Memorial Day Weekend '12

It was a busy weekend, but, I am so grateful to have had the much-needed time off from work.  I am also glad that we as a nation set a day aside to remember and to honor those who have given their lives for our country.   Of the prayers, messages, articles, etc related to Memorial Day, the one that was the most touching this weekend was when the brass quintet at a concert played a medley of the theme songs from all the military branches; and the war veterans among the audience would stand when the theme from the branch in which they served was played.  It was clear that this group of people were deeply patriotic and loved our country, and made me proud to be among those who had served. 

There were several things that I observed and learned through visiting this person my friend an I went to see.   He had served many years in music ministry with his wife; and I saw that they were one of those couples who truly became ONE.   So, when she passed away a couple of years ago, part of him was really lost; and there were moments that I could see him be reminded of her, and his eyes would water up, and his facial features would display how much he missed her.  There are some other couples in my church who are like that, who serve as models of what marriage should look like, according to God's design.  Even when he was making music on the keyboard and my friend on the violin, like they had often done in the past; it was so clear how much we missed his wife, who would typically be on the other keyboard.  They had been so in tune with each other, that when they played the pieces, it truly was like a "dance" between them.  Still, I feel grateful to have been there to listen to the beautiful music - I felt like it was in the presence of musical masters.  Also, that senior village center was Christian-run; and it was clear what a difference it made.  The people were friendly, prayer was a big part of everything from meals to the concert.   It would be neat if there were a place like that near me for when I may need it in the future.

I started off the weekend with all good intentions to do yardwork; but, as I woke up, it was raining.   Yet, that gave me the opportunity to do full house cleaning, which was needed as well.    It felt good to finish that; and the next day, I was then able to tackle the yardwork.   Of course, I was not able to do as much as I would have liked to; but, it is a good feeling to see what I was able to clear out.   It's never-ending work, for I'm sure that when I finally get around to "finishing", it'll just be time to start again from the beginning.

I did get a chance to set up the timer to work with my courtyard light.  It looks nice lit up at night; and it does offer some added "protection".   I had another encounter with "gifts" being left; but, I really am hoping that it is just the neighborhood cat.

My friend played violin for the prelude being accompanied on the piano by my other friend at Church on Sunday.  It truly was beautiful; and I am amazed by their musical gifts.   I'm glad they were able to bless those who were able to listen, as they offered their music to the LORD.

Just a few other minor things to note... there were a few items that came up in class that I need to do some research in.   I know that I always like to be totally prepared and be able to answer any questions that come up; but, this is a reminder that there is still so much I do not know (and some I just don't remember).   Keeps me humble.    On another note, I am grateful that I had a good interactions with the music director; and the other person with the b-b image ran across the church driveway just to talk to me.   These help alleviate the sting of the "thorn".   God is good.