Uphill idealist

Balance

2012-01-31T09:34:00.003-05:00

Finding the sorting line is the hardest part.

Image found at "The Uniqueness of Being" Blog

Women Create is Jazzing things up!

2012-01-26T11:12:00.005-05:00

Creative Arts of Women of Western NY is doing a great job of jazzing up life by lifting up women artists!

Coming on March 31st, the community of Jamestown, NY will be celebrating SWAN day (Support Women's Art Now) I'm honored to have one of my paintings in this wonderful show and to be featured in today's Women Create blog segment.

My friend and amazing photographer Heather Mencer took the photos of me for an additional photo flag book that is in the works of being compiled for this upcoming Art Show.

Thanks for supporting the arts - they have a way of jazzing things up don't they?

Ubi Caritas - live in charity

2012-01-25T10:22:00.004-05:00

Ubi caritas et amor,
ubi caritas Deus ibi est.

Live in charity and steadfast love.
Live in charity; God will dwell with you.

Charity is a word that most people don't use - or don't like to use. When I think of charity the phrase "Don't live off others charity", comes to mind. Somehow, charity's meaning has shifted to the space of being dependent on a great benefactor or bleeding off of someone else for something you want.

According to dictionary.com, charity is:
char·i·ty [char-i-tee]
noun, plural -ties.
1.generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless: to devote one's life to charity.
2.something given to a person or persons in need; alms: She asked for work, not charity.
3.a charitable act or work.
4.a charitable fund, foundation, or institution: He left his estate to a charity.
5.benevolent feeling, especially toward those in need or in disfavor: She looked so poor that we fed her out of charity.

When considering the definitions above, giving out of charity is something that is motivated out of love, concern, and selflessness. While I like to think of myself as an independent person, when looking at this definition I realize that I have been and will continue to be a recipient of charity. I've received charity from friends, family and ultimately - from God. Charity is the action motivated by love, compassion and care for someone else. Charity moves people to a place of active love, where needs are met, faith is encouraged and love is given generously. Just as the Taize chorus says:

Live in charity and steadfast love.
Live in charity; God will dwell with you.

Either in giving or receiving charity - God dwells there, and that is the place I want to live.

Each Wednesday at First Lutheran Church of Jamestown a small group gathers for prayer, scripture reading, and singing. This week our song is Ubi Caritas - Live in Charity. Chapel opens at noon, prayers begin at 12:15 - all are welcome.

Free Car Wash Prayer Time

2012-01-24T15:22:00.010-05:00

Image found at Colima Car Wash.

Do you have a point card for a convenience or grocery store? Last week, when filling up my car with gas and coffee mug with coffee; I was surprised to receive a "Free Car Wash" at the checkout. After a lot of slushy, salt covered winter driving; the car wash coupon could not have come at a better time - for me and my winter weary Dodge Stratus.

I have a thing for automatic car washes. I love the sound of water whooshing, the juicy-fruit smell of the soap, colorful stripes of bubbles streaming down my windshield and how my car is gently pulled through the car wash bay.

At first, the two men worked on my car by spraying and brushing the excess dirt and ice buildup away. When I pulled into the car wash bay, I carefully lined up my wheels to rest on the tracking to be led through the wash process. I was told to place my car in neutral and release the brake.

I shifted gears but nothing happened. I looked down and saw that I had shifted to reverse - not neutral. My car was working against the tracking belt. No one was going anywhere. I adjusted the gear correctly and entered the full sensory experience of the automatic car wash.

While sitting in my car, I was reminded of how important it is to place myself in the neural and sacred space of prayer. As the water whooshed, the pulley pulled and the bubbles did their work; I closed my eyes and prayed.

I prayed for God to lead me in my decisions, for the help to shift to when I need to be in neutral - when I'm actually in reverse or drive, to allow for the washing away of things that need to go - in order to move forward. Similar to a worship service, that free car wash placed me in a sacred space of prayer where I could remember my baptism and receive God's love.

My car wasn't the only thing going through a transformation inside that car wash bay. Through that short time of prayer, I was reminded that my life can be placed in God's hands, that the debris that gunk’s things up can be washed away, and if I'm willing to shift into the neutral stance - prayer can change things. Prayer can change me.

Take my advice, that if you win a free car wash be sure you cash the coupon in. Not only will your car be clean and shiny - but so will you, as long as you remember to shift into neutral!

Dear God - Don't allow me see prayer as a routine task to be completed. Move me to prayer, so it can be the vehicle to process every part of life. Through prayer, help me to shift out of reverse or drive and into the neutral space where you can work in and through me. Amen

1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always; 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Painting quiz: What do you see?

2012-01-20T15:59:00.006-05:00

Earlier this week, I was working on a concept painting for a potential mural project. If you would, please take a moment and look at the painting below. After a good look, please leave a comment telling me your first response:

I'd like to know your first idea,
feeling, or impression from what you see.

Thanks for the research help. Here's to pictures that speak a thousand words...or at least a dozen. :)

T-shirt contest: Synod 7d is headed to....

2012-01-13T16:27:00.005-05:00

Heaven!
It's funny what can come up when your brainstorm over pizza, salad and the need to create a t-shirt design for a ELCA Youth Gathering t-shirt contest. My friend Darcy, and her family all helped to think through the number seven (that is what Synod we are a part of) and our upcoming mission trip to New Orleans this summer. We did improve on, " Synod 7d is headed to heaven!" (Ahem - thank heavens!)
So this is what we ended up with...

Synod seven d is here to serve...now lets put ourselves where this design is! If you would like to submit a shirt design by January 31st, you can do so by submitting to:
2012 Youth Gathering T-shirt Designs C/O NFCLYO
55 Pleasant Avenue, Lancaster NY 14086
or email info@nfclyo.org

Hope floats

2012-01-11T11:11:00.003-05:00

Image from Arizonatravel.wordpress

Have you ever watched a young child learning how to swim? This task requires a number of safety precautions and some detailed planning. First, it's necessary that someone who knows how to swim be in the pool, second the child learning to swim needs to have the support and help of their parent in the process, and third - this child learning to swim needs to enter the water with the right kind of equipment. A few years ago, my nephew took some classes to learn how to swim because Grandma had a small pool in her backyard.

At first, he was literally enveloped in gear to assist him in swimming - a full body swim suit that had floating devices built in, water wings, goggles and a kick board! At first, he looked a bit like a deep sea diver in the 4ft. deep pool - but day by day he shed the gear as his skill and confidence in swimming grew. In that short summer, I was amazed at the stride he made in learning how to swim. Throughout the whole process, he had "Hope" that he would learn how to swim.

Water wings, kick boards and full body swim suits fit with flotation devices are great metaphors for hope. We need hope to carry us in the deep water we sometime find ourselves in. We need support of our lifeguard (God) when we are in the deep and shallow ends of the pool, and we need people (friends and family) that love and lift us up nearby when the back splash cause us to sputter and struggle. All these representatives of support remind me of how important living out a hopeful and hope-fueled life.

We know the pool of life is deep, but with God, faithful family and friends, and the kick-board and water-wings of hope - we will make it to the other side of the pool and back again.(And have some fun in the process too!)

Take the plunge - hope always floats.

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

20 minutes to shine

2012-01-04T08:23:00.003-05:00

Image found at Youworkforthem.com

"20 minutes to shine.
What a promise.
What a hope.
While chemist-like trappings give the impression of control and order.
There are cocktails, concoctions, and vials that speak volumes to potential.

I admit to loving this promise.
Wanting the contents of this bottle to do its best work -
to draw all the vibrancy, lusture and gleam to the surface.
I admit to this desire to be illuminated, but somehow I think the illumination needed runs much deeper than this crown.

This light, hope, and glimmer needs to soak deep into the depths of my heart,
to the cobweb coated corners of my mind,
and make some space in spare room of my soul.

Real light to take up residence here...
in 20 minutes or less, of course.

Is that too much for me to ask?"

T.L. Eastman January 2012

Waiting for the Kings and saving a pickle

2012-01-03T09:10:00.007-05:00

(Image found at activerain.com)

Today marks the tenth day of Christmas. (Go ahead, I know you want to sing "Ten lords a leaping!") I know that many folks have all now headed back to regular work and school schedules ( including me), but I'm still holding on the the Christmas spirit - and I'm working to do that in the many days to come in 2012.

Angels are still singing "Gloria!" - are you?

After reading my blog post yesterday about my melancholy mood in the wake of Christmas season winding down, my friend Deb told me about a yearly tradition she has to help her hold on to Christmas.

She chooses a ornament from her Christmas tree that she will keep out and display in her kitchen to help her remember the joy, love, beauty and message of the holiday season.

This year I also learned about the tradition of the "Christmas Pickle Ornament" from some of the teens in the youth group I work with. Apparently, some folks hide a pickle shaped ornament on their tree on Christmas Eve and the first person that finds it the following morning will get to open the first gift and receive the "Pickle Present" in addition to their other gifts. When I learned about this fun tradition, I went searching for a pickle ornament to start the "Christmas Pickle Ornament" tradition in my own family.

( To learn more about the pickle legend - visitn this link at bronners.com)
So to take from my friend Deb's suggestion and the pickle - I've placed the pickle ornament on a hook in my kitchen and placed some hand-made ornaments on my office door to be my own year long reminder to continue to live through and in Christmas.

(Baby Jesus waiting for the three kings.)

Happy 10th day of Christmas to you all - I hope you find some traditions that help you hold on to the joy of Christmas all year round!

Epiphany reframes it

2012-01-02T07:18:00.008-05:00

Cartoon from blog " Of course i could be all wrong"
e·piph·a·ny [ih-pif-uh-nee] noun, plural -nies.
1. (Initial capital letter ) a Christian festival, observed on January 6, commemorating the manifestation of Christ to the gentiles in the persons of the Magi; Twelfth-day.

Epiphany is on it way. In addition to being the cap on the Advent season and 12 days of Christmas, it also happens to be my birthday. Normally, I love the fact that my birthday is connected to this time of celebration - but this year I already find myself a little melancholy over the fact that the big wrap up is on it's way.

It's been a great Advent and Christmas season so far. Both my husband and I work in youth ministry and we've spent many days during Advent working with youth on service projects in order to help them to give back. We've make Christmas cards, delivered them to a nursing home, visited a youth home, helped sort and organize gifts for kids and families and as Christmas day approached our group rang the bell and stood at the red kettle for the Salvation Army.

My work also includes working at an individual church where Advent and Christmas tend to be the busiest time of the Church year. There are festivals, special events, Sunday school pageants, mitten trees and special worship services to prepare and participate in. Needless to say when looking at this list of things I love, it's a busy time of year. As the Christmas worship services drew near, I was so excited for the upcoming holiday to be with friends and family and to enjoy all the baking and gift giving to come.

In the week between Christmas and New years, my family and I have had many home-made dinners, my husband and I have been on a few dates, we have spent time with good friends, I've read a good book and started another and I even finished a painting I'd been working on for months. This week of rest, fun and celebration moved so quickly, that it makes me long for just a little more time to soak it all in. I think moving towards Epiphany and my birthday are a reminder that this rich and joyous time is coming to a close. If I'm honest, I'm not quite ready to move past Advent and the 12 days of Christmas. I'd really like a little more time to ponder and celebrate. Wouldn't you?

Another definition of epiphany is: a sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something, usually initiated by some simple, homely, or commonplace occurrence or experience.

In the predawn hours of this morning, I woke up to a foot of new snow outside my window. I got myself dressed in lots of layers and took my dog out for a jaunt in the untouched terrain. The night before, there was no snow. We've had an untypical snow free winter so far in Western NY up to today. I was impressed by the transformation of my outside world. Every single thing - including me and my dog - was covered and encased in a thick, clean layer of white. The whole world was reframed and looked brand new in the almost light of dawn.

This time - according to the calendar on the wall - for Christmas celebration is coming to a close by the end of this week. I'm even planning on going to an Epiphany party to have one last HURRAH for the holiday season. While it may be time to take down the tree, I don't think it's time to take the spirit of celebration away completely.

Just as my world was reframed by a foot ( and more to come) of snow falling, my daily life can be reframed by joy, hope and love all year long; if only I get out there to witness and take part in it. My melancholy comes from a place insisting that I pack up all the things I love about the holiday season.

While the way of celebrating life and love may change with the seasons, the acts of: taking time for rest, going on a date with my husband,doing service projects that make a difference and taking time for laughter with family and friends
are practices that should be a regular part of year long celebration in 2012.

May my snow inspired epiphany be one that lasts long after it melts away. May this epiphany be one that lasts 365 day long to fill a year with joy, hope and love in my life and those around me.

Happy New Year!
Tara

New beginnings

2012-01-01T18:03:00.005-05:00

It's a new season to start something. There are lots of choices, but if you like to blog you may want to join in with NaBloPoMo on the challenge and fun of daily blogging. Go to NaBloPoMo and sign up for January's round of writing and interaction.

It's a brand new year.
I'll need to intentionally practice writing 2012 for about a month before the change will sink in for the next 11.
It a day to think about what was and what could be.

If only "beginning" is the frame I use to place the next 365 days in.
Each morning is new.
Each moment is unique.
Each day, hour and second holds the space to dream - to hope and to begin again.
It is a new beginning I need to inhale into my whole being and exhale into a world full of possibility.
Inhale, exhale, repeat.

Image from Wallpaper-s.org

Happy New Year - Muppet style

2011-12-31T09:20:00.001-05:00

Arthur H. Sulzberger

A new beginning is perhaps the best time to say…
It’s so nice to know you…
And here’s wishing our friendship
continues to grow in the days to come.

Happy New Year - be safe, be well. be true.

Tara

Women Create 2012

2011-12-29T02:16:00.004-05:00

February 2012, Creative Arts of Women of Western NY will be holding a juried exhibit to celebrate the 5th Annual SWAN - Support Women Artists Now!

I've submitted the following three painting to be considered for this upcoming exhibit -
Open wide the window of my soul

Leo's Pretty Tree

and my newest painting - Raven's Dawn

Acrylic/Watercolor on canvas. To view more images of my paintings, visit Tara Lamont Eastman Art/Mural Booking.

At a certain point he (Poe) was very popular, from THE RAVEN. He was never fully appreciated, never made the money, and you know he was looked upon with admiration by some people, but also as an oddball. But that was his point.
John Astin

Read more: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/raven.html#ixzz1i04SSJwo

Drop me a line

2011-12-28T10:04:00.008-05:00

(Image from arfsc. homestead. com)

"...I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers..."

Ephesians 1:16 is a great reminder of the importance of praying for others—and letter writing! Over the Advent season and into Christmas week, I've received many Christmas cards, letters and photos from friends and family all over the country. It's been greatly encouraging to hear from old friends, catch up on news and see what is going in their lives. If I'm totally honest though, I'd say what I love best about receiving these letters is the flood of warmth that rushes over me when I find them in my mailbox—it's such an encouragement to be remembered and connected with others!

In the New Testament, 13 of the 27 books are written in letter form. Letters were the primary means of early missionaries to communicate with their church members back home. These letters were used to encourage, redirect, challenge and help Christians to continue to grow in their faith, even when separated by great distances and challenging circumstances. This art of letter writing is one that has been adapted with the technical advances of email, instant messaging, social networking and Skype; but even as an enthusiastic participant in modern forms of communication, I still find there is something special about receiving a letter. The tangible action of holding, opening, reading, re-reading and saving a letter that reminds the recipient that they are cared for by the writer of that letter.

In this day of constant quick and instant communication, I've begun to think about reviving the slower but tangible act of letter writing for encouragement, faith formation, and mission. Who within our church communities are most affected by distance and challenging circumstances? I'd like to suggest that the largest population of people impacted by disconnect, distance, and separation is our College/Career/Young Adults. Due to increased need for higher and higher education, many young people seek economically sound work placement and education far away from their home congregations. These young people are striving to make their way in fast paced and new environments as a growing rite of passage.

In light of all this transition, young adults could greatly benefit from a connection to a caring, prayerful adult via the means of simple, old-fashioned, faith inspiring, letter writing! Adults have a great opportunity to reach out. The simple act of fostering Christian community through letter writing communicates the message that the recipient is: cared for, prayed over, and important enough to receive a tangible sign from his or her faith community. Letter writing reminds all of us who we are, who we are connected to, and how circumstance and distance don't have to separate us from our community of faith.

In this New Year, consider taking a chance to slow down in one form of communication. Write a letter to a young person that might be feeling forgotten by the distance, pace and challenge of transition into adulthood. The letter you write may be the lifeline they were looking for. Give it a try—drop a line.

If you are interested in participating in letter writing ministry to young adults with First Lutheran Church, please send an email—kind of ironic, I know—to eastman_tara@yahoo.com.

Whole hearted surrender

2011-12-19T23:41:00.003-05:00

So here's the thing. According to "researching storyteller" Brene Brown (Visit her webpage at: www.brenebrown.com) - vulnerability is an important key to living our lives in the place of wholeheartedness.

This evening I took twenty minutes to watch her TED presentation. One: she is so engaging that the talk seemed to fly by. Two: The more I listened, the more my heart pounded a little harder - like the words were making something deep inside me sit up and take notice. Three: the topics of vulnerability and worth are very connected, but often very hard to dig deep and wrestle with. Four: I think I have some wrestling ahead of me. Five: The struggle for perfection, is a trap that I sometimes get caught in.

Here is Brene's TED talk. Make a cup of tea or coffee and really sit down and listen. I think you're heart may sit up and heed her challenge too!

This graphic is a part of her program to challenge folks to live wholeheartedly. I love the way it's presented as well as the connection to expressing wholeheartedness through visual art. Most interesting is that I have a print of this Kelly Ray Roberts painting hanging above my computer desk. Apparently - wholeheartedness has already been working on and in me. :)

"No matter what gets done and how much is left undone; I am enough." Brene Brown

In this very busy week leading up to Christmas - this TED talk and encouragement to live in wholeheartedness instead of perfection seeking - is a gift I needed to receive.

Thanks for the gift Brene!

The gift of catching my breath

2011-12-12T18:14:00.004-05:00

Advent is a particularly busy time of year for me. I find myself getting frustrated when I can't keep up with my regular tasks. December kicked off with flu having its way with our whole household - just as I was recommitting to refocus and blog every day for the last month of the year. Needless to say, I have not kept up with that goal.

Each year, for about 11 years now, I have been working through Sacred Space's yearly prayer book. Sacred space provides both online, kindle version, and old-school book form of this prayer book.

Just as other things have seemed to fall behind already in December, I did not think to order my new church year prayer book until last week - but thankfully it's arrived today.

Here is the Celtic prayer I found as I first opened it's pages:

Deep peace of the running waves to you,
deep peace of the flowing air to you,
deep peace of the quiet earth to you,
deep peace of the shining stars to you,
deep peace of the shades of night to you,
moon and stars always giving light to you,
deep peace of Christ, the Son of Peace, to you.

There was no pressure, no strain, and no disappointment waiting for me as I started my "new year" in my devotional life.
Peace - deep peace - was the gift in those pages and the pages to come.
Prayer
Now, I can catch my breath.

You are a gift

2011-12-06T11:05:00.002-05:00

(Nigel - Fall 2011)

You are the gift that arrived into my life fifteen years ago today. You tried to arrive early, and once you encountered all that fuss, you decided it best to hang out where you were comfy until the last possible moment. But when you arrived, you wasted no time all. When you came into the room, you were bright, alert and unexpectedly calm. As your Dad held you in his arms for the first time, I called your name. "Nigel, hello there. It's good to finally see you!"

At the first mention of your name, you turned your head and eyes to meet mine. There was an audible gasp from the medical staff in the room. "He turned his head and looked right at you!" Everyone was impressed with how clever you were, even at that very tender age.

People still are impressed. They love your spunk, your concern for those in need, your depth of thought and yes even your sometimes-snarky sense of humor.

You are a gift that we did not deserve, and yet here you are. Thank you for who you are, who you are becoming. Happy 15th birthday, Nigel.

We love you and are proud of you - on the day you arrived, today and in the days to come!

(In this photo, Heather age 3 almost 4, Nigel about 2 months old and me - promo pic for Bubble Gum Machine rock band days.)

Stumble

2011-12-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Image found at NYpersonalinjury blog.

Walking where I've strolled before,
I stumble over unanticipated obstacles.

At first, I hardly flinch and land like a cat on my feet - feeling steady, feeling graceful.
Other times I catch my feet and have to take a minute to recover, but still land upright in the end.
Then there are the trip ups that lead to all out crashes - face forward on the way up the stairs or a butt bouncing trip all the way down.

In the washing machine spin cycle tumble - the world is a blur of color, sound and sensation.

Is there an injury?
Do I spring back up on my feet - embarrassed for the fall.
Up and down are shuffled in an unpredictable jumble of misdirection.
Are things really out of whack or do I just need some reorientation of space?
Is limbo where I belong?

It happens so fast and ends so abruptly,
like waking up startled and sweaty
from a dream -
of falling.

The chaos settles into fuzzy mindedness as the world tips upright once again.

Walking where I've strolled before -
unanticipated obstacles wait for me to stumble.

I need some grace to stroll with me on this path.

T.L. Eastman Dec. 2011"

Canine wake up calls

2011-12-01T11:22:00.005-05:00

What are the things that wake me up? Quite literally my alarm clock that goes off at 6am every morning to wake me up. Alarm noise is followed by a robust greeting from not-so-dainty 40lb. beagle cattle dog - Aggie. She plops on top of me with great anticipation of the great outdoor trek just minutes away from her Alphas feet hitting the floor.

If I don't move fast enough, doggy kisses are on the way.
Doggy kisses at 6am have an effective wake up call for just about anyone - espically me.

When I think about the awareness of my dog, and her ability to be present to the moment, I'm challenged. In my very human way, I will so often be in a moment but at the same time be thinking, planning, or working out the moment that has passed or is yet to come.

Dogs don't get caught up in the past or the future. Dog's live in the present. Even in the midst of a snoring canine sleep, Aggie will hear a noise and jump to attention barking at whatever has upset her rest. Often times, she will curl up in a ball, snore like she's sleeping, but her eyes will remain just open enough to be aware of her surroundings.

Wake up calls in life are usually big things. Wake up calls can be red flags that shout for changes that need to happen - and happen fast. Wake up calls can take the shape of a text, email or phone call from someone in crisis, that make us consider "What if this was me?" There is a song by Mat Kearney called Closer to Love with the lyric, "I guess we're all one phone call from our knees(in prayer, in grief, etc...)."

Just like this song says, wake up calls can also be things of great beauty that help us to see our world in ways we never imagined, help us take a step closer to living with great purpose in our lives and chasing after almost forgotten dreams. Wake up calls can help bring us closer to love.

Wake up calls are important in this way, but what if living in the moment and the space of love helped us stay in the place of awareness, just like my dog Aggie?

Waking up is so much more than rolling our of bed at 6am. Waking up is a holistic practice, that I need more practice in. Movement in life needs to be more than going through my paces. Each day, each moment, each opportunity, each conversation, each person is something/someone to be attentive and alert to.

Prayer:
God, help me to be on watch. Help me to be more aware of the grace and blessings you give in each moment of my days. Give me the ability to jump to attention more and go through the motions less. But even more than jumping, help me to live this life you have given to me with great anticipation and excitement every day. There is a great walk right around the corner, help me to hear and be ready to go when you call.
Amen

"Therefore, keep awake — for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."

Mark 13:35-37

More than / less than - Advent

2011-11-23T11:37:00.003-05:00

Image from 123RF.

During this season of Advent, our thoughts may turn to the wise men searching through the challenges of distance, obstacles, and the great unknown as they searched to find Jesus. Who was this Jesus they were seeking? How would meeting him change their lives? How did they feel as they finally came to the place where Jesus laid waiting for their arrival?
There are many things we can desire this Advent season. Out of all the things we could place on our wish list, what if what we desired most was Jesus? How would Jesus change, mold and impact our lives if he were at the top of our "wish" list? May this season of preparation for Christmas day bring you joy, peace and most of all -Jesus. This Advent, may we seek Jesus just like the wise men did on that silent, holy night when they found him lying in a manger. Jesus waits for us to seek him. Follow the star.

More than/less than Prayer

What do you need more of in order to draw close to Jesus this Advent season? How might you draw closer to Jesus in this waiting time? What do you need less of in order to draw close to Jesus? Take a moment and write the things you need more of and less of in your life on a piece of paper. Take the paper and place it in a place you will see it as a reminder of your true prayer and wish for this Advent season and Christmas to come.

The best gifts given are...

2011-11-17T14:12:00.009-05:00

Image from Newsong.

The Advent and Christmas season is one of my most favorite times of the year. In the past several years, I've become more familiar with the liturgical church calendar which is, "...the celebration throughout the year of the mysteries of the Jesus birth, life, death, and Resurrection in such a way that the entire year becomes a 'year of the Lord's grace'. Thus the cycle of the liturgical year and the great feasts constitute the basic rhythm of the Christian's life of prayer, with its focal point at Easter.".

It has been a blessing for me to be introduced to this cycle in the last ten years and I've enjoyed thinking about and experiencing the holidays, seasons and focus on Jesus' life throughout the year. Every day of the year, in the liturgical calendar, points to the life, work and ministry of Jesus. By taking part in this cycle, I feel like I've become more aware of Jesus' presence in my own life - every day of each year. All in all, I think that this visual connection throughout the year is a great tool for helping bring spiritual matters and growth more into daily life.

Through this introduction of the liturgical church year, I've discovered a gift that has given me a greater connection to my own spiritual formation on a daily basis.
Gift giving and receiving are a big parts of this holiday season. If Christians reflect on the original reasons for Christmas gift giving, we are pointed to Jesus life, death and Resurrection. This was and is God's ultimate unselfish, loving gift to humanity! Simply put, God gives us these amazing gifts and we give to others in response to what we've received. If we take a moment to consider the spiritual gifts God gives, we can be sure to grow and use them in our faith - all year round!

As I mentioned, any tool that helps bring spiritual matters into the space of everyday life is a great gift! Throughout this year, First Lutheran Church has been making an intentional effort to provide opportunities for adults, youth and children to learn about, experience, try out, and be provided with resources to help our community to grow spiritually. We have learned: new ways to pray, how to turn an art project into a spiritual practice, encouraged parents and children to take more responsibility for their own prayer and devotion times, given challenges to read Scripture on a daily basis and time to discuss how this process is going in group devotions. The church has been working to help each person to take steps to grow in their faith and find prayer and devotional practices that work for them. In the new year, we will be taking bigger steps to provide more weekly resources for faith growth and development for all ages.

While there are many wonderful groups, organizations, and clubs that provide activities to participate in and ways to serve - their call is different than the church's. We, as Christians and representatives of the church have something unique to give to our community and world - a space to feel welcome, a space to ask faith and life questions, a space to grow closer to God, and a space where we are not left alone on our journey. The spiritual gifts that are introduced and made a part of our lives, are gifts that never wear out, go out of style or break. These gifts from God, last eternally.

The church's greatest gift is to provide the space, time and opportunity to be introduced to God and grow in our faith, so that each day of the year is one day closer to better knowing and loving Jesus. Spaces like: Sunday Worship, Sunday School, Confirmation, Youth Group, Bible Study, Service Projects, Inter-faith Clubs, Small Group Fellowships, Camp and Church Retreats are spaces where a faith life is fostered can be compared to 'Santa's workshop'. Everyone who is on hand helps with assembly of the gifts, tools are provided there to develop needed, wanted and desired gifts that come out of the workshop to shine God's light, hope and love into the world - as nothing else can.

The spiritual gifts that Jesus brings into our lives are not only important during this holiday season, but taking note of the season can help us to refocus and refuel our need and efforts to grow closer to God. May you receive some tools this season to help you and yours grow in faith and shine God's light into the world - just like the liturgical calendar - 365 days a year!

God's grace and blessing -
Tara

Thanks for the memories

2011-11-10T15:49:00.006-05:00

Recently, I received a email from my cousin Adriane that contained an old family photo.

In this photo, (from left to right) is my sister Heather (14), me (age 10), and Adriane (3-4). This photo was taken in May at my Grandpap and Grandma's home in Irwin, PA. At the time this photo was taken, I was and probably getting excited to head to Burton Ohio for summer camp in July. My sister. Heather, was 14 here. There is a great deal of emotion tied to this photo, as the summer of 1981 was the last full summer of her life. She passed away from heart problems the following summer after years of struggling with her health.

While the context and story behind this photo are bittersweet (this is possibly the last photo of my sister and I together), the beauty of finding it after all these years makes me so thankful. Thankful for Aunts who save old photos, cousins who scan and send them in emails and the love of my family. This photo has jogged my memory and helped me to recall a very happy and pivotal time in my childhood.

Have you ever "found" or were "found by" a photo that jogged your memory? Were you thankful for the returning memories? How did remembering effect you? How does the attitude of thankfulness effect all aspects of you life?

1 Chronicles 16: 34
34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.

Prayer:
Dear Creator - Help us to hold on to an attitude of thankfulness in all things. Your love overflows into our live in so many ways. Please help us to take notice of these things found in time capsules and everyday life!
Amen

Seeking wellness one step at a time

2011-11-09T15:57:00.005-05:00

Image from chestofbooks.com

Seeking wellness is a holistic journey.
It causes an individual to look at all aspects of their life and ask the question -
"Does this look and feel healthy?"

This can be a very hard question to ask and an even harder one to ponder and then take action on.

Some areas of health and fitness have been slipping recently due to two different foot injuries - one in August and one in October. Sad to say the scale has been sliding in the wrong direction since consistent cardio work has been off and on again for the last few months. I'm slowly getting back to it, but there is work - more than I'd like to think about and do - to be done.

What are some ways you re-energize seeking wellness in your life? Are there any tools or encouragement that helped get your feet back on the road to seeking health without perfectionism and regret dogging you all the way?

It will be a one step at a time journey - and I know that it's important to pay attention to where the strengths already exist and go from there -
but, I thought I'd already tackled this part of the road once or twice before.

Animoto makes PR work fun!

2011-11-08T14:09:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week I posted some photos from the last weekend's women's retreat. I was introduced to Animoto, by my husband, which offers a simple format for making 30 second mini-movies. I use this kind of resource to help promote youth, church and art events.

Here's the first try flick with Animoto - I hope it's a helpful and fun resource for you too!

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

There is joy

2011-11-07T10:39:00.004-05:00

Image found at gapingvoid.com - by cartoonist Hugh MacLeod

There is joy in the moments filled with:
warm cups of Earl Grey Tea,
puppies so happy they get to go for a car ride they speak to you,
insight in an area that you've been looking for illumination - for so long,
and witnessing a connection and blessing for another person - in something you've done, written, or said.

Joy is all around us.
Joy want to invade the dark corners of our minds - from the smile, warmth and caring action of another.
Joy can fill the cold and hungry with what they need - from that hands that have the means to meet their need.
Joy will make a way that leads to hope - if only we wriggle the door open a little wider.
Joy dosent' need much room to make a difference in life,
but she makes all the difference once she's made herself at home there.

THERE is joy.
There IS joy.
There is JOY.

THERE IS JOY!

T.L. EASTMAN copyright November 2011

A year of status - facebook that is.

2011-11-06T20:31:00.003-05:00

To make your own go to Year in status

True Sisterhood Women's Day

2011-11-06T19:27:00.006-05:00

Take twenty women with ages ranging from 17 to 65,

add a catered breakfast and tasty lunch,

some inspiring readings and discussions,

lots of laughter, an opportunity to build a stronger community,

hands on art and craft projects,

some quiet time,

some not-so-quiet time,

and you have a day retreat for a lively sisterhood of women; committed to growing in their faith - cross generational friendships - and a great future together!

Thank you to everyone who supported, helped with and attended the first women's day retreat at First Lutheran Church of Jamestown. Keep posted for the next one to come Spring 2012.

Exhale, inhale

2011-11-05T19:50:00.001-05:00

Image from vi.sulaise.us

Exhale all the worry, the doubt and fear,
Inhale peace, being present and things that help us draw near.

Exhale frustrations over triangulated tones,
Inhale respect for who we are to become known.

Exhale to let go of all that burdens your life,
Inhale what lifts up and makes you feel light.

Exhale expectations that no one expects,
Inhale inspiration that make better best.

Exhale whatever seems to block the way to
inhaling the goodness at the break of each day.

T.L. Eastman November 2011

Little toes make a big difference

2011-11-04T10:04:00.004-05:00

Image from Sunday morning blog.

Two weeks ago now I injured my right little toe. In a morning rush, I ran up my stairs and spot on kicked the base of the exercise bike with my right foot.

It was quickly clear by my tears and yelp that I had done some damage to my toes, but not wanting to make a big fuss over "little toes", they were buddy taped and I was on my way.

Over a few day there was growing annoyance with the whole development. I could not run each morning, as is my routine, due to the throbbing in my foot. Each morning I'd put my foot on the floor and hobble about clumsily as my canine jogging buddy looked at me in confusion. She was not happy with the development either! A week and a half in - it was not feeling better so I decided to give my chiropractor a call.

Chiropractor? You see, in the past my chiropractor has been able to work on other joint issues I'd had. I had confidence that he could fill me in on at least how long this healing process was going to take.

On Monday he took one look at my still bruised and swollen foot and ordered an xray. Tuesday the xray came back clear and I was scheduled to come back later in the week for a follow up. I was back to walking by the end of the week and doing the stretches that he's taught me before when I had a running injury. Today was the day for an adjustment.

He worked on the ankle and foot for a little while, tried to adjust the still angry toe a little and sent me on my way - I will return again on Monday.

Amazingly, the ache is subsiding. The swelling is going down and the bruising has faded dramatically since Monday. I'm not quite up to 5k condition again, but I'm thankful for being somewhat free of pain with every other step I take.

Healing is on the way. For that I'm grateful - and for humble little toes that make a big difference indeed!

All this experience with cotton balls, moleskin, and flexible medical tape has me thinking more about the small but important things in life. Little things are the building blocks of our lives. I too often overlook the small things - because I'm so used to them working as they should. I should not take the little things for granted.

As long as I'm still hobbling around a bit, taking notice of the small supportive things in life won't be as hard - but what about after I'm back to running condition again?

1 Corintians 12:15 Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

I need my baby toe and my baby toe needs the rest of me. Thank you God for the little, humble, un-thought of things in life - we can't keep upright without them.

Eyes to see

2011-11-03T09:46:00.000-05:00

Image from Rivercity Church page.
Mark 8:18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?

On Thursday, I had the unique opportunity of being able to visit with a large number of high school students. Over the last ten years, I've been a part of an ecumenical team that helps to organize, encourage and assist a high-school level campus fellowship. Earlier this week, I had been invited to come back for a "Club Day" and promote the Campus Fellowship Club.

From 10:30 to 3:00, I witnessed a visual and auditory feast of diversity and variety. The appearance of all the students was as varied as the rainbow of colors on a painters palette. As you might expect, specific social groups became obvious throughout the day - but what I think I was most impressed with was how different each person was from the other but how they all wanted to make a connection with someone else.

Each one of us is unique, but we as humans like to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We love to belong. We love to be appreciated for who we are. We love to be loved.

I was overwhelmed by those ideas as I looked at the living mural of high-school culture before me yesterday. For a moment, I was able to see and hear beyond what the kids were trying to portray and catch a glimpse of each persons intrinsic value and beauty - no matter what they looked or sounded like. In that moment, I understood in a small way how much God loves each one of us and even was reminded of God's love for me.

I'm thankful for that moment of being given a "God's eye view" of the teachers, administrators and students in that high school. God help me not to forget how precious each person is.

Recharge

2011-11-02T16:16:00.003-05:00

Image from Nontoxic reviews.

Just when you thought all the energy was sapped.
Just when you think it's all in the past.
Just when you want what you had back then...
a spark is charged and a new fire begins.

Wondering how it changes will only cause you to scratch your head.
Be thankful for the spark that helped you and me start again.

T.L. Eastman Nov. 2011

Yesvember to remember with gratefulness

2011-11-01T10:46:00.000-05:00

Image November by Giovanni Pascoli found at blog Able Muse.

Some folk don't shave for the month of November.
Some try to focus on saying "Yes!" to life instead of "No!" for the whole month.
Others, being that Thanksgiving is a part of the month, focus on gratefulness for the month.

I've been in need of a November blogging muse, so I've decided to work in the vein of thankfulness and gratefulness. I need to do some upward, thankful, joyful musing. Would you like to join me?

So, thinking in this frame of mind, I'm thankful to have the space and time here at this blog, as well as those who pop by for a visit, and comment too!

Thanks to those who read, write, comment and take part in this month of gratitude.

PS. By the way, I won't be giving up shaving.
Gentlemen, have fun with that one!

Tick-Tack-Treat Game

2011-10-28T12:48:00.004-05:00

Supplies needed:
Pumpkin
Lolly-pops
Foam core board
Color Paper
3 Bean bags
Three sets of 2nd chance questions.

Cover white/black foam board with color paper in three rows of three alternating colors.
Lay completed tick-tack-toe board on floor.
Stick candy lolly-pops into a pumpkin for a centerpiece.

Allow players to toss the bean bags in order to get 3 in a row.
If they win - allow them to choose a lolly-pop.
If they miss or would like to try for a second one, offer them the chance to answer a "Brain Teaser" question, Halloween trivia question or a "Do you dare" challenge.

If they get tick-tack-toe and the question they get two candies. If they get tick-tack-toe and choose to stop there they get one candy. If they get tick-tack-toe and miss the 2nd chance - they loose the first candy (double or nothing). If they miss tick-tack-toe but win the 2nd chance question they win one candy.

Hope you enjoy this all-age activity for your upcoming Halloween parties!
BOO!

A friendly Halloween invite...

2011-10-26T13:29:00.007-05:00

Image found at Hayward Library website.
This Thursday Middle and High school youth will be visiting Lutheran Social Services residents from 6:30-8:30pm and holding a costume parade followed with group time in the Chapel. (Please wear friendly costumes that would be fun for the residents as well as youth.) This activity is coordinated with SLYM: Shared Lutheran Youth Ministry. If you need more info on SLYM, click on the following link: SLYM.

This Friday (October 28th) First Lutheran Church's Member support and outreach committee will be hosting a community Halloween Party from 3:30-5pm. This party is geared for kids 12 and under, but if you are older you are welcome to attend or help. We will be having games, snacks and a parade of costumes.

Happy Halloween - it's going to be a beary fun time!For more information call 969-3950.

Halloween is looking 'Rosie'!

2011-10-25T19:12:00.003-05:00

Image from Free Historical Stock Photos.

This year for Halloween, I'm happy to be dressing as "Rosie the riveter". I've alway' loved her look as well as her determined "We can do it!" frame of mind. It's also wonderful that there were and are many real life 'Rosie's" out there in the world. Thank you for all the it you have done and continue to do!

Thursday evening, I'll be heading to a nursing home with youth group members to visit and share some happy Halloween cheer with the residents. Do you think there will be any "Rosie's" there? For now I have to wait and see.
But for you, here's a peek at your's truly - in Rosie fashion.

Reboot "Artist's Share" and show and tell

2011-10-24T20:29:00.005-05:00

In August of 2007, I helped to found a group designed to encourage, foster and help to better develop artistic efforts in the Chautauqua County area. This group was coined "Artist's Share of Chautauqua County", in response to the group's focus on sharing creative gifts in a safe, affirming, and motivating environment.

To watch a video on how the group started and what kinds of events the group has been working on, vist our page at Facebook here.

This group is one that is very dear to my heart - and I'm so happy that I've connected with two other art's advocates, including Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, who are willing to help re-boot the group sometime around November 5th.

News on the next show and tell will be posted soon!

Farewell

2011-10-23T15:17:00.006-05:00

Farewell dear friend.
As you take this next step,
know that God goes with you on the journey.

This "rest stop" is a better one for having you spend some time here.
Your caring words, ways and challenge to keep growing - is one you exemplify in how you live.
Thank you for all you've given.

Growing edges need to be cultivated.
You have helped to cultivate the lives of many here
and so it is right and good that you move on to a new space.
This new space provides you with great room, sunlight, and rain - to grow.

Once upon a time I wrote this phrase,
" One question, is life about finding where you fit or fitting where you are?".
We all are searching for something.
Success, love, and purpose are the big ones.
But that feeling of fitting with a group of people,
no matter the location, can help to make the most of
the most challenging of circumstance.

Please know that as you take the next few steps,
that we are holding you and yours in our hearts.

This space is a place where you will always fit,
you always are welcome and where those present
will support you in the challenge and
cheer you on in the victories.

You will always fit in this space,
no matter where the road takes you.

Fare well on your journey,
as we will fare well in ours - with the help of God.

We will carry on in the effort of living in ways that point others to the love of God - as you showed us.
We will hold out hope, light, joy in persistence and against what would oppose it - as you showed us.
We will become walking rest stops for the weary and be found in all places - as you showed us.

The journey is never too hard, when we carry God's rest in our hearts.
Thank you for showing us the way.
This place is brighter for having had you with us.
We'll help to keep the lights on while you are away.

Farewell dear friend.
The Light is shining just ahead of where you are headed.
Your journey will fare well.

Trust wall/shelf

2011-10-22T01:00:00.000-05:00

I have this shelf in my office where I collect trinkets, photos and notes of encouragement. Many of the items are gifts from youth or adults that I've had the blessing of getting to know in ministry. Earlier today I looked up to the middle of the shelf to see the words - trust in God.

I don't know why it seemed different today, but the words seemed to be saying they were capable of caring for everything and everyone represented in my shelf/and wall collection.

I like that - very much. I really needed to be reminded that God can be trusted with the concerns on my own heart as well as all the lives that touch mine too.
Holding on to "trust" and G-d.

PS. When I posted this first picture, more youth/young adults from my church took notice of my shelf/wall and started adding to it as well. This is just one more way for me to pray for and entrust more of who and what I care for to G-d.

To be continued...

Dear Grandmother Rain

2011-10-21T10:10:00.007-05:00

(Myrtle Susan Rain around twenty years of age.)

Dear Grandmother Rain,

You're son Gary gave me this photograph of you a few years ago and I keep it on my shelf in my office. I don't know very much about you except that you passed away after and illness, when my Dad was about three years old. Dad(Gary) has very strong feelings for you and to this day will get misty when he shares those early-childhood memories with me. Years ago, I'd meet some of the great Aunts or Uncles when we'd make a trip to Pittsburgh for a reunion - and they would comment on how I resembled you. Dad always says I looked a great deal like you and from the photograph, it's easy to see that we have a close physical resemblance.

But I wonder if we are similar in any other ways?

I've wondered if you liked to read or paint?
Did you like to talk as much as I do?
Were you a writer as well?

By the strong connection Dad has with you to this day, I know you were (and are) a greatly loved Mom. All his brothers and sister always said you were a lovely caring person. French, George and Elmer (Bud) have passed away as of now and I only have my Dad's and Aunt Charlene's memories to sift through in order to know you better, but they were so little when you passed away there are only bits and pieces to be known.

You wore a bob, and oddly - so do I. We have the same high cheekbones and both our kids love us. You were tall and sturdy - and I am too. I'm proud to know we have this and probably much more in common.

But I wish I knew even more.

Even though I never met you, I see you a little when I look in the mirror.
You are missed.

Spicy meatballs put the fun into fundraising

2011-10-20T14:09:00.005-05:00

Two weeks ago, First Lutheran Church hosted a "Spaghetti and Meatball lunch" collaborative fundraiser for the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering. The team of over twenty people helped to cook and serve five gallons of sauce, five-hundred meatballs, thirty pounds of pasta, and six cases of sliced Italian bread with the addition of raffling off 40 donated baskets to raise $1350.00 for the effort. The volunteers and donations came from people from St. Timothy's Lutheran, Bethel Lutheran, Holy Trinity Lutheran, Immanuel Lutheran and First Lutheran Churches.

In July 2012, twelve youth and five adults will be traveling to New Orleans for worship and mission and fundraisers like this will be our main resource in achieving the goal of making this trip.

Until November 10th, our team will also be selling coupon books for the Bon-Ton "Community Days" for $5.00 each. These coupon books are worth up to $200.00 in the Bon-Ton during their holiday kick off sale on November 11th and 12th. The $5.00 donation will fully go to our cause to raise funds for this upcoming summer mission trip. We currently need help selling coupon books in the store on Nov. 4th from 6-8pm, and Nov. 5th 10am-noon. If you would like to help volunteer on these days or assist in selling booklets, please call 664-4601 or 969-3950.

This spring we are planning a Mardi gras celebration fundraiser dinner as our third collaborative team event. More news of upcoming fundraisers will be on the way soon. If you would like to make donations to this fundraising effort, they can be sent under the description of "Jamestown Area Lutheran Youth Fundraiser 2012 Youth Gathering" to Bethel Lutheran Church at 904 West 3rd Street, Jamestown, NY 14701-4614. For questions concerning the 2012 New Orleans trip and future fundraising events, please contact Tara Eastman at 664-4601 or 969-3950.

Thank you for your support in our efforts to provide this life-changing ministry and mission experience for are Lutheran youth and their adult leaders. With your help, we will have the joy of learning more, growing in our faith and having this unique opportunity to serve the community of New Orleans in a hands on way.

Grace and peace,
Tara

Prayer Colloquy

2011-10-19T10:33:00.005-05:00

Image found at Conversation on blogs.
Do you think that God feels like the person pictured above? "Talk to me?"
The idea of prayer being more like a sit-down chat with God can sometimes be difficult to understand and practice.

I came across the definition of a prayerful "colloquy" earlier today while reading and praying with Sacred Space. This text below was found in the helpful prompts they place in each section of the daily prayer prompts. (Click on the "guide" tab to see it there.)

The picture of a colloquy painted by Ignatius, is a little warmer and color filled that what I found at a generic online dictionary...
1. a formal conversation or conference
2. a literary work in dialogue form
3. an informal conference on religious or theological matters

• Saint Ignatius calls this conversation a 'colloquy', and says:
• A colloquy is made, properly speaking, in the way one friend speaks to another, or a servant to one in authority - now begging a favour, now accusing oneself of some misdeed, now telling one's concerns and asking counsel about them. .... In the colloquies we ought to converse and beg according to the subject matter; that is, in accordance with whether I find myself tempted or consoled, desire to possess one virtue or another, or to dispose myself in one way or another, or to experience sorrow or joy over the matter I am contemplating. And finally I ought to ask for what I more earnestly desire in regard to some particular matters.
• The Spiritual Exercises nos 54, 199

Defining prayer as an open-honest-friendly-yet-respectful conversation draws my heart to that experience of prayer. The word Colloquy, itself reminds me of a term used to describe a movement of classical music. Where one instrument is featured for a measure, a second responds in the next measure and in the next two measures they play harmony and melody in perfect time and tone.

That kind of prayer and connection with G-d is what I crave to live. Prayer colloquy is music to my ears, mind, and spirit.

Come to think of it - this kind of conversational prayer is probably what G-d enjoys too.

Conversation

2011-10-18T10:55:00.001-05:00

Image found at Bizrealtionships blog.

Open space that needs to be filled,
with time,
with living,
with intention of will?

What makes it beautiful,
worthwhile, and great?

How can this moment be filled with the holy and grace?

I'm told whats needed are open eyes, heart, hands, mind and ears -
to listen, ponder, question, wrestle and drop tears.

Water that washes away the dirt,
clears way to see the image -
that's the spirit's search.

This space is open and already full
with time and living if we ask the question -
"What might be your will?"

T.L. Eastman Oct. 2011

Chicken noodle soup

2011-10-14T11:55:00.005-05:00

Image found at Homemade Soup blog.

Chicken noodle soup is good for:
stuffy noses,
hearts that are broken,
weary bodies
and burdened minds.

What is the fix dancing inside that bowl?
Water, carrots, noodles and broth -
everyday items cooked in love and brought -
comfort for life, and breath and soul.

Wrap me up and hold me tight.
Swaddle me like an infant tonight.
Hold me in the place of safety and rest -
so the noodle soup, now in my stomach,
can work it's best.

Christian community: Fire keepers or hearth tenders?

2011-10-13T08:54:00.006-05:00

Image found at blog: seeking spirit.
Prayer:
Lord, you have called us into life, now by your grace, reveal to us Your truth, show us Your way, and lead us in the life that is abundant. let your witness speak clearly and effectively words, that would indeed work in our lives for the benefit of Your Kingdom, and make us listen with discerning minds and hearts. AMEN.

Do you remember the opening song from the TV show Cheers? The main chorus of the song
"Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got.
Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot.
Wouldn't you like to get away?
Sometimes you want to go
Where everybody knows your name,
and they're always glad you came.
You wanna be where you can see,
our troubles are all the same
You wanna be where everybody knows
Your name."

source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/tvthemes/cheerslyrics.html

Being a part of a caring, inclusive community is something that is important to most everyone. We all have a desire to connect with others, know that they know us and that our presence in that community makes a difference.

The community groups that we choose to be part of can impact our lives in amazing ways. I've been a part of music groups, reading groups, community action groups, and many shades and variations of community throughout my life; but I'd like to share with you specifically how Christian community has impacted me.

Early in my marriage, my husband and I moved into an apartment complex where his best friend lived upstairs and my best friend lived across the hall. We all attended the same church at the time, and had spent several years together as a small fellowship group that would meet every Friday night for pizza, chips, ice cream cake and sharing life. The amount of transition in the lives of the people in that small fellowship group the year we lived in the apartment was incredible.

Our friend upstairs was in the midst of a messy divorce full of legal and personal struggle, our friend across the hall was dealing with serious health and extended family trouble, and my husband and I - newly married and working hard to make ends meet - had gotten news that we were expecting our first child. I was working as a waitress and at a music store in the mall and my husband was working in local radio, commuting to an internship in local TV, and working a retail job to meet our needs. Eventually, after our daughter was born - I had to quit my job to care for her.

You would think that these stressful circumstances would have stopped us in our tracks, but the challenge of these shared circumstances brought our group closer together. While we all faced different challenges, but we shared a faith in God that brought and kept us united in a deep sense of community. When things went badly for anyone, we would support and pray for each other. When good news came to anyone's door, we would celebrate with rice crispy treats, Kool-aid, and prayers of thanks for God's provision for us.

In addition to our Friday get-together s', we would meet each Wednesday night for a time of fellowship and Bible study. At that time, I was home with the baby and our apartment became the hub for the weekly gatherings. Over time, out Wednesday night Bible study grew. Friends would invite friends, bring snacks to share, and we would care and pray for each person who happened to come in the door. Some nights, there would be 30 people sitting on our unmatched but comfortable furniture in our living room. There was not fire place in that apartment, but the warmth and love of the community burned brighter than the light of any fire I'd known.

When we first began the Bible study, my contribution was taking care of hospitality. As the weeks passed, and my husband was held over at his internship - I was asked to help teach the study. While I had grown up in church and been involved with worship teams and music ministry, I had never felt confident teaching or speaking to large groups of people. The need for a facilitator was obvious, and I had the most time and resources to take that role - but coming to a place where I could say yes to this call was difficult for me at first. Would I be able to juggle the responsibility of being a new mom, hostess and teacher all in one evening?

Somehow, I agreed to help teach and in this supportive and caring community - I found a great deal of joy in the opportunity. In the end, this Christian community shared in the needs of this ministry so that one person did not have to juggle - someone held my daughter, made the coffee and wrote down the prayer requests. All the bases were covered and we all became a team working together to accomplish the ministry God was calling us to.

Having this Bible study in my home became a spring board for me in serving God in my initial community as well as the outside world. Co-workers and friends were invited to come, some came to become a part of the group, and some folks heard about and accepted God's love for the first time within those four walls we called home.

The work of those Wednesday nights, and the daily connection we had as a Christian community started to make a difference in our apartment building and neighborhood. When we heard of a need in the building, we tried to find a way to meet it. We visited nursing homes and befriended teenagers that others were afraid of talking too. If someone was moving and did not have the resources to pay a mover, we'd rally together with our caravan of hatchbacks and strong, young backs - and become the moving team.

When I think back to this Christian community and how we responded to the needs within and outside of our immediate community; I am amazed and filled with a sense of gratefulness to God. We did not ever plan to become a ministry team in the neighborhood, but step by step and person by person that responded to God's love and the need to share that with others - God was faithful to grow us into a loving, out-reaching community of faith.

John 13:34-35 reads, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." In being faithful to loving God, each other and our surrounding neighbors our small community of church friends was extended to the outside world in ways we probably never will know about.

Seventeen years have passed since we moved out of that apartment building. We have remained friends with everyone who was involved in that small group ministry; but as distance and time do - we all have moved into different spaces and groups of close community. Although the groups of Christian community that I've become part of have shifted and changed over the years; my connection to a faith community that cares for itself and others outside of that community is something I've never let go of.

The effort and work of ministry is a challenging call. Sometimes, I've become discouraged when the reality of loving God and others is not as organic and natural as what I experienced all those years ago in that apartment building. But somehow, every time I've been in a place of disillusionment or discouragement, God has lifted up a space, a group, and environment of healthy Christian community for me to belong to and serve in. This platform of caring for a faith community, teaching in a faith community, and working to invite others into a closer relationship with God is the life-giving stream that encourages me to keep on keeping on in my own faith journey.

In the Celtic christian tradition, women were seen as the hearth-tenders. They made sure the fire in the home was kept burning all day and all night. They also would take that hearth fire out to the fields when tending sheep or field. There was an emphasis that life, light and goodness were a gift from God and the fire tending in and outside the home was a practical and faith reflective action in response to that belief. The Celtic christian community was built on the light and life that comes from living, working and growing in faithful cooperation with God - the original hearth tender.

Matthew 5:14-16 reads,
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

At a particularly difficult time, a friend spoke about the importance of understanding that God is the original hearth-tender. God does not store up his light and love away from the reality of the world, but is always at work in the world lighting things up.

There are two choices in life when we encounter darkness and difficulty:
1. Throw in the towel and turn inward.
2. Prayerfully look at the imperfect circumstances within and outside of our communities as opportunities to join in on the work that God is already doing.

God is the source of light, and his light can be fostered in christian community - but it should not stop there. Being a hearth-tender does not call us to stay huddled around the fire. We need to be faithful in the work of hearth tending in our communities and the world. The desire to be in a community where you are known and loved is a universal one. Christian communities are called to “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’[a]; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b]” (Luke 10:27).

This is what hearth tending is all about; helping to foster the light, goodness and love of God to fill the spiritual and practical needs of the community and the world. The light of God is already shining in the world and each one of us has a responsibility taking turns to stoke the ashes.

Going into the whole world and preaching the gospel can look different for each of us. The kind of hearth tending that each of us are called to is an individual and vast as each of the gifts and abilities that God has given to us . All those years ago, I had not idea that making rice crispy treats and juice would be a part of being a hearth-tender for God. God is patient with each one of us and is faithful to help us on our faith journey. It is so important to remember that God's light, goodness and love are not intended to stay inside the walls of Christian community, but they are to be shared with whole world.

Christian community is a place where God's light, life and love are given freely and I am thankful to have been invited and been a part of many variation of them. If you are searching for a place to be known and loved, please remember that Koininia - your home church - or bible study are places that you can go to stoke up the fires of your own heart; but please don't stop there. The fire blazing in this space is intended to be shared with others. There are multitudes looking for love out there and many places that claim to, but can't fulfill that need. In my experience, there is no place I feel better known and loved - even in the challenges - than in authentic Christian community.

What we receive in ministering to each other is only magnified when we share and extend it to others. Fire keepers hold on to the light for themselves, but hearth-tenders give light, love and hope to others. Knowing the need to be known and loved is only part of the role of being a hearth-tender. We must remember the need of being known, so that we keep stoking the fire, and going out into the world to help God where he's already at work.

God is the source of light and we can become vessels to stoke, carry and tend to the light; so that others can see and know Him and his great love. Fredrick Buechner once wrote, "“The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”

What is you're great joy? Where do the great needs of the world touch your life? Seventeen years from now, what stories will you have to share of how, where, and why God has impacted the world through the fire He's lit in you? The world can be hard and cold, but the light and warmth conducted by hearth-tending-out-reaching communities - can warm the dark night of many souls that are searching for a place to be known and loved by God, by me and by you.

(Play song for group)

You turned on the light

"The love you give brings so much light,
like a beacon in the night.
removing the fear and the fright.

Confronting shadows, blacked strife,
defeating death, reviving life,
fanning the ash, defending my heart.

Hearts are breaking, souls are aching,
but you turned on the light.

You turned on the light, and made things right
when they were broken and you removed the dark
and lit a spark that was smoldering.

How can it be I have a life?
How can some good come from such strife?
Something in me can turn out right.
Giving value to the slight.
Fueling dreams, inspiring sight - burning a path to realties might.

Lives are changing, hope is gaining -
because You turned on the light

You turned on the light, and made things right
when they were broken and you removed the dark
and lit a spark that was smoldering.

Hearts are breaking, souls are aching,
but you turned on the light.
Lives are changing, hope is gaining -
because You turned on the light."

Words and music T.L. Eastman 2003

Find more Tara Lamont Music songs at Myspace Music

Paradox

2011-10-12T10:43:00.006-05:00

Escher's "hands" image found at World of Escher.

Between what was and whats to come.
Between beginnings and conclusion of some.
Between the place of being understood and to others: being up to no-good.

This state of being not quite one or the other sometimes can be such a bother.
Does one explain this in-between role? Being part of one and part of another -
can be an impossible goal.

To your own and other's brain, being in-between roles is not boring, predictable or mundane.

To some its odd and to others it's a grace - to work and move in two roles in this space.

Fog dream

2011-10-11T07:07:00.005-05:00

(Image by Crazytyler29 and found @ deviantart resources)

Cocooned in warmth and still in mid dream the day begins.
Foggy paths wait outside.
The glowing moon is still overhead and beaming down and into the window upon me.
I'm caught between night and day, darkness and light, sleeping and sight.

The life of my dreams is still moving along like a flickering old film,
but I can smell to coffee and hear the early morning shuffle rattling about the house.

Even the dog wants to stay asleep - she groans as my door is tapped open by an anxious-to-get-to-school-really-early teenager.

"I'm awake", I say - or maybe saying these words will start to get me there.

Somehow, placing my feet on the floor would be so much easier if I could recall the dream that's already vanishing like the fog, evaporating from the warmth of the Autumn sun.

Goodnight moon, hello sun -
The time to awake to the day at hand.
I have to leave the nightlife and shadow until the moon rises again.
Why do I only remember missing my dream's story,
and not the dream itself - in the light of day?

I don't know where you hide in the daylight,
but I hope you have happy dreams while you sleep.
Just like me -
I bet your chasing happiness while you dream and when you're wide awake.

T.L. Eastman Oct 2011

Day of rest

2011-10-10T07:29:00.006-05:00

Van Gogh's "Noon rest from work after millet."
Painting "Sabbath Rest' found at blog 'A voice in the dead woods'.

A day of rest,
a day of blessed,
a day of open,
a day of free.
A day of sun,
a day of fun,
a day of wandering, meandering, and be.

A day to linger,
a day to tinker,
a day to wonder,
a day to make.

Will I take it or evade it.
That is a choice only I can make.

T.L. Eastman Oct. 2011

Bobbing for life

2011-10-09T22:49:00.008-05:00

The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. – Nelson Mandela

Image from blog parnormalknowledge.com

There are bound to be hills on the journey.
Some paths are straight, clearly marked, and due to a happy accident,
you happen to be wearing appropriate shoes for the terrain.
Other trails are curvy, steep, confusing,
and the fact you wore heels on a hike is a un-happy accident waiting to happen.

The road is unpredictable and just when you think you might have things under control -
you fall.

As soon as you hit the ground, you can't help but think -
" Why did I go this way?" - "How foolish for me to try this route."

Without walking the path,
there's no way we'd ever learn about scuffed knees, bruised hearts or scenic overlooks.
Pain has a way of getting a message across that other sensations don't.

It's like reaching across a hot stove,
or touching a pan that blisters fingers to the touch -
you aren't apt in trying that trick again.
But, sometimes we do.

Even though we are bruised by falls and blistered by the heat of life's kitchen -
we still have to get up.

Even if all we are trying to do is take one small step towards healing
by grasping the hand of recovery -
we still need to try.

When you bob for apples, you don't get a juicy prize on every turn.
You miss the apple, and your face gets drenched -
but that won't keep you from trying to play the game.
Will it?

Go ahead, try again. Reach out, take that hand.
Put on your hiking shoes, because the road is a little rough ahead -
but the adventure to be had is sweeter than October-picked apples.

Tart, tangy, mellow, sweet or crisp - these are the flavors of life's journey.
There's no way of knowing whats beneath the skin of the apple,
if we aren't willing to take a bite.

Crunch!

T.L. Eastman October 2011

A few words about love...

2011-10-08T08:13:00.005-05:00

1 Corinthians 13 Image from Cafe Sozo.

(This short message was shared as part of the wedding ceremony for my friends Daniel and Leanna today...)

"1 If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man/woman, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."

The words used to describe love, in Corinthians 13 are: patience, kindness, selflessness, humble, forgiving, truth seeking, peaceful, protective, trusting, hopeful and never ending. This list of character traits is a tall order. Each day of our lives we have the opportunity to seek and live out living a life of love, and that is where a great deal of effort and energy is expended. It is important to remember that living a life of love is not a solitary effort. We can attempt this great task on our own, but the truth of the matter is - we need help to accomplish living a life of love.

This day is a special for L and D, today they have chosen to come to this beautiful space in the company of their family and friends and make the commitment to each other in marriage. Today, you as guests, also have chosen to come to this place to encourage, take part and celebrate the love you have witnessed in the lives of L and D. This celebration is a time for each of us to consider the impact and influence that love can have upon our own lives and relationships.

As I mentioned a few moments ago, the task and calling of love is no small one. In order for love to prosper, it is necessary to know that we must work together if we desire to live lives of love. Even in working together, love's journey can be challenging. The faces we see around us today are not the only source for strength on this journey. In some faith traditions, when making a vow or promise the response to the challenge is: "I will, with the help of God." The names we use to describe God can be vast: Higher power, the Great Spirit, or the trinity of: Creator, Redeemer and Comforter. While the names we use to describe God are vast - our desire for a spiritual relationship and help from God may be even greater.

Love's great task that requires we work together, but we also need to understand that we are not alone in this effort. On this day and the days to come, God is with L and D and God is with all the guests assembled. As we celebrate this day, and move into the days to come; seek to live lives of love, work together in the efforts of that goal, and know that with the help of each other, the community that supports us and God." - love will never fail.

Things that make me smile...

2011-10-07T08:47:00.002-05:00

Like a video link that my college freshman daughter shares with me.
"You me - dancing!"

There is some car dancing to ensue very soon indeed !

Youth Group Thursday: Boxes are NOT boring!

2011-10-06T08:50:00.000-05:00

October marks the month for costumes and dress up for Halloween. Why should boxes be left out of the fun? Each October, Shared Lutheran Youth Ministry creates flashy boxes for a purpose: to draw attention to our food drive to help collect food for Joint Neighborhood Project.

Here are

ONE:

TWO:

THREE:

examples of how boxes - and caring for others isn't' boring!

This little light

2011-10-05T21:44:00.004-05:00

This week I've been working on a banner project with some gentlemen living "First House", a recovery home now in the parsonage of my church. The group of guys gave direction on the theme verse, "But seek first His kingdom and his righteousness and all these things shall be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

It's a fabric banner that I placed trim around, and then added a graphic of a lantern in the center. It was a great team project that will grace the entrance to the home for their open house this coming Friday.

Blessings to First house and all who live and enter there - let you light shine!

Pig Will, Pig Won't and other life lessons

2011-10-04T07:55:00.008-05:00

Image from Amazon.com.

When my daughter was little, she loved the Richard Scarry book collection. Her favorite was the three story collection of Pig Will and Pig Won't. As you can guess, Pig Will was easy going and willing to help where help was needed and take care of things that needed to be done. Pig Won't - for the most part, wasn't interested in helping or doing much of anything. Scarry's books are filled with cautionary tales, but the endearing animal characters ironically humanize the conflict of each story.

Years after reading these books, the lessons have stuck with me - as a parent and personally. While most of the time people fall in the middle of will and won't - the story of these brother pigs have reminded me how important my attitude and action (or inaction) are. Years ago, if my kids started out having a bad morning I'd say, "Hey, why don't you run upstairs, hop into bed, hop back out and start your day over again?" or when there was a conflict, I'd ask... "Are you wanting to be like Pig Will or Pig Won't today?"

I think I need to send some gratitude to Richard Scarry for helping my kid sort out attitude and action when they were little, but I don't think the thanks stops for matters of juvenile challenges.

A little "Scarryology" could prove to be just what is needed to help face the challenges of adulthood as well.

So then, who do I want to be today? Pig Will or Pig Won't? The lessons of these books help to draw people into space where they can acknowledge challenges, but not stay stuck in the negative space of 'Won't'. Maybe after all - being a Pig Will or a Pig Me too (You'll have to read the series for this insight.) - isn't such a impossibility after all!

(Some have criticized the Scarry collection for being dated and non-politically correct (Ie. mentioning spankings/being bad) according to current standards. While some of the statements made in the stories may come off a little strong, the basic principals are valuable. In my opinion, the benefit and charm of these books outweighs the occasional rough edge. Editing while reading the stories to children is a parental practice that is encouraged, but may or may not be necessary in the case of this series.)

Image from Spooky Vegan.

SWB: Church Camp and Connections

2011-10-03T08:46:00.013-05:00

Dreamcatcher image from Juror 2 - exceptionally curious t-shirts website.

I love looking for, finding and observing connections in life and today's focus for Sleeping with Bread is exactly that - defining where connections are and aren't made.

I don't know if you ever had the chance to see the TV program "Connections", with James Burke - the science historian; but it is one of my favorite documentary series". James makes his way through the world, exploring the how, why, and what of things that have come to be from the perspective of 1978. I love to find out the way things work and how what they do connects people. I love studying connections!
(If you would like to watch some episodes of Connections, you can view them at Top Documentary Film's website.)

SWB Meme prompt: Where did you feel the least and the most "Connected" this week?

There is some crossover for me this week on where I've felt the most or least connected. If you have ever been a part of summer camp as a kid, or even more so as a staff person as adult - you will understand what I mean when I say "Camps" (especially church camp) have a particular culture and feeling about them that is incredibly consistant, no matter the camp.

Summer camps have a tender place in my heart. I grew up going the Camp Burton from the age of seven, until I became staff at the age of fifteen. When I worked with the Salvation Army, I spent ten summers transporting children and teens to camp as well as leading a few teen week camps along the way at Camp Longpoint. Now with my work in the Lutheran Church, I spend a great deal of time working and attending Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center with summer camps, retreats and special events. This last weekend, I had an opportunity to visit another local camp as I was the guest speaker for Mission Meadows Jr. High fall retreat.

Within a few minutes of my arrival at camp on Friday night, I was reminded of the consistency of camp culture. From the squeaking screen door at the camp office, to the dining hall filled with bouncing campers and a full coffee maker, the beautiful chapel for worship, the red boxy cabins sprinkled across the surrounding hills and the bell tower that held the camp bell - I felt at home.

In some ways, it felt like a parallel universe. The was the friendly camp director, the college-age kitchen and support staff, the counselors and the hopping schedule full of things like chapel, meals, photo relays, 'free-time', snack, crafts, outdoor games and kids - you can't have camp without the kids! So much was the same, yet all the faces were different! Besides a few folks I knew from previous ministry contact, I was part of an entirely new community.

I was welcomed into that community at an amazing pace - that is the way camp works. Within 24 hours, it was as if I'd been a part of the group forever. Folks knew my name, included me in their conversations, meals and activities - again I felt at home.

I think that from my perspective, the only way I felt dis-connected is that the faces and names were different. There were kids and staff that reminded me of other kids and staff at other camps - but they were still very new to me. I don't know if I'd really call it feeling dis-connected, but maybe a little melancholy for the faces I did know. I keep remembering childhood camp memories like: singing around the campfire, going to canteen and making art in the craft shack. As an adult I was remembering: moving worship services, crazy games of shaving cream wiffle-ball, and hours driving to and from camp - as well as the deep conversations with campers along the way.

There is one thing that is always consistant for me about church camp culture: I always have butterflies as I drive into camp and I always feel a sad gratefulness as I drive away. Camp had always been a place for me to connect with people, but even more importantly - with God. This Friday and Saturday were no different, and I'd like to thank the team for inviting me to be a part of that community.

Camp is the place (even though this one was new to me) that I feel very connected to God and where I'm reminded that God has an amazing way of bringing us into faith community - even if the sign on the driveway is different than the one you are used to.

The names of the camps that I've been involved with may be different, but what the sign communicates to me is: Camp ________________: a place to connect with, serve and love God and people.

Thank you God for camp and for helping me make the connection with you and some new community this weekend.

In-between bread

2011-10-02T08:17:00.001-05:00

Image from Citarell's Restaurant website.

In-between two slices of bread,
is the stuff of life some have said.

Lunchbags are filled with salty and sweet,
but not without grain filled, with lettuce, cheese and meat.

Wrapped in wax paper, saran or in foil -
this portable meal has a way of delivering joy.

Perhaps peanut butter and jelly is the best,
it pays no attention to age like some of the rest.

Baloney, salami, capicola and spam -
is it still lunch meat if it come from a can?

Pickles of dill and mayo that's real,
help to bring out taste that clinches the deal.

Then there is banana, honey and Fluff,
when you've had way to much of the other stuff.

My tastes and flavors for sandwiches are many, you see.
The love of a sandwich is something thats not on the in-between.

The troubles of life can be many that's true,
but sitting down with a friend over a sandwich,
has a way putting things together
and pulling you through.

T.L. Eastman Oct 2011

Between October

2011-10-01T08:10:00.001-05:00

October's NABLOPOMO blogging theme is "between". NaBloPoMo is a blogging group that encourages an works to foster daily blogging. If you would like to join in, please visit the NabloPoMo site for prompts, contests and more.

At the crest of the hill

2011-09-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

Image found at Starts with a Bang Blog.

Climbing, stretching, pressing on;
we're almost at the point that we've been working towards.
There are lessons along this road that we'd never learn if we stay inside our houses.

What was it that called us out into the streets? Where did this desire to climb come from? How did we get to this place?

One step at a time was how this happened.
Don't become disheartened now -
the downhill is just a few steps away.

We did not get here alone, and we won't get any further that way.

It was the haunting melody of love - Peregrinatio pro amore Dei that wooed us out of our cocoons of self, fear and loneliness.

Keep singing the song of love.
Its the tune you've been learning with each step you take
and its time to share that song with someone else.

T.L. Eastman Sept. 2011

Gifts: Given and still giving

2011-09-30T00:05:00.000-05:00

Image from Bestuff.

You turned on the light

"The love you give brings so much light,
like a beacon in the night.
removing the fear and the fright.

Confronting shadows, blacked strife,
defeating death, reviving life,
fanning the ash, defending my heart.

Hearts are breaking, souls are aching,
but you turned on the light.

You turned on the light, and made things right
when they were broken and you removed the dark
and lit a spark that was smoldering.

How can it be I have a life?
How can some good come from such strife?
Something in me can turn out right.
Giving value to the slight.
Fueling dreams, inspiring sight - burning a path to realties might.

Lives are changing, hope is gaining -
because You turned on the light

You turned on the light, and made things right
when they were broken and you removed the dark
and lit a spark that was smoldering.

Hearts are breaking, souls are aching,
but you turned on the light.
Lives are changing, hope is gaining -
because You turned on the light."

Words and music T.L. Eastman 2003

Find more Tara Lamont Music songs at Myspace Music

Gifts that are given in sincerity and love are ones that we usually remember and cherish the most. Like the mystery gift from my brother or the books of poems from my Grandmother - theses are ones that we can't forget.

Several years ago I was working half time in a church in youth ministry and was asked to consider working another 20 hours a week in a social work program helping kids in need. At that time, I was unsure if I could help kids in really hard circumstances - the additional work hours - and the stress of such difficult and emotional work. I told the director that I'd consider the offer, but I'd like to think about it over the weekend.

It so happened that weekend I was headed to a retreat with some of the youth from my church. All weekend long, I was challenged with the message that God gives us gifts not so that we can store them away in hiding - but so that we can serve Him, the people and opportunities he places in our path. In response to this message, I came away from that weekend inspired to try out working in the social work program, as well as begin working on better learning how to play guitar and develop as a musician.

I prayed a great deal about starting the new job and working on music - both of the challenges seemed impossible for me to fullfil, but I was going to give both of the goals an honest effort.

The work on music was slow, but with each newly learned chord I felt my confidence growing as well as my ability to piece together a few worship songs and eventually being writing a few songs of my own. The music did not develop in a vacuum, and as I began working in the social work program I was amazed to see how that work inspired my music efforts. The two gifts that I felt God asking me to devote some time to were ones that complimented each other in ways I never could have dreamt!

Before to long, I was asked to add some music elements to the social work program and the time I spent working on music for the program helped improve my playing skills so much that I began leading a worship team at my church each week. My connection to mission became fuel for creative efforts and the creative efforts were ones that could be used to help people in the church and also on mission.

After a few months of effort in both areas, I was sitting in my church office thinking about how God was working in the lives of youth in the program and in the church and the words, "It's like a light was being turned on! " came to my mind. I frantically started writing the words and chords that eventually would become the song "You turned on the light." When I played this song in church - people were encouraged. When I played this song for the program staff, they insisted that I record it so that we could give it to each child in the program at the end of the year. As it turned out, we had a wonderful party, made a movie of the activities we had worked on all year and the director placed my song as the soundtrack for the short movie. As hoped, each child did receive a copy of the song on CD as a way to encourage them in between group meetings.

In the years since then, there have been many more songs written; but this song will always be special to me because it is a great reminder of how God can take what we think are small things and make something wonderful out of them.

Matthew 5:14-16 is a great reminder for us to take our gifts, no matter how small they may seem, and allow God to work in them to bless others and lead people to the creator of all gifts...
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

You all have gifts that God can work and move in and through. You may have the voice of an angel, the mind of healing that can help to restore people to heath, the heart to love others - even the most difficult to love, the strength to encourage those weighed down by dispair, or the hands to create a shelter for someone in need of a home. Everyone has a gift that can give and keep on giving with God's help and direction.

This week at youth group, we visited a retirement home take some time to play board games with the residents. I had brought my guitar in case we needed it for closing worship, but I was not really prepared to play many songs as I'd accidentally left my song book at the church. We played some games for a little while, but I could not stop thinking about how I'd love to sing some songs for the people. I pulled out an old song sheet - that did not have the guitar chords printed on it, and asked some of my teens if they'd be willing to give singing a try.

I was nervous that I'd make too many mistakes without the chord sheet, but something pressed me on to keep trying one song, then another, and after 30 minutes or so, I played my song "You turned on the light", completely from memory. I was amazed that some of the youth knew the words to the song and the audience seemed as if each note filled them with joy. For those few sacred minutes, it was as if a brighter light had been turned on in all of us! We closed our time of singing with the song - "This little light of mine." The elderly folks sang along, the teens sang loud and proud and we were united in the grace and love of God in this tender moment.

The journey of receiving, identifying and sharing of the gifts God gives us is one that lasts out entire lives. I pray you will be brave and willing to step out in faith with the gifts God reveals to you over time. Don't hesitate to ask God to show you the gifts he desires you to develop and use. I believe that even seemingly small gifts can make a difference in the lives of others - with the grace and help of God.

Embrace your God-given gifts, grow in how you use them, and give them to others so that God's great gift of love can keep on giving!

Matthew 7:9-11 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"

Dear God letter...

2011-09-29T14:50:00.006-05:00

Read the following scripture:

"Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us."
(Romans 12:4-6a)

What word or phrase stands out to you in the verse above? Why do you think this is?

Think about the different gifts in the Scripture references listed below:
(Romans 12): exhortation, giving, leadership, mercy, prophecy, service, teaching, (Corinthians 12) administration, apostle, discernment, faith, healing, helps, knowledge, miracles, (Ephesians 4) evangelism and pastor.

Is there a gift that stands out to you or that you have interest in? Circle the ones you might like to learn more about.

Think about the responses on your affirmation cards (Ie. See group activity on earlier blog post): How might those affirmations be clues to some of your God given gifts?

Take some time to write a letter to God concerning who you are, what your gifts are and how you might be able to use them in the world, home, school, work and your church. (You don't have to answer all these questions, but allow yourself some time to really think and listen for God's still small voice as you write about the gifts you have and how you can use them.)

Image from Rich Kirkpatrick's Blog.

Who are you and what did you bring?

2011-09-29T13:22:00.004-05:00

Image from Min.tool.com

"There are different kinds of gifts but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord." (1 Cor. 12:4-5)

Imagine for a moment that you are going to a party at a friends house. You're group of friends have all decided to meet at a friend's home on a certain day, at a certain time and bring some food for everyone to share.

As you walk up to the house and ring the bell, you'd probably think of all the good food you were about to eat and all the laughter and fun that you would take part in all evening. Your friend opens the door and says, "Who are you and what did you bring?"

The expectant smile on your face has turned to a confused expression. You try to think of something to say, but you stammer responding to the odd question, "I brought cookies?" The friend you thought knew you, says "Oh, ok.", snatches the plate from your hands and slams the door.

You are shocked and stunned. How could your friend not know who you are? Why would they take what you brought to share and leave you outside on your own. This evening of spending time with people who know you and enjoying the gifts of food and friendship has turned out upside down. Instead of being with friends where you are known and welcomed; you are in a place of disillusionment and questions.
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There are two big questions that people spend a great deal of time trying to answer throughout their lives: 'Who am I?' and 'What is my purpose?'.

There are many places and people who like to tell us who we are and what gifts we bring to the world, but how do we know who to listen to? In seeking advice about our gifts and purpose, it's very important to ask people who have our best interest in mind and can be trusted. Some people take personality quizzes online, ask friends opinions, or seek out advice from family members. While trusted friends, mentors and family can be some help in answering these questions, it's important to allow time and space for soul searching, prayer and careful observation to find the individual answer to the questions, "Who am I" and "What gifts do I bring to the world?". It's important that we don't overlook seeking God's direction and guidance when considering who you are and how your skills can be used for his purpose. Too often the voices that speak the loudest are the ones that we listen to. But the voice of God is one that is still and quiet: "...but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice." 1 Kings 19:12b

It's also very important to remember the vast creativity of God and how that effects the limitless gifts and abilities that are given to us.

In scripture, many gifts are listed: (Romans 12): exhortation, giving, leadership, mercy, prophecy, service, teaching, (Corinthians 12) administration, apostle, discernment, faith, healing, helps, knowledge, miracles, (Ephesians 4)evangelism and pastor. The gifts God gives are not limited to the ones on this list, but if you are looking for a place to start they are helpful.

As you consider the questions of: "who you are" and "what your gifts are"; allow your heart and mind to be open to allow God's still, small voice to speak to you.Thankfully, finding the answers to these questions is not like interacting with a would-be-friend who only invites you to the party because they want cookies. There is time to think, ponder and re-think these big questions, "Who am I?" and What gifts do I bring to the world?".

By the way, God's door is open - even if you don't think you have any cookies to share.
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(Group activity: Place a paper on the back of each person. Challenge the group to write something positive about each person in the group on the paper. Make sure each person participates and emphasize that the comments must be encouraging and positive. Don't allow the participants to read the papers right away, but read the following scriptures and discuss the questions below. At the end of that discussion time, allow the group to read their papers. Then ask them how might their affirmations be put to work as gifts from God. Ie.(Romans 12): exhortation, giving, leadership, mercy, prophecy, service, teaching, (Corinthians 12) administration, apostle, discernment, faith, healing, helps, knowledge, miracles, (Ephesians 4)evangelism and pastor.)

Scriptures to unpack the questions:
Who am I? What gifts do I bring to the world?

(Romans 12:4-6a)Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.

"1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4:10)

"11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Other questions to consider:
What is something you love to do? Is there a way that God could use that as a gift? What are life-giving activities for you? (Things that make you feel good, alive, and energized.)
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Gifts: Receiving three gifts

2011-09-28T18:14:00.012-05:00

Image from Homemaking blog.

There are three different Christmas gifts I'd like to tell you about today. One was a mystery, another was unexpectedly good, and the third was good - but spoiled by my sneaking to see it too soon.

If you could have one amazing thing for Christmas this year. what would you ask for?

I suppose if I could ask for something besides something ideal like world peace - that was purely for the fun of it I'd ask for a full supply of paints, canvas and new paint brushes as well as the time I'd like to spend working on various art projects.

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Question to ponder:

What did you say you'd like to have and why? What about this thing makes it so desirable to have?
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Mystery Gift:

One Christmas morning, a long time ago in a land not so far away, I walked down to the living room to find a large shiny box under the twinkling tree that had my name on it. The gift wasn't from my parents or grandparents or a close friend - the gift was from my big brother! Now my brother is seven years older than me, and you might have said that sometimes we didn't really see eye to eye. He was home from college and working in a factory job, and I was a sometimes giddy middle school girl.Since he's come home from school, my brother was about the business of living out a grown-up life and some days I'd remember thinking he had gotten kind of serious and old a little too fast for my liking. Not that long before, he was a prankster who loved practical jokes and fun. He tended to be tricky in his gift giving and disguise his real gift by adding several layers of wrapping, boxes, marbles, and coins. He loved to see a person try to guess what he'd given them. Usually, the gift was small - like a pair of winter gloves, earrings or a paperback book I'd been wanting to read. The gift he usually gave would take second place to the prank-like way he'd present it. But considering his recent seriousness, he was really difficult to read this year.

I rattled and shook the box trying to decipher the real item inside. This time I did not hear any odd rattles or rolling marbles. Could it be that my brother had FINALLY given me a really good gift?
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Question to ponder:

Can you remember a REALLY good gift that you have received? (Take a minute to think about what made it so good - what did you love about it? Why would you say this was a good gift and another would not be?)
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After all the time I'd wondered about the gift my brother had given to me, the moment of truth arrived. It was time to open the box.

I pulled at the shiny foil paper to find another layer of wrapping paper directly underneath. Was it possible that my brother had pulled yet another prank on me this Christmas?

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Question to ponder:

What is a gift that you thought you were going to get, but when you opened it - it turned out to be something entirely different? How did it feel to have things turn out differently than you expected?
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Unexpected good:

A Christmas or so before this one with the mystery gift from my brother, my Grandmother had sent me a present for a birthday. I ripped open the package to find a colorful children's book of rhymes and poems. I don't remember what I'd expected to get, but I remember wondering why my Grandmother had given me something that most definitely was for a child - and not of course for someone as mature as me at the ripe old age of eleven.

While I tried to hide my disappointment with the gift, it was obvious that I was not impressed by reaching for the next gift as if to say, "Oh that a silly gift - I'm moving on to something bigger and better - NEXT!"

The thing I find interesting to this day, is that the only gift I remember from that birthday is the one that I thought was beneath me. Over time, the toys and game I received broke or I got bored with - and somehow the colorful pages of that poetry book kept drawing my attention and interest. Isn't it funny that this gift I thought was silly and childish, turned out to be one of my favorite things from my youth?
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Question to ponder:

Some gifts are surprising for what they are or when they are given. Do you prefer getting a gift when you expect it or being surprised?
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Spoiled good:

One other holiday season, I was really impatient for Christmas to arrive. No matter how I tried, I could not stand the thought of waiting for Christmas morning for the presents from my parents. As they would shop, I'd take note of the fact and when they were busy, I'd quietly sneak into my Mom's room and open the closet to take a peek at what was being stored inside.

While at first it was thrilling to seek and find what gifts were waiting for me inside that closet, I had no idea how I was draining the excitement out of the good gifts reserved for me on Christmas morning. The things I found in the closet were good gifts, but because I was in a big rush to have them the joy in receiving them was gone when I opened them on Christmas morning.
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There are three gifts from my youth that I've told about so far: the mystery gift from my big brother, the children's poetry book from my Grandmother and the many good gifts the Christmas I peeked ahead of time - only to spoil the excitement of Christmas morning.

All of these gifts are ones I'd now say were good and each one has a special place in my memory. One of the reasons they are remembered is that they remind me of the people that gave them and how we are connected.

In this series on gifts, I'd like to think and unpack the kinds of gifts from God gives. God also has a way of giving mystery, unexpected good, and spoiled if we open too soon gifts.

It is important to remember the God given gifts we have received, identifying the gifts God has given and seeking and finding ways (without spoiling them) to use the gifts God has given to us. Just like the physical Christmas gifts I've told you about connected me to the givers; the gifts God gives help me feel closer and more connected to God.

The mystery gift from my brother was one that held great meaning to me, once the time had come to receive it. The book from my Grandmother gain in value over time when I let go of the misplaced expectations I was holding on to, the previewed Christmas gifts became a reminder of the need to honor the giver over the gifts they offer.

God gives good gifts, but are we in a place where we can receive them? In order to receive something, our hands and hearts need to be open. When we allow that space God is faithful to to greater gifts than we can imagine.

PS. The gift my brother gave me that Christmas did turn out to be something good. He had worked very hard in that factory and saved enough money to buy me a stereo and the album by the Police called "Synchronicity", that was very popular at the time. To this day, I still remember the joy and excitement of opening and find a good gift where I expected to find a prank. If big brothers can give good gifts - how much greater gifts can God give to all his children?

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Scriptures to help unwrap the questions:

Matthew 7:9-11 - “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"

James 1:17 NIV
17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

"What kind of good gifts does God give?"
What is the best gift you've ever been given?
Can you describe a heavenly gift (gift from God)?

Peregrinatio pro amore Dei

2011-09-27T19:02:00.006-05:00

Peregrinatio pro amore Dei is Latin for the phrase - "Pilgrimage for the love of God". I was recently introduced to this phrase in the paper pilgrimage of Unnoticed neighbors by Erina K. Ludwig.

Unnoticed Neighbors Trailer from The House Studio on Vimeo.

The love of God is something grander that I can ever comprehend; yet I feel the call to share it in more and more practical ways. As followers of Jesus we are at times called to speak God's love to others, but it's imperative to never forget the quieter call to be the hands and feet of grace in the slice of world we happen to live. This life of grace can involve our voices and ears, but it's purpose is not for ourselves - its for the benefit of others. It's not just speaking, listening, doing or being quietly present - but a combination of all of these means structured in the grace of God that we are called to as Jesus-followers.

The pilgrimage may or may not take us to far away lands - but the call to love the land and people that live where we stand in this global community is deep and greatly needed.

It's not easy to see the final destination of our pilgrimage of faith, but the people along the path are standing right in front of us - if only we have the eyes to see those we've been leaving in the unseen lot next door.

May my whole self be on a pilgrimage for the love of God - wherever the path leads.

Gifts: received, identified and given

2011-09-26T07:46:00.002-05:00

This coming weekend I'll be giving some talks with a group of middle schoolers surrounding the topic of gifts. I've begun some pondering and broken down the segments into three categories: gifts received, gifts identified and gifts given.

Below are some amazing quotes on gifts to help get the juices going....

You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give. ~Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet

What is bought is cheaper than a gift. ~Portuguese Proverb

A wise lover values not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver. ~Thomas á Kempis

The only gift is a portion of thyself. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

We should give as we would receive, cheerfully, quickly, and without hesitation; for there is no grace in a benefit that sticks to the fingers. ~Seneca

We do not quite forgive a giver. The hand that feeds us is in some danger of being bitten. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays

But it is a cold, lifeless business when you go to the shops to buy something, which does not represent your life and talent, but a goldsmith's. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Gifts," Essays, Second Series, 1844

If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give. ~George MacDonald

The manner of giving is worth more than the gift. ~Pierre Corneille, Le Menteur

Tell me about your gifts or the ones you've received. What is the greatest gift you ever received and why? What did this gift allow you to do, be, or have?

Please share your thoughts in the comment section and thanks for helping me to prepare for these upcoming discussions.

Short/straight or longer/curly?

2011-09-26T02:53:00.004-05:00

I had a moment in this unexpectedly warm weekend of fall where I thought, "After all this hair growing, I think that short pixie cut I used to have was perfect."

What do you think...
Cut the locks or keep em?

Here's where I'm at...

Here's where the process just about started...

Which look do you like?

Return that ___________?

2011-09-25T21:04:00.004-05:00

As I was sitting in a restaurant flipping through a copy of a book I'm rereading for a book group; my friend leaned over and said..."Hey, who's Suzi and why do you have her book?".

I stared at the inscription by the author for a moment, totally perplexed as to why I was hold my friend Suzi's copy of the book in my hands. Then, the AHA moment came. A year and a half ago, (yes that long), I'd picked up a copy of " A Million Miles" by Donald Miller when he was on his book tour when it stop over at my church for a book salon. Susan Issacs was also on the tour with her book, "Angry Conversations with God." Thankfully, I did not forget to forward signed copies of her book - one oversight like this is plenty!

(Donald Miller and Susan Issacs were so kind to agree to taking a photo with me after their book readings.)

One of the main ideas discussed in Don's book is working through the action and intent in how one builds their "life story". Do I choose to meander through life, do I choose to attempt to squeeze every drop of living there is to be lived, and do I consider what kind of life story God would like to see me write and most importantly - live?

First things first, I'll be mailing Suzi's copy of "A million miles" off to her on Monday...thankfully she is a forgiving person! Secondly, I'll be rereading and chatting about the book with some dear friends of mine for the next month or so - that should be a interesting story in itself. Thirdly, I've been on a ongoing journey to discern direction in my own life story for a while now and I plan to become more intentional on the "living it out" part of the path.

I will get Suzi's book to her, but most importantly - I will return page by page, letter by letter to the true self God has called me to be.

By the way, your prayers are greatly appreciated for this journey.

Much love,
T

Questions for your participation in this post: Is there something or somewhere you need to return to? How do you imagine getting there and what needs to change in order for this to happen?

PS> I love to read your comments and will respond to them! Thanks.

Coffeehouse song picks

2011-09-24T21:14:00.004-05:00

Last night, some friends and I who are part of a praise team called 'Sacred Fire', held a coffeehouse concert at our church. We had a great time getting ready for the performance and playing last night. I was graciously given space in the set to play two songs that I've written....

See breathe

Find more artists like Tara Lamont Music at Myspace Music

and

You turned on the light

Find more artists like Tara Lamont Music at Myspace Music

(Please take a listen to the tunes embedded here and let me know which one you like best!)

It is a joy to share music with people and see and hear the effects of it. Last night's crowd was very kind and receptive to everything that was presented and the variety of our set list was broad: "I will rise" by Tomlin to "You look wonderful tonight" by Clapton.

If you were to sing a song for a coffeehouse - what song would you choose to play and why?

The dots be done, well - kinda...

2011-09-23T15:35:00.005-05:00

For all of you following the progress of the "dots" banner, the trim and ties were completed and one is up in the contemporary worship space and the other will be hung up in the Nave after a wedding on Saturday.

Each banner is a work in progress as each week people will be invited to respond to the question, "How have you been made aware/seen/understood God's presence this week?" or in simpler terms - "Where did you see God?".

These banners will be continually added to for this Sunday school year, but this project is not limited to the youth. Its my hope that all attendees and visitors will feel welcome to add to this visual display of God's love and grace.

Swinging between

2011-09-22T00:30:00.004-05:00

Image from Helex blog.

"It seems the swinging of life races between two extremes of beginning and end, birth and death, and light and dark.
It's raining tonight, the dog snores and the fridge hums; and the swinging is happening now.

The pendulum is racing down rain covered brick streets, past just yellow almost red stop lights.
Brakes squeal, horns blast and the safe space wins at this light.
But what will happen at the next intersection?

We could take up running up hills in rain storms to feel alive.
Our hearts would pound, our breaths would have to be deep and our
rain drenched legs would tremble to reach the top -
to sprint with arms flailing on the downhill slope that is just over the crest.

I can't answer if it's the beginning or if its the end.
But I can put on my sneakers, press the remote to start the car,
and open my umbrella and hold it upside down.

I will swing it side to side like this pendulum of life,
and catch each raindrop that falls from this unpredictable sky
and into my reach.

Quench this thirst, bring things into balance, and let this rhythm be one I've lived before."

T.L. Eastman Sept 2011

Weeds or Beauty Meme

2011-09-21T08:42:00.007-05:00

"Where some see weeds, some find beauty." (Me)

Where do you find beauty, that is missed by others? Where do you miss beauty, and others find it? What do the commonalities and differences say about us as individuals and as groups of people?

Here are some quotes to help you ponder these ideas more from, the 'Quote garden'. Which one is your favorite?:

A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to grow in rows. ~Doug Larson

A weed is but an unloved flower. ~Ella Wheeler Wilcox

But a weed is simply a plant that wants to grow where people want something else. In blaming nature, people mistake the culprit. Weeds are people's idea, not nature's. ~Author Unknown

Weeds are nature's graffiti. ~Janice Maeditere (I like this one!)

God connects our dots

2011-09-20T13:55:00.007-05:00

Sunday school banner for 2011-12 school year at First Lutheran Church of Jamestown.

“God has a way of working dot-to-dot of our lives. For the last almost two years, I’ve been searching for a continuing education program specific to the ministry situation here at First Lutheran Church. I knew it had to be something I could do from Jamestown, it had to require a minimal amount of travel, it needed to engage my heart and mind and it had to apply to and assist me in the work I do on a daily basis. In February, my husband came across a book called, “The God bearing life.” by: Kenda Creasy Dean. In this book he learned about a Certificate program specific to current trends in youth and family ministry that fit all the requirements I’d hoped to find…”

Click here to read the original post.

Over a year ago now, I gave a version of this essay as a talk at the 9am Sunday service. I’m sharing it with you, because the idea of God connecting our dots is one that has carried throughout the time of me first sharing it to now. Our Sunday school children have worked to create two banners on it with the phrase, “GOD CONNECTS OUR DOTS!” and the scripture verse from Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Throughout the upcoming year, these two banners will be hanging in the traditional and contemporary worship space. These banners will be a place for people to write or draw the ways God is working and moving in their lives directly on the canvas. The question that we request to be answered and placed on this banner is: “How have I seen God at work in this day, week, month or year?”

Each week in youth group, we ask our teens this same question and are always blessed to hear the ways God is working in all our lives. Sometimes we just need a reminder that it’s something very important to share with each other! You are invited to add your thoughts to these banners. There will be markers placed close by them so that you can write your “God dot connections” on the banner in the Nave or the Parlor.

Looking back over the year or so since God helped to connect me to a means of greater learning and connection through the continuing education opportunities through Princeton Seminary; I’m only more encouraged and excited to see how God will continue to work in my life, your life and in the story and mission of First Lutheran Church of Jamestown. Thank you in advance for being willing to take up your marker and join in on the puzzle and journey, with God and each other, connecting our dots!

Sleeping with bread: Lessons from an old tree

2011-09-19T11:58:00.007-05:00

Photo of me loving a huge tree on the coast of Lake Chautauqua on the grounds of Chautauqua Institution.

Lessons from an old tree

"Encased in marble, the letters were old.
The spelling was odd, but not to far off to be told.
The "U's" were exchanged for the letter "v" -
the reason for this is far past what I can see.

Discomfort, confusion, frustration and fear
are fellows that hang around letters hard to hear.
Their message is odd and hard to grasp;
like something that made sense in years that have passed.

Moving down a path where the shade is just right,
the breeze is blowing and still-green leaves dance in sunlight.
A fountain flows freely in the midst of this place,
with Lilly pads floating in a pool of water with incredible grace.

At the end of the path there was an enormous old tree,
with branches reaching high even with all the age we could see.
It stood proudly there in this place it had grown,
half-facing the water and half-facing the stone.

This tree has wholeness in the place that it stands,
even though it's surroundings are half-water/half-land.
Fullness, beauty and purpose can be found;
in the spaces of paradox and unpredictable ground."

T.L. Eastman September 11"

Sleeping with Bread is a Monday Meme. Pick one of the examen prompts listed and write on that topic in regard to the last week of your life. You are free to post a link to your blog post here in the comments below or at the host page "Sleeping with Bread".
Here is the list of prompts to choose from: You can also phrase the question in any of the following ways:

For what am I most grateful? Least grateful?
When did I give and receive the most love? The least love?
When did I feel most alive? Most drained of life?
When did I have the greatest sense of belonging? Least sense of belonging?
When was I most free? Least free?
When was I most creative? Least creative?
When did I feel most connected? Least connected?
When did I feel most fully myself? Least myself?
When did I feel most whole? Most fragmented?
In this photo, the marble sign has the u's replaced with v's - If you know the reason, leave me a comment. Thanks for helping to solve this mystery.

God is...

2011-09-18T10:58:00.005-05:00

Image found at Classic Mary Moments.

God is holy, loving, creative and generous. If you had to choose one word to describe God, do you think you could do it? When I asked the children at my church this week the same question, they all agreed that one word is not enough to describe God. God is wonderfully complex!

I told them about the word from Old Testament times that people would use to try to capture the essence of God, Yahweh. Most folks agree that this word is a combination of letters that attempted to represent God and might have meant "I am" or "To be". The word Yahweh is really amazing, but event this one can't capture all the details of God. One word simply isn't enough to describe the greatness of God.

This week's gospel lesson was from Matthew 20:1-16. Jesus tells a parable about God's generosity, challenging the common assumption that God rewards people according to what they have earned or deserve. (If you want to read the lesson, I'll post it below.)

In the parable we are reminded of God's generosity. The workers in this story are called to the vineyard to work and the owner adds to the number of workers throughout the day. Some of the day laborers start work in the morning, some at noon, some in the afternoon and some are called to work at the end of the day. At the end of the day all the workers are paid the same wage, no matter if they worked a full day or just a few hours. The full day workers were unhappy with this arrangement, but the end of the day workers were joyfully surprised that the land owner had been so generous.

How would you feel if you came to work early, in the mid-day or at the end of the day and would all be paid the same wage?

Just like trying to find a single word to describe God is impossible, it can be impossible for us to understand the generosity of God. The gifts God gives are not based on our ability or performance, but on God's grace and mercy. All of this can be hard to understand logically, but it is a good thing that God does not treat us in a way based on performance or logic. No matter what we tried, we never would live a perfect life.

In all of God's complexity, it is wonderful to know that grace and mercy are additional facets of his character. While I may not have succeeded in finding a single word to describe God, I have a metaphor of God being like a precious jewel. A jewel is costly, a jewel is beautiful and every time you look at it you can see something wonderful and new in it.

Thank you God for your generosity to us, help us to be generous with everyone you place in our path this week!

Matthew 20:1-16 (New International Version)

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. 2 He agreed to pay them a denarius[a] for the day and sent them into his vineyard.
3 “About nine in the morning he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4 He told them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ 5 So they went.

“He went out again about noon and about three in the afternoon and did the same thing. 6 About five in the afternoon he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’

7 “‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered.

“He said to them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard.’

8 “When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’

9 “The workers who were hired about five in the afternoon came and each received a denarius. 10 So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. 11 When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. 12 ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’

13 “But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? 14 Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15 Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’

16 “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

Sweater weather

2011-09-17T01:00:00.003-05:00

Image found via Flickriver, artwork from Ink and Dagger Tattoo Parlor's photo page.

cosy US, cozy [ˈkəʊzɪ]
adj -sier, -siest US, -zier -ziest
1. warm and snug
2. intimate; friendly
3. convenient, esp for devious purposes a cosy deal
n pl -sies US, -zies
a cover for keeping things warm egg cosy
----------------------------------------------------------

It happened so quickly.
Yesterday was a balmy August day.
Up until then, I thought summer was going to stay forever.

It's as if someone found a giant thermostat in the sky and turned it to the setting: just chilly enough for a sweater.
Is it the season change that draws me back to layer my naked arms in warmth,
or something else?

It happened so quickly.
Yesterday was a baby toting, PTA Mom day.
Up until yesterday, I thought they were going to stay small forever.

Wrap me up tight cosy sweater,
this change is going to take some getting used to.

T.L. Eastman 2011'

Rest, recharge and create "True Sisterhood"

2011-09-16T21:27:00.012-05:00

Image from official True Sisterhood website.

"True sisterhood began with "four fearless yet fragile women tackling the issues of life and relationship from a distinctively Christian perspective. Hosted by Constance Rhodes w/ Margot Starbuck, Sharon Hersh, and Paige Armstrong." says the official web page for True sisterhood.

Over this summer a group of Jamestown women began getting to know a little about this group of ladies and if all things work out well, our stated small but not so small group of over forty women interested in growing in faith, confidence and purpose might become and official chapter /partner with this greater organization of "True sisterhood and Finding balance." We hope to find out in the next month or so if an official partnership with this "big sister" organization will be possible.

Years ago, I was incredibly influenced by the author Madeline L'Engle and never wrote to tell her. Madeline passed away in 2007, and when she was gone I realized what an opportunity I'd missed in trying to correspond with her. After that, and with the accessibility of email and social networking sources; I've since tried to let painters, musicians and writers know when something they've given had connected with me. For the most part, this has been an enriching experience and in a few cases has led to meeting and organizing a public event for a few favorite authors. About a year ago, I came across Margot Starbuck's book, "The girl in the orange dress" and was so encouraged by it that I decided to send an email to the author.

Margot was incredibly gracious when I emailed her and generously sent me a copy of her then newly released copy of "Unsqueezed". One thing led to another after reading Margot's second book. This summer I worked with volunteers from my church to host a summer women's book club with this text as a springboard for our meetings. It turned out to be a great group of 41 women and I'm hoping to keep stirring up the energy started in the group by hosting a women's day retreat the weekend of October 14.

It's through the partnership with Margot and her involvement with "True Sisterhood" that our group is getting their feet on the ground. Along with Margot, there are some other wonderful ladies that have been supportive and helping to build the structure of this fellowship. Rebecca Hart, a pastor from Columbus Ohio and teacher for the Princeton Theological Seminary's Youth Ministry Forums is working to develop this retreat to be held on October. Enuma Okoro, speaker - writer - and my mentor through the Princeton Program is assisting with development of the overall ministry plan and Lynn Farrow has been helping me to develop projects to help women participating in the workshops to express themselves through creative means.

With all this support, planning and a home team ready and willing to help - we are planning a Friday night and Saturday morning retreat on October 14 and 15, 2011. If you would like to attend this event, please let me know in the comments. The general description of the event can be found below.

Isn't it amazing how God works when we function as the sisters and brothers we've been created to be?

"Join us for a Friday night and Saturday morning day retreat to recharge your batteries, enjoy the fellowship of others, work on creative projects, laugh and learn with Becky Hart - pastor and presenter for Princeton's Youth Ministry Forums and Tara Eastman Director of youth and family ministry @ First Lutheran Church of Jamestown. (Cost is $25.00 - includes Friday night snacks, craft and art supplies, two sessions with Becky/Tara and Saturday morning continental breakfast and closing session. Friday 6-10pm and Saturday 9-noon. This is not a sleep-over retreat, accommodations will have to be arranged for out of town travelers."

To RSVP on the Facebook event page go to this link: True Sisterhood Retreat.

M and M's, Vampires and Library books

2011-09-15T11:04:00.006-05:00

It's getting closer and closer to that wonderfully spooky time of year again. The grocery stores are filling up with Halloween candy, Tim Horton's is serving hot cider and I've begun day dreaming of what I'll be dressing up as for Halloween.

My family loves this time of year. We have an extensive collection of Hammer Horror movies and usually spend the month of October watching through their stories with delight!

I think at one point or another kids (and some grow-ups too!) become fascinated by mysterious tales about ghosts, vampires and UFOS. In about fifth grade, I went through a phase where the only books I'd borrow were ones filled with urban legends, ghost stories and other strange phenomena. I remember thinking how cool it was to read those books, but to be honest I think that part of the reason I'd read those books was to get a handle on what a true feared.

This page posted below was printed in one of the books I used to borrow from the library. Perhaps if I learned all I could about Vlad and his counterparts, (no matter how admittedly gory the details) I wouldn't be so scared of vampires and things that go bump in the night!

Image from Vlad Tepes.

What was so strange about this reading habit, was that only a few years before it was impossible for me to hear, watch or read anything slightly spooky - or I wouldn't be able to sleep due to night terrors. At one point, I was totally convinced the woman from the M&M commercial that looked like the Indian goddess (if you can find the video to this, let me know I'd love to see it now!) - with all the extra arms; was actually a vampire that lived under my bed. With all those arms and the powers of vampire-ism - no one in my house stood a chance!

At some point though, I must have gathered up the courage to peel myself out from under the covers long enough to peek at what really wasn't living under my bed at all. By taking that first step, I made my way to the place where all I wanted to read was in the genre of "spooky". To this day, though I'd rather read something spooky, than watch it on TV. When things get too scary in a book, you can simply close the book and pull the covers over your head. If you are watching TV, you'll have to get up to turn off the TV - and that means eventually getting off the sofa.

You never know what might be living under there - right?

Thoughtful Thomas a Kempis

2011-09-14T12:11:00.005-05:00

For more information on Thomas a Kempis and the source of this image, go to Society of Saith Pius X in Canada.

Last year I purchased a copy of Thomas a Kempis's "The Imitation of Christ" for my husband as a Christmas present. The reprint I have of this text was originally published in 1418. In the introduction, Steven James explains Thomas's writing and life to be a catalyst for reader to embrace, "...the "Jesus life" (as) one of faith rather than sight, simplicity rather than extravagance, moderation rather than indulgence, sacrifice rather than acquisition, and risking the ways of God rather than settling into the soul-numbing security of the ways of the world."

I'm only three short chapters into this text and feel Thomas's words and ideas directly challenging my perspectives ,yet compassionately inspiring authenticity in growth in learning how to closer walk with Christ in daily life. There is a great deal to contemplate in this short volume, so don't let it's brevity allow you to rush the reading, and thinking and reading again.

The following are excerpts from the text that already are working on my heart and mind.

"Indeed it is not learning that makes a man holy and just, but a virtuous life makes him pleasing to God. (Pg. 1)"

"Often recall the proverb: "The eye is not satisfied with seeing nor the ear filled with hearing." Try, moreover to turn your heart from the love of things visible and bring yourself to things invisible. (Pg. 2)"

"O God, You Who are the truth, make me one with You in love everlasting. I am often wearied by the many things I hear and read, but in You is all that I long for. Let the learned be still, let all creation be silent before You; You alone speak to me. (Pg. 6)"

"This ought to be our purpose, then: to conquer self, to become stronger each day, to advance in virtue. (Pg. 6)"

"Humble knowledge of self is a surer path to God than ardent pursuit of learning. Not that learning is to be considered evil, or knowledge, which is good in itself and so ordained by God; but a clean conscience and virtuous life ought always to be preferred. Many often err and accomplish little or nothing because they try to become learned rather than to live well... If only their lives had kept pace with their learning, then their study and reading would have been worthwhile. (Pg. 7)"

To find a copy of this text, go to Relevant Books or Amazon.com.

Have you read this text? If so, what are your thoughts and how have it's insights illuminated your faith walk?

Song request savvy: What song should I sing?

2011-09-13T08:55:00.007-05:00

This past Saturday evening, I had a great opportunity to play a music set for the 7th Annual Music Showcase to benefit Infinity Visual and Performing Arts Program in Jamestown NY. I had a great time playing some original and cover tunes, but I'm always on the trail of some new or old tunes to add to the set sheet.
After the show, I asked some friends if they would be so kind to give me some song titles they'ed love to hear me sing sometime. I received some great suggestions: Everyday is Sunday by Morrisey, Fastcar/Breakeven by Collie Callait, Suzanne Vega's "Small Blue thing" and an artist who is new to me - Adele with the song "Someone like you".

It's wonderful to be introduced to a vocalist of such unique and great quality, and an even bigger compliment that I should cover something so fine.

To hear a recent demo to my song "Home", click here. If you like what you hear there, visit my music page to hear some more. If you have a suggestion on what you'd like to hear me sing, please post your selections in the comment section below. Cheers!

Little things

2011-09-12T07:40:00.005-05:00

Photo taken at the center of the labyrinth at Kirkridge Retreat and Learning Center.

Clutch notebooks, lip balm and matching socks prove that small things are the stuff that make room for:
scribbled pages filled with ideas to share,
talks among friends that sincerely care,
and long walks to ponder-
meandering over here and there.

Simple things are ingredients to create something grand.
How we use them, make or break the grandest of scams.

When little things are honored,
they lead to the:
out-there dream,
the hoped for change,
and that doosey of a plan.

T.L. Eastman Sept 2011'

Use your hands

2011-09-11T06:00:00.004-05:00

Original photo taken by Mencer Photography.

Two dear friends of my husband and I got married recently. They are a wonderful couple and I've been really excited to attend and take part in the celebration. What makes this day even more exciting, is that I've been invited to sing and play one of my songs for their reception. It's an honor for me to give something so personal to friends so dear to my heart.

However, it's always challenging to know what to give to newlyweds. This couple have their household already set up, so I don't think they need towels or dishes. I knew that this dear couple probably considered my gift of song to be their wedding gift; but I still wanted to do something more for them.

Later on, I asked my son's opinion on what card (funny or sentimental) to choose for them and he said, "You know, I really think they would like something that you made them instead." How is it that in the midst of giving a song, I'd overlooked the obvious choice of making them a gift?

My teenage son is very clever, so I took his words as a directive. I looked for the perfect periwinkle beaded photo frame, scanned through some photos of the couple and began working on a pencil sketch combining the song lyric I'd written and sketched an adaptation of the photo that another friend had taken (mencerphotography.com) of the couple several months before.

Here is a photo of the finished pencil sketch of my friends that I placed in a pretty beaded frame. I think they are going to like it!

The gifts we are given are the tools of creativity. The work accomplished with these God given talents are needed in the world. We only need to remember that when we have the opportunity to use these gifts - we need to use our hands.

Gifts like this are needed for weddings, funerals, and even in the commonness of a nondescript Tuesday afternoon. Maybe creativity is especially needed in the midst of the every day?

There is joy in giving our gifts to others: to celebrate, to remember and to bless.
It's my hope that my choice to use my hands will help my friend celebrate their wedding day and each day. Creativity helps all of us remember the power of love and to know what a blessing our lives can be - if we choose to use our hands.

Ideas to ponder:
What are some ways you can use your gifts to bless others? How does living to use your hands make a difference in your corner of the world?

PS.Please tell me about them in the comment section provided. Thanks!

Feist of a Rally Day

2011-09-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

In many churches around the world, this coming Sunday is "Rally Day"! It's the Sunday most churches return to Sunday school programs for the just begin school year. We will be having cookies, sharing scripture and devotions, and painting a banner to be displayed in worship space throughout this school year. We also will be singing some songs like "This little light of mine", "Peace like a river" and a lyrical spin off of Feist's pop hit "1 ,2 , 3 , 4."

So for honesty's sake, I'm borrowing the tune of "1, 2, 3, 4" and plugging in words that will fit for Sunday school (Don't worry, I'm not selling my adaptation - this is just for fun.) If you would like to hear the original, check out the video below and below that is my switch-a-roo for the words.

If you would like to join us at First Lutheran Church on 120 Chandler Street in Jamestown for Rally Day - we'd love for you to join us. Contemporary worship is at 9am, Rally Day at 10am and Traditional worship is at 11am.

Have a great rally day out there, I'll let you know how "1,2,3,4" goes!

1, 2, 3, 4… Sunday school song - adapted from Feist's song "1,2,3,4." Feist also made a version for Sesame Street, really!

One, two, three four – It’s time for Sunday school. We sing, we pray, we honor God this day.Learning about love is what we’re here for. Give it to others as we head out the door.

One, two three, four – God loves you that’s for sure. In the day and the night – God holds us tight.Learning about love is what we’re here for. Give it to others as we head out the door.

Preschool, grade school, middle and high school – Grown-ups and tots – God loves us a lot.We have God’s hope for the tears people cry – Take love to the world – we will try.

Ohh oh ho - God’s changing our hearts – Ohh oh ho He know who we are. 4XS

One two three four five six nine and ten – Jesus is the way to God and covers sin.
One two three four five six nine and ten – Holy Spirit watches over till we meet again.

One, two, three four – It’s time for Sunday school. We sing, we pray, we honor God this day.

Grow where you are planted

2011-09-09T05:00:00.005-05:00

On my way to work this morning, I was sitting at a red light and saw something quite unusual growing in the front lawn of a city apartment building. People usually beautify their yards and homes with flowers, climbing vines and gnome sculptures - but not the town I live. This home's small front yard was filled with rows of corn! The stalks were at least six feet high and filled with growing stalks of eating corn.

As the reality of this front-yard bumper crop made it's way into my view and mind I was reminded of the saying, "Bloom where you are planted!"
Image found at Rachel's Blog.
Years ago I had this quote on a Mary Engelbreit calender. I loved the quirky, colorful way Ms. Engelbreit encouraged the viewer to stand and thrive where they were placed.

There are a few things I think people need in order to "bloom where they are planted." Obviously they need food, water, shelter and health care. But in addition to these things I think people also need: the space to be their true selves, a community (even two or three folks) to encourage and support their growth and development, and a way for each individual to use their gifts to give back to the community they are abiding in.

For a little while now, I've been caught up in a grass is greener point of view. In light of this, it's been difficult to allow my roots to run deep. I think part of the challenge is that I often have the feeling of not fitting in where I am; but when I looked at that corn garden I realized I'm probably not alone in that feeling.

Even though that small field of corn does not "fit" in, in the midst of my small city; it still was thriving where it was planted. The point of all this might just be that blooming where you are planted has more to do with keeping focused on growing, instead of where you happen to be growing. There is a great deal to learn from this unexpected city corn garden.

This garden has reminded me about an important key to finding happiness, holding on to resilience and growing where you are planted:

1. Be your true self, 2. Gather people around you that support growth of the authentic self, 3. and use your unique gifts to then build into the authentic selves of those you come into contact with - wherever you may be!

Be like this corn field in the city, stand tall and let your blooming presence be an encouragement to those who just happen to passing by.Your presence, gifts, and faithfulness are greatly needed in the human needs of harvest for a full and true life!

Image found at Laura of Harvest Lane Cottage blog.

School shopping can be fun?

2011-09-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

The first few days of school are rolling along and teacher's supply lists came home the other day that required a shopping trip for pencils, pens, gym combination locks, loose leaf college ruled paper, binders and more. In addition to my kids a youth member and volunteer (off camera) came to join in the fun.

Just about the time I thought we all had been overcome by the office supply department, my crew took it upon themselves to lighten the mood and help the entire store full of shoppers know that school shopping can be fun.

Here's to teenagers, dance breaks and spending time together!What back-to-school traditions do you have each year? Please feel free to tell me about them in the comments section.

Happy back to school everyone!

Daze of days meme

2011-09-07T06:25:00.003-05:00

Pictures have a way of showing how much, and how quickly children can grow, don't they?

Did you know that calendar's can shout - "This week is important?"
This week, my calendar is bursting with a outpouring and fusion of special days. How about you?

1., 2., 3. Labor Day with a family picnic and grad party for Heather who begins college on Friday, 4., 5. the first day of school for Nigel as a high-school freshman and my Mom's 71st birthday on Tuesday, 6., 7., 8. several weddings on Saturday of friends and previous youth group members who are now all grown up as well as a major fundraiser for Infinity Performing Arts and 9., 10. going back to the fall church schedule with Sunday's Rally day in the works and remembering the folks influenced by the actions of September 11th 2001 through this week's remembrance of that day.

Movement and change are always a part of our days, but some days a weeks seem to be brimming with it. It's always interesting to hear how people mark these kinds of days and how they work through the transition they represent.

How do the turning of days impact you and yours?
What are the days of change have been the most impacting or meaningful in your memory?
Where has the act of remembering helped to navigate the reality of the present and future?

Please share your meme responses in the comment section by clicking the comment tab, I'd love to hear about your changing days too!

Labor's day surprise

2011-09-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm very much looking forward to this Labor Day. Each year we have a slam dunk of a picnic at my mother-in-laws home, and this year is no different except that we are also plotting a surprise celebration my our daughter's graduation from high school.
The decorations are gathered, the special photo cake is ordered, and some special guests are ready for the party to begin!

Heather is heading the college later this week, so we wanted a chance to have cake, balloons and an honest surprise before summer's end. Here's to hoping the surprise works out well!

You're life is all ahead of you Heb - soak it all in, shake off what dosent' suit you and be yourself. You are beautiful and bright - inside and out!

We love you.
Mom and Dad

PS. The surprise worked! Thanks to everyone who helped make this Labor Day/Grad Party great!

Letting go with Casados

2011-09-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

A few years ago I saw the band Casados play at Labyrinth Press Co. in Jamestown, NY. Labyrinth is a local gem that hosts wonderful musicians from all over the world (really!) and tasty vegetarian food and coffee and tea delicacies.

In the midst of the shifting passage of time, I'd almost forgot about this beautiful song I heard played there called, "Letting go."

There is something so bittersweet about letting go.
Letting go can be a difficult task, but one that is required in order really hold on to the things that matter.

I've been holding on to something for a while now, and I think I've come to a place that if I ever hope in the hope to see it come to pass - that I need to release it. A wise teacher once told me, "You can push the river."
It's when I think I'm in charge, that I find I'm really not.
I need some time to wade in the waters of the river, instead of trying to direct it my way, in my time.

Why did it take me this long to see I've been trying to push the river?

I'm in my canoe, the canoe is in the water, but truth be told - you can't push the river.
(My adaptation of the Polish proverb, "Do not push the river, it will flow by itself."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take a listen to Casados - may they help you let go as well. You can order/download songs here.

Tangled strings weave knots into my soul
Twist and turn they fail to un·rav·el

Feel the pull
Take its toll

[chorus]
Cut this rope that’s holding us together
Years from now I’m sure we will see better
What’s so good it couldn’t last forever?
letting go, i know it will be better

Ashes formed, post embers burn out slow
From the fires that once inspired me so
And let me go, (this hand to fold)

[chorus]
Cut this rope that’s holding us together
Years from now I’m sure we will see better
What’s so good it couldn’t last forever?
Letting go, I know it will be better

Naked, there’s no more for you to see
Good and bad, you’ve seen all sides of me
Let you be. leave slow·ly

[chorus]
Cut this rope that’s holding us together
Years from now I’m sure we will see better
What’s so good it couldn’t last forever?
Letting go, I know it will be better

Doodles make a difference

2011-09-04T01:00:00.001-05:00

Doodle pattern a sample of Mary Corbet's drawing found at her blog: Needle-n-thread.
When I was a little girl, I had a terrible time sitting still for any extended period of time. In light of this my Dad used to call me "Tigger", because I bounced everywhere, all the time! One of the most difficult places for me to sit still when I was little was church. It might have been the combination of the itchy lace on the collar and hem of my dress, the shiny patent leather shoes, and the big sanctuary that seemed made to run and romp through with it's high ceilings and all, but it usually took an act of God to make me sit still.

My Dad was the person I'd usually sit next to. I suppose he might have been considered the muscle in this circumstance. Most of what I remember about sitting next to him was holding his hand, singing from off his hymnal, swinging my feet that were too short to touch the floor and doodling on visitor cards that were sitting in the back of the pew.

Dad would hand me a card, a pencil, and a hymn book to support my doodling each Sunday. I would draw over every single part of that card and fill it with drawings of patterns, people and puppies. I would draw puppies as a hint to my Dad because I wanted one! The amazing part of this doodling practice is that not only did it work positively to channel my fidgeting, but I believe it helped me to learn more of what what being said and done in church. Week in and week out, I would sit happily as long as the papers kept coming and the short pencils in the pew in front of me were sharp!

Years later, I still love to draw and even paint when I get the chance. Doodling became a means of channeling creative energy for me then in a way that still helps me today.

When I am in a meeting, the best notes I take are a mic of doodles and words. If ideas come too quickly, I can sum up the idea much better in doodle form. Remember the saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words?", it's so very true for me.

You can imagine how thrilled when I saw this segment on CNN about "What we learn from doodles."

It turns out that doodling is just as helpful to me in my meetings, when I was personified as "Tigger", and to multitudes of visual thinkers as well. According to the article at CNN, some of the worlds most famous doodlers are people like, " George Washington, Thomas Edison, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Ronald Reagan and Vladimir Nabokov". (CNN Doodling article)

All this talk about doodlers make me wonder, who else benefits from the focus-aiding-idea-channeling-fun-giving art of doodling? Doodling talk also makes me wonder where my pen and sketch pad are. If you'll excuse me, I have an idea I've got to doodle before it bounces away...just like Tigger.

Concert on the road

2011-09-03T07:17:00.006-05:00

Image found at Thomas Jefferson Journal.

The sound of my feet slapon the blacktop.
The padding, panting, and leash jingling of my dog add to the rhythm.
Deep breaths followed by thankful exhales, help me press on in this tempo of activity.
The sky is hazy, the air is thick with humidity.
Sweat is already running down my back and face.

This isn't going to be easy.

The crickets boldly sing providing the song's base,
the morning dove croons her pretty solo for variety,
and the frogs bellow a backbeat to cheer me on.

I suppose I didn't need my ipod after all.

Feet slapping, arms swinging, lungs working and heart pounding.
It's time to take this show on the road.

T.L. Eastman 2011'

Return

2011-09-02T17:31:00.008-05:00

Return the library book and the "borrowed" cozy sweater.
Return the tupperware, because thrifty gladware works much better.

Return the cd, dvd, and phone charger true.
These things have a way of meandering where lost socks wander to.

Return to doing the things, you really ought to do,
because people matter and you won't want loose them too.

Return to caring actions and not just words.
Return to living life, in spite of all the blur.

Return to the stack of books sitting on the shelf.
The pages that you read, might help you find yourself.

T.L. Eastman 2011"

Image used under the conditions of attribution to the Photographer Austin Evan. All photos require attention to rights reserved via Flicker.

Return to NaBloPoMo this September

2011-09-01T11:24:00.002-05:00

Would you consider writing or updating your blog each day for an entire month? To join in this commitment to the creative pursuit of writing this September go to NaBloPoMo and sign up. They offer daily prompts to help with the process as long as a monthly theme. This months theme is "Return".

It's been a while since I've tried to post daily over here at Uphill idealist, but I'm giving it a shot - for the fun of it, for the joy of it and hopefully for you to join in too!

Happy September to you. I hope this writing project is one that will bring you many creative returns!

1. What is National Blog Posting Month?

Essentially, it's a group of people who have committed to updating their blogs once a day for an entire month. If you would like more information on how to get involved with NaBloPoMo simply click on this link.

Sign on the dotted line if you think creativity matters.

2011-08-29T09:38:00.008-05:00

I signed on the dotted line because I think creativity is really important!
Will you?
To go directly to the photo upload page go to: creativecollective.is/manifesto/

The Creative Collective is an online resource for folks seeking ways to work creative efforts in the spirit of adventure, authenticity, and faith. I just was introduced the they via Relevant Magazine's September issue. To check out the collective and to join in the conversation head here to join and here to read their blog.

Wearing summer thankfulness all year round

2011-08-29T08:23:00.002-05:00

(Image from Petco.)

Last night while waiting for my daughter to get done with work, I heard a chorus of geese singing as they were flying overhead. They were working on migration practice runs over the lake.
This morning, I went out for my usual morning trek, and found that I needed to keep my sweatshirt on throughout the whole jaunt. The foggy chill this morning was one I haven't felt in a while.
In these bittersweet moments ( I love the sounds of fall as well as cosy sweatshirts), I realize just how quickly this summer has rushed past me - and I feel as if I did not have the opportunity to be outside enough to take it all in!

There are moments in life so sweet and full of warmth that come too quickly and are gone too fast - just like this summer. This Monday Meme is an opportunity to think upon what need to be let go of, and what need to be held close. If I could, I'd attach all the lovely things about this swift summer to my cosy sweatshirt, just so I can 'wear' those balmy, sun-filled days - even in the midst of February's-multi-layered-clothing-just-because-of-the-gray-chill. Yes winter is coming, but not before the beauty, color, and crunchy leaf walking fall has it's bold and glowing say. There are loves and dislikes to every season.

So summer, the things I'd not attach from your season to my cosy sweater are:
temps so high that sweat runs down the back of the leg and into the crook of the knee, days too busy to get outside and play, fear of the unknown, a month without rain and then weeks full of rain - a little variety is good, saying no to time at camp because other work needed to be done, no time to read good books, rolled ankles that keep jogging at bay, and tiredness that won't go away.

The qualities of summer I would attach to my cosy sweatshirt are: s'more making with white chocolate, having a weed pulling race with my youth group, family adventures in day trips to art parks, reading a few wonderful gems of books, time with new and old friends, hunting for and finding that winery I'd been looking for, floating in Gram's pool and gazing at the puffy clouds in the sky, courage to keep going, a dog that is just as happy with long walks as fast runs, scrabble with twizzlers, and tiredness that finally says 'Uncle' to a good nights sleep in a night just chilly enough for wrapping up in a comforter.

Seasons may come and go, but an attitude of gratefulness and recounting what to be thankful for has the power to warm the heart in all sorts of weather, especially with the right cozy sweatshirt to wear.

Meme Wanted: "___________ " apply here!

2011-08-25T13:25:00.002-05:00

If you could open a newspaper and look in the want ads and find your perfect job, what would it be?

You could choose something you wanted to be when you were little, or what you've wanted to do for a vocation your whole life - please post what it would be and why in the comment section. Go ahead, dream vocationally a little for the fun of it!

Unsqueeze yourself with some help from Margot S.

2011-08-25T11:13:00.008-05:00

This summer my church hosted a women's small book group that turned out to be anything but small! Over four weeks, forty-one women met and discussed Margot Starbuck's book - "Unsqueezed". The group was so popular, that I will be helping folks catch up on the discussion in a fall study group.

Very soon, Margot's third book, "Small things with great love", will be published - and our group will be off and reading something new, challenging and fabulous yet again! In the meantime, we'll be doing some review and looking into the idea of "Doing justice, loving mercy and leaving our pews with the purpose of justice and mercy on our lists of things to do!

If you would be interested in joining our women's fellowship - this is a inter-generational group of women (senior high ladies thru senior ladies!), please email me for times and dates at eastman_tara@yahoo.com

Moving into the harvest

2011-08-23T09:27:00.008-05:00

Isaiah 28: 23-25
23 Listen and hear my voice;
pay attention and hear what I say.
24 When a farmer plows for planting, does he plow continually?
Does he keep on breaking up and working the soil?
25 When he has leveled the surface,
does he not sow caraway and scatter cumin?
Does he not plant wheat in its place,[a]
barley in its plot,[b]
and spelt in its field?

There is an important lesson I've learned this summer about the importance of agriculture. Summer is the growing season that keeps our community and world fed throughout the entire calendar year. For the third summer I've taken part of a farm share program with Roots and Wings Family Farm in Cherry Creek NY. Each summer, a friend and I split the cost and the reward of a farm share and have fresh, local, organic veggies to enjoy from June through October. If you have been a part of this program this year, you'll know that First Lutheran Church of Jamestown has been the local distribution site each Tuesday afternoon. Being a part of this farm share means you partner in the effort of farming (our youth spent a day working at the farm), as well as the challenge and rewards of the work. Community and church members have had a chance to get to know new vegetables and each other. This is an additional harvest of new relationships has been a wonderful development.

Getting better connected to agriculture has given me the opportunity to grow in my own understanding of where food comes from and how small farms like Roots and Wings can feed 30 families throughout the summer. In addition to produce, Roots and Wings also sells organic eggs and better connects the Jamestown city community with a network of other sources of produce and meat products grown locally: berries, corn, beef and more!

I've learned the importance of rain and sun at the right times as well as the challenges of a too wet spring and a very dry starting season. This summer the yield has not been a big due to these extreme conditions, however there still has been a yield of produce to enjoy.

Youth and Family Ministry is something like local farming. The conditions are unpredictable, the season for growing is very busy, the faithful and strong hands needed to care for for the crops are always needed, weeding needs to happen, the sunlight of encouragement and the water of hope need to be applied daily. The time for harvest is not always what you expect, but there always is a unique harvest to be gathered into the storehouse.

The work and efforts in youth and family ministry at FLC this Summer have resulted in a bountiful harvest of spiritual formation, relationship building and faith development: 14 youth attended at least one week of summer camp at Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center, 41 women took part in the "Unsqueezed" Book Club that gathered on four Wednesday evenings this summer, youth and adults took trips to Waldameer, Roots and Wings Farm, JBC Bowling night, Putt-Putt Golf, and had a blast at the Edborg's annual pool party (Thanks Roger and Kay for your hospitality!). Vacation Bible School was a partnership in goods and service with Holy Trinity, Bethel, Immanuel and First Lutheran Churches participating. Due to the additional help of this partnership of 45 volunteers and staff we were able to add a class for 14 pre-school children, lunch for the 54 youth and staff daily and spend a full week learning that, "God is wild about us!" Our VBS also gathered funds to support the Baer Family (local missionaries to Ethiopia), in their efforts to provide chickens for families affected by severe drought this year. Enough money was raised to provide 36 chickens for this "Chicks and kids for Chickens" project. On seven Sunday mornings in June and July, grandparents - parents and youth gathered together for "Family Devotions" and learned new ways to pray, study God's word and share their faith with others.

The harvest of summer 2011 has been a bountiful one indeed, but the harvest is not yet complete. It's important that we remember that this kind of harvest isn't limited to a single growing season like corn or tomatoes. Spiritual growth in youth and families is a kind of farming and work that happens all year round through confirmation classes, Thursday night youth group for middle and high school teens, concerts, service projects, Sunday worship, book clubs, Bible Study, outreach at local middle and high schools, craft nights, and Sunday school classes for all ages. Come be a part of the "farm share" that is youth and family ministry and learn how this harvest feeds others lives and yours as well!

Even breadcrumbs can make a difference

2011-08-13T14:00:00.009-05:00

Matthew 15:25
"But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." He answered, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Then Jesus answered her, "Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed instantly."

It is hard for me to read this account of Jesus. I can't recall him, in any other case seeming to put someone off that needed his help. Some may say it was a test of faith for the woman or that there was more to the background of this relationship that we are not aware of.

It's also hard to read this account if you are feeling "crummy". If your bread box is feeling rather empty, and a person feels they only have crumbs left, how do they keep on keeping on? Recently though, in reading my Sacred Space prayer book, I came to a expository question that helped me to better grasp what might be going on here.

"What Jesus is having a light bulb moment here, and suddenly realizes in a very practical way that he is not only called to minister to people from his own race and background - but to all people from all backgrounds."

It's also hard for me to imagine Jesus not being fully aware of being called to minister to everyone. However, I find it more believable that Jesus' perspective needed to be broadened, instead of him speaking to anyone in need in a dismissive manner.

This lesson shows me - that all us, including Jesus, need to be reminded of a need to have and develop a broader vision for misson with and to all humanity.

The perspective I have is limited and tweaked to the experiences that I have had in the past. My point of view is not whole. In fact my perspective is very much like the breadcrumbs that a mentioned in the reading. How often after thinking I have something all worked out, someone can say "Hey, what about trying this?" and their perspective illuminates a whole new way of seeing things.

When their bread crumb and my bread crumb get together, we have a greater chance of gaining fuller perspective and doing something further reaching than if we reserved our bread crumbs for ourselves. When all our bread crumbs come together, all those gifts, abilities, resources, skills and imagination can make a huge difference to the person needing our help.

Alone, we can think that our impact for good isn't very eventful, but even so that should not keep us from sharing what we have. Together, we can make a greater impact and that impact is one that can become the fulfillment of needs that are powered by broadened vision.

Prayer:
God, help me to be willing to see things from a new, larger perspective. Show me how to partner with others who are also willing to help all people with our many breadcrumbs.

Some days I so feel like this...

2011-08-12T14:56:00.003-05:00

Just call me Eduardo.

Like him, I like potatoes.
I don't on the other hand, I don't like stress.
Stress is Muy stinko!

Five habits of the heart that open and hold people together in community

2011-08-03T09:59:00.004-05:00

Image found at Good Housekeeping.com

The 'Five habits of the heart' are principals discussed in Parker Palmer's book - "A Hidden Wholeness." I'm in the process of working out how these principals can positively effect small group dynamics in communities - specifically church ministry.

1. An understanding that we are all in this together: We are dependent upon and accountable to one another.

2. Have an appreciation of the value of 'otherness': Hospitality affirms the many ways we can receive and learn from the stranger - allowing 'otherness' to enlarge and revitalize our lives.

3. Have the ability to hold tension in live-giving ways: the genius of the human heart lies in its capacity to hold tension in ways that energize and draw us forward, instead of tearing us apart.

4.Hold a sense of personal voice and agency: Educational and religious systems tend to teach us to be an audience to performance rather than participants in a drama - creating a tribe of passive people. There are ways to find one's voice and learn to speak it, and know how it feels to make a difference when one does.

5. Develop a capacity to create/foster community:we must help each other become gardeners of community if we want democracy to flourish. (With the support and encouragement communities can raise up more folks like "Rosa Parks".)

It's Mr. Palmer's perspective that for people to practice and live out these habits it is necessary to provide individuals space for solitude as well as supportive communities to develop these skills.

What habits of the heart do you find more challenging? Which ones seem more natural to you? I feel that these habits are integral to the foundation of healthy systems that will develop and fulfill the needs of the community is is called to serve. May my vision be expanded in the way necessary to help these habits of the heart become functional habits of a healthy communities.

Meme Question to discuss: Music, Art, or Written word?

2011-08-02T09:56:00.004-05:00

Image found at Carla's Blog.
Over time which medium, do you think, has the most impact on the world: music, art or the written word? Please let me know your response to the question in comments. Be sure to add the why as to the reason you choose a specific medium. Feel free to add why a specific medium is particularly impressive to you.

You tube channel

2011-08-01T21:04:00.003-05:00

If you would like to listen to some of my music, I've just updated my You Tube channel with a new EP "Home". If you need the link - here you go... Tara Lamont Eastman @ You Tube "Home"

Home

2011-08-01T16:37:00.007-05:00

Mosaic collage with paper fabric and glue.

Home – by T.L.Eastman July 2011
The waters are choppy, no land in sight.
The sky is dark, no stars tonight.
The fog rolls in and won't go away,
the light of dawn won't come this way.

Home, rest, safe, true - is the place to travel to.
Its water is deep, its grass is green.
It's the place to stand - on this in-between.

One part worry - one part doubt - two parts knowing that change has to come about.

The coast is winding as if a hint to the route,
if only that lighthouse were lit to suit.
Waves are crashing their sound fills my ears.
This letter travels faster through tears.

One part worry - one part doubt - two parts knowing that change has to come about.

There are steps that I need to take, vast as the ocean, this step of faith.
Glimpses of guidance come from the deep -
somehow this message needs to get from my head to my feet.

Home, rest, safe, true - is the place to travel to.
Its water is deep, its grass is green.
It's the place to stand - on this in-between.

One part worry - one part doubt - two parts knowing that change has to come about.

Home, rest, safe, true - is the place to travel to.
Its water is deep, its grass is green.
It's the place to stand - on this in-between.
Home, rest, safe, true.

(Written for Mary, Kim, Paul, Eric and me. PS: The demo track for the song is up on YouTube as I type @ TaraLamontEastman channel- please let me know your comments. Thank you for your investment in my heart.)