May the road rise up to meet you*
And the challenges before you
Be just under what defeats you!
And still may you be assured to
Keep on going in the Presence
Of the Life that gives you living!
May the road rise up to meet you
And your taking be forgiving!
*Old Irish blessing.
—
Written for
#Threethingschallenge #498.
The earth is home to many lives!
They’re seen as “other,” not as one;
We give our love to few besides.
The earth is home to many lives!
The Universe for all provides
Enough to see Its Will be done.
The earth is home to many lives!
They’re seen as “other,” not as one…
—
A Triolet for
#Threethingschallenge #496.
“Sweet Hour of Prayer” was written by William W. Walford, who lived in England from 1772 to 1850.
This hymn is about private prayer, rather than congregational prayer in a church service or other setting. This is deep, intense, personal prayer of petition; thanksgiving; and again, petition, but from a waiting, faithful soul who is aware that God already knows what is needed.
American songwriter, William Bradbury, composed the fitting music for this hymn.
I hope you enjoy this beautiful, contemplative melody on zither!
Winter comes each year
Roughens ground and toughens hearts
For Spring’s opening!
—
Written for
Ronovan Writes #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge 342 ROUGH and Season.
Sweet music is my one true love,
Regardless of the place and time.
It brings me joy and peace sublime,
An earthly gift from Heav’n above.
In strains descending as a dove,
I’m perfect, whole, contented, free!
Sweet music keeps reminding me
To live, to love, to laugh and care;
To be compassionate and share
A love-inspired symphony!
Original Song on Guitar
Poem with Music
Poem with Ukulele Accompaniment
—
Written for
Ronovan Writes Décima Poetry Challenge Prompt No. 42: (CARE) in the D rhyme line.
“Where there’s a will, there is a way!”
But they don’t tell you everything…
The path may be an endless string;
It may be clear, then make a change!
Take heart! Take courage each new day
To find the Will and go that Way!
—
A “way” Quadrille written for
dVerse.
It seems I post these hymns later and later every Sunday! I apologize for this. I do my very best to abide by the International Metaphysical Ministry Ordination Vows and Code of Ethics, which contain a requirement that says (my paraphrase), “I vow not to let my personal struggles and problems interfere with my work.” I have always taken my Ordination Vows and Code of Ethics seriously, and I am deeply committed to the work I’ve chosen. But lately, it’s been extremely difficult! I thank all of you for your patience and continued support!
Today’s hymn is entitled “Praise Him Praise Him!” It was written by the incomparable Fanny (Frances Jane) Crosby in 1869. I sang this in church as a child, but this is the first time I’ve played it. I hope you enjoy listening to this hymn on zither!
I wish each and every one of you peace, health, strength, and above all, both the knowing and feeling that you are loved!
Instruments, silent
While music rings joyfully
In another realm!
—
Written for
Heeding Haiku with Chèvrefeuille: Death Poem,
contemplating my own transition from earth.
Original Song on Ukulele
When I wrote this song 3 years ago, my nephew said, “I’m gonna sing this at your funeral!” It wasn’t as morbid as it might sound. I laughed and felt good, because I want to be remembered fondly!
Light is covered by the veiling,
Never gone, however darkened.
To its calling we must harken,
If we seek a smoother sailing.
Shooting stars with tails a-trailing,
Closer, closer now they shimmer…
Even as the light grows dimmer!
Let us see with mind and spirit!
Heart and soul, be always near it:
Light within forever glimmers!
—
Written for
Ronovan Writes Décima Poetry Challenge Prompt No. 41: (SHIMMER) in the C rhyme line.
Mary Oliver said, “Sometimes the great bones of my life are so heavy.” I really know nothing about her life, only her wonderful poetry. But judging by this quote, she must have known pain, suffering, fatigue, and even simply the common stresses of life in her time. Whichever it was, Mary knew and understood.
Perhaps she put this down on paper for herself, as a catharsis or release. After all, that’s one reason many of us write.
But reaching beyond herself, Mary Oliver’s words are still shared today, reminding us that we are not alone in the pain, suffering, fatigue, and stresses of life we experience.
I am grateful to writers, past and present, who reach out to let us know, in no uncertain terms: You are not alone!
—
My 129-word response to
dVerse Prosery: Bone Weary,
containing this Mary Oliver quote.
It uses the line, but doesn’t really fit the prompt, which requires a story with beginning, middle, and end.
Mystical Strings 
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