Carlos Nakai plays some of the most hauntingly beautiful music I’ve ever heard. Carlos is a Navaho-Ute Indian flute player. I first heard his music at Mt. Irenaeus a number of years ago. Initially it was used in conjunction with centering prayer at the Mountain. Since that time I’ve purchased several of Carlos’ albums. Song of the Morning Star is a hauntingly beautiful melody and reminds me not only of Mt. Irenaeus but also of the desert southwest and Arizona in particular. I bought my first Carlos Nakai album on a trip to Sedona, Arizona in 2001.
My Love is like a Red, Red Rose
Bill Douglas is one of my favorite musicians. I first discovered his music about three years ago. I find his work very restful and contemplative.
My Love Is Like A Red, Red Rose by Bill Douglas
I hope you enjoy it.
The Narrow Path
I came upon a compelling video presentation by Fr. John Dear, SJ. It speaks for itself. It is a product of the San Damiano Foundation.[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZK4B74ci2y4]
Giving
Today was timeout. A day of silent retreat in my own hermitage. Today I read a book that’s been around for a relatively long time. I was aware of some of the principles in the book and I even practice them in my daily life, but I had forgotten to be gentle with myself and today was the day for that. Continue reading “Giving”
Thoughts
Today’s paper has an article about how the United States culture has strayed from the original intent of the founding fathers. In particular the author was taking umbrage with the interpretation of the establishment clause of the United States Constitution. Many so-called conservative Christians are quick to point out that God is mentioned frequently by the founding fathers and that this country was founded on a Judeo-Christian tradition. Continue reading “Thoughts”
Soul Searching
I just finished watching a documentary I purchased today while visiting Abbey of the Genesee. Entitled “Soul Searching–The Journey of Thomas Merton,” it’s well worth your viewing time. Continue reading “Soul Searching”
Messiah
I just finished reading a book I read rather quickly because it was tough to put down. I recommend “The Messiah of Morris Avenue.” I think it’s a timely book and I wasn’t quite prepared for its message and ending. I’ve thought for a long time if Jesus ever did come back to earth that he’d be crucified again. I was slightly wrong in my assessment and you’ll have to read the book to discover the new ending.
I have always hated wars waged in my name. God is on our side! Gott mitt uns! Deus Vult! God Bless America! I am on no one’s side. I am not on America’s side, or Islam’s, or Israel’s or Europe’s. I have never been on the British, the German, the Spanish, the Dutch, the Catholic, or the Protestant side; I did not uphold the Crusaders, not the Turks or the Golden Hordes, not the sons of Ali or the sons of Muhammad. I did not guide the hand of David or Solomon, or the hand of Caesar or Alexander or Ptolemy. Thou shalt not kill. There are no exceptions.–p.192, The Messiah of Morris Avenue
Blessed imperfection
In the last couple of days there have been two politicians exposed for hypocrisy. Why is it that these right wingers have taken it upon themselves to attempt to legislate a morality that they themselves cannot endure. Thomas Merton wrote of the shadow. Continue reading “Blessed imperfection”
Personal virtualization
I’ve been reading about virtualization lately and I’ve been experimenting with Virtual Box and VMWare. Next week I’m enrollled in a four day seminar where I’ll learn more about VMWare ESX. As I was running I thought of the power of virtualization Continue reading “Personal virtualization”
Summorum Pontificum
Today I learned of Summorum Pontificum from a co-worker. He said, “the Pope says non-Catholics are going to hell.” I’ve found a blog where someone has had the foresight to translate this letter into English. The Vatican still has only the Latin available. I have three years of Latin thanks to a good Franciscan and public education, but I’m very rusty at any translation. Continue reading “Summorum Pontificum”