Day: July 19, 2008

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When Someone Else Says What You Are Thinking [part 2]

At the age of 15, my parents separated. Being that I was raised very fundamentally (religiously speaking), I had a very difficult time with their separation for it completely went against everything I had been taught – by them.

Thus began my hell.

For 5 years I remained in a darkness surrounded by hate and resentment for my father, for my religion, and for everything I had been taught was right. It was not until I moved away from the small town I was raised in and small minded people I was raised around that I found myself and my truth. I owe considerable debt to Katrine and Heidi (two angels) who showed me that life existed outside the boundaries of this village.

Thus begins my heaven.

I realize now that where I came from (both literally and metaphorically speaking) are key components in who I am today. Granted, I consider myself to be very different, but had I not experienced the darkness, I would not be able to experience the light I enjoy now. I am happy to say that I have forgiven everyone surrounding this time, most importantly my father, and have healed immensely.

I have found a path/journey that more closely aligns with what I believe spiritually and continue on it daily – constantly refining my truth and broadening my understanding of a universe I am part of.

I feel that I am finally on my way to the other side.

I would once again like to reference Brendan James and share the lyrics of track number 5 from his recent album titled The Day Is Brave. The song title is The Other Side. I again give full credit to the artist and hope that anyone who reads these ponderings will seek out the album and appreciate it as much as I do.

I feel I must also say that the resemblance of these words to my own life is uncanny. It is emotional for me to think of my own life/growth in this piece of remarkable writing.

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When Someone Else Says What You Are Thinking [part 1]

Music can be a very powerful medium. Not only can it speak to you, it often times speaks through you and has the ability to be quite healing. Having said this, there are a number of songwriters that I appreciate immensly – James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, and without a doubt Tracy Chapman. I have recently come across a newer singer/songwriter that I feel just as passionately about – Brendan James. His most recent album, The Day Is Brave, is incredibly emotional and heartfelt; at least for me.

Given the current political climate in the country in which I live and our role in the Middle East, there is one song on his album that speaks volumes. I have never been able to fully articulate my feelings about the war only knowing I do not support the ethnocentric motives my country has used to justify the war as it stands currently (noting that our initial attack has been proven to be based on lies and the ego of a leader I do not support).

Brendan James so beautifully places the war in perspective with track number 3, Hero’s Song. I would like to include the lyrics here and hope that you will seek out the album to hear the emotion in it. Full credit and admiration is given to the artist for this song.