Get Me Through December
Artist: Alison Krauss
Album: A Hundred Miles Or More: A Collection
How pale is the sky that brings forth the rain
As the changing of seasons prepares me again
For the long bitter nights and the wild winter's day
My heart has grown cold my love stored away
My heart has grown cold my love stored away
I've been to the mountain left my tracks in the snow
Where souls have been lost and the walking wounded go
I've taken the pain no girl should endure
Faith can move mountains of that I am sure
But faith can move mountains of that I am sure
Just get me through December
A promise I'll remember
Get me through December
So I can start again
No divine purpose brings freedom from sin
And peace is a gift that must come from within
I've looked for the love that will bring me to rest
Feeding this hunger beating strong in my chest
Feeding this hunger beating strong in my chest
Get me through December
A promise I'll remember
Get me through December
So I can start again
[Get Me Through December Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Why I chose these lyrics: First, I absolutely love Alison Krauss--her musicianship is outstanding, her voice is amazing. During an All Songs Considered podcast summing up the best and worst in music for 2007, one of the commentators remarked that Krauss is arguably the best voice in country music today. She is currently grabbing a great deal of attention from critics and fans alike for her collaboration of duets with Robert Plant on the album Raising Sand. (Yup, that one's on my wish list too!).
Hannukah came early in December this year and once I started listening to A Hundred Miles or More, I found myself listening to this CD every night. Most of the songs on this album are somber, yet somehow Krauss infuses them with hope and and light. The entire album is wonderful, however, I found myself hitting the 'repeat' button a lot during Get Me Through December because right now it is the song on the album that speaks to me the most.
Krauss sings the song that I could not voice. Her words are, in a sense, the prayer I couldn't pray. She's crying out to get through her heartache, which makes the song seem like it's just a downer. But she overshadows the sadness by transmitting, through her voice, hope--in faith and finding peace within. Her voice is quiet, mellow, and gentle, yet passionate, spiritual and powerful at the same time.
I don't like to 'wish time away'. I'm not ready for another year to be over yet. But at the same time, December has been one of those 'icky' months. I have been struggling concurrently spiritually, emotionally and physically which is always a recipe for emotional disaster and meltdown. The Lyme treatment hasn't been going so hot, the stress level in our home is beyond high, and I am wondering why I can't find my spiritual center.
Most of the time I am able to find contentment, joy, gratitude and acceptance of what is. But sometimes, as I did this month, I find myself weary, tired, frustrated and angry--at this illness, at what it's taken from me, at feeling trapped in my own body, and so much more.
I'm currently listening to a Jewish fiction book, Joy Comes in the Morning. The title is based on Psalm 30: "The weeping comes at night, but joy comes in the morning." The Rabbi, and main character, is having a spiritual crisis herself. Although the book is not the greatest in many respects, it speaks to me deeply in regards to where I am at spiritually. Another character in the book asks: "Joy comes in the morning. Or does it? Is it all a lie?" What this book has reminded me is that we all, no matter how spiritual, find ourselves doubting and questioning. One of my favorite aspects of Judaism is the aspect that requires us to question G-d.
I only have one more disc left (which I hope to finish tonight) and I have confidence that Joy will come in the morning at the end of this book, even if it is bittersweet. And, as I always do, I'll find my way back to joy. In reality, I have little to complain about in comparison to other times of crisis. I've found myself asking myself, "What is my problem?" or chastising myself to, "Snap out of it." This doesn't work. We grieve in many ways, on may levels, and for many different reasons. And this month I just needed a little time to grieve--and weep.
Blessings,
Emily
Note: This 'inspirational' blog post is dedicated to my favorite cynic, Uncle Stan.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Taking Care of Our Most Vulnerable...
After dinner, Asher and I went on our daily outing to the mailbox, in anticipation of the arrival of perhaps another holiday card bringing holiday cheer. We did get a card full of cheer.
However, I also received a notice from the County Assistance Office letting me know that as of January 1, 2008 my food stamp allotment would be reduced from $40 a month to $34 a month. Just three months ago, in October of this year, my food stamps increased from $31 to $40 a month. Who can adequately sustain and nourish themselves on any of these amounts?
The reason for the DECREASE in the monthly allotment? As stated in the notice: "Your food stamp benefits will change based on the 2.3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) that you will receive in your Social Security benefits and/or your Supplemental Security Income in January 2008.
Let's take note of that 2.3% increase in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) that I receive. (Note: I receive SSI and Medical Assistance (not Medicare) because I became sick right out of college and did not 'pay into the system' long enough to receive SSDI benefits and Medicare).
In 2007, my monthly income from the Federal government was $623. That 2.3% raise amounts to a whopping $14 a month more in income, for a grand total of $637 starting January 1, 2008.
Now, my food stamps have been 'adjusted' based on this raise. Do the math. Now my monthly increase is $8. What will I ever do with all that extra money?
I also received $27.40 per month in 2007 from the State government. I have yet to receive notice of a change in that figure. Should be in the mail soon, surely filling me with holiday joy.
Okay, so I don't usually discuss money on my blog or very publicly. Even some of my close friends know very little about the actual expenses and financial binds disability creates.
I was so completely outraged tonight though, that I felt compelled to write, compelled to speak up. While I try not to discuss money and politics, I realized that not sharing this story would be hiding part of myself. I know that many of my friends and I disagree politically, so I try to be more neutral on my blog. I realized, however, that part of the reason I am blogging now is to be authentically me. So, I'm taking a risk and stepping out of my box. I'm not asking my friends to agree with me, I'm just voicing what I feel.
I have searched and searched for the famous quote that discusses that we must judge ourselves as a society not by our wealthiest members but by how we care for those most unable to care for themselves. The closest I have found is this:
The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have little. --Franklin D. Roosevelt--
If you know the quote I'm looking for, let me know!
On a societal level, I believe that it is our responsibility as citizens of this world, as human beings to provide for those who cannot provide for themselves. We all deserve health care, affordable housing, food, and education to name a few!
Most of you know where I stand politically, but to me this isn't a political topic. It's simply what we as human beings owe each other.
On a personal level, the entire situation terrifies me. In my fights for Medical Assistance to pay for Lyrica and Ambien, I have discussed my frustration with health care (or lack thereof). But, I have not discussed the issue of SSI.
I live in absolute fear. Maybe I need to let go, trust in God, trust in humanity, but I'm always scared. Because I have SSI rather than SSDI, I cannot have ANY assets of my own. This means that if I try to save money it would need to be 'hidden' in another person's name. It means that if my parents die and leave me assets the government will immediately take away my MA/health care. (If you receive SSDI,on the other hand, you can have assets.)
I know that I am incredibly fortunate, but so many others are not. Still, I also know that just as I didn't get a 'free pass' in life from illness, I don't get a 'free pass' from poverty either. Every time I donate to Good Will, I know that it could be me who needs those goods. When we donate to the food bank, I know that it could be me who needs that food. I am not 'special' or 'chosen', I'm just simply lucky right now.
I also know that my parents are generous, self-sacrificing human beings who have worked so hard to provide for me and have done all that they can to ensure that if I am disabled and unable to work for the rest of my life, they have tried to prepare. They have tried to prepare by putting the money they have saved in a trust, which the government cannot take away.
A trust, however, means that I will NEVER have financial freedom. I am dependent on those in charge of the trust to dole out monthly payments to me. Even with a trust, the government can say that I have too many assets and take away my Medical Assistance. As a side note, I thankfully have the best of people taking care of me and they will never hurt me or take the money for themselves.
The thought that even with a trust I may not be protected terrifies me. No health care plan would cover me. And any money left to me would be quickly depleted by medical expenses.
We know for a fact that one of the top reasons people file for bankruptcy in this country is because they cannot pay their medical bills.
Maybe it's a waste of energy to be afraid of what will happen to me. Maybe it's not helping anyone that I feel tremendous guilt for what I do have.
All I know, is that while I live comfortably because I am fortunate to have a team of family members holding me up, I'm easily one step away from not being so fortunate. While I'm warm and toasty with a full belly and the best health care I can get, someone else is not. And that could be me. That's a haunting thought with which I find hard to live.
Sadly, with the combination of MA and SSI, I think I actually come in slightly above poverty level--because most people living in poverty have no insurance at all.
Also, I live at home with my mom. When I finally won my fight for SSI, we had to go to the Social Security office and agree that I would pay my mom $200 a month in rent. She had to sign a paper saying that if I did not pay, she would evict me! (Um, where else was I going to live that I could afford not to mention have someone take care of me?) I pay my mom more than $200 in rent, but how much of a dent does it really make in maintaining this household? Not a whole heck of a lot.
It's hard to feel as if any of the money I spend or the things I have are really 'mine.' I feel like they are my parent's. I feel as if when I spend money I'm really spending their money to buy a gift for a friend or to buy that new pair of jeans I've been pining for. Should I be signing the gifts from them?
My Dad, Mom and Abbie never hold me accountable for every dollar I spend, but in many ways they know where every dollar goes. And they NEVER make me feel guilty--in fact Abbie has expressed sadness that I feel so much guilt (yes, I got a good stepmom). My Dad promises me I will be okay. My Mom promises me that when she had a child, she became a mom forever--and that includes taking care of me now even though it wasn't what any of us hoped for or expected. I love them for this generosity and sacrifice.
I'm scared of what will happen to me in the future. And I'm incredibly heartbroken for all of the folks who are not as fortunate as I am.
Who are we if we don't take care of our children, our sick, our elderly and our disabled?
I also say, BRAVO to the folks who are somehow finding a way to live off of what I am receiving and survive, because I don't know how to do it.
I carry this fear and this burden with me every day. I felt it was time to share my what is heavy on my heart. My parents tell me I will be okay, that I will always be taken care of, but somehow I have yet to take comfort in their loving words. I have their promise, but do I have the promise of America?
Blessings,
Emily
However, I also received a notice from the County Assistance Office letting me know that as of January 1, 2008 my food stamp allotment would be reduced from $40 a month to $34 a month. Just three months ago, in October of this year, my food stamps increased from $31 to $40 a month. Who can adequately sustain and nourish themselves on any of these amounts?
The reason for the DECREASE in the monthly allotment? As stated in the notice: "Your food stamp benefits will change based on the 2.3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) that you will receive in your Social Security benefits and/or your Supplemental Security Income in January 2008.
Let's take note of that 2.3% increase in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) that I receive. (Note: I receive SSI and Medical Assistance (not Medicare) because I became sick right out of college and did not 'pay into the system' long enough to receive SSDI benefits and Medicare).
In 2007, my monthly income from the Federal government was $623. That 2.3% raise amounts to a whopping $14 a month more in income, for a grand total of $637 starting January 1, 2008.
Now, my food stamps have been 'adjusted' based on this raise. Do the math. Now my monthly increase is $8. What will I ever do with all that extra money?
I also received $27.40 per month in 2007 from the State government. I have yet to receive notice of a change in that figure. Should be in the mail soon, surely filling me with holiday joy.
Okay, so I don't usually discuss money on my blog or very publicly. Even some of my close friends know very little about the actual expenses and financial binds disability creates.
I was so completely outraged tonight though, that I felt compelled to write, compelled to speak up. While I try not to discuss money and politics, I realized that not sharing this story would be hiding part of myself. I know that many of my friends and I disagree politically, so I try to be more neutral on my blog. I realized, however, that part of the reason I am blogging now is to be authentically me. So, I'm taking a risk and stepping out of my box. I'm not asking my friends to agree with me, I'm just voicing what I feel.
I have searched and searched for the famous quote that discusses that we must judge ourselves as a society not by our wealthiest members but by how we care for those most unable to care for themselves. The closest I have found is this:
The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have little. --Franklin D. Roosevelt--
If you know the quote I'm looking for, let me know!
On a societal level, I believe that it is our responsibility as citizens of this world, as human beings to provide for those who cannot provide for themselves. We all deserve health care, affordable housing, food, and education to name a few!
Most of you know where I stand politically, but to me this isn't a political topic. It's simply what we as human beings owe each other.
On a personal level, the entire situation terrifies me. In my fights for Medical Assistance to pay for Lyrica and Ambien, I have discussed my frustration with health care (or lack thereof). But, I have not discussed the issue of SSI.
I live in absolute fear. Maybe I need to let go, trust in God, trust in humanity, but I'm always scared. Because I have SSI rather than SSDI, I cannot have ANY assets of my own. This means that if I try to save money it would need to be 'hidden' in another person's name. It means that if my parents die and leave me assets the government will immediately take away my MA/health care. (If you receive SSDI,on the other hand, you can have assets.)
I know that I am incredibly fortunate, but so many others are not. Still, I also know that just as I didn't get a 'free pass' in life from illness, I don't get a 'free pass' from poverty either. Every time I donate to Good Will, I know that it could be me who needs those goods. When we donate to the food bank, I know that it could be me who needs that food. I am not 'special' or 'chosen', I'm just simply lucky right now.
I also know that my parents are generous, self-sacrificing human beings who have worked so hard to provide for me and have done all that they can to ensure that if I am disabled and unable to work for the rest of my life, they have tried to prepare. They have tried to prepare by putting the money they have saved in a trust, which the government cannot take away.
A trust, however, means that I will NEVER have financial freedom. I am dependent on those in charge of the trust to dole out monthly payments to me. Even with a trust, the government can say that I have too many assets and take away my Medical Assistance. As a side note, I thankfully have the best of people taking care of me and they will never hurt me or take the money for themselves.
The thought that even with a trust I may not be protected terrifies me. No health care plan would cover me. And any money left to me would be quickly depleted by medical expenses.
We know for a fact that one of the top reasons people file for bankruptcy in this country is because they cannot pay their medical bills.
Maybe it's a waste of energy to be afraid of what will happen to me. Maybe it's not helping anyone that I feel tremendous guilt for what I do have.
All I know, is that while I live comfortably because I am fortunate to have a team of family members holding me up, I'm easily one step away from not being so fortunate. While I'm warm and toasty with a full belly and the best health care I can get, someone else is not. And that could be me. That's a haunting thought with which I find hard to live.
Sadly, with the combination of MA and SSI, I think I actually come in slightly above poverty level--because most people living in poverty have no insurance at all.
Also, I live at home with my mom. When I finally won my fight for SSI, we had to go to the Social Security office and agree that I would pay my mom $200 a month in rent. She had to sign a paper saying that if I did not pay, she would evict me! (Um, where else was I going to live that I could afford not to mention have someone take care of me?) I pay my mom more than $200 in rent, but how much of a dent does it really make in maintaining this household? Not a whole heck of a lot.
It's hard to feel as if any of the money I spend or the things I have are really 'mine.' I feel like they are my parent's. I feel as if when I spend money I'm really spending their money to buy a gift for a friend or to buy that new pair of jeans I've been pining for. Should I be signing the gifts from them?
My Dad, Mom and Abbie never hold me accountable for every dollar I spend, but in many ways they know where every dollar goes. And they NEVER make me feel guilty--in fact Abbie has expressed sadness that I feel so much guilt (yes, I got a good stepmom). My Dad promises me I will be okay. My Mom promises me that when she had a child, she became a mom forever--and that includes taking care of me now even though it wasn't what any of us hoped for or expected. I love them for this generosity and sacrifice.
I'm scared of what will happen to me in the future. And I'm incredibly heartbroken for all of the folks who are not as fortunate as I am.
Who are we if we don't take care of our children, our sick, our elderly and our disabled?
I also say, BRAVO to the folks who are somehow finding a way to live off of what I am receiving and survive, because I don't know how to do it.
I carry this fear and this burden with me every day. I felt it was time to share my what is heavy on my heart. My parents tell me I will be okay, that I will always be taken care of, but somehow I have yet to take comfort in their loving words. I have their promise, but do I have the promise of America?
Blessings,
Emily
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Thoughts on Writing: Ten Years of Blogging!
This week, NPR is 'celebrating' the 10th Anniversary of blogging with stories on the topic throughout the week.
Today, on Morning Edition the version of an 'audio blog' was both hilarious (I was laughing out loud!) and informative.
Here's the link:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17562078
It's worth a listen, I promise. As the week goes on I'll try to post links to the other stories if they are any bit as good as this one.
From this link you can also view related stories. I found the stats under "Learning to Embrace My Inner Blogger" fascinating.
Who blogs? Which sex blogs more? Which race? Which age group? I was actually surprised that more women than men blog (not sure why as it makes sense).
And WHY DO WE BLOG? The number one reason people cited as their reason for blogging: to express themselves creatively. A whopping 77% of folks said this. "To document, share personal experiences" came in next at 76%. "To stay in touch with friends, family" (59% of bloggers) was also a common reason folks blogged. From the list, these three most closely resembled why I blog.
The surveys were conducted by the Pew Internet and American Life Project.
Here's a short clip from the story, of which the third paragraph I found hysterical. I realized how lucky I was to have anyone other than myself and my parents reading my blog at all!
Morning Edition, December 24, 2007 · Ten years ago, the phrase "Web log" — which was then shortened to "blog" — was born.
In a week-long series, NPR takes a look at the evolution of the blogosphere and to find out who's blogging, examine the language and culture of blogs, and find out how blogs are changing our lives.
According to Sreenath Sreenivasan of Columbia Journalism School, there are more than 100 million blogs and 100,000 new blogs are created daily. However, he adds, most are read by only the writer and his mother.
And did you ever wonder how we got the term blog to begin with? Well, here it is. Corina, this is especially for you! And I really hope you can listen to that story all the way over there in the Netherlands.
Spring 1999: Online journal author Peter Merholz takes Jorn Barger's word "weblog" and splits it into the phrase "We blog." Blog soon becomes shorthand for weblog.
During the story, one of the bloggers mentions the year 1994--the year I started college--as a year when new websites could easily be condensed into a newsletter announcing their launch and the entire web could be perused in a couple of days if one wanted to. I felt old. And absolutely flabbergasted by how our world has changed in such a short time.
When I was in college we did our research the old-fashioned way--searching the stacks in the basement of the Davidson College library for journal articles. No 'virtual journals' existed then. I never 'instant messaged' with anyone until I discovered Gmail two years ago. At Davidson, our email was archaic at best, not to mention that in 1998 we were still sharing a dial-up connection that also served as our phone line amongst four people. My caregivers, all current college students, can't remember a life without email or instant messenging or high speed internet or doing their research via computer. Their eyes bug out when I mention sharing a phone line and internet connection with three other women. Oh, there were no cell phones then either they say? How did we do it? Suddenly I feel old at 32??
Now I find myself going through 'withdrawal' if I can't check my email or reach out through blogging or 'Google' whatever topic I'm currently interested in. In some respects, I'd like to give up some of the chaos of technology for the good old days, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't like to part with my blog!
Happy Blogging to my fellow Bloggers. And to my Faithful Readers, Thank You,
Emily
Today, on Morning Edition the version of an 'audio blog' was both hilarious (I was laughing out loud!) and informative.
Here's the link:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17562078
It's worth a listen, I promise. As the week goes on I'll try to post links to the other stories if they are any bit as good as this one.
From this link you can also view related stories. I found the stats under "Learning to Embrace My Inner Blogger" fascinating.
Who blogs? Which sex blogs more? Which race? Which age group? I was actually surprised that more women than men blog (not sure why as it makes sense).
And WHY DO WE BLOG? The number one reason people cited as their reason for blogging: to express themselves creatively. A whopping 77% of folks said this. "To document, share personal experiences" came in next at 76%. "To stay in touch with friends, family" (59% of bloggers) was also a common reason folks blogged. From the list, these three most closely resembled why I blog.
The surveys were conducted by the Pew Internet and American Life Project.
Here's a short clip from the story, of which the third paragraph I found hysterical. I realized how lucky I was to have anyone other than myself and my parents reading my blog at all!
Morning Edition, December 24, 2007 · Ten years ago, the phrase "Web log" — which was then shortened to "blog" — was born.
In a week-long series, NPR takes a look at the evolution of the blogosphere and to find out who's blogging, examine the language and culture of blogs, and find out how blogs are changing our lives.
According to Sreenath Sreenivasan of Columbia Journalism School, there are more than 100 million blogs and 100,000 new blogs are created daily. However, he adds, most are read by only the writer and his mother.
And did you ever wonder how we got the term blog to begin with? Well, here it is. Corina, this is especially for you! And I really hope you can listen to that story all the way over there in the Netherlands.
Spring 1999: Online journal author Peter Merholz takes Jorn Barger's word "weblog" and splits it into the phrase "We blog." Blog soon becomes shorthand for weblog.
During the story, one of the bloggers mentions the year 1994--the year I started college--as a year when new websites could easily be condensed into a newsletter announcing their launch and the entire web could be perused in a couple of days if one wanted to. I felt old. And absolutely flabbergasted by how our world has changed in such a short time.
When I was in college we did our research the old-fashioned way--searching the stacks in the basement of the Davidson College library for journal articles. No 'virtual journals' existed then. I never 'instant messaged' with anyone until I discovered Gmail two years ago. At Davidson, our email was archaic at best, not to mention that in 1998 we were still sharing a dial-up connection that also served as our phone line amongst four people. My caregivers, all current college students, can't remember a life without email or instant messenging or high speed internet or doing their research via computer. Their eyes bug out when I mention sharing a phone line and internet connection with three other women. Oh, there were no cell phones then either they say? How did we do it? Suddenly I feel old at 32??
Now I find myself going through 'withdrawal' if I can't check my email or reach out through blogging or 'Google' whatever topic I'm currently interested in. In some respects, I'd like to give up some of the chaos of technology for the good old days, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't like to part with my blog!
Happy Blogging to my fellow Bloggers. And to my Faithful Readers, Thank You,
Emily
Merry Christmas!
To all of my family and friends who celebrate the Christmas holiday...May you have blessed day.
May your spirit and the spirits of those around you be filled to the brim with Faith, Hope, Love, Joy and Light.
May those of you struggling this holiday season be blessed with a sense of comfort and peace.
This is my prayer for you.
And here is my dad singing "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" to me and Asher. As you can see Asher is not sure what to think! He just kept trying to lick my dad's face (He has 'lickitis' according to my dad).
I had just shown Dad part of an Oprah show with Josh Groban singing from his new CD, Noel. I do love Josh Groban! Anyways, Dad quite enjoyed the music and began trying to sing like Josh--not quite sure he's got it in him anymore, but we all had a good laugh (including Asher, I think). It was such a joyous moment and full of holiday spirit!
One of the things I love most about Dad is his playful spirit and goofy sense of humor. What he lacks in singing ability these days, he makes up for by hamming it up!
Blessings and Merry Christmas,
Emily
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Weekend Lyrics: Rock of Ages/Maoz Tzur
Rock of Ages
Performed by Marc Cohn
Arranged by M. Cohn and F. London
Rock of Ages let our song
Praise (your) saving power;
Thou amidst the raging foes;
(You were) our sheltering tower
(Our sheltering tower).
Rock of Ages let our song
Praise Thy saving power;
Thou amidst the raging foes;
(You were) our sheltering tower
(Our sheltering tower.)
Furious they assailed us,
But thine arm availed us,
And Thy word broke their sword,
When our own strength failed us.
And (your) word broke their sword,
When our own strength failed us.
Children of the (Wanderers)
Whether free or fettered
Wake the echoes of the songs
Where ye may be scattered
Yours the message cheering
That the time is nearing
Which will see all men free
And tyrants disappearing
(Hope will see all men free,
And tyrants disappearing)
Why I chose these Lyrics: Every Hanukkah, I cannot wait to pull out my Hanukkah CDs. I love my 'Festival of Lights' CD and my Western Wind CD 'Chanukah in Story and Song'. Both CDs contain versions of the classic song 'Rock of Ages'. In Jewish tradition Hanukkah is a 'minor' holiday, and very few songs are traditionally associated with this holiday, with the exception of Rock of Ages. The version on my 'Festival of Lights' CD is performed by Marc Cohn (I mean, how can you go wrong with that??). I can listen to this song over and over and over again, year after year after year. I like Marc Cohn's modernized lyrics--a combination of both the original lyrics and his own lyrics.
I admit it: I LOVE Hanukkah. I look forward to this holiday of lights. As the gray days of winter are upon us, I delight in the lighting of the candles. I love to watch as we light each one. For me, Hanukkah is here to remind me of light in darkness--the darkness of winter, and on a deeper level my own dark night of the soul.
While Hanukkah began in a way that is difficult to find joyous or worthy of celebration, it ended with a miracle. It began as a war between the most powerful army in the world at that time--the Greeks--who attempted to get rid of the Jewish people and decimate the temple. Yet, somehow Judah and the Maccabees, a small army of priests, rose to defeat this great army.
Jews frown upon using war over peaceful words, so little is written in the ancient texts about Hanukkah and it remains a minor holiday without the rich traditions of other major Jewish holidays. The Rabbis of the time found themselves conflicted over the war against the Greeks. (That Hanukkah CD of mine is pretty good, eh? Look at all of the things I have learned!). Still, it was a miracle that the Jews defeated the Greeks at all.
As I listen to Rock of Ages, it reminds me each year how far we have to go to live in a peaceful world and how many people still are not free, especially to practice religious freedom. The words never grow old to me. I admit to wondering what to think and feel about the state of Israel. As a Jew we are expected, in many ways, to be pro-Israel at all costs. But how do I reconcile it with what I believe as a Jew and what the Rabbis so long ago felt about the war that later came to be celebrated as Hanukkah?
At Hanukkah, the focus becomes on what happened after the defeat of the Greek army. The temple was destroyed as was the precious and sacred oil used to light the menorah. Only one container of oil remained pure--enough for one day--yet it lasted for eight days.
And so, we have the story of Hanukkah, the miracle of Hanukkah, and the joyous side of Hanukkah. A light that was meant to burn for only one day burned for eight days. In honor of this we light candles for eight days and celebrate light in darkness.
Although Hanukkah, is of course, a Jewish holiday--it is universal in it's hope for peace, freedom, and of course, light in this world.
I actually began writing this entry on the 9Th of December and never finished it. It has been sitting ready to 'publish' but I never did publish it. I found myself unable to blog, unable even with the Hanukkah lights, to find my way out of my own dark night of the soul.
Hanukkah is over now. Christmas is almost here. In the end, while we are celebrating VERY different things at Christmas and Hanukkah both holidays are joyous occasions filled with hope, love, a desire for peace on earth, and ultimately, faith in God. Rock of Ages is a song well-known by Christians and Jews. I almost deleted the post entirely because I didn't get it done in time for Hannukah, but after some thought I saw that it was a song more universal in nature than I had realized.
Inside the CD jacket the following is written about Rock of Ages and its ecumenical nature:
Perhaps the quintessential and best known Hanukkah song, the original poem (a hymn of praise) was composed in the middle Ages. The poem was set to this melody in 19Th century Germany. As was their custom, German Jews used what was basically a Christian hymn melody. The commonly known English text is a translation of the German version of the original Hebrew (note: it originally could have been a mix of Hebrew and Aramaic). The message of the song--that faith in God will help us to conquer our foes, "overthrow tyrants" and lead us to a time when all people are free--is one that was picked up by other groups. "Rock of Ages" has become a favorite hymn amongst white and African-American Christian congregations.
Blessings to you this holiday and always,
Emily
Performed by Marc Cohn
Arranged by M. Cohn and F. London
Rock of Ages let our song
Praise (your) saving power;
Thou amidst the raging foes;
(You were) our sheltering tower
(Our sheltering tower).
Rock of Ages let our song
Praise Thy saving power;
Thou amidst the raging foes;
(You were) our sheltering tower
(Our sheltering tower.)
Furious they assailed us,
But thine arm availed us,
And Thy word broke their sword,
When our own strength failed us.
And (your) word broke their sword,
When our own strength failed us.
Children of the (Wanderers)
Whether free or fettered
Wake the echoes of the songs
Where ye may be scattered
Yours the message cheering
That the time is nearing
Which will see all men free
And tyrants disappearing
(Hope will see all men free,
And tyrants disappearing)
Why I chose these Lyrics: Every Hanukkah, I cannot wait to pull out my Hanukkah CDs. I love my 'Festival of Lights' CD and my Western Wind CD 'Chanukah in Story and Song'. Both CDs contain versions of the classic song 'Rock of Ages'. In Jewish tradition Hanukkah is a 'minor' holiday, and very few songs are traditionally associated with this holiday, with the exception of Rock of Ages. The version on my 'Festival of Lights' CD is performed by Marc Cohn (I mean, how can you go wrong with that??). I can listen to this song over and over and over again, year after year after year. I like Marc Cohn's modernized lyrics--a combination of both the original lyrics and his own lyrics.
I admit it: I LOVE Hanukkah. I look forward to this holiday of lights. As the gray days of winter are upon us, I delight in the lighting of the candles. I love to watch as we light each one. For me, Hanukkah is here to remind me of light in darkness--the darkness of winter, and on a deeper level my own dark night of the soul.
While Hanukkah began in a way that is difficult to find joyous or worthy of celebration, it ended with a miracle. It began as a war between the most powerful army in the world at that time--the Greeks--who attempted to get rid of the Jewish people and decimate the temple. Yet, somehow Judah and the Maccabees, a small army of priests, rose to defeat this great army.
Jews frown upon using war over peaceful words, so little is written in the ancient texts about Hanukkah and it remains a minor holiday without the rich traditions of other major Jewish holidays. The Rabbis of the time found themselves conflicted over the war against the Greeks. (That Hanukkah CD of mine is pretty good, eh? Look at all of the things I have learned!). Still, it was a miracle that the Jews defeated the Greeks at all.
As I listen to Rock of Ages, it reminds me each year how far we have to go to live in a peaceful world and how many people still are not free, especially to practice religious freedom. The words never grow old to me. I admit to wondering what to think and feel about the state of Israel. As a Jew we are expected, in many ways, to be pro-Israel at all costs. But how do I reconcile it with what I believe as a Jew and what the Rabbis so long ago felt about the war that later came to be celebrated as Hanukkah?
At Hanukkah, the focus becomes on what happened after the defeat of the Greek army. The temple was destroyed as was the precious and sacred oil used to light the menorah. Only one container of oil remained pure--enough for one day--yet it lasted for eight days.
And so, we have the story of Hanukkah, the miracle of Hanukkah, and the joyous side of Hanukkah. A light that was meant to burn for only one day burned for eight days. In honor of this we light candles for eight days and celebrate light in darkness.
Although Hanukkah, is of course, a Jewish holiday--it is universal in it's hope for peace, freedom, and of course, light in this world.
I actually began writing this entry on the 9Th of December and never finished it. It has been sitting ready to 'publish' but I never did publish it. I found myself unable to blog, unable even with the Hanukkah lights, to find my way out of my own dark night of the soul.
Hanukkah is over now. Christmas is almost here. In the end, while we are celebrating VERY different things at Christmas and Hanukkah both holidays are joyous occasions filled with hope, love, a desire for peace on earth, and ultimately, faith in God. Rock of Ages is a song well-known by Christians and Jews. I almost deleted the post entirely because I didn't get it done in time for Hannukah, but after some thought I saw that it was a song more universal in nature than I had realized.
Inside the CD jacket the following is written about Rock of Ages and its ecumenical nature:
Perhaps the quintessential and best known Hanukkah song, the original poem (a hymn of praise) was composed in the middle Ages. The poem was set to this melody in 19Th century Germany. As was their custom, German Jews used what was basically a Christian hymn melody. The commonly known English text is a translation of the German version of the original Hebrew (note: it originally could have been a mix of Hebrew and Aramaic). The message of the song--that faith in God will help us to conquer our foes, "overthrow tyrants" and lead us to a time when all people are free--is one that was picked up by other groups. "Rock of Ages" has become a favorite hymn amongst white and African-American Christian congregations.
Blessings to you this holiday and always,
Emily
Happy Hannukah!!
To my friends and family who celebrate:
Happy Hannukah!!!
I hope you're having a holiday a filled with Light and Love.
Photo: Our Hannukah candles burning brightly
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
THANK YOU for all of your support!
All I can say is WOW. I'm overwhelmed. I really didn't know how folks would receive my Oprah email.
Would y'all think I was crazy? Self-indulgent? Or just goofy (which I am)? I also have a dog affectionately named Goofy Doofy by Anne, so I suppose he and I were meant to be a pair, eh? Or was Anne indirectly referring to me when she gave Asher that nickname? Hmmmmm....
Several folks have said that they would write letters to Oprah. So THANK YOU in advance for doing so. I can't believe my crazy excitement over this.
Anne was up way past her bedtime last night composing her letter--which I am sure will top anything I could ever write! :)
Anyways, I know many of you are very, very busy with the holiday season. A couple of folks asked me how long I thought the topic would be up on the Oprah site. I can't answer this question, because I've never followed this sort of thing before!
But, I would think that the snail mail addresses would be applicable for quite some time. If the links to the specific topics in my earlier blog no longer work, I would guess the topic is 'closed.' HOWEVER, you can still write to the Oprah show by going to www.Oprah.com and clicking the 'Be on the Show' link. You'll find various ways to share a story.
Nate Berkus has his own little 'spot' at the following link (you'll see a little box with his picture and you click on it to write to him): http://www2.oprah.com/tows/intheworks/tows_works_main.jhtml
So, while the exact topics may change, I would think it would still be possible to write considering I have already written in and you are just adding to a topic I wrote about.
They always just say "Send your story as soon as possible." But what is that??? Who knows!
A couple of folks also addressed the idea of the show Extreme Home Makeover. I appreciate the sentiments that I would be a good candidate for this show, but in reality we are not in that much need compared to those families who so need the help of that show. They deserve it and need it a hundred times more than I do.
I chose the Oprah show because it was a bit less, well 'extreme', and fit what I felt we needed and wanted. Not to mention the fact that I love Oprah. Or did I say that already? In an email with another DINET friend who just remodeled her home, she spoke of how much home mattered to her and what a difference it made in her happiness and ability to have the best life possible with her limitations.
I am so lucky to have what I already have. I don't 'need' this. I just really, really 'want' it I guess. I feel that having a more comfortable home for myself, my mom and visitors would enhance my quality of life.
Thank you for all of your support! I'm having way too much fun! :)
Blessings,
Emily
Would y'all think I was crazy? Self-indulgent? Or just goofy (which I am)? I also have a dog affectionately named Goofy Doofy by Anne, so I suppose he and I were meant to be a pair, eh? Or was Anne indirectly referring to me when she gave Asher that nickname? Hmmmmm....
Several folks have said that they would write letters to Oprah. So THANK YOU in advance for doing so. I can't believe my crazy excitement over this.
Anne was up way past her bedtime last night composing her letter--which I am sure will top anything I could ever write! :)
Anyways, I know many of you are very, very busy with the holiday season. A couple of folks asked me how long I thought the topic would be up on the Oprah site. I can't answer this question, because I've never followed this sort of thing before!
But, I would think that the snail mail addresses would be applicable for quite some time. If the links to the specific topics in my earlier blog no longer work, I would guess the topic is 'closed.' HOWEVER, you can still write to the Oprah show by going to www.Oprah.com and clicking the 'Be on the Show' link. You'll find various ways to share a story.
Nate Berkus has his own little 'spot' at the following link (you'll see a little box with his picture and you click on it to write to him): http://www2.oprah.com/tows/intheworks/tows_works_main.jhtml
So, while the exact topics may change, I would think it would still be possible to write considering I have already written in and you are just adding to a topic I wrote about.
They always just say "Send your story as soon as possible." But what is that??? Who knows!
A couple of folks also addressed the idea of the show Extreme Home Makeover. I appreciate the sentiments that I would be a good candidate for this show, but in reality we are not in that much need compared to those families who so need the help of that show. They deserve it and need it a hundred times more than I do.
I chose the Oprah show because it was a bit less, well 'extreme', and fit what I felt we needed and wanted. Not to mention the fact that I love Oprah. Or did I say that already? In an email with another DINET friend who just remodeled her home, she spoke of how much home mattered to her and what a difference it made in her happiness and ability to have the best life possible with her limitations.
I am so lucky to have what I already have. I don't 'need' this. I just really, really 'want' it I guess. I feel that having a more comfortable home for myself, my mom and visitors would enhance my quality of life.
Thank you for all of your support! I'm having way too much fun! :)
Blessings,
Emily
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)