That's the way the world goes round...

There is a wonderful little song by John Prine called, "That's the Way the World Goes Round" that's all about paradox and surprise. I love the story he adds in this about how a woman heard entirely different lyrics in the chorus...

I had one of those days when everything I thought was going to happened didn't - it wasn't bad - just way upside down. And then just when I thought the day was coming to a close I had a phone conversation with Dr. Royal Hartigan - a musicologist and jazz drummer - who is a friend of another musician friend in town (the jazz guitarist Andy Kelly.)

To make a long story short, Royal is looking for a place to do a jazz concert in Pittsfield on Mother's Day - something he and his band call "Ancestors" - a tribute to his deceased mother and a way to raise funds for both the local hospice and the women's shelter. We've been missing one another over the past two weeks - Lent and Holy Week being what they are - and I missed two of his phone calls today while out doing yard work.

Well, we finally connected - and I give thanks to God that we did. What a really lovely and creative man. It will be a BLESSING to host his band on Sunday, May 9th at 3 pm for the "Ancestors" concert and benefit. Our sanctuary will be perfect - and it will continue to build on our commitment to the integration of the arts and social compassion. You might want to check out his website @ www.royalhart.com/

And here's a short clip that I really love...

Funny how a day filled with expectations - and upside down surprises - can feel like "a half an inch of water and you think you're gonna drown" only to become filled with joy and gratitude. Often that really is the way the world goes around for me.