Learning how to deal with what I can't control . . .

Since March, when Covid-19 reared its ugly head in a way that began to change all of our lives, things started to get a little difficult for me. 

I am a "flaming" extrovert.  Staying at home, even on my Friday day off, was (and is still) a challenge unless I had a long and daunting to-do list that would keep me focused and busy.  In the past 5 months of our current Covid-19 reality, I've been working from home quite a bit.  I have a wonderful home study with lots of electronic do-dads to help me accomplish all that I need and want to do. 

And yet, this has been a very difficult time for me, especially mentally.  I'm an extrovert. I need people.  Phone calls help.  But I miss in-person worship and Wednesday evening children and youth ministries. I miss one-on-one counseling. I miss appointments.  I miss singing to senior citizens at the Senior Center and retirement home. I also miss being able to safely go camping in our camper. 

Needless to say, in early June, I began to get a little depressed, discouraged . . . and whiny.  I whine when I get depressed. I was spiraling into an emotional place I didn't really want to go. 

I have written for years that I truthfully know that I do not have as much control over life as most people wish. In the grand scheme of things, I can only control if I react emotionally to something (and often regret doing so) or that I can instead respond out of faith / reason (which in my experience is pretty much the best choice all the time!)

Issue #1 for me . . . was to acknowledge that I wasn't in control.  Covid-19 is in control right now.  My only choices are . . . react emotionally, or respond out of faith / reason.  To help me better deal with this, I began to read up on stoicism.  After all, I minored in philosophy in college.  Stoicism has had it's place in my life for many years.  But a deeper dive was needed to rediscover its' merits. 

Ryan Holiday, noted contemporary author, has embraced stoicism. He has a YouTube channel called the "Daily Stoic."   Below is one of the videos from that channel which helped me begin to think about things in a new more reasoned way. 

For those wondering if I am abandoning the Christian faith for philosophy . . . No, I'm not, so please don't go there.  In my personal life experience, the philosophical study of reason has almost always benefited my Christian faith in some form or fashion, with results that I often didn't expect.  The appreciation of reason aids my daily Christian walk. 

At the heart of Stoicism is the quote by Marcus Aurelius, "You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this and you will find strength."  If you are struggling right how with a lack of "control" over everything going on in your life, then check out "Stoicism Quotes" on Pinterest with focus on Seneca and Marcus Aurelius.  Or, check out some of Ryan Holiday's videos.  

Perhaps it will help you better respond to life, especially about how to live in a Covid-19 world. 

The YouTube link to Ryan's video is here, or at https://youtu.be/g0lmSRCSGIU\

Galls Lawpro Black Leather Notebook in Basketweave

Call me crazy, but I have always had a fondness for pocket notebooks, especially the top bound ones.  I used top bound spiral memo books during my law enforcement days.  I put all my accident and criminal investigation notes and to-do's in those little 3"x5" memo books.  They were indispensable especially when testifying in court, which I had to do a few times in the course of my career.  A fellow officer made my first leather memo book cover.  I've had it since the 1980's and it didn't quite fit the good quality memo books, like Cambridge brand, because the wire spiral is a little wider diameter.  

I had some time on my hands the other day and started looking on the internet.  In past searches I had come across the Galls website. They are a law enforcement / 1st Responder supply company.  They had the Lawpro Black Leather Notebook in basketweave on sale for $18.00, so I placed an order.  I would have gladly carried this notebook cover when I was a police officer.  It's a classic. 

It holds the better quality memo books with the larger wire spiral.  It is sturdy enough for back pocket work, and easily fits in a front shirt pocket or inner sport coat pocket. 

Total cost was $31 and some pennies with shipping and tax.   That may be high for some, but it arrived in about 3 days from the time I placed my order.  That was certainly sooner than I expected. 

Anyone looking for an old fashioned, well-made top bound memo book holder can't go wrong with the Law Pro black leather in basketweave. 

Rick ><>

Some thoughts on using some extra time each week . . .

One aspect of a pastor's life during this Covid-19 season is attention to correct focus. 

The truth is, I'm not as busy as I would usually be if we were still living in a pre-Covid-19 world.  Usually up to half of each day I worked was engaged in one-on-one relationship building. 

At least once a week, I visited and spoke at length with different businesses owners who operate stores on the City Square.  Visits to the library, at least two restaurants a week . . . not to mention visitation in homes or at the hospital.  I usually was able to engage in a couple of meetings a week, either in the community or at the church. 

Today, I spend most of my time at a desk, at home or in my church office.  Visitation has been replaced with phone calls and text messages.  I took a bit of a risk and broadcast my cell number so our senior adults would have it, especially those who do not own home computers or smart phones.  Surprisingly, we mail out 40 weekly newsletters and email another 90.  The 40 we mail are folks who do not have an email address. 

Another minor issue is my cell number is a different area code than the one here locally.  It is amazing how many times I call someone on my cell phone, and get no answer, and then I call using the church phone and they pick up right away!  Such is life in the country. Interesting fact, the folks without email addresses or computers are feeling a bit left out, and I can completely understand how that can happen. 

All in all . . . my week still progresses pretty normally, except for some extra time on my hands now and then.  

Let's see, how to spend extra time when you can't really travel anywhere and your doctor tells you to not get out in public much?

Reading . . . reading is an essential element in every pastor's life.  A pastor has to read.  Our minds needs to be expanding, and reading the books that others have written provide for this.  I've been reading several books on spiritual formation, a great pictorial book about Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, a book on the true meaning of Gospel, a book about starting over in your 60's, and a re-read of The Bullet Journal Method.  

Sabbath . . . most pastors do not practice Sabbath the way it was biblically intended.  However, Sabbath is something you can experience in a wide variety of ways.  My newest enjoyment of Sabbath . . . taking a nap, especially on Friday and Saturday.

Gardening . . . my wife and I have a small raised bed garden, with actual raised beds on legs and about a dozen five gallon buckets and three whiskey barrels.  We've harvested and eaten squash, zucchini, okra, green beans, black-eyed peas, banana peppers, garlic . . . there are 3 eggplant almost ready for picking.  It is a great feeling to produce from "farm to table."   Everything has been quite tasty!

List-making / project planning . . . I built myself a 4'x8' workbench in our garage, and have built a garden bench and a small end-table for the back porch.  I have a list of some things I want to try and build, as well as some things I need to repair or retool.  I have a plan to reorganize my tool closet, and a plan to rearrange the garage . . . all in due time, and when it's a little cooler. 

Time is so precious . . . and keeping active is just as important.  I fear that some people are not dealing with time as well as others in this Covid-19 world.  I expect to hear "I'm bored" from kids, and from teens. However, I don't expect to hear it from adults.  Surprise surprise!  I've heard some adults complaining about being bored . . . and they haven't asked me for my advice.  I wonder if they are bored, or just not happy about things not going like they want them to.  

Perhaps in the end, it's all about coping skill???

Rick ><>

 

Goodbye Charlie Daniels & Stu Spencer

I read today about the passing of Country and Rock music superstar, Charlie Daniels. Charlie was 83 and died from a form of a stroke.  Charlie was a talented multi-instrumentalist and singer.  He has been a constant in my life since the late 1970's.  His career lasted 60 years!  He will be missed.

Yesterday, my friend and former band mate (1st Church Guitars) Stu Spencer passed away after a battle with cancer.  Stu was our banjo player, guitar player, and occasional drummer when we had access to drums.  I remember when he started taking bluegrass banjo lessons.  He took it seriously.  I also remember the first time I called him out during a song to do a solo.  He played it pretty well, looking daggers at me the entire time. 

Stu was actually one of our band co-managers until his health began to diminish his playing ability.  It only slowed his ability down a bit, he could still hang with us.  But he was uncomfortable, so he gradually retired from our band, joining us on "good days."

I officiated Stu's wedding to his wife, Susan, over 10 years ago.  Susan was very good to, and for, Stu.  They settled in the Nocona, TX area and I understand that Stu finally got to build his dream house on the land that he loved so much. 

So, goodbye Charlie . . . and goodbye Stu.  I'll probably attend the celebration of Stu's life, but it will have to wait until Covid-19 settles down, whenever that will be.  I officiated Stu's wedding, the least I can do is help him into his final resting place.  The least we can do sing one final song for him. 

Rick ><>

I Miss My Audience . . .

Ever loved something so much, and later find out why?  That happened to me recently. 

I have been a certified therapeutic music entertainer since 2011.   I have sung in nursing homes and senior  centers on a regular weekly or monthly basis since 2005.  

Due to Covid-19, I haven't performed musically since February 2020.  Stupid Covid-19.

I haven't been playing much guitar either this past 3 months.  I pick one up most every day, but only play for a few minutes then put it back on the rack or back in its' case.  

Not having an audience to sing to, to engage with, is hitting pretty hard.  I love to perform.  I love to get people singing.  I've confessed that I am not the greatest singer or guitar player.  I'm probably in the "dime -a-dozen" category regarding both.  However, I can get other people to sing!  Call it a gift. I've been a song leader in several churches and for several groups.  I was the featured singer in a band for almost 10 years, because I could get the others in the band to sing with me, as well as people in the audience. 

And now, I don't have an audience.  Well, more specifically . . . I don't have a live audience. 

I guess this can all relate to my being a preacher as well.  I truly miss the engagement of the people in the congregation when I preach.  Preaching to a camera is not the same. 

I'm in a spot of sorts.  I need to work through this.  The other day I decided to sell all my guitars.  I quickly gave my self a symbolic "slap-in-the-face" and sternly told my inner child to "get-a-hold-of-yourself."

Yep . . . I need to process this, and I need to do it now. 

Too mask or not to mask . . .

Please, for the sake of yourself, and everyone else . . . put on a mask!  You are protecting yourself as well as those around you.  

Our Governor just made masks mandatory when people are in public.   I may reconsider my recent decision to not vote for him again. 

Rick ><>

Can we have a tater tot?

This is what happens when you say "I'm full!" but there are still tater tots left on your plate! 

In Praise of the Ukulele!

Seriously . . . (well for the moment) . . . 

Is there anything that sounds happier than a baritone ukulele strung up with strings that will let it be tuned to the same notes as a tenor ukulele?

I don't think so!!  Playing the ukulele has been a delight during these past 3 months of Covid-19 related stuff.   

Learn to play ukulele.  You may begin to understand that playing the ukulele broadens your understanding of happiness!

Lessons learned while pastoring in a pandemic . . .

I've learned a couple of lessons about pastoring in a pandemic.

First lesson . . . pray the Serenity Prayer E-V-E-R-Y S-I-N-G-L-E D-A-Y!!!!   

Pray it several times a day. 

For those who don't know the prayer, it is attributed to the late Theologian, Riehold  Niebur. 

God, grant me the SERENITY to accept the thinks I cannot change; COURAGE to change the things I can, and WISDOM to know the difference.  Amen. 

This is one of those profound prayers that seems to hit-the-spot, so to speak, whenever you pray it.  I don't pray it enough. 

Lesson learned!

Second lesson . . . don't forget to to let the leaders of your church lead!!!!

I was recently "lovingly" (translated, taken to the woodshed) about this by one of the leaders of the church I pastor.  Her most loving comment, "You don't have to do everything."

Of course she was right, and I thanked her for caring enough about me to bring the matter up.  We had a good talk, and I actually felt better than I did when I started the day.  

That's what happens sometimes when you let go of a weight that you didn't know your were carrying. 

Lesson learned!

In my humble opinion, 

Rick ><>

The Overnight Change in the "Environment" of Ministry

So much has changed. 

So fast, almost overnight in so many ways. 

Since the 2nd week of March, I have probably worked, or even been inside, my office at the church for less than 20 hours total.  I'm being generous . . . it may actually be closer to 10 hours.  Other than Sunday mornings for a couple or hours, when we prep for and then do our live stream service, I've not been in a pretty good sized multi-building complex that I am responsible for whether I'm there or not. 

Since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak, I've done what many have done.  I moved my actual work space to my home.  The front formal living room is now a "command center" of sorts, and the honest truth is that I am getting so much more work done here than I do at my office at the church.  Fewer interruptions at home.  Makes sense.  

My desk is now a working video station with two computer screens, a Blue Yeti USB mic, notepads, note books and my usual array of 3x5 and 4x6 index cards.

Seriously, how to people live without index cards?

My old computer desk is behind me and its covered in books and notes and project folders.  I have two guitars at the ready near the desk and two ukuleles, which I am playing more than the guitars because I can reach them without getting up from my office chair.  I have a 3-light lamp stand in front of my desk so that I have adequate light for live streaming.  

On the floor by my computer desk is a workbag filled with all the stuff I need to enable my iPad Air to be my "everything" when it comes to live-streaming worship or interviews on the go.  My camera bag is against the wall by the ukuleles.  A new micro HDMI to HDMI cable will be here tomorrow, and I've ordered a new video capture device that is still hopefully in stock.  In other words, the camera is getting ready to go to work, and be a new part of my everyday carry. 

I know that many clergy colleagues who might read this can relate.  You are working more from home, doing things more digitally than ever before.  If you are like me, an old dog who still likes to eat, you've fast-paced the learning curve on all the new digital stuff you choose not to embrace in the past.  It's good to know that I have gotten good and most of it.  I initially feared that I couldn't get up to speed fast enough.  I pretty much got up-to-speed overnight.  Thank you Amazon for improving your delivery times after the initial Covid-19 rush. 

I was trained, and it is still my preference, to do ministry as much as possible face-to-face.  Kind of hard to do today, since two of my doctors keep reminding me that I'm in the "at risk" category health wise.  As one of my doctors said, "Rick, you really DON'T want to catch Covid." 

Point taken.  

So, I am wearing a mask everywhere I go.  Often I'm one of the only ones with a mask on. 

As tall as I am (6'6") a lot of people that know me will still recognize me even if I'm wearing a mask. 

I'm texting people more than I have in the past.  I'm talking to staff, teaching and counseling people using Zoom. 

Question, why is it that people will share really personal stuff on line, but now so much in person?  

I'm reading more than I have in the past, and taking more classes.  I didn't know that N. T. Wright has online classes now . . . O saints be blessed!!  So does Richard Rohr and other teachers whose books I read. 

Funny thing . . . I know in the near future that I will have to start having regular office hours again.  I may have to move a few things from my home office to my work office.  But I do get the impressions that folks are not going to come by as much as in the past.  People are still worried about "being safe" where ever they go.  

As far as the new normal . . . I actually believe that the new normal is perhaps 1-2 years away.   Agility, which I've never been accused of being an expert of, or blessed with, is going to be the primary quality of all pastors who move on to achieve some success.  Anyway, I've learned that it's hard to go back to normal when normal doesn't exist anymore.

The future is unkind to those who are unprepared.  This has been a constant truth for centuries, and evidenced throughout history.  The best thing a leader can do is prepare . . . and learn new things, read great books, spend time in deep devotional practice . . . and adapt to a new working environment that changes as / when it needs too.

In my humble opinion, that is . . . 

Rick ><>

A Special Performance of "Rainbow Connection" from Kermit the Frog | The...

Sometimes soul-care comes from watching the Muppet's Movie.

Rick ><>

Weeks #4-5-6 of Being a Pastor in a Pandemic

A few more comments about life as a pastor in a pandemic.  Any notes of sarcasm are due to occasional feelings of being overwhelmed, which are pretty evenly balanced with bursts of creative thought that I had accepted were gone in my life. 

#1) I am enjoying staying in far more regular contact with other clergy in my District and Annual Conference.  Our district clergy meet weekly on Monday at 10 AM.  We used to have a couple of meetings a year, and one of the those was Annual Conference (yearly gathering of clergy and church reps).  It's been fun to share ideas as well as concerns. I find there are things I have not thought about, that others have, and vice-versa.

#2) Has anybody else made note that there is one particular business that is thriving in many communities, whose business model had them prepared to continue service during the Covid-19 crisis?  Sonic Drive-In.  Yep, my local Sonic.  Social / physical distancing has been practiced for years by Sonic.  Cars and trucks parked separate from one another.  The Sonic app gives you the ability to make an order, and never have to touch the "red button" to talk to anyone.  The order comes out in a bag, or drink carrier, and the car-hops seem to really be trying to reduce their handling of your order. 

I have to wonder, are there churches whose "business model" had them prepared to achieve success during a pandemic?  I know that a pandemic was way off the radar for probably all churches.  However, churches who were forward thinking enough to embrace technology knowing that younger generations favored communicating in new ways are ahead of other churches. 

#3)  Along those lines, and I've mentioned this before, I am still regretting not having focused in the past on learning more about social media and the technology available to support using it constructively.  There have been some great webinars on-line from various groups reaching out to "old dogs" like me with info about how to get up-to-speed, at least in becoming basically proficient.  Those hosting the webinars have been instructive and encouraging.  I plan to watch more of them, and perhaps pay out $$ to delve in some deeper learning.  Check out the Fresh Expression US, and Missio Alliance for info.  There are others offering good webinars as well.

#4) There are some younger clergy out there who are being very creative in addressing on-line worship.  I am glad they answered their calls to ministry.  Two in particular who I enjoy watching and talking to are Lance Marshall at FUMC-Fort Worth and Grant Palma at FUMC-Grapevine.  There are others, and we should share examples of their creative success.

#5) I am slowly coming to understand that what happens next, as we plan the appropriate stages that will help us open churches back up, is NOT a re-start.  I repeat, it will NOT be a re-start!

It will be a RE-SET! 

I find myself challenged several times a day to move toward and embrace an understanding that how I have "done" ministry for 30 years is not how I will "do" ministry in the time I have left to serve before retirement becomes a possibility again.  The two churches I am privileged to serve are going to be the same in some ways, and thats the good, or bad, thing about rural churches, and towns where community is value #1.  But, these churches will become different in other ways, especially in our understanding that our outreach is such broader that we ever anticipated because of social media, and live-streaming our service on Facebook, or posting them on-line.  We will be re-setting our course for the future, and we no doubt will be making many course corrections along the way.

#6) I wish I had a road-map for the future.  Mercy, I wish I had a roadmap for next week!  For those of us trying to find something real in all this . . . the reality is that the future that lies ahead of us is truly uncharted, an it will constantly evolve and change, probably at a faster pace than we want, or are accustomed to.  I am a settler who has to become a pioneer.  My skill set is probably that of a settler.  Skill set or not . . . it's time to start looking and wondering what is on the other side of the mountain we are facing.

#7) This may, probably will, sound like heresy . . . but I wonder about everything the church can accomplish in the future . . . and I wonder if our becoming LESS religious will be the key to our success.  What I mean by "religious" is our believing that certain things can only be done a certain way.  I believe we stand at the crossroads of a new day, where people who are pondering life as a Christian, where attending church is not as important as being taught different ways to pray, embracing spiritual disciplines individually and with friends, and how to witness their faith in mission to others. 

Time to roll up our sleeves and get dirty.  All of this offered in my humble opinion,

Rick ><>

Week #3 of Being a Pastor During a Pandemic . . .

I have come to the conclusion that I can't pastor the "future church" unless I made three decisions:
1) I decided that an old dog (me) can learn new tricks if I want to keep being able to eat.
2) I decided that I am NOT going to ride the Coronavirus wave and, once this is all over, just go back to the way we always did church.
3) I decided to be proactive, going forward with the understanding / belief that we are entering into a new normal. So many things I have taken for granted as a pastor . . . are gone, either for the immediate time to come, or forever.
I'm watching as many webinars for pastors, as long as they make sense, that I can. . . unfortunately, some of them are all saying the same thing, and interviewing the same people. I have little time for that. The better webinars, in my opinion so far, include:
1) Those hosted by Fresh Expressions US. They have established free "think tanks" to share ideas on-line. The content of the webinars is quality, and I've been taking lots of notes.
2) Webinars about the CARES Act. Apparently, churches may qualify for payroll and utility payment help as a not-for-profit business. I want to learn as much as I can a about this, just in case.
It feels like I am taking a crash course with lots of trial and error regarding social platforms like Facebook Live and Zoom. This afternoon I am inviting a few friends and staff to join me on a trial run Zoom meeting so I won't embarrass myself too badly when we begin using Zoom weekly for church meetings and studies.
I've also learned that when I post anything on the Facebook pages of the two churches I serve, it needs to be good quality content. I'm learning to write out a few notes to follow, especially when videoing myself, so that I don't wander or chase rabbits, which I happen to be an expert at.
I'm also learning that you need to post daily! Yep, every single day. Articles for families, devotionals, video announcements and invitations, updates . . . as well as other things that I'm sure I will learn about in the very near future.
Finally, I have rediscovered the telephone and what it means to call people who DO NOT have the internet or a smart phone. I know it's a risk, but I've "given away" my phone number so that folks can call me. A text message will work for some people, but for those who are really lonely, especially those who have been told/ordered by their adult children to "stay inside," a hearing a live human voice means so much.
I am glad that I have, for many years, believed the concept of "L3", or Life-Long-Learning. What I am having to learn, just on a novice level . . . is a bit overwhelming.
Is all this painful . . . YES. Will it all be worth it. ABSOLUTELY!
Rick ><>

Week #2 of Bing a Pastor During a Pandemic . . .

I wrote this late last week on my personal Facebook page. I wanted to share it here as well
1) I've pretty much been sitting full-time behind a desk looking at a computer screen reading emails and articles on how to pastor during a pandemic. So far I've "attended" 4 webinars on the subject hosted by Fresh Expressions US, Mission Alliance, and other groups. All of them good . . . and all of them suggesting the same thing . . . We are at a strange and difficult place . . . and what we all share in common is that we are all facing a future that we cannot map out. I agree with this 100%. The other thing they all mentioned . . . give yourself permission to fail. When I played baseball years ago, I was always the clean-up hitter. I was the power hitter, the home run guy. I tried to hit a home run every time I stepped to the plate. Now, the game is totally different, and we will be making up the rules as we go. We might as well embrace, now, that the rules will constantly be changing. We will learn from the failures and successes of each new attempt we take to reach out to people longing for connection during this time, and in the days afterwards.
2) I've been recording videos for Facebook pages for the Comanche and Gustine churches. Doing so is a bit terrifying. I just placed an order for new some sound / video equipment from Amazon to help do this better. Big learning curve ahead. Why didn't I embrace learning how to do this years ago? Because there was always someone who could do it for me. Not anymore. Sure glad I got my iPad Air last year. I'm learning how awesome it is . . . and I'm learning how social media can be used for good.
3) I'm reading the Bible and praying every day. I've been praying hard for myself and all of the clergy I know that we can be witnesses of peace, and examples of how to successfully live out lives of faith somewhere between cautious wisdom and anxious fear (worry). I've written over 70 pages in my Bullet Journal. I've been writing a lot on the computer as well. And I've written about 25 pages in my devotional notebook. I threw away a Pilot G-2 yesterday. I used up all the ink in it.
4) I find that I am honestly missing Mr. Rogers. Yeah, I'll admit it. Fred Rogers is one of my heroes. I've been reading a great book titled "A Visual History of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood". I've been praying a lot that Mr. Rogers would channel himself and speak through me every time I open my mouth these days. Mr. Rogers, I truly miss you. I'm trying really hard to be a good neighbor. And, when I'm scared or worried, I am trying to look for the helpers. If you watched Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, you get that.
5) I've been on the phone a lot. Not checking the internet. Not checking email. Not texting . . . but talking to people by phone. There are a lot of lonely people right now, who don't have the internet or a smart phone for various personal or financial reasons. But then, there have always been a lot of lonely people. Now, it seems I have the time to realize it more. The cell phone can reach out to more people than Facebook can, but it takes a lot more effort.
6) And . . . I've been hearing the stories of people who cannot GO to church sharing how they are trying hard to BE the church. I am so proud of everyone associated with our churches in Comanche and Gustine. They are trying to take care of themselves, but they are also working hard at loving their neighbors.
I'm a proud pastor of some great people!
7) Finally, I think we are living in a time when we all have the opportunity to reorient our lives away from distractions, and learn once again to focus on really important things, that truly matter and bless our lives more than greed or possessions . . . family, friends and faith. Offered out of my humble opinion . . .

Rick ><>

It seems that I am a new new live-stream preacher these days because of suspending worship services due to the Covid-19/Coronavirus crisis.  Radical Social / Physical Distancing is the new buzz word these days.  However, distancing from us is something that God will not do!

I haven't posted too many videos on this blog, but thought some might be encouraged by it.

Blessings in these days of trial.  A new reality is upon us!  God is still with us through it all!

Rick ><>

Rick Mang: Minister of Encouragement

Earlier today, I posted a blog that was a copy of the devotional I wrote this morning on Facebook for the two churches I pastor.

I used the term "Ministry of Encouragement."   For the past several years, I have sensed that my entering into a focused ministry of encouragement was my next call in life.  I've spent a lot of time thinking about it and wondering what it could, and would, look like.

Now, as we find ourselves immersed in the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic/crisis, it has become more clear, especially as our best course of action to defeat the virus seems to be radical social distancing, that my intentional and purposeful focus on encouraging others is what I am supposed to do.

So, as I have time, I hope to post articles about encouragement on the several Facebook platforms that I manage, as well as this humble blog.

If you have any suggestions for topics or approached, or if you have a story of encouragement to share, please let me know.

Here I am Lord . . . use me!

n my humble opinion . . . 

It is certainly a unique time in my life to be walking my personal Lenten season journey in preparation for Easter, while at the same time serving as a spiritual leader in two rural communities that are attempting to coordinate appropriate responses to the current coronavirus situation. 

My prayer this morning was that I would choose to not react emotionally to what's going on out of fear . . . but instead choose to respond out of my faith. I try to pray that prayer every day, and have for many years. Doing so has probably kept me from doing some things that I would most certainly have lived to regret.

My prayer this morning also included something that Adam Hamilton suggests in his book, "The Walk: 5 Essential Practices of the Christian Life." I ended my prayer with "Lord, here I am, use me."

Perhaps what many of us, who profess to be disciples of Jesus Christ, need to focus on today is to overcome the honest emotions stirring within us (fueled mostly by uncertainty), and instead choose to respond to where we find ourselves today out of faith. 

One way we can respond, and be used by God in service to others, is to step forward to become ministers of encouragement.. If there was ever a time to make the effort to compliment others, it is now. It there was ever a time to tell the people in your life, "I appreciate you!' it is now. I believe that when we offer encouragement, we are letting people, who might be having a bad day, know that God has not forgotten them.

We need people who will pray "here I am Lord, us me". We need those same people to step forward as ministers of encouragement in service to others. Doing so, in trying and uncertain times like these, is most certainly choosing to respond out of faith.

"The Servant Leader": Another book from my "This book changed my life" bookshelf . . .

(Pardon the change, but I choose to rewrite this post today (2/5/2020) . . . I felt the need to be a bit more transparent. Enjoy!)
It's common knowledge, to many who know me, that I am a "peace" guy. I try my best and work hard at being able to understand and speak to those on all sides of an argument, belief or position.  
That's not the way I used to be. In my earlier years, I used to be very opinionated and argumentative, especially if I believed or thought I was right. If you didn't believe like I did, then you were, in simple terms, on the "other side of the issue." Loosely translated, you were my enemy. Your being my enemy excused me from having, or feeling obliged, to treat you like I treated those who were on my side (meaning those who had accepted me into their group). You were to be dismissed, devalued, and not ever defended. 
I am ashamed to admit that at that point in my life, I needed, for some reason, to believe that warped kind of thinking. Looking back, I believe it more about having low self-esteem and the need to be accepted by a group . . . any group.  
I quit believing and living like I had on the day when I engaged in an emotional/spiritual assessment exerice. In that exercise, I was asked to symbolically look behind me. In doing so, I began to see all of the people that I'd left wounded and hurt on the side of the road who didn't think or believe like I did. As I saw each face, my heart broke into hundreds of pieces as the awareness of the pain I had caused others began to swell inside of me like some emotional/spiritual tidal wave. The experience caused me to actually slump into a chair as I put my head between my hands and rocked back and forth as each wave of realization crashed upon me. 
I wonder what hurts worse . . . hurting someone else, or the realization about what you've done?
Part of the pain was coming to realize that I wasn't raised to treat other people like that. I was raised to be a bridge builder, not a bridge burner! I was taught by loving family, teachers, coaches and pastors that there was never any kind of justification, ever, for causing harm. I remember thinking, and perhaps crying out . . . "I'm not a bridge burner! I am not a bridge burner! I am a better man than that." I just had to be a better man than that.  
Another great influence that helped me decide to live differently was a book that was gifted to me by the late Paul J. Meyer of Waco, TX. 16 years later, I still encourage people, especially those who do lead others, or who want to lead others, to read this book. The authors are Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges. The title of the book is: "The Servant Leader: Transforming Your Heart, Head, Hands and Habits." The central premise of the book is this, that one can never see or understand themselves as servant leaders (modeling Christ's example of leadership) and communicate with others who "are different" until one finally come to grip with two things: your pride, and your fears. 
The horrible thing about pride and fears (well, my pride and fears) . . . they mix like oil and water . . . in other words, not very well. 
In the rural setting I am humbled to serve in, I've discovered that even though I'm the pastor of a local United Methodist congregation (I actually pastor 2 churches) I'm also a "village chaplain". I'm approached and receive calls and inquiries from all sorts of people. What a humble privilege it is to be a pastor to all kinds of people . . . God's children every one. I believe I am approached, more often than not, because people know that I try to live out my life and faith as a servant, and that I strive to be a person of peace as often as I can.  
Those of us who are privileged to lead others . . . may we give strong consideration of the blessing and benefits, to ourselves and to others, when we try to be servant leaders. Our world desperately needs servant leaders.

Sweetwater.com

I would like to offer a shout out to the folks at Sweetwater.com.

I recently ordered several sets of strings.  I called in by phone to place my order, and things could not have gone more smoothly.  I even got a new set of strings for my Guild Jumbo 12-string.

Price wise, I know I saved around $10-15 total, and the price of gas needed to drive to Guitar Center in Fort Worth or Waco.   That would be an over 4+ hour round-trip not counting shopping time.  Ordering from Sweetwater by phone took maybe 10 minutes. 

Ordering online or by phone makes more sense now that we live in Comanche County, TX.   The folks at Sweetwater.com really came through.

"Draplin Design Co. - Pretty much Everything": Another book from my "This book changed my life" bookshelf . . .

Well, I guess I'd better be clear that the book I am writing about now hasn't necessarily changed my life . . . but it is a great book that I have enjoyed reading every year since I received it as a Christmas gift about 4 years ago.

First, a confession . . . I am a very private behind-closed-doors "in my own mind" artist.  Past criticisms (that still hurt today) kept me from drawing. I enjoyed mechanical drafting back in my Junior High days. In fact, I remember that I usually made the best grades in the class, and was one only two students in the class who got to make mechanical drawings with a real ink fountain pen (oh, did anyone else just shudder with pleasure when you read that . . . I did)!  Give me a sharp pencil, drawing or graph paper, and a ruler, t-square or curved angle template, and I am a happy man.  

I never pursued drawing because everyone else, except for my teacher, though my drawings were crap. Back when I was younger, I actually through a lot about becoming an architect, but I was, admittedly, very weak in math.  I was also in the habit in those days of letting myself be afraid of what other people thought about me and my ideas.  I guess I was abnormally self-conscious.  A teenager thing. I mean, I was young, and I liked eating.  So when my dad asked why I wanted a ream of graph paper for my birthday, I told him . . . and was told that I would never become an architect.  He said the same thing about my playing guitar. 

So, for years, I have privately enjoyed drawing little plans for wood projects, remodeling ideas, and other such stuff that very few have ever seen.  I have a small collection of rulers and such that I keep in a special place in my desk. And, on occasion, I have tried to draw a logo or two.   

I like logo's.  Some of them, like the logo's on railroad cars, the logo for Bell Telephone, seed company and farm implement logo's, the Boy Scouts of America logo, the numbered logo's that television stations use, Buck and Case pocket knife logo's.  I mean, is this stuff awesome or what, right? 

Well, I think so.

In my own personal context . . . the cross and flame logo for the United Methodist Church . . . has such meaning for me.  I gave my professional life to the UMC . . . and that logo has been the primary symbol representing every church I've served in 30+ years. 

Back to the book I want to encourage you to read, and which resides on my special bookshelf.  Draplin Design Co. Pretty Much Everything by Aaron James Draplin. 

Aaron is a graphic designer who grew up in Michigan and now resides and works in Portland, Oregon.  He is the creator of many logo's for various brands and organizations.  He is the inventor of Field Notes (fieldnotesbrand.com) which is the small pocket memo book that I am so fond of. 

The book is his story from childhood to where he is today.  He is an individualist and one-of-a-kind if there ever was one.  He does't have many filters language wise, but he writes and talks from his heart and his passion for the work that has blessed and enriched his life, family, clients and others.  

Warning!   Some of you will not like Aaron.  He will be way too over-the-top for some.  He has a strong present on Twitter and on YouTube, where you will find mostly videos about his various teaching and speaking tours.  He writes like he talks. He is brutally honest, from his own perspective, and yet very sincere.  You will clearly understand where he stands and where he is coming from. You will also realize quickly that he cares for family, friends, working hard, and making a difference in the lives of people.

The US price for the book was $40 a few years ago.  I am considering buying a second copy.  

Confession #2 . . . I probably live a little "vicariously" through Aaron's life.  I am happy and secure in who I am, and in my talents and gifts.  But every so often, one wonders about what could have been.  Probably a waste of time, I know, but still doing so is a part of my nature.  So, why not embrace it?Doing so has brought joy in my life learning how others pursued their dreams despite what others thought or said. 

If you've ever wondered what doing-it-your-own-way could look like (and aren't we thankful for individual creative ability and personalities) then give Aaron's book a read.  

BTW, Field Notes are worthy of your consideration!

Rick ><>

"The Bullet Journal Method": Books you will find on my "This book changed my life" bookshelf . . .

I am currently reassessing my long-term goals, a healthy thing to do, and a practice of many following the start of a new year.  As part of the process, I am re-reading (for the 4th time) Ryder Carroll's book, The Bullet Journal Method.  

Ryder is the creator of the Bullet Journal, a method using a paper or electronic journal, where you learn how to effectively "Track the Past, Order the Present, and Design the Future."  I have been using the Bullet Journal method for well over 7 years, and I have a stack of Moleskine and Leuchtturm journals to prove it.  The method is one I can identify with . . . and I have always enjoyed tracking my days, thought and plans.  I will admit that I get distracted by other "better than a Bullet Journal" products, but I have always come back to my BUJO!

The section in this book on Goal Setting is worth the price of the book alone.  My problem with goal setting is that I set goals that are far too big, and far too scary as a result to begin working on.  Dividing the goals into simple and orderly steps is the key.  Ryder breaks this all down in a simple to understand way.  This is the sort of book where you will say more than once to yourself, "why didn't I think of that?"

The Bullet Journal Method occupies space on the bookshelf in my home study reserved for books that I try to re-read at least once a year, or once every couple of years.  There are only about 12 books on this shelf at this current time.  Each has made a profound difference in my life and in my way of thinking about, processing, and affirming what is important to me.

Yes, I know, Ryder primarily stresses an analog method . . . and that's a lame concept for some people.  I embrace both digital and technology . . . but I so enjoy using a "real" pencil (yes I have an Apple Pencil as well).   I have found a place for both in my life.  I'm 62.  Hey, I'm hip!

Well, maybe not.  However, the Bullet Journal Method resonates with me, and has ever since I first discovered Ryder's first video about it. I can say without a doubt, that using this method has helped me make the intentional choice to be more productive in things that truly matter to me.  DayTimer didn't do that.  Franklin-Covey didn't do that.  Planner Pads almost did (a good resource if I had lot's of focused projects).  Bullet Journaling is what helped me turn the corner.

If you are a "creative", or just need a process that helps you clear your mind and learn how to focus on what's important to you, then give this book a read.  I think you will be glad you did.

Final thoughts . . . long live REAL pencils and REAL notebooks and journals.  How I long for the quality of pencils and notebooks from days past.

Rick ><>

When Life Comes Calling . . .

A truth that we sometimes want to avoid at all costs, is when life comes calling and you find yourself, as a result, dealing with something you didn't plan or expect to deal with.  Often these are things that you would rather not deal with, let alone choose to deal with. Truth be told, nobody wants to deal with such things . . . like these:

-Almost 10 years ago . . . life came rudely calling with an unexpected cancer diagnosis.  I didn't want to deal with it . . . but had too!  Two surgeries and 5 years of follow up protocols later . . . I am still cancer free.

-3 years ago . . . both of my knees finally gave out, and I physically could not navigate the day without pain, the level of which clouded both my mind and judgement.  Pain that almost negatively affected my personality.  Two knee replacements later, and I am more physically active that before, and mentally in a good place.

-1 year ago . . . the catacts in both eyes became so bad that I had to stop driving at night, as well as effecting my sight during the day so that I became unable to truly enjoy the scenery during our family travels to Colorado and Tennessee. Taking photographs using the camera view finder was impossible.  Two lens implants later, and I can almost see 20/20 for distance, and only need corrective lenses to read.

Life recently came calling again when I suddenly (out of nowhere in fact) developed an involuntary "tick" causing me to roll back my eyes.  People asked my wife if I had suffered a stroke!  I wan't aware of it . . . and people that love me finally said something about it.  To make matters worse, I had a case of allergic conjunctivitis in my eyes.  And, since the accident, I have had some bad neck pain that has slowly seemed to get worse despite treatment by my chiropractor.

I have a new family practice doctor since our move to a new community.  Fine man who I love, admire, and completely respect already!   He listens carefully, and he knows that Liz and I were in a bad truck wreck south of Abilene back in October of 2019.  What he did next floored me.   He ordered an MRI of my brain and my neck.

An MRI . . . he sent me in for a brain scan.

Well, fast forward a couple of weeks, and the results came in.  First, I do have a brain!  Apparently nothing is wrong with it!  That is outstanding news . . . and a great relief to my family and myself.

The neck MRI . . . pinched nerves / possible nerve damage.  Accident related . . . well,  that is something that a doctor will have to advise me about.  I am not a doctor or diagnostician.  I will start therapy this next week and will follow up with a neurologist in a few more weeks.

I write all this to share that prayer has gotten me through a lot of things, and will get me through what is yet to come.  I'm at the age where perhaps I am little bit more spiritual than in my early (I am indestructible / immortal / nothing can hurt me!) years.  I truly believe that I can feel the prayers of other people.

Should life one day call you in a way that you least expect it . . . I hope that you do not have to face what follows alone.  Even if people can't be with you . . . even if you are private about some things and open about other things . . . let some people who pray know about it.

Let me know about it.  I will pray for you.  Hopefully you will feel the prayers prayed on your behalf.  Perhaps getting through what life deals us is helped when we know that other people care about us, enough to say a prayer to a God that they believe in, hope in . . . or cry out to in a moment of desperation.  I do know this . . . prayer can't hurt.

Rick ><>