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23 Dec 03 - 12:49 AM (#1078216) Subject: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Whatever your thoughts are about Christmas, the most beautiful gifts won't be found under a tree on Christmas Day. Beautiful gifts are never wrapped. They unfold quietly; sometimes when you've lost all hope. One of my most beautiful gifts took awhile coming. My closest friend, and bass singer in my group was in a head-on collision around this time last year, driving a church van. The impact caused old back and hip injuries to flare up, and it became very difficult for him to walk without great pain. A couple of months later, Joe was again driving the church van and was stopped at a red light when someone rear-ended the van at high speed, totalling the vehicle. While no bones were broken, Joe could no longer stand up, and even on morphine was in such excruciating pain that he could barely hobble across the room. Sleep wasn't an option. The only chance he had at a normal life was to undergo surgery, and at 79, there was very little guarantee of success because the damage to his back and hip were very extensive. But, Joe's singing days were over, and it looked like the group would never sing together again. So, despite the risks, Joe had surgery. After 9 and a half hours on the operating table, we all waited to see if the operation was a success. The physical therapy was extremely painful and the progress very slow. But, there was a beautiful gift unfolding. It took six months of patient, cautious rehabilitation, with many setbacks. Now, Joe walks upright, without pain, is driving again, and most beautifully of all, is singing with such power that I feel overwhelmed, singing next to him. After six months, we finally were able to sing together again. I asked Joe to revive a song we used to do, that I always loved... a song that we sang at my wedding, five and a half years ago: All Things Are Possible, If You Only Believe. If anyone knows the truth of that song, it is Joe. When he sings it, sometimes I can't look at him because I am so overcome with gratitude for his healing. What a beautiful gift! In your heart of hearts, is there a special gift you received this year that you'd like to express thanks for? Maybe it's a new grandchild (Sorcha) that has brought a great joy into your life. Or a miraculous healing. Maybe your beautiful gift is that you're still here. I'd sure like to hear about it.. Jerry |
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23 Dec 03 - 01:07 AM (#1078228) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Amos One of mine is that you're still here talking like this, Jerry!! :>) A |
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23 Dec 03 - 01:17 AM (#1078231) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Big Mick Yes they do, friend Jerry. You have just proven it. Let me give a different kind of example. Some years ago I came to this place, like so many others, simply looking for a lyric. I hung around a while, I am not sure why, but I suspect that it was the old organizers instinct that told me there was something special happening here. And time started to prove me out. As I grew into this welcoming community, I started to feel as though it was OK to share thoughts and feelings that I hadn't shared before. That was the first part of the gift. As time went on, and in spite of some who tried to undo it, kindred spirits started to make themselves known to me. Soon I started to reach out into the real world and meet these folks. This developed into a world wide circle of friends. And as is wont to happen, my perspective on my world started to grow with it. The gift has been friendship, and being able to see into the souls of some of the most beautiful and complex folks. I have come to know great spirits here, great friends here, great teachers here. The gift of this place, Jerry, is people like you. It is, indeed, a beautiful gift. All the best during the season of joy, and always, Mick |
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23 Dec 03 - 01:30 AM (#1078236) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Peace I was going through an extremely difficult time--in some ways, still am--and stumbled across two internet sites that restored my faith in people. The Mudcat is one of them. That may sound lame, but the truth of it is that I met and re-met some wonderful folks here. Honest, forthright, kind and good. I see individuals who care about others; individuals who are intelligent and who in their own ways are making the world a better place to live in; individuals who give a damn. I guess what I learned is that there is much kindness in this world, and often the good guys and gals don't make the news. I'm very grateful. BM |
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23 Dec 03 - 06:56 AM (#1078321) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: AllisonA(Animaterra) Thank you, Jerry. I second Amos! Mick, you, too. This is surely the darkest time of my life. I am devastated by the loss of my soul mate. But the gifts that have sprung up because of my bereavement have been like shining jewels in the darkest night. Some are actual physical presents, such as the beautiful shawl MMario made and placed in the auction, which a group of anonymous 'Catters bought and sent me. Or the nightly "sneak" who runs to my door, rings the doorbell, and leaves a little token for what ever "day of Christmas" it is-(their interpretation puts the days BEFORE Christmas)-cookies, chocolates, verses, paper cranes. Or the cards, notes and phone calls from friends telling me their hearts are full for me this season. But the intangibles are what keep me alive in this time when I'd just as soon chuck it all and go be with Byron. Hugs (I guess that's a "tangible"), prayers, emails, loving words, spontaneous songs; a solstice soak in a hottub with my women friends while the men, just over the rise, sang "I'll sing alleluia" around the bonfire; the pageant at church where the pastor acknowledged publicly the meaning of that day for me (two years ago my first date with Byron was at the pageant at church!), the Nelson solstice concert where Byron's dearest friends sang a gorgeous prayer in harmony (and I was able to be one of them, without breaking down!) My own usually sullen teenagers who are more open with hugs and helpfulness (not a total transformation, but noticeable!) The music, hope, and meaning behind this dark time of year. I have managed over the years to "downsize" Christmas for my family so we are almost completely insulated from the rampant commercial fiesta the media wants us to have. So the quiet moments by the tree, the carols on the stereo, the candles by Byron's photo, all create an oasis in my heart. And, yes, the daily tears which flow and cleanse and may, someday, heal. Thank you, Jerry for starting this thread. May it stay pure and sweet. Blessings, Allison |
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23 Dec 03 - 07:17 AM (#1078337) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Joybell Finding this place has been my most wonderful gift this year too. My life is happy with my soul-mate and our songs, and I know I am one of the luckiest of people, but Mudcat has given me such pleasure with so many new and warm-hearted friends. Thank you Jerry from me too. It's a great thread. Pure and sweet and precious. Joy |
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23 Dec 03 - 08:04 AM (#1078362) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: SINSULL Jerry, Earlier this year I asked for prayers for my cousin blessed with three children, two with cystic fibrosis and one also has Crohn's. Her life is one trip to the ER after another and sometimes it is just too hard. Her town sent her and her family to Lourdes and I really did hope for a miracle. It came. Meghan came back overwhelmed with sympathy for people with worse problems than her own and children who are worse off. Her courage was renewed. She can go on. A strange miracle but a welcome one. Mary |
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23 Dec 03 - 08:18 AM (#1078370) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen As the song says "You don't always get what you want, but you get what you need," Mary. Thanks for sharing that.. A mother of a woman I've come to know who works down the hill from us at our local Walmart went blind in one eye. She went to every specialist she could find, and they all told her the same thing: that there was nothing that could be done to restore her sight in that eye.. no surgery would work. One morning, she was praying to have her sight restored and she felt the presence of the Lord. That day, her eyesight came back in that eye. The next appointment she had with the eye Doctor, she read the eyechart with her "good" eye covered, reading with the eye that had gone blind. The Doctor had no explanation for the recovery of her sight in that eye. Last year, when my group did our Anniversary concert, my friend brought her Mother with her to hear us. It was a very special night for them, and for me and the Messengers, who had heard the story. The only explanation I can give is: "In the darkness, give me the eyes of faith." Jerry |
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23 Dec 03 - 08:30 AM (#1078374) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: McGrath of Harlow Thanks for that Jerry. Is there any chance we could have photo of you lot in action, Joe and all? Sometimes I get nervous about the Mudcat. If it ever folded I'd feel so lost. A little time back when various people on the Mudcat were exchanging each other's CDs and tapes, Jerry sent me a tape. I put it on a CD to be handier, and I've found it's got a quite miraculous effect on my daughter Kitty, when she's feeling upset. A few minutes of Jerry singing, and her mood's completely turned around. So I wrote a song about it, as a thank you, and here it is: Now the day had been long and the day had been rough And one way and another we'd all had enough. When Kitty came home in a terrible mood We looked at each other, and we knew what to do. In a time like today there is just one escape - So we dug out the record we'd made from that tape. And we put on the record, and it started to play. And a change in the music brought a change in the day. For when Jerry was singing it happened once more, And soon Kitty was dancing around on the floor. And as Jerry was singing a handful of songs, Kitty was singing along. Will you sing me a song? Will you play me a tune? Will you tell me th'old tale of the Man in the Moon? Will you give me a reason, so I can pretend It'll all be all right in the end? Yes I'll sing you a song. And I'll play you a tune. And I'll tell you th'old tale of the Man in the Moon. And I'll give you a reason to make and to mend - It'll all be all right in the end. And when Jerry is singing it happens once more, And soon Kitty is dancing around on the floor. And as Jerry is singing a handful of songs, Kitty is singing along. Now I made up this song 'cos I wanted to say "Thank you, my friend" and this seemed the best way. With your tunes and your songs and your banjo and all It seems like you're standing and playing in the hall. And though we've never met, and most like never will, I count you a friend, lives just over the hill. Though the hill is an ocean, and a long ways to climb Still the music can make it, and it helps every time. For when Jerry is singing it happens once more, And soon Kitty is dancing around on the floor. And as Jerry is singing a handful of songs, Kitty is singing along. And if anyne wants to hear what it sounds like, and they've got something on their PC that plays RealAudio streamig files, click here. |
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23 Dec 03 - 10:46 AM (#1078452) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: katlaughing THIS is Mudcat at its best. Thank you, Jerry, and thank you all for such beautiful postings! I can barely see for the tears. I feel several good things have come about this year, but the most significant is a little guy alseep in my living room, right now, Morgan Aurele, our new grandson. He almost miscarried last April. As it is, he came a month early (Nov. 14th), by C-section, as his mom had complications. Good thing, too, because he most likely would have been stillborn if he'd gone full-term, for a couple of reasons, one of which was he had a true knot in his umbilical cord. He has wrought healings, unknowingly, or perhaps his little soul knew all about it beforehand, but anyway, his mom and I, our youngest, are now best friends, again, after several years of her establishing her independence and mom learning to back off. She and Morgan are going to live with us for a year or so and that is something I never thought would happen. And, oh, btw, Mick, little Morgan was conceived on St. Patrick's day! There's a picture of him on my photopage, thanks to Jeff posting it. Thanks for Mudcat and all of its members. luvyakat |
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23 Dec 03 - 10:52 AM (#1078465) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Amos Ach, McGrath, just when I figgered you were over the hill you come storming up and yank me auld heartstrings again. Fie!! :>) Thanks...both of youse old farts. Love, A |
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23 Dec 03 - 11:00 AM (#1078471) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Kim C I have three close friends who this year have survived cancer and mental breakdowns; another friend who survived, and recovered from, a serious auto accident earlier in the year. The gifts of friendship, trust, love, intimacy... the value of these can hardly be described with mere words. |
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23 Dec 03 - 01:13 PM (#1078593) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Big Mick What a handsome lad, Grandmakat! Aul Mick put the eye on him, and sees him not only overcoming his tough start, but flourishing. Look at the lay of his eyes, and the shape of his forehead. This lad will know love and wisdom, and share it with those around him. Raise him well, ladies, as he will surely leave this place better than he found it. All the best, Mick |
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23 Dec 03 - 02:05 PM (#1078624) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Bill D McGrath...that song played fine, and having met Jerry and seen how he relates to sincere and wonderful music, I can imagine how happy it made him feel...'cause it sure had grumpy old ME sniffling... And I echo the sentiments of those who put the very existence of Mudcat high on the list of 'gifts'. Mudcat has produced many friendships, at least two marriages, and some amazing thought, humor, help and **MUSICAL** happenings...with more being planned as we speak. Who woulda thunk? the beginning (probably best to just look, not post, to that one..) |
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23 Dec 03 - 03:05 PM (#1078676) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Thanks, Kevin: Songs are like children... you let them go and hope that they do some good out in the world. Now, you've written a song that is bringing new joys to others... I'm very moved... Jerry |
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23 Dec 03 - 04:12 PM (#1078702) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: katlaughing Kevin always writes the most beautiful songs. Another well-done and so meaningful. Thanks, Aul Mick! Did I mention his hair is red?**bg** luvya'llkat |
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23 Dec 03 - 04:21 PM (#1078707) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Cluin Well, I agree with all sentiments above but I'm extra happy this Christmas. The family is all together; my sister and brother-in-law are in town with my 1 yr old niece that I haven't seen since Easter. And.... My girlfriend just won an online contest, worth over $3,000 in furnishings! They are delivering tomorrow, just to make Xmas Eve a bit more hectic, but it's worth it. Thanks to my sister's great entry submission for her and the voting of friends and family, Donna will get a great Christmas gift. Sure blows away what I got her.... |
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23 Dec 03 - 06:12 PM (#1078800) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Tinker Okay so I'm crying again.... My own birthday and my first born's fall on either side of Christmas day (give or take a couple days). This year as three of my four hit their teens I find the gift of their friendship becoming more and more precious. Despite the moments, we still talk and hug and laugh. But now there are enough moments when we clash to make the connections sparkle. The last moment happened to also be a Mudcat moment. Yesterday my soon to be 17 year old came in as I was listening to Rick Fielding on CIUT. A novelty song about only getting half your presents when your born on Christmas came on... She giggled and mimed and danced about the room. And then thanked me for making sure she always had twice the presents (even if they were small) and that they were wrapped in birthday paper. I got my own birthday hug and she danced on out... Some miracles are the everyday small ones. |
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23 Dec 03 - 07:50 PM (#1078876) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Miracles come in all sizes, Tinker. Moses parted the Red Sea. Ocassionally, a teenager cleans their room without being threatened.. And that momentary flash of recognition when your children realize how much you love them... nothing tops that.. Jerry |
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23 Dec 03 - 10:07 PM (#1078972) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Bobert Bobert's Christmas Story: (For those of you who like short posts, forget it...) The year was, oh, like 1982 and my parents were coming from Kansas City, Mo. to spend Christmas with me and my first wife, Sheila. I hadn't seen them in over 5 years and so I was really excited about them coming and wanted everything to be, ahhh, perfect. I was living in Richmond, Va. at the time in a wonderfull house with a central forier and had the joint all decorated and feeling much like Christmas. The turkey was on the back porch thawing and every room in the house was impeckably decorated and, well, we were ready... Right? Well, Christmas morning rolled around and I figured that the turkey on the back porch was sufficiently thawed for cookin' so.... "Arrrggghhhhh! Where's the turkey? I left it on the back porch just last night to thaw and it's, like, gone!?!?!?!?...." I mean, like who would steal a danged turkey from someone's back porch? And, ahhh, my parents are gonna be here in 5 hours and Iz got me a stolen turkey.... Danged, Part #28,746, which falls right behind my oold VW gettin' a flat tire the night before at a party over on the other side of town but that;s a different story.. So, I'm off in my VW bus to try to find another turkey on Christmas Day. Well I drove that poor ol' VW bus all over Richmnond obly to find one store after another either closed or turkey-less... But, when I was about to give up I came accross the last store and not only were they open but thay had 2 or 3 turkeys left, All frozen, of course. But I bought one and headed back home with the turkey on the floorboard of my VW bus under the heater (like a big haha) trying to unfreeze the thing. About 3 blocks from home I noticed a large white thing on the side of the road and upon getting closer determined that it was indeed the turkey that was last seen on, ahhhh, my danged back porch... So I pulled over, threw the poor thing in then back of the VW bus and headed home with 2 turkeys... Well, when I got hoome I examined the "side of the road" turkey and found that there were a *few* dog teeth marks and holes in the white plastic covering but, unlike the turkey under thre VW bus heater, it was thawed... So, we cooked it.... My parents arrived and all was well and then it was time fir Christmas dinner and that turkey was the best I ever ate. Something about a dog helping in the tenderizin', I guess... After dinner and desert, and after my parents saying just how wonderfull everything was, I looked at Sheila and we both broke out in laughter. My poor folks was wonderin' just what was going on, I'm sure. So we told 'em... Now we had everyone laughin' until the tears just ran down everyobe's faces... There are times in one's life when one questions or has doubts about God and there are times when those doubts are laid to rest... That Christmas, the doubts were laid to rest.. Ahhhhh, I hate to throw a side bar into the mix but... the dog that stole this turkey was a neighbors dog, Tayloe. He was a pain in the butt and a few months later was taken off by his owners to live somw 15 miles away.... But, he found his way back to our house several months later and lived out the remaining 7 years with us... Merry Christmas, Praise be to the Lord... Bobert |
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24 Dec 03 - 10:06 AM (#1079200) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen What a great story, Bobert! But then, I am a sucker for dog stories. Sometimes the Lord provides in mysterious ways. My first Christmas living in Stamford, Connecticut (where I ended up living most of my adult life) I was flat broke and living in a pretty scummy upstairs apartment in a house that was later razed to make a parking lot. But, it was within walking distance of the center of town, and I couldn't afford a car, so it was a place to live. A couple of weeks before Christmas, I was walking home when a big truck came rumbling by, stacked to the top with Christmas trees. Just after if passed me, one of the trees fell off in the middle of the street. I started yelling at the truck, but they couldn't hear me and disappeared around the corner. So what's a fella to do? I walked out into the street and picked up the Christmas tree, hoisted it up on my shoulder and carried home. Feeling very primal. It was the most beautiful Christmas tree I ever had, and I decorated it with little odds and ends that I had around the apartment. And threw a lot of tinsel on it. My cats loved the tree. They especially loved eating the tinsel. At first I was concerned about what the tinsel would do to them, but I soon discovered it was only passing through. It all came out in the end, and it gave new meaning to the phrase "Silver threads among the gold." Jerry |
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24 Dec 03 - 11:20 AM (#1079235) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Peter T. Mudcat is the gift that keeps on giving. I spent hardly any time on Mudcat this year, for a variety of reasons. But in that time: I discovered Mande music; J.B. Lenoir; Darby and Tarlton; "Lady of Carlisle"; "The Golden Vanity" (9 versions); the Max Hunter Collection from my old stomping ground in the Ozarks; spent three glorious days with the Swans; met Chanteyranger and wandered over his ships; finally figured out where Annie Briggs fit into the British folk scene; listened to the Corries for the first time; watched a film about Alabama pottery; learned Dylan's "I Was Young When I Left Home"; finally read Cece Conway on black banjo players, and got the Smithsonian album (yesterday!!!!); was moved by the film "The End of An Old Song", the life and work of Dillard Chandler; and continued learning from friends, likeRick and Heather F. about all kinds of things, some of which were musical. NONE OF THIS WAS POSSIBLE WITHOUT MUDCAT. None, zero, zip. yours, Peter T. |
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24 Dec 03 - 12:02 PM (#1079257) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Big Mick I have been a part of, witnessed some wonderful threads over the years. This is one of those neat ones that I will revisit. Allison, I hope you know that many of us are sending love and prayer your way. You are a lucky person. You had great love in this life, and many never have that gift. Your lover left on the next part of the journey while being held in the arms of his true love. What a gift. The times may seem dark, but knowing that all, great and small, will travel this path, helps us see that it is not a tragedy rather just a part of your journey. And what a beautiful part it is. Never fear, my friend never met, you will see him again. And my guess is that he will thank you. I wish I could sing with you this year, but I am singing for you and Byron. Mick |
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24 Dec 03 - 05:20 PM (#1079376) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: AllisonA(Animaterra) Oh, Mick- ~tears~ A |
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24 Dec 03 - 05:50 PM (#1079386) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: jaze I can't imagine that there can be any other site on the internet quite like Mudcat. There would be a serious wound in my soul if this site and you great folks weren't part of my life. Though I've never met any of you, I feel like you all are family. And for that I want to thank you. And wish you all peaceful holidays and all the best in the New Year. James |
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24 Dec 03 - 06:22 PM (#1079398) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Col K How do you always manage to start off such wonderful threads Jerry? One of my best moments of the year was when I finally met you and Ruth on halloween night and the following day singing with you and the Messengers and four more of my Shellback friends.That saturday morning was filled with such joy and so much music and love. That morning happened because of the friendship between us that had grown over the past year in the mudcat chatroom. The support that we all give to each other here on the cat is so special,and the more people I meet who are mudcatters the more I realise that there are so many special people around in the world. The joy I had in singing with you all and especially Joe will never disappear from my mind.Please wish him and the other Messengers a peaceful and joyous time this Christmas. Thank you for your friendship Colin |
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24 Dec 03 - 09:06 PM (#1079477) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen And that visit with you and the Shellbacks, Colin .. Noreen, Theresa, AllanW and Sussex Carole was a beautiful gift to all of us as well... I'll pass your kind words on to Joe and the guys when I see them next week.. Jerry |
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25 Dec 03 - 12:34 AM (#1079559) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: khandu 2003 has been a very tumultous year for me, quite difficult in many ways. However, I face the end of the year with a new outlook. To explain, I must go back to 1992. In that year, my lovely wife, Glenda, died. With much anger & deep bitterness, I left the ministry, vowing never to return. For a few years, I lived a life of booze, women & song, often railing against God for His unjust treatment of me. 4 years ago, I met Cheryl, who, one year later, became my lucky wife! She loved me in spite of my bitterness & anger. Somehow, she believed in me! Cheryl was the beginning of a healing for me. Last year, Jerry Rasmussen & I began corresponding. His e-mails & PMs were a cool cup of water to me. His prayers for me were like a healing balm. Through the tumult & storms of this year, I realized they were a result of the tumult & storms going on within me. I really did not want to deal with these "inner storms", but I had no choice. The time had come. In the midst of these storms, I found something. . . a very faithful, gentle & loving Father who had never left me nor forsaken me. Deeply rooted bitterness & anger melted in His presence. He healed my broken heart & filled it with Peace. There is a long road ahead, I do not know where it will take me but I am going to enjoy the trip! And that, to me, is a Beautiful Gift! ken |
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25 Dec 03 - 04:33 AM (#1079598) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: alanabit Jerry, I am so glad your mate Joe is on the mend. Good news to hear from Ken too. At the moment I am thinking of a close friend of mine whose twenty year old daughter was injured terribly in a car crash some weeks ago. He and his wife will be spending Christmas at her bedside, just as they have spent the past few weeks. Joe and Ken are on the road back and I'll be willing Rebecca to join them. We need to hear stories like this, because it is so tempting to use a magnifying glass for our own problems. Good to hear for you all - and you praying types can maybe slip one in for Rebecca. Alan. |
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25 Dec 03 - 06:42 AM (#1079629) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen And a blessed Christmas to you, Alan. We'll add Rebecca to our list. I remember a traumatic Christmas when I was about 12. My oldest sister was in a terrible accident coming home from a dance and was almost killed. We spent Christmas Eve at the hospital with my sister, and the greatest gift we had was the faith that she would recover completely. She's 74 now, so it looks like the recovery was complete... Have a beautiful day, Ken! There is nothing that heals like God's love. I believe that the New Year will bring you much joy and a release from old pain. It is a blessing to have you as a friend. Jerry |
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25 Dec 03 - 10:38 AM (#1079686) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Bobert Kenny, What Jerry said. The Lord will get ya through the most unimaginable pains and looses. As you probably know I lost my wife to cancer in 1996 and I know the pain of which you speak. But God is not responsible for every danged bad thiing that happens and there are days when I'm sure He is anguished and vows to Himself to do better the following day... And He does... You know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers over the last year and I miss hearing from you and wasn't too sure what I could do to be supportive but know that I'm here for you, my brother, and a Merry Chistmas to you and Cheryl from P-Vine and myself... Bobert |
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25 Dec 03 - 11:12 AM (#1079705) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Big Mick Ken, thanks for the gift of the telling of your journey. Often we write these to help ourselves, but end up helping others. You caused me to reflect on a failing of mine, and that is a good thing. Thanks for a very valuable gift during this season of joy. Sincerely and with wishes for all the best, Mick |
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25 Dec 03 - 02:54 PM (#1079786) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Peace Jerry, Thank you for this thread. It has been a God-send. |
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25 Dec 03 - 03:52 PM (#1079807) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Every once in a while we need to open the window and let some fresh air in, brucie.. Jerry |
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25 Dec 03 - 04:05 PM (#1079812) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: MAG I am thankful for the painkiller, vioxx, which has given me back a chunk of my life. I am thankful I found a psychopharmacologist who switched me from one mood stabilizer to another, thus losing the one which caused a terrific weight gain. I am thankful that one sister came out of a long standing bad depression. I am thankful that my brother is clean, sober, and employed. My mother, who has alzheimer's, has taken a turn for the worse and if it is her time I hope she goes without pain in my father's arms. Looking forward to 2004, MA |
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25 Dec 03 - 04:35 PM (#1079822) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen God Bless you, MAG... sounds like you've been heavily weighted down. I know what depressions are like, and when you come out of one, it is truly a time to rejoice. May the New Year fulfill all the promises you feel are coming.. Jerry |
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25 Dec 03 - 05:51 PM (#1079868) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Peace Ditto that, MAG. Bless you and your family. |
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26 Dec 03 - 02:12 AM (#1080059) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Ebbie Lovely thread. Thank you. |
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27 Dec 03 - 02:01 PM (#1080514) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Tinker I found this in my reading last night and thought of this thread. RETURN My wish for you is a homecoming in this life. a coming in out of the cold; a drying off the icy rain's touch. In the holy reliquary of childhood memory may you find there the unshakable truth of your preciousness. May you remember the cool and padded graces of your wet feet against stone. In the middle of a long night, a single burning light serving as your peace, may you fold back the pocket holding your slights, your jilted times, your feelings of betrayal, and discover small diamonds there, created from the crushed coal of your hates and rage. May you taste resurrection without the need of dying for it. From Building Fences In High Wind: Poems of Longing, Frank Mac Eowen |
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27 Dec 03 - 03:24 PM (#1080559) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Thanks for sharing the beautiful poem, Tinker.. Jerry |
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27 Dec 03 - 10:18 PM (#1080753) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Walking Eagle Been thinking of the word --Grateful -- lately. This thread has reminded me of the things that I am grateful for. Many they are. I try to remember to let folks know how grateful I am for the many things that they have done for me. I can't go much further on the subject as my thoughts are all twisted up now. W.E. |
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28 Dec 03 - 11:15 PM (#1081250) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: CarolC Of course I have to say the Mudcat (all three and a half years of my time here), since it brought me a whole new life, a whole new world (and a whole new world of friends), and, most especially, my husband Rob (Jack the Sailor). The precious gift for me this year is the visit from my son who lives far away while he attends college, and the fairly miraculous outcome of the head-on collision the three of us had with a large buck deer while my son was visiting us, in which none of us got hurt. If you look at the pictures, I think you'll agree that coming out of an accident like that one unhurt is a beautiful gift indeed: http://community.webshots.com/photo/104464966/104476786jCYffe http://community.webshots.com/photo/104464966/104480833GKfEYd |
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29 Dec 03 - 11:42 AM (#1081548) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Wow! You WERE blessed to come through that accident unscathed, Carol. About a week before Christmas, my wife and I were driving in the country at dusk (just when it's hard to see.) Without warning, a deer dashed in front of our car. There wasn't time to even get my foot to the brake peddle and we must have come within a foot of hitting her (it was a doe.) One split second later, and we probably would have done as much damage to our car as you did. We gave thanks for being spared from the accident. And we give thanks that you and your family were protected, too.. Jerry |
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29 Dec 03 - 02:24 PM (#1081672) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Raptor The People on Mudcat helped me cope with the death of my Wife who died one month ago yesterday! Jerry, Please tell me you don't let Joe Drive The Church Van any more! Raptor |
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29 Dec 03 - 02:51 PM (#1081694) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Rest easy my friend... Joe does NOT drive the church van anymore. New Year's Eve, I'll share this thread with Joe at Watch Night at our church... I know he'll appreciate it. His sister is going in for surgery on December 30th, so we're praying for another beautiful gift to ring in the New Year. I know you have a healing road before you, Rapt, but you're not on it alone... Jerry |
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29 Dec 03 - 03:47 PM (#1081737) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: PoppaGator Dang, Jerry! (and the rest of y'all too!) I'm just trying to surrupticiously goof off at work, and now I'm all choked up, with tears in my eyes! Somebody might figure out what I'm up to... Seriously, though, this has all been quite moving. Nothing I could add that would contribute to the mood -- not this year, anyway. When I do have a sad sad Christmas story to tell, I'll ceratinly know where to turn. God bless us everyone. |
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29 Dec 03 - 06:08 PM (#1081855) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: KT One of the most precious gifts to come my way during this last year, came from Salzburg, Austria. It was Christmas Eve, and I was in the train station, waiting to go to Oberndorf, where "Silent Night" was first performed on a single guitar back in the early 1800's. As I waited, I watched with interest, all of the many travelers, who were going this way and that, running to catch trains, juggling luggage and packages. On a table in a nearby quiet corner, was a large, single candle, burning brightly and casting a peaceful, calming glow on the surrounding area. As I watched, a young family approached the table. In one hand, the father carried an empty lantern. When they reached the table, the little family gathered 'round. Without a word, but with eyes full of wonder, the children watched as he lit the lantern from the flame that was burning so brightly there. After a few moments, they walked happily away with their newly illuminated lantern. Shortly after they left the table, an elderly gentleman arrived. He was followed by a young couple, then another family, a single woman..... All came carrying empty lanterns, and all walked away with lanterns burning brightly. Intrigued by the scene, I approached one of the pilgrims, a single woman who pulled her empty lantern out of her canvas carrying bag. After lighting her lantern, she explained to me that the candle had arrived, burning brightly, the day before, from Bethlehem. The people were lighting their lanterns with this light, and taking them home, where they would keep them burning for the next week or so, for peace in their homes, and peace in the world. The woman commented on the fact that the light had come from a place which was lacking in peace right now, yet hope for peace prevailed. She then turned with her lantern, got on her bicycle, and rode away. I watched the continuous flow of lantern bearers, all coming to the light with an emptiness represented by their dark lanterns, but walking away with renewed hope, in their lanterns and in their hearts. This evening, as I light the lanterns that now grace my mantle, I will think of all of you. Wishing you peace in your homes, in your hearts, in our world. KT |
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29 Dec 03 - 06:44 PM (#1081887) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Big Mick Powerful, my dear friend KT. I am working on the lyrics from that story already. You are a wonder.....no, a beautiful gift. All the best, Mick |
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29 Dec 03 - 08:25 PM (#1081978) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Bobert May we all light a candle of peace and as it burns brightly contimplate, meditate and pray for peace. Peace is possible and it is God's will for us and if we can just get enough folks burning candles of peace, we can turn around those few who life not a finger in war but profit from it and take back *our* earth... Thanks,KT and thanks again, Jerry. My friend and my brother in Faith. Bobert |
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29 Dec 03 - 09:10 PM (#1082009) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Looking at what happens in here, Bobert, I realize that we have a lot of work ahead of us, just to find peace on Mudcat. I'm not talking agreement... just peace.. Jeremiah |
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30 Dec 03 - 08:32 AM (#1082285) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Thanks for the wonderful message, KT. It is a beautiful gift, in itself. Now, if you talk about the greatest gift we can give, it is very simple. The gift to give to the man or woman who has "everything." Yourself. Over the years, some of the greatest gifts I've received have been people: Art Thieme (who many of you know) and Pat Conte (a wonderful musician and raconteur who lives on Lon Gisland.) For many years, we kept up a correspondence that carried me through the darkest days of my life. And I believe that I gave something in return. I've been reading a wonderful book recently that talks about building community, and fellowship. In order to do that you need honesty (and I'll share a quote from the thread on Gargoyle: "Love without honesty is sentimentality: Honesty without love is cruelty.")You also need humility (another great quote: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it's thinking of yourself less.") You need frequency (Art and Pat and I shared letters three or four times a week,) and you need sympathy. The beautiful thing about being a "gift" to someone else, is that you can be a gift no matter how poor you are (as KT has shown us in her message;)no matter how confused or depressed you are; even if you believe you are worthless and have nothing to give. For a couple of months, my wife and I went to visit a woman who was in a psychiatric ward. I know what it is like to reach a point where you can't go on. Been there. When I'd talk to the woman, our eyes would lock onto each other and there was no subterfuge, no "chit-chat." There was a connection between two souls. Those visits had what the author of the book I'm reading calls "Authenticity." We all know what Authenticity is. It's more than honesty. And it is powerful. It is at the heart of caring about, and loving each other. That is something that we all can give. The woman we visited gave it to us, even though she felt she had no reason to live... and certainly nothing to give. I looked her in the eye and told her that in six months, she would come up to me and tell me how beautiful her life is. At the time when I told her that, the doctors had to keep her so heavily medicated that there were times when we couldn't even see her. Now, six or seven weeks later, she is home, her smile could light up Madison Square Garden and she's starting to do volunteer work. It's not that she doesn't have bad days, but she is healing. And she's still got 4 and a half months to go... :-) Everyone can be a gift. Even our troubled, often cruel friend Gargoyle. And this thread is a gift to all of us, from all of us. Jerry |
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30 Dec 03 - 09:10 PM (#1082857) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: GUEST,KT, not logged on at the moment Ah, thank you, Mick. You are very kind. I am excited to know that a song is brewing there. DO keep me posted, please! Yes Jerry, the entire experience was pure gift for me, not only on that particular day, but each and every time I pause to reflect on the experience and the images therin..... This is a wonderful thread, Jerry. Great food for thought. I'd love to hear some more............KT |
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30 Dec 03 - 10:05 PM (#1082898) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen This looks like a good time to wish everyone a Glorious New Year! Don't just settle for Happy.. Jerry |
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31 Dec 03 - 09:14 AM (#1083100) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: katlaughing KT, thanks for sharing that; what a beautiful and peace-filled image it conjures. Happy New Year. May Peace Prevail, luvyakat |
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31 Dec 03 - 03:50 PM (#1083393) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: McGrath of Harlow "Happy and glorious" - as the line goes. |
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31 Dec 03 - 05:55 PM (#1083504) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Art Thieme ...and at Jerry's prompting, I finally found this thread. Just know that those letters Jerry and I wrote got me through a terrible time in my life as well. I truly was at the end of my rope. None of the spinal and neck fusions I'd had helped my problems at all and things were worsening incrementally as the years wore on. To finally, after a decade, get the diagnosis of MS was liberating. I'm still some angry at the doctors that never figured it out, but that makes me more thankful to those who did get it right. And I learned a ton from all those downer experiences too. Every coin has two sides. I'll never be able to tell Jerry how much I've appreciated those letters---to and from him. Writing let me get my head together and see in black and white where I needed to do work---. If I aided him, I'm certainly glad. I love you and Ruth, Jerry. This Mudcat place is unique and special. So are all of you 'Catters. ---- Tonight Carol and I have our granddaughter with us while her parents spend a quiet time with friends bringing in whatever comes down the bizarre pike that this life IS and will be in 2004. In a very real way, the humanity of it is NOT diminished by being virtual and long-distance via cyberspace. This group of friends I've made here are truly a beautiful gift. A grand New Year to you all. Love, Art |
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31 Dec 03 - 06:53 PM (#1083521) Subject: RE: BS: A Beautiful Gift From: Jerry Rasmussen Thanks Art! This thread is a welcome respite. And may we make the best of whatever the New Year brings. Love, Jerry |