Posts filed in 2- Tunes Tuesday

2- Tunes Tuesday

How Can I Keep From Singing?

I invited a good friend of mine to guest author this post. I admire her lovable attitude and resilient personality! Meet Anna Sisson… A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to sing in church with my mother. My mother has a beautiful voice, and I have always aspired to sing like her. However, that is not my greatest talent, but that doesn’t stop me from singing. When I was looking for what to sing, I discovered a song entitled just that, “How Can I Keep From Singing.” I was somewhat familiar with a version from Enya that I listened to as a teenager. Though this version had somewhat of a different vibe. In fact, the fourth verse had entirely different lyrics. 

Here are the lyrics from the the original author, Robert Wadsworth Lowry, who was an American Baptist minister in the late 1800’s.

My life flows on in endless song;

Above earth’s lamentation,

I hear the sweet, tho’ far-off hymn

That hails a new creation;

Thro’ all the tumult and the strife

I hear the music ringing;

It finds an echo in my soul—

        How can I keep from singing?

What tho’ my joys and comforts die?

The Lord my Saviour liveth;

What tho’ the darkness gather round?

Songs in the night he giveth.

No storm can shake my inmost calm

While to that refuge clinging;

Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth,

          How can I keep from singing?

I lift my eyes; the cloud grows thin;

I see the blue above it;

And day by day this pathway smooths,

Since first I learned to love it,

The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart,

A fountain ever springing;

All things are mine since I am his—

          How can I keep from singing?

I love how the words don’t mask the fact that life can be hard! But I also love the fact that the words encourage us to rise above the hard times and listen to what brings us hope and peace.

It is so easy to become bitter when things don’t go as planned, or when debts are high, jobs fail, and children disobey or when health gets in the way! Yet, when we remember the many blessings we do have and give thanks, we can rise above and never stop singing praises for our Lord Jesus Christ!

My mother and I may have not had a perfect performance that day, but I am content with the message we shared. It was is to never lose hope or sight of what is most important. Cling to Him with all our might, and of course to never never stop singing!!!!!!

By Anna Sisson (She did a great job, didn’t she? I am uplifted!)

 My favorite version, by SheDaisy.

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Just Be Held – 6/27/17

I really adore this song! Casting Crowns is an incredible gospel group. It’s about a broken time in our lives, and what we need to do for peace. It reminds us we are not alone in our struggles. We are ‘held‘ by The One that loves us the most. I imagine if you saw my footsteps in the sand, you would see one set, because I know I am being carried. 

“Life hits you out of nowhere, and barely leaves you holding on…” (Wow, I can relate!) There were no signs of this stroke occurring, and we were all most assuradely thrown for a loop! (Well it felt that way!) I’m sure that happens, to some extent, to all of us.

“Chained by your control…” I feel so out of control, but the only things I can control are my devotion to Him, my attitude, and my drive to never surrender. Not being able to move about alone really does feel like shackles and chains. You are dependent and trapped. Not able to do much alone, you must wait on other people’s timetables. That’s a hard thing for the independent will that I possess. (Really hard!)

“When you’re on your knees on and answers seem so far away…” Even though I can’t get on my knees, I have said many heartfelt prayers for me and family. When the answers do seem unobtainable, and I feel as though I will never discover them. That’s when I am touched by the Spirit and told in my heart that we are definitely being ‘held‘ and loved. I must let go of the misconception that I’m in charge and humble myself before Him. There is freedom in this action. A peace of mind.

Casting Crowns is a wonderful inspirational group. The whole “Thrive” album doesn’t let you down. One of my other favorites is “Heroes.” Krystal, my daughter, introduced me to it, and we sang it a couple years ago on July Fourth. (Love the harmony.) I also recommend a holiday classic reinvisioned by Casting Crowns, “I Heard the Bells.”

“Your world’s not falling apart it’s falling into place…” Right now, it might seem hopelessly tragic, but when the storm clouds break and the sun comes out it will be alright.  (Would the rain stop already?) I do have my mind and my heart. They tell me this will be okay. When my 20/20 hindsight kicks in, I will see the big picture. It might happen in the afterlife, but I know it will happen for you and me. I guess this song boils down to faith and trust. Sometimes you gotta let go of the constant worries and just let faith take over. 

The thought of Him holding me in His arms comforts me. I know when I do reach heaven it will happen. We will have a wondrous reunion. I will “be held.”

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Consider the Lilies – 6/20/17

As part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches the people who have gathered around. In Matthew 6, He is telling them that God loves and provides for everyone in His own way. Verse 28 says, “And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, (it’s a parable) how they grow; they toil not, nor do they spin.” 

There are many theories regarding this verse. But I learned spinning thread was a large task of daily life at this time, and He was referring to wildflowers in general, which are mainly purple in that region. Jesus always spoke in terms the masses would understand. He was endeavoring to teach the people of God’s unconditional love for flowers in the field, birds in the air, sheep in the meadow, and all the way up to us. He blesses those “lilies” with sunlight, nutrients in the soil, and rain from the sky. (They don’t do much, just grow.) But if He cares for such inane objects and gives them beauty (for nothing,) how much more do you think He cares for His spirit children?  

Part of the song goes: “He feeds the lambs in His fold (we are the lambs,) And He will heal those who trust him, And make their hearts as gold.” I venture to say our trials, big or small, are hard for our Heavenly Father to watch. (Just like a parent begrudgingly utilizes tough love.) But we agreed to come to earth, and be tested. (We signed up for this.) Some tests are more difficult than others. That’s how we grow, and become valuable, like gold. That’s how we prove ourselves to Him. Our Heavenly Father blesses each one of us according to our needs. We all get certain blessings and others are added based on our dedication (and trust) in Him and His Son like healing, for example.

There were early inspirational versions based on this scripture, but this song’s lyrics were written in 1980 by a gospel singer through the Spirit and out of appreciation. Roger Hoffman, the songwriter, explains his feelings toward the song, “This is the way of the Master. He tells us plainly that he has given us weakness to bring us to him. When we come unto him, he teaches, counsels, and heals us, replacing evil with good, pouring himself into us, a spiritual transfusion where his light replaces our darkness. The light he has put into us works its way through everything we know and feel and draws us to yet greater light.” (Heavy, but I believe it.) The Mormon Tabernacle choir has embraced this song and sing it often. I think it’s the best version.

I know that the wonderful blessings I am given come from God, our Heavenly Father. The lilies are blessed. The birds are blessed. And we are truly blessed. 

I have looked around myself and understand the tender mercies in my behalf, and I am humbled by the great love He has for me. (I suggest you look and see your blessings, too.)

I will always appreciate and adore this song. (And I will never gaze upon lilies the same way again!)

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Never Gonna Let You Down – 6/13/17

“Never Gonna Let You Down” is an up beat song by Colbie Calliat that just makes you feel incredible! I love her, and her songs are so inspiring. It’s message is of loyalty, love and hope. (Just what I need to hear!) This song makes me reminiscent of so many people in my life. It amazing and humbling that so many of my friends and family really stepped up and supported us through love and by deed when times were (are) hard. 

This song also holds inherent meaning to me. Two years ago, my four daughters and I performed this song at the Lewiston Fourth of July festivities in the park. I will always cherish our time practicing and performing. It is a fabulous memory I will hold onto forever. Isn’t music great for recalling memories? (You bet your sweet checks!)

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Gethsemane – 6/6/17

Gethsemane took on a new meaning to me after the stroke. I began to truly see just a bit of the agony Christ endured that night as he prayed alone in proxy for us and agonized in that garden. Imagine one person’s pain, suffering, and sins a trillion times over! (Actually I can’t imagine.) He is my trusted friend who truly understands, because He’s been through it all.

For Easter, I gave my children this picture of a stained glass window in the Paris, France temple on a small canvas. On the back, I typed my testimony of Gethsemane and of my faith. I hope it is cherished. (It holds a special meaning to me.)

Claire Ryan has the sweetest little voice. Whoever coaches her, has taught the art of infusing feeling into the songs. The first time I heard this song was the primary children singing it in sacrament meeting, and I cried like a baby. It’s really a touching song. You can feel the love He has for us!

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Walkin’ on Sunshine – 5/30/17

I took Monday, Memorial Day, off from writing to give my family all my attention. I stayed at home Sunday night. We had a campfire under the stars, and many sunny walks. Oodles of fun were had. (I need a rest.) We spent exceptional quality time together. It was a wonderful long weekend!

The song I selected for the today is Walkin’ on Sunshine by Katrina & the Waves. (I think they were one hit wonders.) This song is a timeless classic. It makes me happy. I used to love to sing along. The bouncy rhythm and accelerated pace make it electrifying. The thought of even walking, but walking on sunshine is the personification of summer and feeling great. As summer and warmer days get into full swing, it’s time to cut loose. (And loose, I will cut!)  After being cooped up since August, I am anticpating (more than ever before) fun days, warm rays, and starry nights. Brighter days are awaiting me! “And don’t it feel good!”

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2- Tunes Tuesday

Be Still My Soul – Tunes Tuesday 5/23/17

This hymn speaks to me. In this time, when I have many quiet hours to think, “What if this, what if that?” It helps me remember to relax, take it easy, it will be fine. The first line: “Be still my soul, the Lord is on thy side.” The Lord really is looking out for me! (and you!) He didn’t do this to me. He did this for me. (What? Are you crazy? Yeah a little.) The Lord handed us these afflictions to test us, to see what we are truly made of. Am a going to give up and curl into a ball on the floor? (Probably, if I got dropped.) No, I’m going to fight for what, I know, is worth the hardship and grief and a little elbow grease. (Whatever that means, I’m gonna work hard.) “Through thorny ways, lead to a joyful end.”

The part that really gets me: “…when change and tears have passed…” All my grief, all my sadness, all my disappointment will will soon be distant memories. This hymn was written as a funeral rendition to the Finnish national anthem tune, but l don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon. So I will let it bring me peace. “Peace, not as the world giveth…” But peace through Him. Peace, I can have, in my soul. My favorite arrangement is by David Archuletta. He sings it with such heartfelt conviction. I know there is peace (to be had) if I just let it in. “Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake.”

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