Uphill idealist

What are the first words that come to mind when you think of the word "saint'? My first thoughts are images of halos, stained glass windows and people who always say and do the right things. Maybe they even stand a little straighter than I do. Saints can be defined in the dictionary as… 1. Somebody honored by church after death: a member of a religion who after death is formally designated as having led a life of exceptional holiness. 2. Somebody in heaven: somebody who goes to heaven after death. 3. Virtuous person: a particularly good or holy person, or one who is exceptionally kind and patient in dealing with difficult people or situations. There is a connection in our minds to holiness or perfection when we begin to consider the word, "saint". The members of the church of Macedonia that Paul writes to are described as Christians who "…excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us…" (2nd Corinthian

All Posters Link Would you open your ears and pause your chatter? Can you look past your nose to see what the matter? Why you flutter? Are you better or best? Do you think that your life is more important than the rest? Life isn't central to only you. Inside are hearts that are trying to break through. Say what's needed, not everything you want to say. Take a moment to consider someone else's way. Each one needs a moment, a smile, a thought. Noting another's life, what a difference you've wrought. Putting others first often starts when you listen not just with your ears, but your soul and your heart. Copyright 2008 T.L. Eastman

Dear friends, At the end of February, I have the possible opportunity to go to a communications training and observation study of church relocations and plants in the San Jose', CA area. Due to some unexpected budget constraints, I'm in a position where it necessary to ask for some assistance in order for this trip to be realistically possible. Please contact me if you are interested in helping with my situation. Checks can be mailed to Westminster Presbyterian Church (with a note in the memo stating "Tara's training") at: Westminster Presbyterian Church PO Box 108 Lakewood NY 14750 The trip falls on the last week of February thru to the first Monday in March (Thursday - Tuesday). If you'd like more info on the training itself please let me know. As always, your thoughts and prayers are always appreciated. Much thanks, Tara

I love how a poem can capture the tension of feeling, thought and perspective and wrap it all up in a package so compact. The words of this poem, "Nothing is Lost" by Noel Coward really struck a chord with me. Sometimes as I try to fall asleep, I have a wave of memories, words and music jogging around in my mind. Sometimes it feels as if all the things I've ever heard, seen or dreamed are vying for the spotlight of my drowsy attention. Often lately, the best time (as far as inspiration) but the worst time ( because I want to sleep) for writing, poems, music and the like occurs as I'm trying to fall asleep. I wonder if other musicians and writers ever have trouble turning off that part of their brain? If so let me know. I've found that for the most part, its better to get up, write the verse, song or whatever is bouncing around and then sleep is less disturbed. If I try to ignore the words or music - they overtake my dreams and I find myself singing them all night