue on this journey. Let the sun shine tomorrow.
Peace,
Emma Lee
Treatment Day
Well, off to the dentist, and then the Aberdeen Hospital, as it is treatment day again. Time sure flies . . . .
Anyway, it is also the long weekend. Maybe we shall see some sun?
Peace to you all.
Emma Lee
Anyway, it is also the long weekend. Maybe we shall see some sun?
Peace to you all.
Emma Lee
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
A Big Day For The Stewarts
Mary Louise Stewart is 25 today - actually at 11:02 a.m. She was born at the Sutherland Harris Memorial Hospital in Pictou, just before they closed their maternity ward. It was a sweet room, with a couple of windows and an awesome birthing bed. When I went in the leaves had not yet sprung; when I came home a couple of days later, the world was in green! Happy Birthday darling girl who is chasing her dreams. She's lived a quarter century. Dream big Little Miss Lou! Listen to your heart.
Last year at this time, her birthday was "ruined" with news of my recurrence. As a family and with my friends, we've made it a year into this journey.
And today, Janice called to tell me that "Emma's Excursion" will happen on June 12th at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity United Church. Trinity is hosting a fundraiser for me to take a trip! I am humbled beyond words as my heart overflows. If I can, I want to go back to England. My trip last year focused on Town Criers and Paul McCartney. I need to see Norwich Church and Edinburgh and Liverpool and Coronation Street! That is me just spewing! I will be happy to get away anywhere with Jim!
The MRI was uneventful It is a very strange musical machine; all those magnets pounding out their different tones and rhythms. Crazy man! At first I tried to think of other things, but had to give in, listen to the tones, hear some harmonies and simply relax. The 45 minutes flew by with the help of great operators. That Aberdeen Hospital!
Anyway, relaxing before tonight's concert. Everything is planned down to the last second. Will report!
Peace today. Happy Birthday is being sung for Mary!!!!!
Emma Lee
Last year at this time, her birthday was "ruined" with news of my recurrence. As a family and with my friends, we've made it a year into this journey.
And today, Janice called to tell me that "Emma's Excursion" will happen on June 12th at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity United Church. Trinity is hosting a fundraiser for me to take a trip! I am humbled beyond words as my heart overflows. If I can, I want to go back to England. My trip last year focused on Town Criers and Paul McCartney. I need to see Norwich Church and Edinburgh and Liverpool and Coronation Street! That is me just spewing! I will be happy to get away anywhere with Jim!
The MRI was uneventful It is a very strange musical machine; all those magnets pounding out their different tones and rhythms. Crazy man! At first I tried to think of other things, but had to give in, listen to the tones, hear some harmonies and simply relax. The 45 minutes flew by with the help of great operators. That Aberdeen Hospital!
Anyway, relaxing before tonight's concert. Everything is planned down to the last second. Will report!
Peace today. Happy Birthday is being sung for Mary!!!!!
Emma Lee
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Dew On the Nose!
So, I'm trying to calm my nerves before heading over to the Hospital for the scheduled MRI. Thank you to those who have sent along good thoughts - positive thoughts - healing thoughts. I have gathered those in my memory and will be reflecting upon those thoughts. And upon my hazelnut! Our service this past Sunday has brought me a great deal of strength. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to learn more about Julian of Norwich.
This morning on our walk I looked down at my little companion. Resting on her nose, glistening in spite of the grey skies, were a few drops of dew. I had to stop and admire that art work. She looked up at me with a come on, let's go and so we did. Perhaps I will hold that picture in my mind too.
I have no idea how long this will take. Curiosity, unfortunately, got the best of me and I googled it. Don't. Internet searching is good and bad. So, I am just going to be a good patient; be calm and let them get it done.
Band practice was fun last night too. We are performing tomorrow evening in Pictou and then Thursday evening in Truro, if I can make it! Mr. Barrett says there will be 100 in the orchestra for the finale of Furioso! 100. Wow. Our orchestra will fill the Marigold.
Have a good one.
Peace, Emma Lee
This morning on our walk I looked down at my little companion. Resting on her nose, glistening in spite of the grey skies, were a few drops of dew. I had to stop and admire that art work. She looked up at me with a come on, let's go and so we did. Perhaps I will hold that picture in my mind too.
I have no idea how long this will take. Curiosity, unfortunately, got the best of me and I googled it. Don't. Internet searching is good and bad. So, I am just going to be a good patient; be calm and let them get it done.
Band practice was fun last night too. We are performing tomorrow evening in Pictou and then Thursday evening in Truro, if I can make it! Mr. Barrett says there will be 100 in the orchestra for the finale of Furioso! 100. Wow. Our orchestra will fill the Marigold.
Have a good one.
Peace, Emma Lee
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Honey On The Island
So, it is still raining.
This past Thursday saw Honey on an Island adventure. The last time she was in the car for any where near this amount of time was when she accompanied us to Stan Rogers Folk Festival in 2009. On that journey, she threw-up 7 times on the way to Canso and fewer on the way home. She's not a dog that really, really enjoys the car. For example, shaking the car keys does little to entice her to the door. But I enjoy her being there, so into the car she went, with her blanket and a doggie survival kit. We were on the road shortly after 7 a.m., headed to the Caribou Ferry Terminal. As we crested the hill leading to the terminal, I remarked, is there still ice in the Strait? No, my dear, those are white caps. Oh. Our car was loaded with the other few cars into the belly of the Confederation and we readied Honey for a walk upstairs; only to find a sign with a black dog and a strike through it! Yikes. Back to the car, and I ran away, but could hear her barking amid the roar of the engines on that glorious ferry. Anyway, didn't really ever get my sea legs, as it was a rough ride over. As we drove towards Charlottetown, the sky almost lightened, there were even little spots of blue! Honey spent the majority of the time in the car with a quiet pant on, never really relaxing.
I was able to visit with my Aunt Olive and Uncle Wesley in Summerside. They are now in an assisted living space, being in their 90s, and being incredibly inspirational for me. Olive battled, successfully a first round of breast cancer only 12 years ago or so. While there, I ran into my cousin Eric and I was able to then go to the family home and visit with Eric, his wife Kim and their daughter Jennifer. Then it was off to find Lee, which we did with no difficulty. Honey was very, very pleased to see him. We had lunch together at his place and then Lee took us on a tour of all of his significant places in Summerside. Once that was through, we headed to Cavendish beach via Kensington/Stanley Bridge. It was a lovely drive, and it is indeed a beautiful Island, even with grey skies. When we landed at Cavendish, another car pulled up with a couple of young lads. They were determined to go swimming. I took pictures. It was cold. The ran screaming into and out of the ocean! Leaving the beach, there was a fox ambling along the small highway. I didn't have time to get a picture or to let Honey get a sniff. Bah. Then off to Charlottetown, where Tessa was destined to meet up with us for supper. We found the coolest little shop and I found two new summer hats for my collection. We had coffee, toured Charlottetown and stopped in to see if Aunt Shirley was home; but she wasn't. I left a note for her in her mailbox.
Finding a parking space for supper turned out to be fun. It seems Thursday night is a vibrant night in downtown Charlottetown. But, we were settled before we knew it in a funky little pub; Tessa arrived; we had a fabulous meal, some more pictures, and then it was time to say goodbye for now, gas up and head back to Scotia Nova (as I've heard it called). Gas is considerably cheaper on the Island, and now in New Brunswick as well.
Anyway, what a great trip we had. I hope to get over again and am in fact searching out Stanley Bridge which is absolutely delightful. I could see myself resting there for a few days.
Yesterday was rest day. Today is rehearsal; bass practise; and rest.
I had a call from a friend and a request from a friend yesterday that continues to fill my heart to overflowing. I will continue to digest it and will give you more news on this soon.
A brain MRI has been scheduled for this coming Tuesday. I've had a couple of weak spells, and pain, and so let's get to the bottom of this so we can deal with it as it has to be dealt with!
Get 'er done!
Okay. I know it is still raining and grey. But we are here, and we have each other, and we can be present with each other and we can still rejoice in the fact that somehow, our prayers are answered. And we still have the chance to be kind to one another. And we can still share a laugh, in spite of the weather.
Peace today,
Emma Lee
This past Thursday saw Honey on an Island adventure. The last time she was in the car for any where near this amount of time was when she accompanied us to Stan Rogers Folk Festival in 2009. On that journey, she threw-up 7 times on the way to Canso and fewer on the way home. She's not a dog that really, really enjoys the car. For example, shaking the car keys does little to entice her to the door. But I enjoy her being there, so into the car she went, with her blanket and a doggie survival kit. We were on the road shortly after 7 a.m., headed to the Caribou Ferry Terminal. As we crested the hill leading to the terminal, I remarked, is there still ice in the Strait? No, my dear, those are white caps. Oh. Our car was loaded with the other few cars into the belly of the Confederation and we readied Honey for a walk upstairs; only to find a sign with a black dog and a strike through it! Yikes. Back to the car, and I ran away, but could hear her barking amid the roar of the engines on that glorious ferry. Anyway, didn't really ever get my sea legs, as it was a rough ride over. As we drove towards Charlottetown, the sky almost lightened, there were even little spots of blue! Honey spent the majority of the time in the car with a quiet pant on, never really relaxing.
I was able to visit with my Aunt Olive and Uncle Wesley in Summerside. They are now in an assisted living space, being in their 90s, and being incredibly inspirational for me. Olive battled, successfully a first round of breast cancer only 12 years ago or so. While there, I ran into my cousin Eric and I was able to then go to the family home and visit with Eric, his wife Kim and their daughter Jennifer. Then it was off to find Lee, which we did with no difficulty. Honey was very, very pleased to see him. We had lunch together at his place and then Lee took us on a tour of all of his significant places in Summerside. Once that was through, we headed to Cavendish beach via Kensington/Stanley Bridge. It was a lovely drive, and it is indeed a beautiful Island, even with grey skies. When we landed at Cavendish, another car pulled up with a couple of young lads. They were determined to go swimming. I took pictures. It was cold. The ran screaming into and out of the ocean! Leaving the beach, there was a fox ambling along the small highway. I didn't have time to get a picture or to let Honey get a sniff. Bah. Then off to Charlottetown, where Tessa was destined to meet up with us for supper. We found the coolest little shop and I found two new summer hats for my collection. We had coffee, toured Charlottetown and stopped in to see if Aunt Shirley was home; but she wasn't. I left a note for her in her mailbox.
Finding a parking space for supper turned out to be fun. It seems Thursday night is a vibrant night in downtown Charlottetown. But, we were settled before we knew it in a funky little pub; Tessa arrived; we had a fabulous meal, some more pictures, and then it was time to say goodbye for now, gas up and head back to Scotia Nova (as I've heard it called). Gas is considerably cheaper on the Island, and now in New Brunswick as well.
Anyway, what a great trip we had. I hope to get over again and am in fact searching out Stanley Bridge which is absolutely delightful. I could see myself resting there for a few days.
Yesterday was rest day. Today is rehearsal; bass practise; and rest.
I had a call from a friend and a request from a friend yesterday that continues to fill my heart to overflowing. I will continue to digest it and will give you more news on this soon.
A brain MRI has been scheduled for this coming Tuesday. I've had a couple of weak spells, and pain, and so let's get to the bottom of this so we can deal with it as it has to be dealt with!
Get 'er done!
Okay. I know it is still raining and grey. But we are here, and we have each other, and we can be present with each other and we can still rejoice in the fact that somehow, our prayers are answered. And we still have the chance to be kind to one another. And we can still share a laugh, in spite of the weather.
Peace today,
Emma Lee
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Had To Share This
Well, this weather. I have found the last few mornings I am brightening my living area with candles, which include the Hope candle from Shaun, along with one from Mary and one in a lantern given to me by the congregation last December. It is simply so dreary outside I need this extra light and it does seem to hold something extra. This morning, I set the stage for my meditation time, with Honey trotting beside me. Everything was set and today I decided to use the Doreen Virtue CD loaned to me by Kate. I hit play and headed to my comfie couch and quilt. Honey headed along with me. I rested. Honey jumped up to rest with me as the words "Breathe in and out very deeply as you begin to open up to the healing energy of your Divine light". Honey just couldn't get settled. She jumped down, trotted into her kennel, retrieved her favorite blanket, dragged it over to me, jumped up, blanket carried and pulled up by her mouth, cuddled, snuggled and settled. Together we watched as the candles flickered, listened as we were both reminded how very much we are safe and we are loved, breathed deeply, and gave thanks.
Peace today,
Emma Lee
P.S. Honey slept in until 6:45 a.m. this morning and somehow I don't mind the smell of wet dog. M
Peace today,
Emma Lee
P.S. Honey slept in until 6:45 a.m. this morning and somehow I don't mind the smell of wet dog. M
Monday, May 9, 2011
Happy Mother's Day
I'm a day late, I know, but I wanted to send these greetings out to all of my mother friends. You have achieved remarkable success. The greatest success there is I think. And it is completely, absolutely and unconditionally free.
I received wonderful wishes from both of my children by phone, and they sent gifts. Beautiful roses and a card and call from Lee; a parcel from Mary, which included organic dark roast coffee, seeds for plants that attract hummingbirds and butterflies for my garden, tea, a necklace and earrings and a card. I will be seeing Lee this Thursday, if all goes well. Honey is going on a road trip! More later, as the date approaches.
Yesterday was eventful. At Church yesterday morning we sang River in Judea, which is a fabulous gospelly-type anthem. To me, the words speak of music we make and in the world around us; how music can offer peace and hope. Indeed. Oddly though, as the service progressed, I was feeling more and more unwell. By the time I got home from church my fever was around the 100 degree mark. To the couch, where worries started swirling about missing the Carillon concert. I medicated myself and waited. I called Karen and told her that I would do my best to be there for 3. I arrived at the Church at 2:58. I did the concert and was back home before 4. My concert hat, scarf and clothing were fever-drenched. But I did it. And I am so glad. I think we sang well. I believe it was beautiful and rewarding. The audience was lovely and appreciative. The house the good.
So, today, it's raining again. We must need the rain. It will be an easy few days while I get ready to travel to Prince Edward Island - The Island. I love The Island!
Peace to you all. Find some music that inspires you. Listen to it at least twice. Build up your hope and resolve. Travel through your day humming or whistling that song!
Emma Lee
I received wonderful wishes from both of my children by phone, and they sent gifts. Beautiful roses and a card and call from Lee; a parcel from Mary, which included organic dark roast coffee, seeds for plants that attract hummingbirds and butterflies for my garden, tea, a necklace and earrings and a card. I will be seeing Lee this Thursday, if all goes well. Honey is going on a road trip! More later, as the date approaches.
Yesterday was eventful. At Church yesterday morning we sang River in Judea, which is a fabulous gospelly-type anthem. To me, the words speak of music we make and in the world around us; how music can offer peace and hope. Indeed. Oddly though, as the service progressed, I was feeling more and more unwell. By the time I got home from church my fever was around the 100 degree mark. To the couch, where worries started swirling about missing the Carillon concert. I medicated myself and waited. I called Karen and told her that I would do my best to be there for 3. I arrived at the Church at 2:58. I did the concert and was back home before 4. My concert hat, scarf and clothing were fever-drenched. But I did it. And I am so glad. I think we sang well. I believe it was beautiful and rewarding. The audience was lovely and appreciative. The house the good.
So, today, it's raining again. We must need the rain. It will be an easy few days while I get ready to travel to Prince Edward Island - The Island. I love The Island!
Peace to you all. Find some music that inspires you. Listen to it at least twice. Build up your hope and resolve. Travel through your day humming or whistling that song!
Emma Lee
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
And All Manner of Thing Shall Be Well
Myself and Mary WC are responsible for contemporary worship at Trinity on May 15th. Our theme is Julian of Norwich. Now, I was somewhat familiar with Julian from previous English lit classes, but those books are left to be dusted off somewhere. Anyway, Mary and I were working previously on It's A Wonderful Church, and the Julian idea came up as something we would like to dig deeper into following Easter. So we are. And it is good. Gwen loaned me a book by Ralph Milton, which is a fictional account of Julian's life, and I am almost finished reading that. I also had the Library find me another book by Milton called The Essence of Julian.
If you have the time, and quiet in your life, you might want to check out Julian. She was the first woman to write a book in English! Pretty amazing. She was born in 1342 in Norwich, England. A lot of her writings are tough, but amazingly enough, relateable today. Although she's writing out of her mid-evil world, I am still finding a lot of ideas that strike a chord with me. When she was 30, she had a very serious illness (of course the plague was wiping out communities all around her) during which she experienced a series of visions. She wrote both short and long versions of these visions from God and at some point she became an anchorite at the Church in Norwich. It's all very interesting. If I ever get to England again, I will visit that Church.
Julian's life was committed to prayer and counsel to those who came to her window to seek her wisdom. On May 15th, we are going to try and share some of her messages, in both word and song. One piece of special music will be Linnea Good's Bells of Norwich, which I find hauntingly beautiful. I will do my best at a couple of monologues. Charlotte is helping with costume and Charleen with set. And of course, Mary will be sharing her knowledge on Julian which is much more than mine, as well as personal reflections on this First Woman of Letters.
"For God is all that is good, and God made all that is made, and God loves every part of it. If you love all people because of God's love, then you love each created thing, because you love the creator. For God is in every person, and every person is in God. If you love in this way, you love all."
Peace today. What's that in the sky? Is it a bird, a plane? No, it's THE SUN, surrounded by the most beautiful blue. The earth will sprout today!
Emma Lee
If you have the time, and quiet in your life, you might want to check out Julian. She was the first woman to write a book in English! Pretty amazing. She was born in 1342 in Norwich, England. A lot of her writings are tough, but amazingly enough, relateable today. Although she's writing out of her mid-evil world, I am still finding a lot of ideas that strike a chord with me. When she was 30, she had a very serious illness (of course the plague was wiping out communities all around her) during which she experienced a series of visions. She wrote both short and long versions of these visions from God and at some point she became an anchorite at the Church in Norwich. It's all very interesting. If I ever get to England again, I will visit that Church.
Julian's life was committed to prayer and counsel to those who came to her window to seek her wisdom. On May 15th, we are going to try and share some of her messages, in both word and song. One piece of special music will be Linnea Good's Bells of Norwich, which I find hauntingly beautiful. I will do my best at a couple of monologues. Charlotte is helping with costume and Charleen with set. And of course, Mary will be sharing her knowledge on Julian which is much more than mine, as well as personal reflections on this First Woman of Letters.
"For God is all that is good, and God made all that is made, and God loves every part of it. If you love all people because of God's love, then you love each created thing, because you love the creator. For God is in every person, and every person is in God. If you love in this way, you love all."
Peace today. What's that in the sky? Is it a bird, a plane? No, it's THE SUN, surrounded by the most beautiful blue. The earth will sprout today!
Emma Lee
Thursday, May 5, 2011
The Yellow Finches Have Returned!
We were late on our walk this morning. Perhaps I slept in, I don't really know. I am so tired I don't know whether I slept or not. A great tiredness has descended. I have few commitments today and hopefully Jim will arrive this evening. Four days alone seems to be beyond my maximum.
I am going to visit friends this afternoon. Brenda and Denise. They have been busy, busy, busy, knitting lovely hats which could be used by both hairless and hairfull people. Can't wait to see them. We are going to decide where best the hats should be used; but from the pics I've seen, they could be used by everybody.
As Honey and I trotted closer to Albert and MacLean this morning, you couldn't escape hearing a lot of birds, merrily chirping their "we own the world in the morning" song. So, just like Honey, I am nosey, and I went in search. It wasn't long before we saw a stand of young trees covered in yellow decorations, swooping and flitting from branch to branch. Quite lovely and amazing. The sound track to that song and dance was a most beautiful wind chime with a very deep pitch. I tried to hold that note in my mind until we were home and I could find it on the piano. It matches quite well to a low A. It has a lovely resonance - not tinny, not thin, but deep and rich. So with the birds' song, what a lovely treat early morning.
You might think I am crazy enjoying such things; I probably am, but not as crazy as the fellow I met on the way home having a great, loud, conversation with himself. He would even stop and turn around - so it really was a question and answer, out loud, to the world, with himself. How lucky for me I was holding the wind chime in my mind. He could have been a mime. He could not interrupt that note and I was not tempted to let it go.
Yesterday, I passed a home and on the front step there were blue bags filled with a young person's clothing. My imagination was quickly off on that story but I had to stop it, as I headed to the radio station. I think I had a good experience there. It was hard for me to get grounded however as I was standing on very thick shag carpet, and I wasn't level - the carpet was bunching up under my feet - my feet couldn't feel the floor. I need to have my feet firmly planted on the ground. I need that connection to the earth. So, I did my best, talking with an old childhood friend Don MacKenzie, and I told the truth and shared my story in word and song. The station raised $12,000.00 yesterday for their team. The community responded once again. Let's Make Cancer History!
I'm off to Maritime Conference with Lloyd and Gwen and Kirby and a whole bunch of other people at the end of the month. I am so excited to get away for a few days; without cats and a dog under feet (but I will miss them), and with the opportunity to be in a spiritual place for a few days in a row. My goal is to get this tiredness under control. Must be the Aredia.
Okay. Enough. There is a lovely breeze today; not carrying that extreme dampness and I thank the wind for that. The house will not be cleaned today. I am headed for rest.
Have a great day everyone. Please find something that inspires you. Contemplate upon it and enjoy your life and your loved ones. Cherish it all.
Peace,
Emma Lee
I am going to visit friends this afternoon. Brenda and Denise. They have been busy, busy, busy, knitting lovely hats which could be used by both hairless and hairfull people. Can't wait to see them. We are going to decide where best the hats should be used; but from the pics I've seen, they could be used by everybody.
As Honey and I trotted closer to Albert and MacLean this morning, you couldn't escape hearing a lot of birds, merrily chirping their "we own the world in the morning" song. So, just like Honey, I am nosey, and I went in search. It wasn't long before we saw a stand of young trees covered in yellow decorations, swooping and flitting from branch to branch. Quite lovely and amazing. The sound track to that song and dance was a most beautiful wind chime with a very deep pitch. I tried to hold that note in my mind until we were home and I could find it on the piano. It matches quite well to a low A. It has a lovely resonance - not tinny, not thin, but deep and rich. So with the birds' song, what a lovely treat early morning.
You might think I am crazy enjoying such things; I probably am, but not as crazy as the fellow I met on the way home having a great, loud, conversation with himself. He would even stop and turn around - so it really was a question and answer, out loud, to the world, with himself. How lucky for me I was holding the wind chime in my mind. He could have been a mime. He could not interrupt that note and I was not tempted to let it go.
Yesterday, I passed a home and on the front step there were blue bags filled with a young person's clothing. My imagination was quickly off on that story but I had to stop it, as I headed to the radio station. I think I had a good experience there. It was hard for me to get grounded however as I was standing on very thick shag carpet, and I wasn't level - the carpet was bunching up under my feet - my feet couldn't feel the floor. I need to have my feet firmly planted on the ground. I need that connection to the earth. So, I did my best, talking with an old childhood friend Don MacKenzie, and I told the truth and shared my story in word and song. The station raised $12,000.00 yesterday for their team. The community responded once again. Let's Make Cancer History!
I'm off to Maritime Conference with Lloyd and Gwen and Kirby and a whole bunch of other people at the end of the month. I am so excited to get away for a few days; without cats and a dog under feet (but I will miss them), and with the opportunity to be in a spiritual place for a few days in a row. My goal is to get this tiredness under control. Must be the Aredia.
Okay. Enough. There is a lovely breeze today; not carrying that extreme dampness and I thank the wind for that. The house will not be cleaned today. I am headed for rest.
Have a great day everyone. Please find something that inspires you. Contemplate upon it and enjoy your life and your loved ones. Cherish it all.
Peace,
Emma Lee
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
ECFM - 94.1 - Radio for Relay - I'm on at 10:00 a..
Recent pictures of Mary (blonde), Robyn and Melika in Toronto at Robyn's video shot. Video to be released end of June. But read on . . . .
94.1 FM - Radio today - 10:00 a.m. Raising funds for Relay for Life - Canadian Cancer Society.
Carillons had a fabulous rehearsal last night. The concert this coming Sunday is going to rock (in a beautiful sounding way!). If you need tickets - $10.00 - what a deal - three different groups - The Pictou County Community Orchestra, St. James Brass Quintet and The Carillon Singers - won't be long- with intermission you will be out by 4:30 - starts at 3. Lovely treats at intermission too! Treat yourself. Treat your mom. Get out of the house for a couple of hours.
Email me if you want tickets - emmalee@eastlink.ca
The early morning world still belongs to the birds! Emma Lee
94.1 FM - Radio today - 10:00 a.m. Raising funds for Relay for Life - Canadian Cancer Society.
Carillons had a fabulous rehearsal last night. The concert this coming Sunday is going to rock (in a beautiful sounding way!). If you need tickets - $10.00 - what a deal - three different groups - The Pictou County Community Orchestra, St. James Brass Quintet and The Carillon Singers - won't be long- with intermission you will be out by 4:30 - starts at 3. Lovely treats at intermission too! Treat yourself. Treat your mom. Get out of the house for a couple of hours.
Email me if you want tickets - emmalee@eastlink.ca
The early morning world still belongs to the birds! Emma Lee
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Four Days Since Last Treatment - What In The World!
It is the day after our Federal election. I have yet to turn on the TV or open the paper, but hear from Don Connolly that one headline at least reads Great Big C.
A miracle of sorts occurred following my last treatment - that of pain relief. I averted the fever which I felt coming on, and rather had a few days of discomfort, (well the discomfort continues) I am still taking the pills and they are working at keeping discomfort to a dull roar. It is indeed a true miracle! Yay!!! I Say Yay!!! Anyway, over those days I also had the chance to run the bass parts to some of the New Horizon songs scheduled for their concerts in Pictou on the 18th and in Truro on the 19th. What a blast! Fingers are crossed.
I don't need to tell you that the world is askew. Besides my miracle noted above, I experienced another bright moment recently, that being the April 29th, 2011 nuptials at the Royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton: I'm including the full sermon "Be Who God Meant You To Be", delivered by The Bishop of London, the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr. Richard Chartres:
‘“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” So said St Catherine of Siena whose festival day it is today. Marriage is intended to be a way in which man and woman help each other to become what God meant each one to be, their deepest and truest selves.
‘Many are full of fear for the future of the prospects of our world but the message of the celebrations in this country and far beyond its shores is the right one – this is a joyful day! It is good that people in every continent are able to share in these celebrations because this is, as every wedding day should be, a day of hope.
In a sense every wedding is a royal wedding with the bride and the groom as king and queen of creation, making a new life together so that life can flow through them into the future.‘William and Catherine, you have chosen to be married in the sight of a generous God who so loved the world that he gave himself to us in the person of Jesus Christ.
‘And in the Spirit of this generous God, husband and wife are to give themselves to each another.
‘A spiritual life grows as love finds its centre beyond ourselves. Faithful and committed relationships offer a door into the mystery of spiritual life in which we discover this; the more we give of self, the richer we become in soul; the more we go beyond ourselves in love, the more we become our true selves and our spiritual beauty is more fully revealed. In marriage we are seeking to bring one another into fuller life.
‘It is of course very hard to wean ourselves away from self-centredness. And people can dream of doing such a thing but the hope should be fulfilled it is necessary a solemn decision that, whatever the difficulties, we are committed to the way of generous love.
‘You have both made your decision today – “I will” – and by making this new relationship, you have aligned yourselves with what we believe is the way in which life is spiritually evolving, and which will lead to a creative future for the human race.
‘We stand looking forward to a century which is full of promise and full of peril. Human beings are confronting the question of how to use wisely a power that has been given to us through the discoveries of the last century. We shall not be converted to the promise of the future by more knowledge, but rather by an increase of loving wisdom and reverence, for life, for the earth and for one another.
‘Marriage should transform, as husband and wife make one another their work of art. It is possible to transform as long as we do not harbour ambitions to reform our partner. There must be no coercion if the Spirit is to flow; each must give the other space and freedom. Chaucer, the London poet, sums it up in a pithy phrase:
‘“Whan maistrie [mastery] comth, the God of Love anon,
Beteth his wynges, and farewell, he is gon.”
‘As the reality of God has faded from so many lives in the West, there has been a corresponding inflation of expectations that personal relations alone will supply meaning and happiness in life. This is to load our partner with too great a burden. We are all incomplete: we all need the love which is secure, rather than oppressive, we need mutual forgiveness, to thrive.
‘As we move towards our partner in love, following the example of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is quickened within us and can increasingly fill our lives with light. This leads to a family life which offers the best conditions in which the next generation can practise and exchange those gifts which can overcome fear and division and incubate the coming world of the Spirit, whose fruits are love and joy and peace.
‘I pray that all of us present and the many millions watching this ceremony and sharing in your joy today, will do everything in our power to support and uphold you in your new life. And I pray that God will bless you in the way of life that you have chosen, that way which is expressed in the prayer that you have composed together in preparation for this day:
‘God our Father, we thank you for our families; for the love that we share and for the joy of our marriage.
‘In the busyness of each day keep our eyes fixed on what is real and important in life and help us to be generous with our time and love and energy.
‘Strengthened by our union help us to serve and comfort those who suffer. We ask this in the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Amen.’
I don't know about you, but I could read, and re-read these words, and I am trying to put them into the context of what is coming out of the US.
I will be on CKEC/East Coast FM tomorrow morning between 10 and 10:30 as part of their Relay for Radio - raising funds for the Relay for Life.
Okay, time to listen to the news. It is a miracle we continue to exist on this planet. . . .
Peace to you all today,
Emma Lee
A miracle of sorts occurred following my last treatment - that of pain relief. I averted the fever which I felt coming on, and rather had a few days of discomfort, (well the discomfort continues) I am still taking the pills and they are working at keeping discomfort to a dull roar. It is indeed a true miracle! Yay!!! I Say Yay!!! Anyway, over those days I also had the chance to run the bass parts to some of the New Horizon songs scheduled for their concerts in Pictou on the 18th and in Truro on the 19th. What a blast! Fingers are crossed.
I don't need to tell you that the world is askew. Besides my miracle noted above, I experienced another bright moment recently, that being the April 29th, 2011 nuptials at the Royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton: I'm including the full sermon "Be Who God Meant You To Be", delivered by The Bishop of London, the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr. Richard Chartres:
‘“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” So said St Catherine of Siena whose festival day it is today. Marriage is intended to be a way in which man and woman help each other to become what God meant each one to be, their deepest and truest selves.
‘Many are full of fear for the future of the prospects of our world but the message of the celebrations in this country and far beyond its shores is the right one – this is a joyful day! It is good that people in every continent are able to share in these celebrations because this is, as every wedding day should be, a day of hope.
In a sense every wedding is a royal wedding with the bride and the groom as king and queen of creation, making a new life together so that life can flow through them into the future.‘William and Catherine, you have chosen to be married in the sight of a generous God who so loved the world that he gave himself to us in the person of Jesus Christ.
‘And in the Spirit of this generous God, husband and wife are to give themselves to each another.
‘A spiritual life grows as love finds its centre beyond ourselves. Faithful and committed relationships offer a door into the mystery of spiritual life in which we discover this; the more we give of self, the richer we become in soul; the more we go beyond ourselves in love, the more we become our true selves and our spiritual beauty is more fully revealed. In marriage we are seeking to bring one another into fuller life.
‘It is of course very hard to wean ourselves away from self-centredness. And people can dream of doing such a thing but the hope should be fulfilled it is necessary a solemn decision that, whatever the difficulties, we are committed to the way of generous love.
‘You have both made your decision today – “I will” – and by making this new relationship, you have aligned yourselves with what we believe is the way in which life is spiritually evolving, and which will lead to a creative future for the human race.
‘We stand looking forward to a century which is full of promise and full of peril. Human beings are confronting the question of how to use wisely a power that has been given to us through the discoveries of the last century. We shall not be converted to the promise of the future by more knowledge, but rather by an increase of loving wisdom and reverence, for life, for the earth and for one another.
‘Marriage should transform, as husband and wife make one another their work of art. It is possible to transform as long as we do not harbour ambitions to reform our partner. There must be no coercion if the Spirit is to flow; each must give the other space and freedom. Chaucer, the London poet, sums it up in a pithy phrase:
‘“Whan maistrie [mastery] comth, the God of Love anon,
Beteth his wynges, and farewell, he is gon.”
‘As the reality of God has faded from so many lives in the West, there has been a corresponding inflation of expectations that personal relations alone will supply meaning and happiness in life. This is to load our partner with too great a burden. We are all incomplete: we all need the love which is secure, rather than oppressive, we need mutual forgiveness, to thrive.
‘As we move towards our partner in love, following the example of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is quickened within us and can increasingly fill our lives with light. This leads to a family life which offers the best conditions in which the next generation can practise and exchange those gifts which can overcome fear and division and incubate the coming world of the Spirit, whose fruits are love and joy and peace.
‘I pray that all of us present and the many millions watching this ceremony and sharing in your joy today, will do everything in our power to support and uphold you in your new life. And I pray that God will bless you in the way of life that you have chosen, that way which is expressed in the prayer that you have composed together in preparation for this day:
‘God our Father, we thank you for our families; for the love that we share and for the joy of our marriage.
‘In the busyness of each day keep our eyes fixed on what is real and important in life and help us to be generous with our time and love and energy.
‘Strengthened by our union help us to serve and comfort those who suffer. We ask this in the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Amen.’
I don't know about you, but I could read, and re-read these words, and I am trying to put them into the context of what is coming out of the US.
I will be on CKEC/East Coast FM tomorrow morning between 10 and 10:30 as part of their Relay for Radio - raising funds for the Relay for Life.
Okay, time to listen to the news. It is a miracle we continue to exist on this planet. . . .
Peace to you all today,
Emma Lee
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)