A Wrinkle in Time

"Do you think things always have an explanation?"

"Yes. I believe that they do. But I think that with our human limitations we're not always able to understand the explanations. But you see, Meg, just because we don't understand doesn't mean that the explanation doesn't exist." (pg.53)

The children's book, A Wrinkle in Time, (click for a review at B&N) turns 50 this year, and it's out in a new hardback edition. Madeleine L'Engle is one of my favourite authors from my middle school and high school days. I still pull her books off my shelves every now and then to revisit her beautiful writing, both fiction and non-fiction. Her books become even more enjoyable with a second (or third) reading. I think this 50th anniversary of Wrinkle was temptation enough to pull it off my shelf and read it again. So this weekend, I re-read Wrinkle. It is hard to believe that a wonderful story like this was rejected by publishers over and over before it was finally published in 1962.

For those people who aren't big sci-fi fans, this wouldn't initially attract you, however, I implore you to give it a chance. Like C.S. Lewis' Narnia series, you as the reader have to let go of your adulthood and think openly like a child. That is why children are such a big part of the Narnia books and the Wrinkle series. Both of these series are written for the younger reader, elementary and middle schoolers, but the morals and Christian themes instilled in these adventure stories are written in indelible ink on the reader's mind. Evidence of the Cold War era is particularly clear in the depiction of the dark world that holds a family member captive. Themes of family, love, and using your talents for good shine throughout the story.

What I love most about these books, is how as an adult I appreciate the story and the deeper meanings more than I ever could when I was a young reader. That, to me, is the mark of truly timeless books. Books that should be read as children and as adults. Sometimes we adults need to be reminded of truths through the eyes (actions, thoughts, and stuggles) of these young characters. Who could not relate to Meg's awkwardness and struggles in school or her taking for granted her wonderful (yet quirky) family? Who wouldn't travel through the universe to save a family member from evil? Who hasn't felt the power of love conquer the darkness? Let this book tesser you (fifth-dimensional travel by taking the short cut through space) to adventures and reminders of God's love through creative storytelling.

"You mean you're comparing our lives to a sonnet? A strict form, but freedom within it?"

"Yes." Mrs. Whatsit said. "You're given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself. What you say is completely up to you." (pg.219)

What's With all the Questions?

God is greater than our heart and He knows everything. -1 John 3.20

I haven't ever thought about how I ask my questions, or that perhaps my questions may not be focused on that which is above (eternal), but on things that are below(finite) and trivial in terms of true importance. But a daily meditation email I read a few days ago sort of ruffled my previous assumptions about questions, or rather, made me aware of the differences. In reading the Gospels over the years, I kind of wondered why Jesus would change/alter a question that people asked Him, and respond with a totally different answer, one that is spiritual. It makes sense now. Jesus was being asked questions about matters from below when the people were looking for a spiritual answer.

Why do I trouble myself with matters that only make my mind wander to the fears that lie dormant underneath? Hopping on that slippery slope only leads to despair and missing the point Jesus was trying to make each time people hounded Him with questions. He wanted them to think of spiritual matters and not worry so much about the other "stuff" that fills our days.

God has beautiful plans and a path for us, but we lose sight of it all too easily. One bad day, or a dull week can drag us down into thinking the darkness is all there is. But when we open up to allow God's light to shine in us, we see the whole world with new eyes and our questions change. Then we see the glory of God is reflected everywhere.

Control

Is there something festering in your shoe?
A pebble there as a reminder of what to do?

Do you try to clear a spot in your soul

And relinquish a feeling of control?

You never had it together anyway

And you've had a sense of urgency to play

Uninterrupted, it is something you can do

But first you must let go, then take off your shoe...

Back Home

One way to keep momentum going is to have constantly greater goals.

-Michael Korda, British-American writer

I have been on the go a little bit these past few weeks. I come back from my road trip and cannot focus at work. Being forced to sit at a desk and work with data spreadsheets and loan paperwork is just not going along with my adventurous and travel-ready attitude that I have been indulging and wish to continue indulging.

I must say that it is nice to come back to my little home, though. I can do some serious reading and thinking here. I am welcomed back to town by surprisingly chilly weather, too. Being so late in April, this cool air is almost unheard of, and I think it's perfect! I sat outside in Munn Park during my whole lunch break writing and reading poetry. Even though I was wearing a light sweater & scarf I was a bit chilled! To me, that is bliss. Everyone else was sitting in the sun, but I always pick the shade (it's a redhead requirement).

I haven't had time to reflect and write too much about my road trip, yet, so hopefully this week and weekend I will be able to collect the stories and thoughts in my head and pour it all into my journal, and by extension, some fun posts here.

Today, I just want to enjoy the weather and take a breather after my trip. But not for too long. My mind is crowded with ideas for writing, reading, and being creative. I've got lots of fun photos from my trip, many of which I have been posting on Instagram (follow me if you have Instagram- muddymusings). I would be ready for another trip in about a week or two. Where next? I've got more than a few ideas....

Savannah Sights

Visiting downtown, historic Savannah is always a place of such diversity. There are many tourists, alongside the art students, alongside the special guests of the art college, alongside business people, and the artsy/hippie type, alongside the other locals.

Jen, Liliana, and I had lunch and tea at the Gryphon, which is a fancy tea room owned by SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design), packed with large parties of people dressed quite nicely (suits, dresses, &c.) Since we did not have reservations, we were sat outside on the sidewalk, which ended up being such an enjoyable leisurely lunch. We had a lot of people to look at, sitting across the street from the original Savannah College of Art and Design building. We ate turkey, apple and brie sandwiches, cucumber salad, chicken and veggies, and shared a pot of Earl Grey. I love how the check was brought to us tucked inside an old book, like a bookmark, along with two coconut macaroons.
The "Book Lady Bookstore" is not far from the tea room, so we took a walk and I spent some time in there. The store is in the basement, with creaky wood floors, cramped spaces, a staircase packed with books, and a cool old typewriter. All the qualities a bookstore should have.
We also went inside the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. It's a beautiful, white cathedral, the tallest in the city I think. A lot of visitors stop here because the outside of the building is so beautiful. Inside is even more ornate, and I forgot I was in Savannah. It felt like we could have been in an Italian city.

South Carolina Beach Day

The overcast day in Hilton Head, SC was perfect for walking along the wide beach. The air coming off the water was cool, as the water temperature is still chilly in April, at 67 degrees. We walked along the firmly packed sand as our feet became coated in drifting sand that was being carried by the wind.

Jen and I decided, in lieu of our ten year high school reunion, we would do a trip together. When baby Liliana came along, that kind of changed our plans, so we are sticking close to Savannah and taking day-trips. Liliana is a good sport, hanging out with us and entertaining us with her sing-song babble baby talk.

Bicycles passed us along the beach, and some people sat out in loungers even though it was not a sun-bathers beach at that point. I felt transported to England, with the chilly air and overcast skies. Jen commented (very rightly) that it was a perfect "Kacie weather" day. Why do you think England is such a perfect place for me? This kind of weather is best for the pale redhead that is me.

Found

The courtyard by the Bodleian Library with the 'Bridge of Sighs' in view. Oxford.

The clouds are sparse today

Perhaps the wind has blown them away

Dissipating with the gust

No longer visible to us

Are we so keenly aware

Of songs floating in the air

Wrapping mercy all around

A melody lost, now is found 

Road Trip

My car and I are off on a little road trip to Savannah. It feels good to let my car get out on the open road (hopefully it will be lacking crazy traffic) and get out of the state to visit my good friend, Jen. I am always up for adventure and travel. Jen and I always have good adventures and I am looking forward to it!

Starflyer 59 has the best music for any situation, and they will be a constant soundtrack heard in my car. I wish I new about this band years ago, they are amazing. Here is their newest song, Bicycle Rider, that I keep singing in my head. Especially these lines-

I'll change my mind and I'll be true
Blessings come by the black & blue
I'll rest my head
'Cause God is good

Labels of the Christian Kind

Book Bliss! The famous Blackwell's Bookshop in Oxford

Christian literature can exist only in the same sense in which Christian cookery might exist. -C.S. Lewis

An interesting perspective, you might be thinking, especially coming from a devoted believer, C.S. Lewis. The label of something being Christian, or secular, seems to cast a shadow on the work itself. Such as Christian music or Christian books, which get shoved into a market that only certain folks will notice. Why can't Christians write books or create music that isn't labelled as such but that gives glory to God? Must it be stereotyped so? I like something C.S. Lewis said, that we don't need more Christian books, we need more Christians who write books.

I know people, who are not believers, that have read The Chronicles of Narnia books or The Lord of the Rings, and they were drawn into the meaning and the story. But did they know that the authors of those books, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, were Christian men who lived in Oxford, had theological discussions, and wrote extensively about Christianity? Probably not, but they are reading the stories enriched with the morals, values, and lessons that are Biblically based. Would they have picked up those books if they were labeled specifically as Christian books (even though they are not)? Possibly not.

Point being- we live in a world with all kinds of cultures, beliefs, and views. The beauty of our differences is that, as Christians, we can give glory to God in many different ways, to many different people, even if we don't stick to the strictly safe "Christian" section of things. To venture elsewhere, by physical travel, books, music, or by engaging people who think differently, is to bring God's glory to another place that needs the light. Or to go to a place and see the light that others did not see. 

Weekend Stretch

Oh, to be in England,

Now that April's there,
And whoever wakes in England
Sees, some morning, unaware,
That the lowest boughs and the brushwood sheaf
Round the elm-tree bole are in tiny leaf,
While the chaffinch sings on the orchard bough
In England- now!
-Robert Browning, Home Thoughts, from Abroad

It's the weekend, which means my mind can stretch. It can stretch overseas to a far off place called England, perhaps even a specific location such as Oxford. Why not? I feel the same longing as the poet, Robert Browning. Oh to be in England!

And now that it's the weekend I can let my thoughts expand across these pages (or this electronic blog post) as I reflect on matters that sadly don't get proper attention most days. Such as this low humidity (bliss!) or my trip to Savannah next week or all the ideas I have crammed into spaces in my mind for writings.

Gladly, this week I have taken several escapes to the coffee shop next door to my office to enjoy an iced chai latte with soy milk, where I occupied a table, got out my journal, and wrote furiously. It was like I had just learned how to be creative and write my thoughts! My hand just couldn't stop writing for many pages!
So, enjoy the weekend. Do something you love. After being confined all week, stretch out!

Train of Thought

Lost in a train of thought
There it goes around the city

Circling a subject not easily shaken

Eagerly staying on the train

I'd much rather be here

In a place with travelling possibility

Around every bend in the track

I look ahead, but glance back

With a smile of new memory on my lips

This path is narrow, and good

It's going the way it should

And the promise of good ahead

Beckons me on....

Jealous of the Moon

If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small. -Proverbs 24.10

Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. -Henry Ford

Staring down the stars
Jealous of the moon
You wish you could fly
But you're staying where you are
There's nothing you can do
If you're too scared to try
-Nickel Creek, "Jealous of the Moon"
Listen to the song here

I can take a hint.

I have been praying for some little signs or directions. A little bit of light. I have felt in the dark about so many things. Like a shroud of mist covering things I hope for and dream of. The picture isn't clear; it's out of focus....Questions arise, to which no answers are given. Do you ever feel like that?

Then, as I was listening to my iPod at my desk, this song by Nickel Creek came on and suddenly I heard the chorus as if it were written for me. I hit "repeat" when the song was over because I felt like I needed to hear it again.

Shortly thereafter, I took a lunch and went to eat at a restaurant downtown, walking from my office. I got a table and checked my emails and the verse from Proverbs was my Scripture of the day. The Quote from Henry Ford was included in another emailed article about failure. It was like all aspects of my day were trying to tell me something important. Don't give up.

 How many times have I felt like a failure in different ways? But does any of that matter and should that hinder me from pursuing a dream?
Let me pay attention.
Live the unanswered questions.
I am feeling the nudge.

Better Versions of Ourselves

I am reading Pride and Prejudice again. For those who scoff and think it is just a girly story full of nonsense, they must not have been paying attention to the story. I think perhaps this is very popular with girls because it tells a story, which was first published in 1813, of manners quite unaccustomed to our modern day. Men standing when a lady enters the room? Speaking to one another with respect? Addressing people by their surname (ex. Ms. Bennet or Mr. Darcy)? Men pursuing a lady with gentlemanly manners? Handwritten letters? Where has all that gone?

One of the main reasons I would be so eager to live in a different century (the 1800's) is because of Jane Austen and her stories. Of course they are fiction and of course there is silliness, but Jane Austen wrote about what she knew, and all the details, manners, social dispositions, and situations are taken from the life surrounding her. The English life with long walks in the country and meals shared with family. Most people today would be at a loss if their entertainment was void of any technology. Dances, reading, music, and games were evening entertainment in Jane Austen's day, and of course, good conversation.

With each reading of my favourite books, I realize something I may not have paid much attention to previously. What I notice in this reading is how timing is crucial. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are not at the right place within their own self. Their character must develop into some better versions of themselves. Getting over pride, conceit, and judgmental assumptions. It is only after they tell each other of their faults that they work to improve what only the other could see and be bold enough to point out. It's the 'iron sharpens iron' effect. It's the honest conversations they have with each other. It turns out, they are quite similar, even though at first glance (or with their 'first impressions', to borrow what Jane Austen originally titled P & P before it was published) they seem so different.

It reminds me that there are things I need to improve on, to make a better version of myself. As long as I work on this, I won't have to worry about the timing of things. They will fall into place because I will be focused on what God wants me to work on.

High

I am grounded and dull
Instead of rooted and full

Allowing elements of the day

To enter in and take away

Joyful musings that would gather

As I wake, trust me, I'd rather

Look up and be filled so

That my reflections only grow

Into praises of Your love

Magnanimous thoughts from above

So high I do not comprehend

Amounts of love and mercy You send

Click for the soundtrack for this musing: Mukala- High

A Venetian Saturday

Downtown Venice farmer's market

Plants for sale at the farmer's market

Fresh vegetables- the corn looked really good

Inside the historic Venice KMI (Kentucky Military Institute) building- I had never been in this building, and it has some neat wooden plank and molding details at the ceiling.

The South Jetty is always a good spot to watch for dolphins. We counted at least 6 of them surfacing 50 yards away. Standing on the rocks, watching the tide come in was so relaxing and peaceful.

Lunch at Cafe Venice- chicken salad on marble rye and sweet potato fries. Yum!

The stack of books I purchased from the public library bookstore. All of them for $5! This satisfied my book craving.

Dinner at Kumo, a Japanese restaurant in Venice we wanted to try. This was the crazy sushi the boys ordered. 

We watched the movie/documentary on Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian Formula One racing driver who was tragically killed in a crash due to possible car malfunctions in 1994. Later, Mom pulled out a photo book from when she and Dad went to F1 races. This photo is actually a different Formula One racing driver, James Hunt, who looks almost exactly like my Dad back in the 1970s. My parents took this photo in 1975, standing this close to the driver and his car in the pits. Awesome.

The Gift Given

The gift is given, and now it is only to be received. The door that was closed is now opened.
A gift cannot fulfill its purpose unless it is fully received. You don't half-accept a gift, do you? You aren't halfway through a door. You either enter the door, or not.

That is, Christ's gift to us, of life eternal, is not fulfilled in you until you receive the gift with all your heart.

Here we stand on another Easter Day, rejoicing because our Lord has conquered death! Let it sink deep into your soul, the true meaning of this for you. It is personal, this thing Christ has done. He died and lives for us all, but we each have to choose what it means for us.

The Lord your God is in your midst,

a mighty one who will save;

he will rejoice over you with gladness;

he will quiet you by his love;

he will exult over you with loud singing.

Zephaniah 3.17

It is interesting to think of the Lord rejoicing over us, when today we focus on rejoicing over Him and the resurrection. The joy of what that means causes us to sing exuberantly.  I don't feel that I am worthy of being rejoiced over, and that, my friends, is the point. I am not worthy. That is the kind of love we have at the doorstep of our hearts.

300!

300 posts! Oh my!
In honor of this momentous post (okay, it's really just entering into a new digit, which happens to be one more than 299, and you wouldn't have even noticed if I didn't point it out), I wanted to make this a celebratory post, full of photos that just make me happy. Enjoy the happiness and the joy of Easter!

Love is Nails

Love's as hard as nails,
Love is nails:

blunt, thick, hammered through

The medial nerves of One

Who, having made us, knew

The thing He had done,

Seeing (with all that is)

Our cross, and His.

-C.S. Lewis

My words seem inadequate on a day like this. Good Friday is good for us sinners, who are washed clean with the blood of Jesus. He is the sacrifice. Our lives, and sins, are costly, indeed.

How else can I express gratitude to my God for this sacrifice? My words seem too simple. There isn't a word in English (or any language) to reflect the thankfulness, remembrance, darkness turning suddenly into light, dawn of hope, mercy, grace, and unending love.

I suppose such a word would be incomprehensible. Too high for us, for God's ways are higher than our own, and His thoughts higher than our thoughts. That means, He knows what He is doing and there is no way for us to fully understand.
So we accept this dark day, knowing that Jesus' sacrifice means so much more than we ever could have imagined ourselves.