Me and God

It shouldn't take a life threatening event to get one thinking about Eternity.

I have the fortunate heritage to have been raised in a Christian family going past my own parents to, at least, my parent's parents. So, with great friends in the church, Sunday school teachers, youth ministers, and Bible believing preachers I have been a Believer all my life.

My fight with cancer in 2006 did make me think a little more about spiritual things. And I do find myself talking to him more during the day. Sometimes it is more just a comment here and there. I have learned that He will help me make it through what ever life brings.

This Josh Turner song sums it up well. "He rules the world..." It is good to know the one who has the final say.

Song:Me And God
Album: Your Man
Artist: Josh Turner
There ain't nothin' that can't be done
By me and God
Ain't nobody come in between
Me and God
One day we'll live together
Where the angels trod
Me and God

Early in the morning talkin' it over
Me and God
Late at night talkin' it over
Me and God
You could say we're like two peas in a pod
Me and God

He's my Father
He's my friend
The beginning
And the end
He rules the world
With a staff and rod
We're a team
Me and God

I am weak and he is strong
Me and God
He forgives me when I'm wrong
Me and God
He's the one I lean on
When life gets hard
Me and God

He's my Father
He's my friend
The beginning
And the end
He rules the world
With a staff and rod
We're a team
Me and God

He rules the world
With a staff and rod
We're a team
Me and God

We're a team
Me and God

This Old Road

I am not as old as some of you, that's just the facts! But we all continue to go down the road. This singer/songwriter is one of my favorites. He came out with this song a few years ago. It is an anthem for the truth that the longer we are on this road of life the more it shows in our faces and memories.

I had to lay-off another employee yesterday (can't count the times I have had to do it now since the WorldCom meltdown). And it got me thinking about this song. So many dreams we have when we are young but as we move on down the road people and events happen to us. Those help shape us and carve out the lines in our faces. Are they smile lines or frown lines that crease our foreheads?

Don't count the problems...count the blessings. Ain't we come a long way?

I could not load the song to my playlist but You can listen to the song for free at kriskristofferson.com. The video is a available on Youtube too.

Song: This Old Road
Artist: Kris Kristofferson
Album: This Old Road

Look at that old photograph
Is it really you?
Smiling like a baby full of dreams

Smiling ain't so easy now
Some are coming true
Nothing's simple as it seems

But I guess you count your blessings with the problems
That your dealing with today
Like the changing of the seasons

Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way down
This old road

Looking at a looking glass
Running out of time
On a face you used to know

Traces of a future lost
In between the lines
One more rainbow for the road

Thinking of the faces in the window
That you passed along the way
Or the last thing you believed in

Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way down
This old road

Say you tried to chase the sun down
and you let it slip away
And the holy night is falling

Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way
Ain't you come a long way down
This old road

Look at that old photograph
Is it really you?

That Silver Haired Daddy of Mine

Dad left this world for Heaven in January of this year. On this 1st Father's Day weekend since he passed into eternity I send out this song. Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Ray Price produced a great album a few years back and this one is from it. My player on the Blogspot website only plays a piece of this song but it is all I could find.
Love you Dad!

Song: That Silver Haired Daddy of Mine
Artist: Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Ray Price
Album: Last Of The Breed

In that vine covered shack in the mountains
Bravely fighting the battle of time
There's a dear one who weathered life's sorrows
It's that silver haired daddy of mine

If I could recall all the heartaches
Dear old daddy, I've caused you to bear
If I could erase those lines from your face
And bring back the gold to your hair
If God would but grant me the power
Just to turn back the pages of time
I'd give all I own if I could but atone
to that silver haired daddy of mine

Centerfield

Watching Maverick play ball makes me want to play again. Maverick played outfield the last two years but is playing a lot at 2nd base this year.

I played centerfield when I was in little league and played it in the church league softball until I was about 37. This song came out in the mid 80's but I have loved it since I first heard it.

Song: Centerfield
Artist: John Fogerty
Album: The Long Road Home

Well, beat the drum and hold the phone - the sun came out today!
We're born again, there's new grass on the field.
A-roundin' third, and headed for home,
it's a brown-eyed handsome man;
Anyone can understand the way I feel.

Oh, put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Look at me, I can be Centerfield.

Well, I spent some time in the Mudville Nine,
watchin' it from the bench;
You know I took some lumps when the Mighty Casey struck out.
So Say Hey Willie, tell Ty Cobb and Joe DiMaggio;
Don't say "it ain't so", you know the time is now.

Oh, put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Look at me, I can be Centerfield.

Yeah! I got it, I got it!

Got a beat-up glove, a homemade bat, and brand-new pair of shoes;
You know I think it's time to give this game a ride.
Just to hit the ball and touch 'em all - a moment in the sun;
(pop) It's gone and you can tell that one goodbye!

Oh, put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Look at me, I can be Centerfield.

Oh, put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Put me in, Coach - I'm ready to play today;
Look at me, I can be Centerfield.

Yeah!

In Color

If you have ever spent time looking through your mom and dad's or grandparent's old photos this song will touch your heart. Jamey Johnson is a great song writer and has now produced a couple of albums of his own. This song is a great one.

Song: In Color
Album: That Lonesome Song
Artist: Jamey Johnson

I said, Grandpa what's this picture here
Its all black and white and it ain't real clear
Is that you there? He said, Yeah, I was eleven
And times were tough back in thirty-five
That's me and Uncle Joe just trying to survive
A cotton farm in the great depression"

And if it looks like we were scared to death
Like a couple of kids just trying to save each other
You should have seen it in color

Aw and this one here was taken overseas
In the middle of hell - in nineteen forty-three
In the winter time - you can almost see my breath
That was my tail gunner, ol' Johnny McGee
He was a high school teacher from New Orleans
And he had my back right through the day we left

If it looks like we were scared to death
Like a couple of kids just trying to save each other
You should have seen it in color

A picture's worth a thousand words
But you can't see what those shades of gray keep covered
You should have seen it in color

And this one is my favorite one
This is me and Grandma in the summer sun
All dressed up the day we said our vows
You can't tell it here but it was hot that June
That rose is red and her eyes are blue
And just look at that smile - I was so proud
That's the story of my life
Right there in black and white

And if it looks like we were scared to death
Like a couple of kids just trying to save each other
You should have seen it in color

Yeah, A picture's worth a thousand words
But you can't see what those shades of gray keep covered
You should have seen it in color
You should have seen it in color

A picture's worth a thousand words
But you can't see what those shades of gray keep covered
You should have seen it in color

More Than a Name On A Wall

Today is Memorial Day. A grateful nation stops to give thanks for those who gave their lives so we can live in freedom. And we grieve with those who lost their son, daughter, husband, wife, dad or mom.

Song: More Than a Name on a Wall
Artist: The Statler Brothers
Album: The Definitive Collection

I saw her from a distance as she walked up to the wall
In her hand she held some flowers as her tears began to fall
And she took out pen and paper as to trace her memories
She looked up to Heaven and the words she said were these

She said, "Lord my boy was special and he meant so much to me
And though I'd love to see him just one more time you see
All I have are the memories and the moments to recall
So Lord could you tell him he's more than a name on a wall"

She said, "He really missed the family and being home Christmas Day
And he died for God and Country in a place so far away
I remember such a little boy playing war since he was three
Lord, this time I know he's not coming home to me"

She said, "Lord my boy was special and he meant so much to me
And though I'd love to see him but I know it just can't be
So I thank you for my memories and the moments to recall
But Lord could you tell him he's more than a name on a wall."

"Lord could you tell him he's more than a name on a wall."

Rainy Day People

Wow, we have had some rain the past few days! Maverick had a baseball tournament rained out this weekend. There are some good things about a rainy day. It can give you a good excuse to stay in touch with friends - via email, Facebook, phone call, or a meeting for a meal. Give it a whirl!

But a "rainy day" can come even when the sun is shining. We should keep that in mind too.

This song popped into my head today.

Song: Rainy Day People
Artist: Gordon Lightfoot
Album: Gord's Gold

Rainy day people always seem to know
when it's time to call
Rainy day people don't talk
they just listen 'til they've heard it all
Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell ya
they've been down like you
Rainy day people don't mind
if you're cryin' a tear or two

If you get lonely
all you really need is that rainy day love
Rainy day people all know there's no sorrow
they can't rise above
Rainy day lovers don't love any others
that would not be kind
Rainy day people all know
how it hangs on a peace of mind

Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell ya
they've been down there too
Rainy day people don't mind
if you're cryin' a tear or two

Rainy day people always seem to know
when you're feelin' blue
High-Steppin' Strutters who land in the gutter
sometime need one too
Take it or leave it or try to believe it
if you've been down too long
Rainy day lovers don't hide love inside
they just pass it on

Rainy day lovers don't hide love inside
they just pass it on

She's Just Too Good To Be True But She Is

Debbie's and my anniversary was yesterday. Debbie has certainly lived up to her vows! I am one lucky guy.

This good old song reminds me of her.

Song: She's Just Too Good To Be True
Artist: Charley Pride
Album: The Essential Charley Pride

Sometimes late at night I wake up dreamin'
I reach and feel for her - she's too good to be true
Then I touch the sleepin' softness of my angel
And half asleep she turns to whisper, "I love you"

She's just too good to be true but she is
And in my arms she reassures me with a kiss
She's everything I ever looked for in a woman
She's just too good to be true but she is

Each day I go to work is like forever
Til that evening sun will bring me home again.
But then she's waiting at the door with her sweet lovin'
And tonight she'll be so good to me again.

She's just too good to be true but she is
And in my arms she reassures me with a kiss
She's everything I ever looked for in a woman
She's just too good to be true but she is

She's just too good to be true but she is

Burdens Are Lifted At Calvary

Coming from a spiritual heritage of the Church of Christ I learned harmony was beautiful in the music we sang but WORDS came to mean a lot to me as well. From the hymnals we sang from we would sing praise songs to the Trinity but we also sang many songs to each other. I continue to believe there is a place for both types in our worship.

Today's culture is putting much emphasis on the praise and worship songs which are very beautiful but in my opinion a little more difficult for the untrained voice to sing. My favorite songs tend to be songs which speak to each other with encouragement to lean on God, Jesus and the Spirit. Hymns which remind us of what we know already but tend to forget in our hurried and busy ways.

This is one of those. Life can put a load of guilt, anger, hurt, lonliness, etc., etc., etc. on you. But Jesus came to take those away. This song reminds us of that. Short, sweet and simple is the message that Jesus can take your burdens if you lay them at the cross.

On this Sunday...perhaps you need that reminder as I often do.

Song: Burdens Are Lifted At Calvary
Artist: Bill & Gloria Gaither & the Homecoming Friends
Album: Amazing Grace

Days are filled with sorrow and care
Hearts are lonely and drear
Burdens are lifted at Calvary
Jesus is very near

Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Calvary, Calvary
Burdens are lifted at Calvary
Jesus is very near

Troubled soul the Savior can see
every heartache and tear
Burdens are lifted at Calvary
Jesus is very near

Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Calvary, Calvary
Burdens are lifted at Calvary
Jesus is very near

Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Calvary, Calvary
Burdens are lifted at Calvary
Jesus is very near

Jesus is very near

Murder On Music Row

After watching American Idol this week and seeing some "Country Music" videos I am convinced the Country music I love is getting lost in the noise of popular music. There is still some hope. Jamie Johnson is a good one that has a couple albums out that are good. I thought of this song this week.

Song: Murder on Music Row
Album: Latest Greatest Straitest Hits
Artist: George Strait (with Alan Jackson)


Nobody saw him runnin' from 16th avenue
They never found a fingerprint or the weapon that was used
But someone killed country music - cut out its heart and soul
They got away with murder down on Music Row

They almighty dollar and the lust for world-wide fame
Slowly killed tradition and for that someone should hang
Oh, they all say, "Not guilty" but the evidence will show
That murder was commited down on Music Row

For the steel guitars no longer cry and fiddles barely play
But drums and rock and roll guitars are mixed up in your face
Ol' Hank wouldn't have a chance on today's radio
Since they've committed murder down on Music Row

They thought no one would miss it once it was dead and gone
They said no one would by them old drinkin' and cheatin' songs
Well there ain't no justice in it and the hard facts are cold
Murder's been committed down on Music Row

For the steel guitars no longer cry and you can't hear fiddles play
With drums and rock and roll guitars mixed right up in your face
Why the Hag - he wouldn't have a chance on today's radio
Since they've committed murder down on Music Row

Why, they'd even tell the "Possum" to pack up and go back home
There's been an awful murder down on Music Row

Tell Me One More Time About Jesus

There is an outside chance a couple I know will be attending a worship service with a church this morning. It will be the 1st worship service in a long time. I have been praying for these guys for a long time. They have given themselves to lots of different things. Perhaps they will find the true source of peace, comfort and redemption. I am praying again this morning.

This song comes to mind for them...

Song: Tell Me One More Time About Jesus
Artist: Vince Gill
Album: These Days

Tell me one more time about Jesus
All about forgiveness and grace
Tell me one more time about Jesus
All about my saviour's face

Here comes my old friend - the preacher
He's knockin' on my front door
He's out tryin' to save all the sinners
He's been here so many times before

I love the easy conversation
Man, that preacher sure can talk
He brings up my need for salvation
Even though he knows I'm stubborn to a fault

Tell me one more time about Jesus
All about forgiveness and grace
Tell me one more time about Jesus
Lord, I need just a little more faith

I walked by the church Sunday mornin'
I slipped on in the back door
It's sure been a long time comin'
But tell me, preacher, what I need to know

His words were like a cool drink of water
He said, "Sinners, come on down the isle"
So I went runnin' for the alter
You should have seen my ol' friend, the preacher, smile

Tell me one more time about Jesus
All about forgiveness and grace
Tell me one more time about Jesus
I long to see my saviour's face

Oh, I long to see my saviour's face.

Radio Land

The recent passing of Paul Harvey got me thinking of memories about radio. The first time I can remember hearing Paul Harvey was actually in my summer visits to Grandma's in Arkansas. I listened to him pretty faithfully over the years. He was truly a pioneer with his news and comments.

But I listened to KVOO as a kid and that is where I learned to love Country music. Billy Parker had an overnight show that was really great. It kept me company on nights I woke up and lulled me back to sleep. In my teen years there was good old rock and roll on KAKC with Scooter Seagraves, Allen West and Mike McCarthy.

This song came to my mind as I reflected this week. A great song!

Song: Radio Land
Artist: Michael Martin Murphy
Album: The Best Of Michael Martin Murphy

I remember country evenin', when the sun was goin' down
Sittin' on the front porch, listenin' to the sound
While mama did the dishes daddy rolled a smoke
From a can of Old Prince Albert...his hands as strong as oak

And the sounds of the Grand Ole Opry came out of Ryman Hall
Roy Acuff played the fiddle and sang "Wabash Cannonball"
Hank Williams whispered, "I Saw the Light"
And people everywhere sat listenin' in the night

Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We all closed our eyes, listened to the band
Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We all dreamed of Radio Land

Then Wolfman Jack came a howlin' from across the Rio Grande
Layin' down the sounds that all the kids could understand
Momma and daddy were sleepin' but the kids were wide awake
Listenin' to Bill Haley rattle roll and shake
Old Jerry Lee banged on the keys and screamed, "Great Balls of Fire!"
Elivs crooned, "Don't Be Cruel", the girls swooned with desire

Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We all closed our eyes and listened to the band
Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We all dreamed of Radio Land

I remember summer evenin', late night rock and roll
Miles and miles of highway, just my radio
I remember a night when it felt so right a lover's moon above
And the songs they were playin' the night we fell in love.

Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We both closed our eyes, listened to the band
Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We fell in love in Radio Land

Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We still close our eyes and listen to the band
Out in Radio Land, out in Radio Land
We still dream of Radio Land

That's Love

This artist puts out some really good, fun, poignant, country songs! This is one of those. A great Saturday morning song! Worth the 99 cent download. I recommend the whole album.

Song: That's Love
Artist: Brad Paisley
Album: Mud on the Tires

There ain't a woman in the world that wants to hear the word "Yes"
When she asks if you think that she looks chubby in that dress
And if she cooks all day you better eat it with a smile
It doesn't matter if it tastes just like bad gravy on a Goodyear tire

(yeah, yeah, yeah)
Alright so you bend the truth
(yeah, yeah, yeah)
That's somethin' that you'll have to get used to

'Cause that's love, you'll see
We all commit a little bit of perjury
Aw, but that's no crime
If you ask me, that's love

You're starin' at a burnt steak
You bite the bullet and you clean your plate
And then you go on and on about how great it was
That's not a lie = that's love

Well, it's the very same thing that she does for you
When she doesn't bring up the 15 pounds that you need to lose
And every time she runs her fingers through your hair
And says she kinda likes the way there's not as much there

(yeah, yeah, yeah)
Alright, so she bends the truth
(yeah, yeah, yeah)
That's somethin' that you'll have to get used to

'Cause that's love, you'll see
We all commit a little bit of perjury
But that's no crime
If you ask me, that's love

You're bummin' out so she says
"There's somethin' kinda sexy about a bald head
Aw, but honey, it'll make you look twice as tough"
That's not a lie, that's love

(yeah, yeah, yeah)
Alright. so you bend the truth
(yeah, yeah, yeah)
That's somethin' you're both gonna do

'Cause that's love you'll see
We all commit a little bit of perjury
You say. "I like it when your momma comes to visit us"
That's not a lie
That's not a lie...
That's love

I Wish Things Were Simple Again

Just when I thought I had heard all of Haggard's songs I found another tune that struck a chord in my heart. I actually found it tonight while spelunking on iTunes website. And it is quite appropriate for this time in our country's life. It is going to be a favorite of mine for a while.

Song: I Wish Things Were Simple Again
Artist: Merle Haggard
Album: Live From Austin, Texas

I wish things were simple like they used to be
When cowboys rode horses and were heroes to me
My mother was a lady and my dad was a man
And I wish things were simple again

I wish things were simple like when I was a kid
A man just got paid for the work that he did
And a song could be played for a nickle back then
And I wish things were simple again

But even the blue skies roar with thunder
Men fly above like birds
Nothin' is simple, not even a love song
The story gets lost in the words

But there's no way to rewind, it's gone with the wind
Yet I wish things were simple again

Even the blue skies roar with thunder
Men fly above like birds
Nothin' is simple, not even a love song
The story gets lost in the words

There's no way to rewind, it's gone with the wind
And I wish things were simple again

Oh, I wish things were simple again

Sinner Saved By Grace

Another Sunday. It has been a couple of weeks since I posted to this blog. Here is another inspirational song that means a lot to me.

Song: Sinner Saved By Grace
Artist: Gaither Vocal Band
Album: Best of Gaither Vocal Band

If you could see what I once was, if you could go with me
Back to where I started from then you would see
A miracle of love that took me in its sweet embrace
And made me what I am today:
Just an old sinner saved by grace

I'm just a sinner saved by grace
When I stood condemned to death he took my place
Now I live and breathe in freedom with each breath of life I take
Loved and forgiven, back with the living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace

How could I boast on anything I've seen or done
How could I dare to claim as mine the victories God as won
Where would I be had God not brought me gently to this place
I'm here to say I'm nothing but a sinner saved by grace

I'm just a sinner saved by grace
When I stood condemned to death he took my place
Now I grow and breathe in freedom with each breath of life I take
Loved and forgiven, back with the living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace

Now I grow and breathe in freedom with each breath of life I take
Loved and forgiven, back with the living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace

Saved by grace...

My List

Weather forecast for the weekend on the pond is cloudy and cold. So, guess I will put off cleaning the garage and working in the yard a few more days. Politics in Washington DC seems to be doing business as usual except they've up'd the ante to include the future of the next couple of generations. People are worried about their jobs and futures.

Looks like a good weekend to count blessings and enjoying freedom and
family. Things we have and reasons to keep keeping on.

Song: My List
Artist: Toby Keith
Album: Greatest Hits 2

Under an old brass paperweight is my list of things to do today
Go to the bank and the hardware store, put a new lock on the cellar door
I cross 'em off as I get 'em done but when the sun goes is set
There's still more than a few things left I haven't got to yet

Go for a walk, say a little prayer, take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove, play some catch, it's time that I make time for that
Wade the shore, cast a line, look up a long lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin' that's the next thing on my list

Wouldn't change the course of fate, cuttin' the grass just had to wait
'Cause I've got more important things
Like pushin' my kid on the backyard swing
I won't break my back for million bucks I can't take to my grave
So I'll put off for tomorrow what I could get done today

Like, go for a walk, say a little prayer, take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove, play some catch, it's time that I make time for that
Wade the shore, cast a line, look up a long lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin' that's the next thing on my list

Raise a little hell, laugh 'til it hurts, put an extra five in the plate at church
Call up my folks just to chat, it's time that I make time for that
Stay up late, then oversleep, show her what she means to me
Catch up on the things I've always missed
Just start livin' - that's the next thing on my list

Under an old brass paperweight, my list of things to do today...

I Still Can't Say Goodbye

Dad has suffered from dementia the last few years and so it has been some time since he and I had a real deep conversation. I came across this song in 2006 and it really struck a chord in my heart.

I have great memories of playing catch with a baseball, throwing a football, and playing PIG with the basketball. Christmas was always a great time. And I realize more and more how I always wanted to be like him.

Love you, Dad! This is NOT goodbye. Just a, "We'll see you later."

Song: I Still Can't Say Goodbye
Artist: Merle Haggard
Album: Chicago Wind

When I was young my dad would say,
"Come on son, let's go out and play"
Seems like only yesterday

When I was all by myself
I'd climb up the closet shelf
Find his hat and fix the brim
Pretending I was him

No matter how hard I try
No matter how many tears I cry
No matter how many years go by
I still can't say goodbye

He took good care of mom and me
We all cut down the Christmas tree
He always had some time for me

Wind blows through the trees
Street lights - they still shine bright
Most things are still the same
But I miss my dad tonight

I walk by the Salvation Army store
Saw a hat like my daddy wore
Tried it on and fixed the brim
Still trying to be like him

No matter how hard I try
No matter how many tears I cry
No matter how many years go by
I still can't say goodbye
No...

A River Like You

Most people who read my blogs know my wife, Debbie. She is pretty amazing. She NEVER stops working to keep the house a home. She has stood by me through lay-offs, business failure, sickness and most incredibly in my normalcy. Listening to my iTunes tonight I heard this one again for the 1st time in a while. I dedicate it to her. There will be others I will dedicate to her too. But tonight it is this one.

Song: A River Like You
Artist: Vince Gill
Album: These Days

A good woman's love is like a river
Runnin' through the heart of a man
If he gives her all he can give her
She'll be with him at every bend

In other rivers I've crossed
A reflection was lost
And shallow waters left me blue
Girl, I never came across a river like you

A river like you
Where your love runs so deep and true
A river like you
Like a waterfall fallin' into
A river like you

I spent all my time searchin'
Runnin' like the wayward wind
You found me desperately driftin'
And touched my heart and took me in

Now your love runs through me
and in your eyes I see
Reflections I never knew
I'll always be sailin' on
A river like you

A river like you
Where your love runs so deep and true
A river like you
Like a waterfall fallin' into
A river like you

In other rivers I've crossed
A reflection was lost
And shallow waters left me blue
Girl, I'll always keep sailin' on
A river like you

A river like you
Where your love runs so deep and true
A river like you
Like a waterfall fallin' into
A river like you
A river like you
A river like you

A Cabin In The Hills

On this Sunday morning I am listening to my Gospel and Christian music (as usual) while waiting for Debbie and Maverick to arise.

I like this one because not everyone will get excited by thinking of Heaven as a city of gold and a place with a mansion waiting for us over the hilltop. Some prefer the thought of a rural setting. Good song!

On this one Haggard is joined by Johnny Cash on the last chorus.

Song: A Cabin In The Hills
Artist: Merle Haggard
Album: Cabin In The Hills

[spoken]
I dreamed I saw Jesus last night seated on a mountain in the moonlight
His hands held a key to a cabin that cabin I'd dreamed of all my life

[song]
Money makes rules we have to live by
A home is just a place the send the bills
God knows why we work and what we pray for
So he's building me a cabin in the hills

Who knows he might be finished in the morning
So I lie awake and take no sleeping pills
God knows I'm not happy in a mansion
So he's building me a cabin in the hills.

I live my lonesome life down in a valley
with the factories, the rivers and the mills
Sometimes I can almost hear his hammer
'Cause he's building me a cabin in the hills

Someone has to keep the home fire burning
So I sweat and get the harvest in the field
Life on Earth won't be the same hereafter
So he's building me a cabin in the hills

I live my lonesome life down in a valley
with the factories, the rivers and the mills
Sometimes I can almost hear his hammer
'Cause he's building me a cabin in the hills

Yeah, he's building me a cabin in the hills.

Heroes

We throw the word around too much. We give the title to sports and entertainment figures who really do not deserve it. And some of them do not even want it. It belongs to our men and women in the armed forces and the men and women who protect us here at home.

This week another real hero emerged in a spectacular way. CNN reported, "Chesley B. 'Sully' Sullenberger III was 'the right guy at the right time at the right moment' to guide a jet safely onto the surface of the Hudson River, a neighbor and friend said." The US Airways captain calmly, professionally, and heroically chose the safest place to put down the airliner and saved, not only everyone on his plane but people on the ground who might have been killed had he crashed onto land. What a great story!

The song I chose today points out that there truly are heroes in our lives every day. They may not be as evident as Sullenberger but they are there. Whose hero are you?

Song: Heroes
Artist: Paul Overstreet
Album: The Best of Paul Overstreet

He drives into the city
And works extra hard all day
He finishes up early
so he can get away
'Cause there's a blue-eyed kid on second base
Wants dad to watch him play
And daddy knows he's waiting
So he hurries on his way

'Cause you know heroes come in every shape and size
Making special sacrifices for others in their lives
No one gives them medals
The world don't know their name
But in someones eyes they're heroes just the same

She rocks her crying baby
In the hours before dawn
She whispers words of hope
To help her husband to hold on
She takes time with the children
Making sure they know she cares
She's more then just a momma
She's the answer to their prayers

'Cause you know heroes come in every shape and size
Making special sacrifices for others in their lives
No one gives them medals
The world don't know their name
But in someones eyes they're heroes just the same

Now I don't pretend to know you
But I bet it's safe to say
There's someone out there somewhere
Looking up to you today
And they see everything you do
Except for you mistakes
You may not think you measure up
But you got all it takes

'Cause you know heroes come in every shape and size
Making special sacrifices for others in their lives
No one gives them medals
The world don't know their name
But in some one's eyes they're heroes just the same

No one gives them medals
The world don't know their name
But in someones eyes they're heroes just the same
Yeah, in someones eyes they're heroes...
Just the same...
Talking 'bout a hero....
Special kind of hero.....
No ordinary hero...

Loving God, Loving Each Other

In Matthew 22 is the discussion of the Greatest Commandment:
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Yesterday's post showed one view of how to handle one's problems. The Christian has another view. If our churches practiced this better we might find more people finding their way to our doors in search of comfort.

Song: Loving God, Loving Each Other
Artist: Gaither Vocal Band
Album: The Best of the Gaither Vocal Band

Loving God, loving each other,
Making music with my friends;
Loving God, loving each other,
And the story never ends.

They pushed back from the table
To listen to His words,
His secret plan before He had to go.
It's not complicated;
Don't need a lot of rules,
This is all you need to know.

Loving God, loving each other,
Making music with my friends;
Loving God, loving each other,
And the story never ends.

We tend to make it harder,
Build steeples out of stone,
Fill books with explanations of The Way,
But if we'd stop and listen
And break a little bread,
We would hear the Master say

Loving God, loving each other,
Making music with my friends;
Loving God, loving each other,
And the story never ends.

Loving God, loving each other,
Making music with my friends;
Loving God, loving each other,
And the story never ends.
And the story never ends.
No, the story never ends.

Ready For The End Of The World

The genesis of a great country song is a song about relationship. The same is true for a great christian hymn too. Maybe it is why I love both genres of song.

Here, the writer is putting in supplies for the heartache he knows is coming. He is preparing to go to a place he perceives as welcoming, accepting, non-judgemental, and safe when he faces the heartache and pain.

A good church will provide the same thing. There will be more about that in my regular Sunday post, tomorrow.

Song: Ready For The End Of the World
Artist: George Strait
Album: Somewhere Down In Texas

I know the end is near
I've seen the warning signs
Been preparin' myself
Layin' in supplies
I bought a case of Jack
A boxed-set of Merle
I'm gettin' ready
Ready for the end of the world

I'm gettin' ready for the end to come
That final hour it all comes undone
An' she drops the bomb
An' says she ain't my girl
I'm gettin' ready
Ready for the end of the world

My neon shelter waits
Where I can go to hide
While the memories burn
I'll be safe inside
With the honky-tonk few
Bracin' for the worst
I'm gettin' ready
Ready for the end of the world

I'm gettin' ready for the end to come
That final hour it all comes undone
An' she drops the bomb
An' says she ain't my girl
I'm gettin' ready
Ready for the end of the world

Yeah, I'll be ready
Ready for the end of the world

I'm Alive

As a young man of 24 I was fresh off a divorce and I suppose I was wallering in self pity when a co-worker remarked, "Robb, we all have our crosses to carry. Its time you get off yours and start carrying it." That remark has stuck with me for almost 30 years as it was that short exchange that started me to thinking about how true that was (I was actually trying to come up with justification for my self pity but could not).


As I have faced other hurdles since that time - two job layoffs, a business failure, disappointments in others' choices, my own plain old stupid choices, and cancer - I have learned I am not the only one who has struggles. And I have learned to be thankful for what I have today.


I just bought this album this fall and this late summer or early fall and this song struck a chord.


Song: I'm Alive
Artist: Willie Nelson
Album: Moment of Forever


It's so damn easy to say that life's so hard
Everybody's got their share of battle scars
As for me, I'd like to thank my lucky stars
That I'm alive and well


And it'd be easy to add up all the pain
And all the dreams you sat and watched go up in flames
Dwell on the wreckage as it smolders in the rain
But not me, I'm alive


And today you know that's good enough for me
Breathing in and out's a blessing, can't you see?
Today is the first day of the rest of my life
And I'm alive and well, God, I'm alive and well


Stars are dancing on the water here tonight
It's good for the soul when there's not a soul in sight
This boat has caught it's wind and brought me back to life
Now I'm alive and well


And today you know that's good enough for me
Breathing in and out's a blessing, can't you see?
Today is the first day of the rest of my life
And I'm alive and well, God, I'm alive and well

You Can't Fix It

Debbie has always called me Robb "the tool man" Clanton - after Tim Allen's character in the 80's - 90's sitcom. I have just enough tools to be dangerous. And If I try to do something with a tool we usually end up having to call a professional in to fix my fix. So we have learned to just call the professional 1st.

On this Sunday morning I am thinking of the greatest "fix it" of the Ages. Thank God for Jesus!

Song: You Can't Fix It
Artist: The Oak Ridge Boys
Album: Common Thread

I recall climbing up that back yard tree
Before I knew it I had hit the ground
She knew my arm was broken
As mama threw the car door open
And hurriedly she drove me into town

As we sat there waiting I said, "Mom, it really hurts"
Then she pointed at the doctor with these words

You can't fix it but he can
Don't you cry - there's healing in his hands!
He can take what's broken and make it whole again
You can't fix it but he can
You can't fix it but he can

I can still see me sittin' on the back church pew
Trying to be cool at seventeen
When the alter call was given
I just kind of stiffened
The preacher just seemed to look right straight at me

When daddy put his arm around me the tears began to fall
Then he pointed to the cross there on the wall

(spoken) and he said,

You can't fix it but he can
Don't you know there's healing in his hands?
He can take what's broken and make it whole again
You can't fix it but he can

Are you standing in the rubble
Of your broken life and wonder
Can the pieces be put back together?

You can't fix it but he can
there is healing in the Savior's hands
He can take what's broken and make it whole again
You can't fix it but he can
You can't fix it but he can

Lucky Man

On this day people tend to reflect on the past year and make some resolutions about the new one. I'll do some of that today.

What I know is that no matter what losses my 401k has sustained in the WorldCom blow up in 2002 and the meltdown of 2008 I still live better than most people on this planet. Got a good measure of health, a mom and dad still with me, two sisters who are funny (and fun to be around too). My wife will have a special place in Heaven for putting up with me all these years. The kids are struggling to make their way in this world and I am proud of their efforts and accomplishments. Ol' Maverick is a hoot to watch grow and mature. I'm a lucky man.

Substitute the "Cowboys" for "Bengals", "two sisters" for "a brother" and "iPod and music" for "rod and reel" and this is really about me.

Song: Lucky Man
Artist: Mongomery Gentry
Album: Some People Change

I have days where I hate my job
This little town and the whole world too
Last Sunday when the Bengals lost
Lord it put me in a bad mood
I have moments when I curse the rain
Then complain when the sun's too hot
I look around at what everyone has
And I forget about all I've got

But I know I'm a lucky man
God's given me a pretty fair hand
Got a house and a piece of land
A few dollars in a coffee can
My old truck's still running good
My ticker's ticking like they say it should
I got supper in the oven, a good woman's lovin'
And one more day to be my little kid's dad
Lord knows I'm a lucky man

Got some friends who would be here fast
I could call em any time of day
Got a brother who's got my back
Got a mama who I swear's a saint
Got a brand new rod and reel
Got a full week off this year
Dad had a close call last spring
It's a miracle he's still here

But I know I'm a lucky man
God's given me a pretty fair hand
Got a house and a piece of land
a few dollars in a coffee can
My old truck's still running good
My ticker's tickin' like they say it should
I got supper in the oven, good woman's lovin'
And one more day to be my little kid's dad
Lord knows I'm a lucky man

My old trucks still running good
My ticker's ticking like they say it should
I got supper in the oven, a good woman's lovin'
And even my bad days ain't that bad
Yeah, I'm a lucky man

I'm a lucky lucky man