4 Real

I found myself frustrated by a cosmetics commercial the other day... even angered. I believe the woman in the commercial is Jessica Alba. She narrates, "Do you know what you want? I do... That's something you should know about me..... What I really want is for my foundation to match my skin tone." Excuse me? THAT's what you really want? Not world peace? inner serenity? an end to poverty? a cure to AIDS, to cancer, etc? Is there NOTHING you want more than makeup that matches your skin?! Let me stop with my rant right here. I said at the beginning that this blog is about things that inspire me or make me laugh. And it is. In contrast to that awful commercial, I present "4 Real."

It's a TV show I've been watching after lunch during my summer holidays. It's a show about several superstar celebrity types who are choosing to shine their spotlight on lesser known individuals who are making a real difference in their communities around the world. A couple of days ago, I watched as Joaquin Phoenix was immersed in the tribal life of a very remote community. He wore the traditional makeup, participated in the local rituals, and learned about how their very young chief has helped them improve their quality of life, and preserve their culture at the same time. Yesterday I watched hardcore rapper/hiphop types dissolve into tears at the testimony of a small child about the extreme difficulties in his life.

While I don't personally know much about rap or hiphop, and don't always recognize these particular celebrities (except for Joaquin), it is inspiring to watch them go into these communities as learners. They really just want to raise awareness in the hopes that others will help, or be inspired to make a difference in their own communities. They are using their fame to try to make the world a better place. And in many cases, their experiences are changing their art, helping them focus on the message they want to portray to people.

I think this show is part of a larger trend that we're seeing where almost every celebrity has a "pet project"... but the fact is that people listen. And I'd much rather learn what I can do to save the rainforest than how to get the perfect foundation colour... Check it out. You can watch episodes on the CTV website by following the link below.

http://www.4real.com/

laugh & learn

Watch the following short commercial from the UK, for an important message delivered with a giggle. :-)

simplicity

Church yesterday was short and sweet, being during summer. There were about a dozen people there, and I was definitely the youngest! Admittedly, I would have probably skipped out if I hadn't had to play piano this week. But I'm glad I didn't.

There is something so refreshing about worshipping with such a small group of people. These are the ones who are truly dedicated - why else would they show up at all on a Sunday morning in July?

There were 4 hymns, a couple of prayers, and a sermon offered by a member of the congregation (not in that order, you understand). Very little of the usual rituals. Very informal. (The worship leader didn't even use a microphone even though the whole "crowd" was at the back of our little church!)

Normally I'm all for a little ritual - within reason. Candlelighting, sung responses, etc... It often helps us focus, get centred, be present in the moment. It also reminds us of where we've come from - the wider church - and the fact that we are a part of something bigger... But sometimes it also allows me to zone out - it becomes such a mindless thing, one of those things I've done so often I don't need to think about it. I often wonder how many people really *think* about The Lord's Prayer as they rattle it off in hushed tones, for example.

Don't get me wrong; I try to make sure my worship is meaningful and that I remember I'm there to connect with God. But often, as the person behind the piano, I get easily distracted with making sure I don't miss my cue and that I'm on the right page. Yesterday was a very nice change of pace. A chance to pay attention. To answer the question, "What *really* counts in worship?" I wouldn't want it like that *every* week (I'd miss the ritual!), but once every month or two might be nice. :-)

I've been waiting for this

I thought I had posted about Sheena Grobb before but apparently not... I have become one of her biggest fans over the past year (helps that she grew up in my hometown and we used to sing in choir together), and I really think she's the next big thing.

I saw her in concert last month and was once again blown away. I was very tired, and tired often equals emotional for me, but I was crying/teary-eyed through about half the concert. She announced that night that she would be releasing a free download of one of her songs and I've been anxiously waiting because it was my favorite song from the night. She's asking people to spread the word so she can get some more publicity about her upcoming album, so check it out!! www.sheenagrobb.com (click on the graphic) Enjoy!

looong overdue

Father's Day came and went a while back, and as with mother's day (only moreso), I am *very* tardy in my recognition of that fact. My dad did get the usual visit, small gift & card, with the appropriate sentiments, and I should say before I go further that I don't do that stuff out of obligation, but out of appreciation. (Hence the not really caring about the specific date of fathers day).

Dad, I think I basically said it all in the card, but for those of you who don't know my dad, here's what's so darn great about him.

1) He's patient. Not to say he never gets angry, but when he finally gets exasperated, it's warranted. ;-)
2) He's musical. Mom is too, but it was Dad that was up there on that stage at all those local talent shows playing guitar so I could sing my little heart out.
3) I'm trying to find the word here... rock solid? steady? grounded? There is just something about his presence in my life that makes me calmer and I think somewhat more grounded myself than I might otherwise be.
4) He's respectful. Perhaps the most significant thing he taught me, without even saying it directly, was that I deserve respect. Again, mom taught me that too, but I think it has a different effect coming from a significant male role model...
5) He is probably the hardest working man I know. And another significant lesson I learned from him was to follow my heart - when I was in high school, he quit his job of 20+ years, and decided to farm full time & run his own business on his terms. I'm sure that wasn't a simple decision to make, but I'm also quite certain it was the right one for him, and I know we all benefitted from a much more relaxed dad that first harvest!
6) He lives his faith. His actions are grounded in his values. I have learned a lot about integrity from my dad.
7) He's a very handy guy to have around.... Installing light fixtures, doing garage renovations, installing flooring... Much like my wish that I had paid more attention in the kitchen with my mom, I wish I had followed my dad around doing those tasks a bit more too!

I could go on and on, but I'm sure even this much has managed to embarrass him... Sorry dad, but I think the whole world should know that my dad really *IS* the greatest dad ever. ;-)

Wicked @ Apollo Victoria theatre in London!!

Three words: I CAN'T WAIT!!!








25 sleeps and counting!!!!!

Mom(s)

So Mother's day, in case you missed it, was last week. And I have been fully intending to post about my mom since then, but it's been *slightly* busy, and besides, I went and visited my mom that day, and I know that between that and the sappy card I gave her, she really doesn't need this post. But I do.

First, let me give a shout out to all the women who have had mothering influences in my life - my grandmas, my aunties, Diane G, Carol B, Leona N, Shauna H, Leanne D, Cathy C, Marge A, and Myrna W. I carry with me a sense of having a super-huge extended family everywhere I go because of these ladies, and I love you all for different reasons!

But on to my mom. She's, quite simply, the best. Part of the reason it's taken me so long to post this, is that I wanted to get my lists complete. I finally realized they never will be, so here's the partial list:

Things I plan to do for my kids, just like my mom did (and does)for me:
1) Unconditional love, of course...and hugs in abundance.
2) Demonstrate affection towards their dad, in front of them.
3) Chats (serious or otherwise) at the kitchen table over a cup of tea.
4) Stand back and let my kids learn from their own mistakes and choices.
5) Make a point of family meals together as a chance to connect with each other.
6) Call regularly to chat/update even when there's nothing new.
7) Stay involved in my community, and provide leadership and vision. I'm only just beginning to realize what a profound impact that has had on my life.
8) Show my own mom the love and respect that she deserves.

Reasons I know my mom loves me:
1) A couple of times in my university days, she sent me little cards in the mail that were expressly so I'd get something that wasn't a bill. (I still have one of those notes tucked away somewhere.)
2) She calls at least once a week, but knows if I don't call, it's likely because things are pretty good with me.
3) Every time I've changed addresses, the blessed woman has cleaned the old place (including vacuuming cat hair) and helped me clean the new place too, while the rest of us have loaded boxes. She also came over last summer to help paint, and install my new flooring.
4) She keeps track of all my friends, their spouses, and their kids (or tries to - and does very well!)
5) She stayed home with us when we were kids, until we were all in school, and then worked just a few days a week outside of the home. This meant a lot of sacrifices on her part (and my dad's), but it meant the world to us.
6) I know she will come and look after me any time, if things are bad, and I just ask.
7) She worries about me (and my brothers)... a lot. But never in an overbearing way. :-)
8) She never complains, no matter how many pairs of pants I bring home to have shortened...but she does try to teach me how to do it myself. :-)

Classic Mom Moments:
(some of these moments happen all the time, and some are one-time-only things that I remember her saying)
1) "Every child needs to have somebody that's crazy about them."
2) "I trust you until I have a reason not to... then... LOOK OUT."
3) "It's your decision.... but you know what I think." ;-)
4) "You know, a solid relationship needs to be based on more than just having a lot in common."
5) "You can marry whoever you want, wherever you want, whenever you want. I won't interfere. As long as I have a front row seat."
6) "Have fun, behave yourself, and sweetie... Drive carefully."

So there it is, just a partial list of the reasons my mom really is the best. I am so SO blessed. Happy belated mothers day everyone!!