tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45898341291464712212024-03-15T20:11:25.862-05:00Rick Mang: Certified Therapeutic Music Entertainer and Village ChaplainRick is a retired United Methodist Church pastor who is proud to provide music for children and senior adults, as well as providing pastoral support as a community chaplain, especially to individuals and families who are not part of a church home in Hood, Summervell and Johnson Counties in North Central Texas.
In addition, Rick is currently serving as the part-time pastor of the Waples United Methodist Church in Granbury, TX.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1023125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-13584480858085034412023-08-03T14:44:00.006-05:002023-08-03T14:46:25.324-05:00I don't feel dressed without having a pen, pencil and notebook with me!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_ynt7042GQ1hrBgawucAKrF1UqrQHIoC6nwIi49wn0EqbMs8Y3oZIZRKGDCYiu_zHcSJwLn-Bhxk_kLAudgxod5Tbuai735Qln23NVzy3xcDjnqfNndI_Frh7V3izMXVuRV7jJKLRmYM3Qo3DZVwZ4ZSDR35pWmi6K-hOI-nMiWGCo-eyEuRtM9rI9p-/s3456/Rite-in-the-Rain.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_ynt7042GQ1hrBgawucAKrF1UqrQHIoC6nwIi49wn0EqbMs8Y3oZIZRKGDCYiu_zHcSJwLn-Bhxk_kLAudgxod5Tbuai735Qln23NVzy3xcDjnqfNndI_Frh7V3izMXVuRV7jJKLRmYM3Qo3DZVwZ4ZSDR35pWmi6K-hOI-nMiWGCo-eyEuRtM9rI9p-/s320/Rite-in-the-Rain.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I'm at the age where I pretty much know what I like to have with me in terms of every-day-carry. <p></p><p>I like 4"x6" sized notebooks (Rite-in-the-Rain, Moleskine and Leuchtturm1917). I have a 3"x5" Rite-in-the-Rain memo book in my left back pocket pretty much at all times. And I carry a Rite-in-the-Rain BK-16 bolt action pen and/or a Pentel GraphGear 500 (0.7) mechanical pencil. I don't waste money on other notebooks, pens or pencils. These work. I like using them. They have never failed me. I almost don't feel dressed if I don't have them with me. </p><p>I figure my short-term memory is about 3 seconds long, and getting shorter the older I get. So I write down an lot of thoughts, ideas, to-do lists, names and phone numbers, and pretty much anything else that I know I would forget if I didn't write it down. At the end of the day, I enter important stuff in my calendar, to-do list or in the Day-One Journal app on my iMac. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-85733480510308055032023-07-24T10:59:00.002-05:002023-07-24T10:59:51.260-05:00It Just Occured to Me That I "Saw" the Waples UMC Campus Years Ago . . .<p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This thought came to my mind as I was leaving the church yesterday after worship. I was the last to leave. I took this picture and when I looked at it . . . something came to mind that I haven't thought about in many, many years. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When I was 17, in the middle of my senior year of high school, I received a call to enter the ministry. The picture I took on Sunday was the church I saw in my mind at the moment of my call, except that I'm pretty sure it was on a mountain in Colorado. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I was 65 when I finally found this church, but it was located in a wooded grove of oak trees (not pine trees) in far northeast Granbury, TX. It's the </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1qq9wsj xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/waplesunitedmethodist?__cft__[0]=AZVRB00zZqMb3Q-kFwbc8yBesGo4nHDwgehGDiFpY7EOUlF8HzIqvREuDbEFVrh1bS8B4LgBOwKGCarJDSocV6CguEMdgPtm-J4e8tXUh21FI2qpT7ZxPV7KlRSkdGJ4m56_YCi9RCDKUx2hLFI_ZZ5goSodKkKbhlNQ76VH9BEyX99fx8Tdd3RXj0tN503GKq8&__tn__=-]K-R" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0"><span class="xt0psk2" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;">Waples United Methodist Church</span></a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> and I am blessed to be the part-time pastor there. The people who make up this </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">church are so easy and fun to love! They are quick to say "Thank You, I Appreciate You" and "I Love You!" They believe that these are the most powerful, kind and loving words in all the world!</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPv3E1RQZRfW5HSYPDKUEqQwQe92ZjsfMacMoxqQB_zNr9-3ZUZNnFMB9mAhAfx28wkinTdkzO_MvaADaS9fxMZSXoWfG2sEphn_DAoe4GPTwWSVfSoIge1JvZgP7-4IY-6IM1ayD6jgaAikKGjBphF5db_wBLnC7qFZg7-y_D4skdDiwlDEnusrMWhY3/s1080/Waples%20UMC%20-%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPv3E1RQZRfW5HSYPDKUEqQwQe92ZjsfMacMoxqQB_zNr9-3ZUZNnFMB9mAhAfx28wkinTdkzO_MvaADaS9fxMZSXoWfG2sEphn_DAoe4GPTwWSVfSoIge1JvZgP7-4IY-6IM1ayD6jgaAikKGjBphF5db_wBLnC7qFZg7-y_D4skdDiwlDEnusrMWhY3/s320/Waples%20UMC%20-%202.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-24762201060448657862023-07-24T10:51:00.003-05:002023-07-24T10:52:16.537-05:00Singing for the Couts UMC 60+ Seniors Event was a Success!<p><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5IqC_zEO38eJGd51Rk3LQjcPxkcLCeExO4ZB2QF2L10qZk3Qn2rq9cZQKkL1l7eWk3Xx3dkt_Niq81ziSg_hiW5Dny1YaDXXwAZ54ypI7g78rImpGmPwtQnjpWd46jgOh03O1hY66O77eUZvk8NxKoofSCN_rVsAse9Ta2OyMD2bzdaZTunxQ0K6DKgJ/s1897/Couts%20UMC%20-%2060+%20Seniors.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1897" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5IqC_zEO38eJGd51Rk3LQjcPxkcLCeExO4ZB2QF2L10qZk3Qn2rq9cZQKkL1l7eWk3Xx3dkt_Niq81ziSg_hiW5Dny1YaDXXwAZ54ypI7g78rImpGmPwtQnjpWd46jgOh03O1hY66O77eUZvk8NxKoofSCN_rVsAse9Ta2OyMD2bzdaZTunxQ0K6DKgJ/s320/Couts%20UMC%20-%2060+%20Seniors.jpeg" width="182" /></a></div><br />I really enjoyed singing for the Couts UMC 60+ Seniors group Saturday, July 22nd, in Weatherford, TX. We had great audience participation, especially when we all sang "I Believe in Music!" So great to reconnect with friend and retired clergy colleague <a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1qq9wsj xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/dawne.h.phillips?__cft__[0]=AZWTHnkiQ6jNxdNRKe7sZNL8fIritruKy6PwcvxS2DPdHw2-KjfOFzrEonNgUSH9W3SR-pcyiRZcSxYIoUp8_w5RxpHOErLXM3_zmZNsB8GyPSfzkeMTw-9440L3Qir-CmqSn1ydHp_Rgdx1KQBq-WpcwsGtp5CVmBItlwCv_YhF9A&__tn__=-]K-R" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0"><span class="xt0psk2" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;">Dawne Hood Phillips</span></a> who leads the senior ministry at Couts. The one and only <a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1qq9wsj xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/missy.buchanan.5?__cft__[0]=AZWTHnkiQ6jNxdNRKe7sZNL8fIritruKy6PwcvxS2DPdHw2-KjfOFzrEonNgUSH9W3SR-pcyiRZcSxYIoUp8_w5RxpHOErLXM3_zmZNsB8GyPSfzkeMTw-9440L3Qir-CmqSn1ydHp_Rgdx1KQBq-WpcwsGtp5CVmBItlwCv_YhF9A&__tn__=-]K-R" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0"><span class="xt0psk2" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;">Missy Buchanan</span></a> was the featured speaker. SMissy is an internationally known author and speaker on embracing and empowering the process of aging <a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a>faithfully. She gave an absolutely outstanding presentation that related to everyone there. I hope we can work together again in the future.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-69835414468775393762023-07-01T13:28:00.001-05:002023-07-19T13:32:55.709-05:00I'm Now the Pastor at Waples UMC<p>It's been my honor to have served as the Interim Pastor at the Waples United Methodist Church in the northeast Granbury, TX area. Their historic sanctuary is well over a century old. The people are wonderful and have welcomed my wife and I with loving arms since we first arrived in January of this year. Even though this is a part-time appointment, it has been such a pleasure to serve in ministry with these fine people. They have a very active missions program including a food pantry and thrift store. </p><p>And, as of July 1st, I have been appointed as the Pastor! No more interim in my title. </p><p>If you are currently looking for a new UMC church home because your current congregation plans to disaffiliate from the UMC, then please consider visiting this church family. They worship at 11:00 AM on Sunday mornings. Sunday School for adults is at 9:45 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Every child or teen who worships with us will be instantly loved by a room full of "grandparents!"</p><p>The Waples UMC website is: https://www.waplesunitedmethodist.org/. You can also join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/waplesunitedmethodist.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILO6cepg5yigNt2G1WhiUQ2hQuaAc-ZGV9g1rdZYbKyogBqRaRFHH4IEjzUzSuSXEpDcpdjyRIpMAkFMl8BA94sd8B6rc8a-nnZRoFzo3vjuSdEWD5N9YvHyAxZzZ7c5Fkihn0-GsIF_hcOWqiTrjfOi0Y8qSBGHZPwz429ewOYnIXAjyMNMUj7gKnaLD/s1638/Waples%20UMC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1638" data-original-width="1638" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILO6cepg5yigNt2G1WhiUQ2hQuaAc-ZGV9g1rdZYbKyogBqRaRFHH4IEjzUzSuSXEpDcpdjyRIpMAkFMl8BA94sd8B6rc8a-nnZRoFzo3vjuSdEWD5N9YvHyAxZzZ7c5Fkihn0-GsIF_hcOWqiTrjfOi0Y8qSBGHZPwz429ewOYnIXAjyMNMUj7gKnaLD/s320/Waples%20UMC.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-41215964227826856662023-05-16T16:50:00.002-05:002023-05-16T16:51:20.931-05:00KidLinks Extended An Offer, and I Said "Yes!"<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISY_THLq5Xn3l54WtsRMJIGO-NE1kMvtKxWPGDlrm7TYhNfDG6F7k8w3Ai1WiEcFiRzIk8bk07ATGqXufHnxBOBNsSWLEBfg0eYCFOU2snTNvvPmyMPeGD-esIW8cmjvVFObc1GM29XRGBO_ZPMzAs2EA4c1rlxBk0OpIWA_dKLPXSUK9_emKYtZvUw/s600/KidLinks.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="600" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISY_THLq5Xn3l54WtsRMJIGO-NE1kMvtKxWPGDlrm7TYhNfDG6F7k8w3Ai1WiEcFiRzIk8bk07ATGqXufHnxBOBNsSWLEBfg0eYCFOU2snTNvvPmyMPeGD-esIW8cmjvVFObc1GM29XRGBO_ZPMzAs2EA4c1rlxBk0OpIWA_dKLPXSUK9_emKYtZvUw/s320/KidLinks.png" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>Ever had a day when you felt like singing at the top of your lungs . . . <i>"Zipidee do-dah, Zipidee day, my oh my oh what a wonderful day!"</i><p></p><p>Yesterday, Monday, May 15th, was one of those strange yet wonderful days of multiple affirmations coming my way. It was one of those rare "really good days" that you remember with fondness for a while. In the course of the day, I received not one but three major affirmations. To tell the truth, my head was starting to swell just a little bit.</p><p>One affirmation I can share about involves a phone call I received from my good friend and ministry/music colleague, Rev. Jim Newton of Kidlinks.org. Jim is a long-time friend, but he is more than that. As I have shared before, Jim is one of my musical heroes! </p><p>Jim and I have been in multiple conversations, since late 2022, exploring the possibility of my joining KidLinks as a part-time Therapeutic Music Entertainer once I retired from full-time pastoral ministry. The conversations centered around my singing to children in hospitals and other venues in the Tarrant County area.</p><p>Jim's call yesterday evening was to share with me that I am now part of the KidLinks TME team! Yep, it's official! It's taken awhile, but we got the green light. I've dreamed, hoped and prayed for this opportunity for several years. To be asked to join this team is especially affirming. </p><p>I will also get the chance to help KidLinks develop a therapeutic music program for Special Education students in local schools. This is one of my pet dream projects that I've wanted to work on, and will hopefully now get that chance, possibly working with my youngest daughter, Meredith, who is Special Education teacher in a nearby school district. </p><p>I am excited! I've waited over 10 years to be able to rejoin the KidLinks team (formerly Hugworks). Now it's time to relearn old songs, and memorize new songs, and go through a retraining time. I should be back singing in hospitals some time this coming July!<br /></p><p>Good things do come to those who wait!</p><p><i>Zipidee do-dah . . </i>. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-39836879182374277622023-05-15T13:33:00.010-05:002023-05-16T16:20:44.787-05:00Waples United Methodist Church<p>It's been my honor to be currently serving as the Interim Pastor at the Waples United Methodist Church in the northeast Granbury, TX area. Their historic sanctuary is well over a century old. The people are wonderful and have welcomed my wife and I with loving arms since we first arrived in January of this year. Even though this is a part-time appointment, it has been such a pleasure to serve in ministry with these fine people. They have a very active missions program including a food pantry and thrift store. </p><p>If you are currently looking for a new UMC church home because your current congregation plans to disaffiliate from the UMC, then please consider visiting this church family. They worship at 11:00 AM on Sunday mornings. Sunday School for adults is at 9:45 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Every child or teen who worships with us will be instantly loved by a room full of "grandparents!"</p><p>The Waples UMC website is: https://www.waplesunitedmethodist.org/. You can also join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/waplesunitedmethodist.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEino8aCUG44qrNKW5BUkrI6x9NV-fJBIUN1q8iIm5MhWJ8lafGrujUrdB2GhAPSzkv-Z7ubpKEuJMG-s9wEurLI-eRHR4P8-BMTiG8uWEn_BU12DRTIkDEhmmieSuViqQ3mpRAYnV1P0ggQp5WyAc4qqPmRXcGTRn26HKeaYKm7E0be7zXAavtE97vHIQ/s1638/Waples%20UMC.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1638" data-original-width="1638" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEino8aCUG44qrNKW5BUkrI6x9NV-fJBIUN1q8iIm5MhWJ8lafGrujUrdB2GhAPSzkv-Z7ubpKEuJMG-s9wEurLI-eRHR4P8-BMTiG8uWEn_BU12DRTIkDEhmmieSuViqQ3mpRAYnV1P0ggQp5WyAc4qqPmRXcGTRn26HKeaYKm7E0be7zXAavtE97vHIQ/s320/Waples%20UMC.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-68561653699838001572023-05-15T13:13:00.007-05:002023-05-15T16:27:17.316-05:00Wiley Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Granbury, TX<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXocxVdLnW26j5JGSykQUGHpf2OuXQYQsZ6Xz_FRe2IlBPPtjMrEaTj1hmRvWq69N0z1ItYR30U0yWwiKHidT4vbddhF2wq6UggM5x_BByCGEu4ZA4l3BNE26etXUEON7MO2gb744vCrZVLrEVqKA_RQUmXHAgRDz6SnX0E8y-kPMaF3F3SGgnfV-U8g/s475/Wiley%20Funeral%20Home%20Picture.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="475" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXocxVdLnW26j5JGSykQUGHpf2OuXQYQsZ6Xz_FRe2IlBPPtjMrEaTj1hmRvWq69N0z1ItYR30U0yWwiKHidT4vbddhF2wq6UggM5x_BByCGEu4ZA4l3BNE26etXUEON7MO2gb744vCrZVLrEVqKA_RQUmXHAgRDz6SnX0E8y-kPMaF3F3SGgnfV-U8g/s320/Wiley%20Funeral%20Home%20Picture.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I really enjoyed finally connecting with the great staff at Wiley Funeral Home & Cremation Service here in Granbury, TX. I was asked to officiate a memorial service there this past Saturday. Roy Knowles, and his daughter Sydnie Knowles are the managers and it seems to me like they are doing a great job. The staff went out-of-their way to help me feel welcomed and comfortable. I hope to have the opportunity to be with them again as a service officiant or singer/musician.</p><p>I have 31 years of full-time pastoral ministry experience. If you have need of a pastor/chaplain to assist you with a funeral or memorial service, then please let me know. It is my honor to help whoever needs my services, especially those who do not have a church home by choice or because of a bad church experience. </p><p>You can contact me at revrickmang@gmail.com.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-71375721843128188302023-05-11T18:09:00.002-05:002023-05-15T16:29:26.805-05:00My Retirement from full-time ministry is Official!<p><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Earlier this morning at Glen Lake Camp in Glen Rose, TX, I was granted official retirement from full-time appointive ministry during the AC23 Clergy Executive Session of the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. It was an emotional moment, but it was also a moment of great personal satisfaction! I am so appreciative of all my clergy colleagues who honored those of us in this year's retiree class. 30 & 1/2 years of full-time service at churches in Palo Pinto/Graford, Waco, Godley, Hewitt, Grapevine, </span><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit;" tabindex="-1"></a></span><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crowley and Comanche/Gustine. Years ago, I wanted to wear a Hawaiian shirt at my elders ordination. That didn't happen. But I did get to officially retire in one. It was a good day. My heart is in a good place. Now it's time to focus my efforts even more on my grandchildren, and on RM2 (Rick Mang Music) and "My 5-Gallon Bucket Adventures" Facebook page.</span></p><p><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">A special thanks to my wife, Liz, and my family, for sticking up with me and all the ups and downs of being a pastor's family. I love you all!</span></p><p><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BIiLcCECNDRLCdAPvesNTt5OjrkHknwHAZZ34ny_y_HFxck8Ll65mfzNIFIp_m9PEOPV7ZSKSdk_r0Q5JqaLDtinrvUXmaVZZM0JINdj9d2joAjbwQ73ZNh7f4-qKUzXFx0UXn4jTX5IcFs8h-UP7jFQ6WjcYZv-OfHLxoZQ-u2oz45gyUZPJtUnAA/s1280/Retirement%20Picture%20from%20Exec%20Session.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BIiLcCECNDRLCdAPvesNTt5OjrkHknwHAZZ34ny_y_HFxck8Ll65mfzNIFIp_m9PEOPV7ZSKSdk_r0Q5JqaLDtinrvUXmaVZZM0JINdj9d2joAjbwQ73ZNh7f4-qKUzXFx0UXn4jTX5IcFs8h-UP7jFQ6WjcYZv-OfHLxoZQ-u2oz45gyUZPJtUnAA/s320/Retirement%20Picture%20from%20Exec%20Session.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "system-ui", ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-69558634916834320302023-03-14T17:54:00.004-05:002023-05-15T16:26:36.589-05:00If Change is to Be, It Has to Begin With Me!<p>Every Tuesday morning, unless I'm out of town, you can find me at the local Whataburger at 8:30 AM for a weekly "Fella-Ship" meeting of guys from my church. We gather to support one another, discuss our recent doctor appointments, share fishing reports, and show pictures of our families to each other. We also discuss local news and current events. At 65 years old, I'm the youngest of the bunch. </p><p>One 90 year old attendee refers to our group as a "gathering of the wise guys." He means this as a compliment. Each of us in attendance are former career professionals having experience in very different business endeavors. Grocery store manager, stock broker, corporate problem solver, military officer, and the "preacher." When we gather, we discuss all sorts of topics, and occasionally (almost weekly) we come up with a great solution that would solve one of the problems of the world. The only problem with this is that nobody want to, or will, listen to us. </p><p>One particular matter we are all frustrated about is the ever increasing number of people, from all walks of life, who refuse to make any effort to get along with others, especially those who think or believe differently than they do. We've each seen more and more people choosing to make fools of themselves in public places, more so than any of us are accustomed to. We lament the decline of people having the desire to get along, what one of us called "community spirit." One thing for certain, we are all just dog tired of it all. </p><p>We've all pledged to each other to try and help one another grow in our faith, in our level of patience with others, and in choosing to be kind as often as possible. I'm not sure who taught me the phrase, "When in doubt, choose to be kind," but I offer my heart felt thanks to whoever it was. This rule-of-life has been a blessing to me, and to others, in more situations than I can remember. </p><p>I recall an old line, I think it was from a song, that if there is going to be any change in the world, then it has to first begin with me individually. I think the quote is, "If it's going to be, let it begin with me!" To quote from a John Lennon song, we can't "give peace a chance" if we only expect others to be peaceful, but not ourselves. I can't change the world, but I can change myself. I can also control my response to others as well, and in so doing, avoid reacting emotionally, but responding out of my faith and core values. </p><p>I'm a big guy (6'5" and 280), but I try to be the most cheerful person that I can be everywhere I go! My face sometimes aches in the process, because smiling uses more muscles than frowning. The old adage is that you can't smile unless you want to. It's true! Frowning is our "default." Give you face muscles a work out by smiling! </p><p>Perhaps kindness towards others begins with a smile! </p><p>So, I'm not going to join in with the frowning crowd. I'm going to be part of the smiling crowd.</p><p>If it's going to be, let it begin with me! That's how I can make a difference. </p><p>Rick ><></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-48886548303723919372022-12-19T16:30:00.007-06:002023-02-01T13:05:45.079-06:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5YIbS6fiAeOC0mp3klD5ca1zcT9g7yjs4NwGNa_nwsXYGXjMxJObUfWIUX-vxK_9DRvQva8jGFtlRdhi89XolgcS2wpbQrtUDQZo9kcl7hfYKLDzmUXJHWzUILgFECiC6nhAaPr4PEAPZ1ayD70N8ktJtCEiQ-x94iNcuZaVJGarVLff7mEAfbdVbw/s2015/Brazy%20-%20Trout.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2015" data-original-width="1504" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5YIbS6fiAeOC0mp3klD5ca1zcT9g7yjs4NwGNa_nwsXYGXjMxJObUfWIUX-vxK_9DRvQva8jGFtlRdhi89XolgcS2wpbQrtUDQZo9kcl7hfYKLDzmUXJHWzUILgFECiC6nhAaPr4PEAPZ1ayD70N8ktJtCEiQ-x94iNcuZaVJGarVLff7mEAfbdVbw/s320/Brazy%20-%20Trout.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><br /> He cast over and over and over, and finally, Brazy hooked into and landed a solid 1-pound rainbow trout. Not bad for a almost 6 year old! Outstanding!<p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-75420324320835053842022-12-14T12:30:00.003-06:002023-03-15T12:45:28.849-05:00A New Season . . . and the Return to a Familiar Path!<p>I am happy to share that in January of 2023, I will be visiting with Jim Newton and the folks at KidLinks (kidlinks.org) about my returning to sing (part-time) to children in hospitals as a therapeutic music entertainer. </p><p>I've been spending a lot of time since the first of October thinking about this . . . and it's clear to myself, and to my family, that this is one of the paths that I need to travel in the this next chapter of my life. </p><p>I've asked why I have chosen this path. The answer is simple. Doing this will be good for my soul. And in truth, the path is calling me to explore the possibilities. </p><p>Jim Newton is one of my music heroes, and I hope, after our conversations, that I can begin my re-training under his tutelege. </p><p>More to come.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-67273095926125395072022-12-14T12:19:00.004-06:002022-12-14T12:20:43.957-06:00When in Doubt . . . Choose Kindness!<p>When in doubt . . . choose kindness!</p><p>Being kind to others has never been and will never be a sign of weakness.</p><p>Being kind is the choice and act of a strong individual!</p><p>When life hits you, and you struggle to know what to do . . . choose to be kind.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-28358082152946765112022-10-24T18:39:00.008-05:002023-05-15T16:33:15.518-05:00 Well Hello Retirement!<p>It's getting closer and closer!</p><p>On November 1, 2022, I will be "unofficially" retired from full-time ministry as an ordained United Methodist pastor. I've been appointed, by the resident bishop of the Central Texas Annual Conference, every year for the past 30.5 years to serve a pastor of a church. I've served the congregations at Palo Pinto and Graford, Waco First, Godley, Hewitt, Grapevine First (for 10 years), Crowley and finally ending up at Comanche and Gustine. All in all, it's been a good run. I'd consider it again. I have a couple of regrets, and I'm pretty proud that some ministries I started are still going strong. If given a ministerial score . . . I'm humbly confidant that I "passed."</p><p>October 16th was my last Sunday in the pulpit as a full-time pastor appointed by my Bishop. I've been checking in as needed, and going in a couple of times a week. We actually moved into our new home on October 1st. I had forgotten how great it feels to have your own home. We've had some great parsonages, but having your own home just feels more satisfying. I can look around and say to myself, "it's all mine." Of course that means that I'll no longer have a Board of Trustees to call if there is a problem. Any problem with my house is my problem! Or rather, a challenge. I like challenges, especially if it's work that I can do myself. </p><p>What's next? First, I'm taking off the entire month of November and December. I'm only saying "yes" to my wife and family, and some fishing. My home office is no where in the shape it needs to be, and I still have far too many books that I will never read since I've started using a Kindle. Taking off for the holidays with no church services to plan will probably seem a bit odd at first, but I'm certain that I'll get used to it sooner than later. </p><p>I believe there will be some opportunities for me in January if I feel called to step back in the part-time or interim ministry. But for right now, I'd decided to not think about it too much. I've been called a couple of times to gauge my interest in doing something part-time. My answer so far has been, "call me back after the first of the year." New opportunities will come soon enough!</p><p>More to report at a later time.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-4582130991929276102021-10-07T18:21:00.004-05:002021-10-07T18:35:12.424-05:00Clip & Carry Kydex Multitool Sheath<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pDrhvr6Aek/YV9_lun1kDI/AAAAAAAACoo/xxR2P3Rn3rMjOdZ8QuMp4zw430z2HgmZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Gerber%2BCD%2B2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pDrhvr6Aek/YV9_lun1kDI/AAAAAAAACoo/xxR2P3Rn3rMjOdZ8QuMp4zw430z2HgmZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Gerber%2BCD%2B2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to shop at the Bass Pro Shops in Grapevine, TX. While there, I purchased a new Gerber Center-Drive multitool. I already own a Leatherman Surge; however, it weighs in at over 13 ounces. Now it is regulated to the center console of my pickup. I was hoping the Center-Drive, which is about 4 ounces lighter, would be something I could add to my EDC. There are so many times, especially when camping or working in the yard, when I found that I had need for a pair of pliers or a screwdriver of some kind. </p><p>Upon arriving back home, I unpacked the Center-Drive, only to discover that I loathe the sheath it comes with. Ballistic nylon, in and of itself, is a great material for sheaths. This sheath, which included an extra strip of 1/4" bits, was very uncomfortable to wear, and hard to get the tool in and out of. </p><p>Earlier this week I was perusing Amazon and came across the Clip & Carry Kydex multitool sheath. It was very reasonably priced at $30, so I made the purchase an it arrived today. The Center-Drive snugly fits in the sheath and the Kydex is going to stand up to whatever I throw at it. I shook it upside down for several minutes and the Center-Drive never popped out, or slipped, or otherwise made a noise! </p><p>I will give it a try once our Covid quarantine is over. I need to figure out whether to carry it on the right or left side. Some trial-and-error will help determine that answer. Probably on the right side since I'm used to carrying weight on that side from my police officer days.</p><p>More to come.</p><p>Rick ><></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-8560733451483357632021-05-04T12:58:00.006-05:002021-05-04T13:10:33.782-05:00Is This What the Other Side Looks Like?<p>I can't believe, and then I can believe, that I've not posted a blog post since the summer of 2020. </p><p>The truth is, I didn't want to write. I went through a bad summer and fall dealing with how to live life and pastor churches during a Covid-19 pandemic, something that I hadn't been trained for, and had no experience doing. Throw in a little anxiety (well maybe a lot of anxiety), and not taking any kind of break, I finally got to the point where the "tank was empty." I came to finally learn what utter exhaustion, both mentally and physically, feels like. </p><p>I never want to experience those feelings again. It was awful. Just awful. </p><p>My two churches told me to take off the entire month of December 2020. Doing so was initially a challenge, but then we went RVing for two weeks. I came back refreshed, and excited again about being a pastor. Most importantly, my mind was clear of a lot of "stinking thinking," like Covid-19 was my fault and that I had to "fix" it all by myself. </p><p>While away, I got to spend a lot of time rethinking what I have often preached, since I first learned the concept 16 years ago . . . that we only control two things in life: we can react emotionally to life and live to regret it (been there, done that, don't want the t-shirt), or we can respond to life out of our faith and our Christian core values. That's what I got to do starting this past December. I chose to start responding more, and in the time since, things have gotten much better, mostly because my mind is more clear and my body is rested as a result. </p><p>As Covid-19 cases dramatically decrease in our county and local area, we have "opened up" more at both churches, and are systematically and safely returning some missed programs and ministries. It feels good to preach again, and getting ready to preach excites me as it used to. </p><p>Perhaps the most dramatic change has come in terms of my personal spiritual health and growth. I lead a short morning watch and devotional time on Facebook Live (Comanche First United Methodist Church) around the 9AM hour on Mondays through Fridays. I enjoy the online engagement with those who usually participate with us. I also "rediscovered" the Moravian Daily Text (www.moriavian.org/dailytexts). If you use the Moravian Daily Text, you will read through the Bible in two years. No commentary, just 3-4 scriptures and several other scriptures for thought. Using the MDT is helping shape me to not depend so much on commentary's anymore, instead reading scripture and letting it speak to my heart, soul and life. </p><p>If this is what the other side looks like, after what I last wrote, then I'm ok with it. Life is tough, and I believe that many dramatic changes are still to come in our culture, society, country and church. The big difference on this side . . . is the anxiety, worry and frustration are much less. New opportunities are presenting themselves on a daily basis. That can be a good thing. </p><p>God's amazing grace is once again amazing me!</p><p>Rick ><></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-69170612143385718722020-07-31T14:21:00.009-05:002020-07-31T14:36:28.152-05:00Learning 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. <div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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!)</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the heart of Stoicism is the quote by Marcus Aurelius, <i>"You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this and you will find strength." </i>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps it will help you better respond to life, especially about how to live in a Covid-19 world. </div><div><br /></div><div>The YouTube link to Ryan's video is <a href="https://youtu.be/g0lmSRCSGIU">here</a>, or at https://youtu.be/g0lmSRCSGIU\</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-16612661500378517052020-07-22T14:34:00.002-05:002020-07-23T13:57:06.743-05:00Galls Lawpro Black Leather Notebook in Basketweave<div class="separator">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. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PuF5Zxma8ug/XxndTCSYBsI/AAAAAAAACbI/40Wjm0po_ro0U5j5TLOOXjMAoK33T_BEACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200723_134641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PuF5Zxma8ug/XxndTCSYBsI/AAAAAAAACbI/40Wjm0po_ro0U5j5TLOOXjMAoK33T_BEACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200723_134641.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkfjD8_Fjpg/XxndLASUZsI/AAAAAAAACbE/IvXwOlCcCOobsRC0ruk9dmJTa8nbGDU0QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200723_134701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkfjD8_Fjpg/XxndLASUZsI/AAAAAAAACbE/IvXwOlCcCOobsRC0ruk9dmJTa8nbGDU0QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200723_134701.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-21091451113885672322020-07-09T14:06:00.003-05:002020-07-10T12:28:34.387-05:00Some 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. <div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>All in all . . . my week still progresses pretty normally, except for some extra time on my hands now and then. </div><div><br /></div><div>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?</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dBH7MaxE9Gk/XwdrtoBv35I/AAAAAAAACYw/asCTP27ZjpMn5r_PGy8rm2RCl-JVmkB1ACK4BGAsYHg/s320/20200618_091839.jpg" width="320" /></div></div><div>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!</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps in the end, it's all about coping skill???</div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-36217182646827022242020-07-06T15:22:00.001-05:002020-07-06T15:24:11.836-05:00Goodbye Charlie Daniels & Stu SpencerI 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.<div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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."</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-30878768519538502192020-07-02T16:40:00.001-05:002023-05-15T16:34:24.297-05:00I Miss My Audience . . . Ever loved something so much, and later find out why? That happened to me recently. <div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Due to Covid-19, I haven't performed musically since February 2020. Stupid Covid-19.</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>And now, I don't have an audience. Well, more specifically . . . I don't have a live audience. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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."</div><div><br /></div><div>Yep . . . I need to process this, and I need to do it now. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-51460394686815830622020-07-02T16:29:00.000-05:002020-07-02T16:29:13.090-05:00Too 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. <div><br /></div><div>Our Governor just made masks mandatory when people are in public. I may reconsider my recent decision to not vote for him again. </div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-43330219180220259382020-06-18T11:51:00.000-05:002020-06-18T11:51:12.604-05:00Can we have a tater tot?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-dYJuR3lzY/XuuaxEkPI7I/AAAAAAAACVU/-Nz9Dz2HBcIP-UeLmJqgMKDasK6QYp8pwCK4BGAsYHg/s4032/20200604_083258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-dYJuR3lzY/XuuaxEkPI7I/AAAAAAAACVU/-Nz9Dz2HBcIP-UeLmJqgMKDasK6QYp8pwCK4BGAsYHg/s320/20200604_083258.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is what happens when you say "I'm full!" but there are still tater tots left on your plate! </div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></blockquote></div></blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-81371086217293748222020-06-12T13:44:00.003-05:002023-05-15T16:34:51.341-05:00In Praise of the Ukulele!Seriously . . . (well for the moment) . . . <div><br /></div><div>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?</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't think so!! Playing the ukulele has been a delight during these past 3 months of Covid-19 related stuff. </div><div><br /></div><div>Learn to play ukulele. You may begin to understand that playing the ukulele broadens your understanding of happiness!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPDsFL3tCbA/XuPMV6EI7aI/AAAAAAAACT0/Zswb7MApCb03IyhnbmR51TLbimXz8ivNwCK4BGAsYHg/s1080/Photo%2Bon%2B6-12-20%2Bat%2B1.38%2BPM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPDsFL3tCbA/XuPMV6EI7aI/AAAAAAAACT0/Zswb7MApCb03IyhnbmR51TLbimXz8ivNwCK4BGAsYHg/s320/Photo%2Bon%2B6-12-20%2Bat%2B1.38%2BPM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-44339662031945381462020-06-12T13:35:00.004-05:002020-06-18T11:45:48.380-05:00Lessons learned while pastoring in a pandemic . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B0HaICLDLks/XuuaMKr-YOI/AAAAAAAACUo/w0WoquidgtIgIVQmpdM3Wmjwzdq3WIt1ACK4BGAsYHg/s4032/20200618_093552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B0HaICLDLks/XuuaMKr-YOI/AAAAAAAACUo/w0WoquidgtIgIVQmpdM3Wmjwzdq3WIt1ACK4BGAsYHg/s320/20200618_093552.jpg" /></a></div>I've learned a couple of lessons about pastoring in a pandemic.<div><br /></div><div>First lesson . . . pray the Serenity Prayer E-V-E-R-Y S-I-N-G-L-E D-A-Y!!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Pray it several times a day. </div><div><br /></div><div>For those who don't know the prayer, it is attributed to the late Theologian, Riehold Niebur. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>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. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lesson learned!</div><div><br /></div><div>Second lesson . . . don't forget to to let the leaders of your church lead!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>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."</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>That's what happens sometimes when you let go of a weight that you didn't know your were carrying. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lesson learned!</div><div><br /></div><div>In my humble opinion, </div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4589834129146471221.post-61199139424780351872020-06-03T17:37:00.001-05:002020-06-18T11:46:45.198-05:00The Overnight Change in the "Environment" of Ministry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JMc998dx_7A/XuuabCvCZiI/AAAAAAAACU4/U6ZvMb85BTACSBU55b-tSp1UQ363pRTUQCK4BGAsYHg/s4032/20200603_164918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JMc998dx_7A/XuuabCvCZiI/AAAAAAAACU4/U6ZvMb85BTACSBU55b-tSp1UQ363pRTUQCK4BGAsYHg/s320/20200603_164918.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>So much has changed. <div><br /></div><div>So fast, almost overnight in so many ways. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seriously, how to people live without index cards?</div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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." </div><div><br /></div><div>Point taken. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, I am wearing a mask everywhere I go. Often I'm one of the only ones with a mask on. </div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm texting people more than I have in the past. I'm talking to staff, teaching and counseling people using Zoom. </div><div><br /></div><div>Question, why is it that people will share really personal stuff on line, but now so much in person? </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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. </div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div>In my humble opinion, that is . . . </div><div><br /></div><div>Rick ><></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0