euphonies' excitement!

The journey of a girl struggling to follow God's principles in a bottom-line world.

Sonntag, Januar 29, 2006

parsons and perlman

We were all touched by the teaching from Rob Parsons, guest preacher and prolific writer and speaker from the UK. This great story teller spoke of Itzak Perlman, who despite contracting polio at the age of four, went on to become one of the most fascinating violinists of our time. During one of his solos, one of his strings loudly broke, causing a whole concert room to gasp. A few seconds later, he had transposed the whole piece to play beautifully using just three strings. Parsons talked about Perlman taking the microphone and telling everyone, this is precisely what he has learnt to do, "to make music with what's left." It was a great message for us in the room today too. This and plenty of other unbelievable stories gave much hope for those of us grieving or coming from abuse and other difficult backgrounds. He reminded the congregation, that Church is not about success stories. We have so many of those. It is more a message of hope and perserverance, even in those difficult times, which has a lot more merit at the end of the day than success. Awesome!
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Less encouraging was the discussion with some great guys from church, who are wanting me to confront one of the guys running after me - it drives me up the wall and they know it. One of the less pleasant jobs I know I need to do. I'll need that fine line between being gracious about the whole thing, sensitive not to hurt his feelings yet firm in what I think. It'll have to either be tonight or tomorrow, so you can think of me.
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PS: Lina reminded me Shema's on tonight in the old town. It'll be a great time of praise, worship, postmodern discussion full of a room of hungry 25-35 year olds. I have never been disappointed, so come and join if you have some free time. Best place to park is around the gold domed orthodox church or at the underground parking St.Antoine.