Music in Haiti?

I was watching television and they were reporting on the devastation in Haiti. This report was a little different than other reports because it focused on the musicians who live there. They literally pulled their instruments (that survived) from the rubble and formed a group determined to provide some entertainment and a pleasant diversion from their troubles. There was a large group of people gathered who were displaced by the quake. Young and old all gathered together to celebrated the music, inspiration, and hope that these musicians shared. There were smiles and joy on the faces of the people there, clapping, dancing, and expressing pure joy!

This just reminded me how important music and the arts are to people everywhere. We get caught up in the business of life and take for granted the important role that the arts play in our lives. I hope every school administrator saw this report, especially in a day where there are widespread cuts in arts programs and funding. Yes, the arts are important and they are a vital part of our culture!

Upsidedown

This is a tough time we live in. I don't know how I got to this point where I'm unemployed, upsidedown on, not just one, but two mortgages, and racking up credit card debt. I know that there are others out there who are in the same financial situation, and my heart is heavy for you. I've went through a series of emotions from hope to despair. When I was at my lowest point my friend Bobby and my friend Rolo rescued me. Bobby came and got me out of bed and shared, what I can only describe as, the wisdom of God. His words of encouragement lifted my spirits and gave me back some hope.

Don't ever think that you can't make a difference in someone's life. God can use you, rich or poor, young or old, to bring someone out of the pits of despair and give them hope for the future . . . just listen to His voice. The voice inside or the gentle nudge that you feel might be God prompting you to reach out to another soul.