The Closing of the Year – Final Thoughts

Greetings Dear Reader,

I hear friends and family speak of parties and events.  I know that many of my friends will chase that elusive something that is romantic and mystical about beginning a new year. 

All I wish for tonight is that people will be safe and wise.  There are plentiful opportunities to not drink and drive.  Free cab rides and tows are available to those who seek them. 

I prefer a quiet contemplative New Year’s Eve.  I good brandy, a roaring fire, and my pipe would suit me best.  I will miss Dick Clark this year.  We all will.  But as with all things the year will end and the night will turn into tomorrow. 

So as I close the year and my blog for this year I wish you all love, faith, and hope Dear Readers.  I pray that find all that is available to you and that you not miss any good opportunities.  I ask the Father to reveal himself to you more clearly.  I ask that you see Christ for who he is without all the trappings of religion.  I wish you joy.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

The Closing of the Year – Writing

Greetings Dear Reader,

I have so much I wish to write and the time to do it gets assaulted regularly by the business of daily living.  I have spent a good deal of the last and will spend much of the next week completing the first draft of a new novel.  It is the first in a series of three and I am tempted to take the Peter Jackson approach and write all three then find the natural dividing lines. 

I know that I need the sense of completion for the first draft.  I hit a rough patch last Thursday and struggled to get out my word count.  I will need to write most of the day if I am to succeed. 

The reason I am sharing this with you is that I do not much speak of my writing goals.  My heart’s desire is to only be a writer.  I have been trying to get there for some time but it eludes me.  My blog is one of my disciplines so that I stay focused on writing daily.  Most days it is the warm up for my fiction writing.  One of my intents in the coming year is to amplify my writing time at the expense of other things. 

I am telling you this because I know that all of you have dreams that you can pursue with more vigor.  I want you to pursue them.  I want you to become what it is you long to become.  If you need someone to tell you can get there, drop me a line.  I find great joy in encouraging the dreams of others.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

The Closing of the Year – New Pursuits

Greetings Dear Reader,

Each year I ponder new things I wish to learn and do.  My Son Bezel has been encouraging me to travel and I am trying to work this out.  There are places I wish to visit and things I wish to do.  Some are related to my profession others are just things I wish to see.

Another pursuit that interests me this year is that of finding a deeper level in my faith.  I have discarded most of the trappings of traditional Christ following but I cling to Christ and his word.  I want to follow more closely.  I want to be more of what I am meant to be and not settle for less.

A few years ago I learned some lessons about having less.  This seems like a good year to renew those efforts.  I see so many things I have that I do not need but could be used by others.  I have things I have not touched in over a year.  Most of them will go.

How about you Dear Reader?  What new pursuits await you?  How will you get there?

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

The Closing of the Year – Absent Friends

Greetings Dear Reader,

One of my practices between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is to look over the list of friends I have not seen in a year or more.  I am a not so secret keeper of lists and I try to reach out to people that I have lost touch with.  This can be both bitter and sweet.

Because of some of my failures there are those who do not wish to speak to me.  When I encounter this I ask for and then pray for their forgiveness.  I can still hold them dear in my heart and seek God’s best for them.

There are those who I enjoy heartily but time and the busyness of life get in the way of doing things together.  These I can do something about and plan to do so.  As I look over the year I plan times that I can reach out and do something with these individuals.

Those that are separated by geography are a deep challenge.  As a writer one of my goals is to get to the place where my writing income makes it possible for me to be anywhere I wish and still do my work.  I am close but not there yet. This would allow me to visit those whom I treasure but are far away.

What about you Dear Reader?  Are there those with whom you would reconnect?  Time flies so fast.  There are those on my list who have been there for ten years.  That astounds me.  There is one who has been there since I was in third grade.  I have tried to find him to no avail. 

Understand that most of this is pondered with joy.  Most of it is an exercise in remembering the blessing of friends and why each one matters to me.  In the digital age it is easy to find people who are not avoiding being found.  So later this week I will raise a glass to absent friends and ponder ways to reach out to them.  I am determined to make the list shorter before the closing of next year.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

The Closing of the Year – Resolutions

Greetings Dear Reader,

I realize that it is easy to see the end of the year as a time make big changes.  The truth is that I think it is the hardest to do that.  Many times we are mentally or even physically spent from the rush of December events and making big changes may be too much of a challenge.

I do not make New Year’s resolutions.  Instead I a make a plan for things I am going to work on throughout the year.  I realize that if I try to change a list of things on January 1^st that I will fail and then be frustrated.  I also realize that I will abandon those things by my birthday. 

For me it all goes back to trying to live daily or even at times hourly.  I am going to eat right today.  I am going to work on this skill today.  I am going to be more patient for the next hour.  I am spending the next hour being kinder.   You see I realize that being what I am supposed to be cannot be a list that goes into effect a midnight on Monday.  I must be constantly aware of what I should be and do minor course corrections every moment to get there.

It is like driving.  It is the thousands of momentary minor movements of the steering wheel that keep us on the road.  The turns, backing up, and lane changes are far fewer than the countless minor course corrections as I drive.

So as I close the year I view long at the things I wish to be different and plan the many small course corrections necessary to make them different.  I expect some big changes this year but for them to come to reality I need to be vigilant over the moments beginning with the closing of this year. 

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Closing of the Year

Happy Christmas Dear Reader,

For many of you thoughts turn from Christmas to New Year’s Eve.  Some are rushing out to get the after Christmas sales.  At least one Dear Reader begins her journey home soon.  Yesterday I was with my Children and Grand Children.  It was lovely and blessed.  I have some time off for good behavior; fourteen days give or take a few.  I am going to use that time to complete the first draft of my new novel.

What I wish to close this segment with is a song that plays over and over in my mind throughout the year.  It is worth a listen and some thought.  Nothing we do this side of the journey’s end will ever be perfect.  So the misfortunes and pain become part of life.  The truth, however, is that were those things not present we would need no hope.  As with all things the Christmas season comes back to faith.

I believe.  I believe we can better in the way we treat each other.  I believe we can be kinder, gentler, and more loving.  So I will close the year and this series planning how I will do that.  Truly Christmas season never ends for me.  The incarnation of Christ is the beginning of hope and faith for me.  It was when I learned who Jesus is.  It was where I first heard that love and faith have a place for me.

All the other holy days are absent without the incarnation.  All the other moments of faith and following are impossible without the advent of the author and finisher of our faith.  So at the closing of the year I hope you find hope and comfort in the Christ child and listen to the words he later said.

Thank you Dear Reader for your silent constant presence.  Be safe and happy at the closing of the year.

The Closing of the Year – Wendy and Lisa

If I cannot bring you comfort

Then at least I bring you hope

For nothing is more precious

Than the time we have and so

We all must learn from small misfortune

Count the blessings that are real

Let the bells ring out for Christmas

At the closing of the year

Let the bells ring out for Christmas

at the closing of the year

All for the needs of a Sergeant Major,

Ride through the woods with the wind in your hair,

Silver bells on the snow white reindeer

As we race to the castle over there

If I cannot bring you comfort

Then at least I bring you hope

Now all the winter bells are ringing

Hear them echo through the snow

And the children's voices singing

on the streets so far below

This is a time to be together

And the truth is somewhere here

Within our love: all people

at the closing of the year

We'll walk in the sun

With all of the faith

And all of the Patience

All of the way

With all of us right

And all of us saying

"Love one another"

We'll fly in the arms of time

Walk in the waves, never fall

Don't fall (at the closing of the year)

at the closing of the year

If I cannot bring you comfort

Then at least I bring you hope

Then at least I bring you hope

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Mary’s Song

Happy Christmas Dear Reader,

As the quiet darkness of early Christmas morning envelopes me I take my first sip of coffee and listen to a song that bridges Advent, Christmas day, and coming year for me so well.  I ponder often the journey that brings us to the manger.  It is the primary reason I keep Christmas in my heart and home all year round.

Could I have done better than Mary and Joseph?  I doubt it.  But I do wish to do better.  I wish to be better at carrying Christ and his celebration with me not just all year round but in every moment of my life.  One of the paths to that is learning genuine gratitude.  I am thankful I enjoyed some one on one time with my Grandsons last night.  I am thankful that I will get to see all my children that remain this side of the veil today. 

How lonely it must have seemed in that cattle shed.  How much would my faith have been tested had I been in similar circumstances.  Another thing for which I am thankful is you Dear Reader.  As I sit sipping my coffee I whisper a prayer for you.  May you find this day and every day one where Christ is born anew in your heart, soul, and mind.  May you feel that joy in that presence that I feel at this moment.  May find a way to ease someone else’s burden a bit and so pass that joy along.  And if you think of, whisper a prayer for the dancer with words.  Happy Christmas to you all; collectively and individually.

Mary’s Song - Petra

Hold that blanket closer Mary dear

All the world waits with you for your day

But for now the wind is cold and it's drear

And Bethlehem's still so far away

Do you remember the way you felt back then?

Joy and wonder filled your soul and when

The angel slipped away

You knew your life would never be the same

But now you're travelling, travelling on a road to Bethlehem

Wandering thoughts fly away

If you knew the road that lay ahead of Him

Would you break down and cry?

Your child is born to die

Feel that hand of strength upon your own

A husband's love that guides along the way

And as his understanding has grown,

His hopes too are centered on that day

For do you remember the way he looked back then,

Pain and sorrow filled his eyes until when

The angel came to say

The Savior's birth was meant to be this way

But now you're travelling, travelling on a road to Bethlehem

Wandering thoughts fly away

If you knew the road that lay ahead of Him

Would you break down and cry?

Your child is born to die

Think back on that promise you received

For him in whom the prophets long believed

Now belongs to you, you've been chosen too

But He's the One Who's gonna shine

We call His name Jesus, Immanuel

He'll save His people from sin and hell

And of His kingdom there will be no end

But now you're travelling, travelling on a road to Bethlehem

Wandering thoughts fly away

If you knew the road that lay ahead of Him

Would you break down and cry?

Your child is born to die.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Silent Night

Greetings Dear Reader,

I have saved this song for last on purpose.  A Christmas gathering I used to attend always finished their caroling around the piano with this.  I made a point of being away from the throng when they did so I could immerse myself in the sound of friends singing such a beautiful song.

Except for White Christmas this is the most recorded song by artists who create Christmas albums.  The link will take you to Enya’s recording of this song in Gaelic.  That is not why I have included it.  I think it is one of the most simple and poignant proclamations of the reason for Christmas.  All of the other trappings and traditions fade into the background in the dawn’s light of redeeming grace.

Everything else about the Christmas season is insignificant to the incarnation of Christ.  It is my fondest wish that everyone know him and see the magnitude of Christ’s love for us.  So to you beloved Reader I wish you a Happy Christmas and that tonight you find time to ponder what Jesus has to offer all on his own.   

Silent Night – Joseph Mohr

Silent night! Holy night!

All is calm all is bright

Round yon virgin mother and child

Holy infant so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace!

Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night! Holy night!

Son of God love's pure light

Radiant beams from thy holy face

With the dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus, Lord at thy birth

Jesus, Lord at thy birth

Silent night! Holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight

Glories stream from heaven afar

Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia

Christ the Saviour is born

Christ the Saviour is born!

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Another Christmas Song

Greetings Dear Reader,

I can listen to this song over and over again.  The message that we are all one tribe and we need to learn to live in peace is never lost on me.  I never tire of being reminded.  I also love the imagery of the “Old Man” calling us home. 

There is never a time when it is too soon to be reminded of these things.  There is never a time when we do not need “another Christmas song.”

Another Christmas Song – Ian Anderson

Hope everybody’s ringing on their own bell, this fine morning.

Hope everyone’s connected to that long distance phone.

Old man, he’s a mountain.

Old man, he’s an island.

Old man, he’s awaking – says,

“I’m going to call, call all my children home.”

Hope everybody’s dancing to their own drum this fine morning –

the beat of distant Africa or a Polish factory town.

Old man, he’s calling for his supper.

He’s calling for his whisky.

Calling for his sons and daughters, yeah –

Calling, calling all his children round.

Sharp ears are tuned in to the drones and chanters warming.

Mist blowing round some headland, somewhere in your memory.

Everyone is from somewhere –

Even if you’ve never been there.

So take a minute to remember the part of you

That might be the old man calling me.

How many wars you fighting out there, this Christmas morning?

Maybe it’s always time for another Christmas song.

Old man he’s asleep now.

Got appointments to keep now.

Dreaming of his sons and daughters and proving ,

proving that the blood is strong.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Little Town of Bethlehem

Greetings Dear Reader,

Each time I hear this song it transports me to the small village of two thousand years ago.  Night time was dark back then.  No light pollution disturbed the stars.  Phillips Brooks penned this song after visiting Bethlehem.  It is obvious that the reality of what that darkness is like touched him as well.

I have been to places with vast skies and no light pollution.  The stars are oppressively bright.  The world looks much different than it does even in small towns in the US.  The line in this song that always seeds itself in my heart is the last of the first stanza.  “The hope and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.”

The only time I am at peace is when I allow all my hopes and fears to meet and rest in Christ.  This is the gift I wish for everyone.  This is the hope on which I rest all my hopes.

O little town of Bethlehem – Phillips Brooks

O little town of Bethlehem,

    How still we see thee lie!

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep

    The silent stars go by.

Yet in thy dark streets shineth

    The everlasting Light;

The hopes and fears of all the years

    Are met in thee to-night.

For Christ is born of Mary

    And gathered all above,

While mortals sleep the Angels keep

    Their watch of wondering love.

O morning stars, together

    Proclaim the holy birth!

And praises sing to God the King,

    And peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently,

    The wondrous gift is given;

So God imparts to human hearts

    The blessings of His Heaven.

No ear may hear His coming,

    But in this world of sin,

Where meek souls will receive Him still,

    The dear Christ enters in.

Where children pure and happy

    Pray to the blessed Child,

Where misery cries out to Thee,

    Son of the Mother mild;

Where Charity stands watching

    And Faith holds wide the door,

The dark night wakes, the glory breaks,

    And Christmas comes once more.

O holy Child of Bethlehem,

    Descend to us, we pray!

Cast out our sin and enter in,

    Be born in us to-day.

We hear the Christmas angels,

    The great glad tidings tell;

O come to us, abide with us,

    Our Lord Emmanuel!

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Sleigh Ride

Greetings Dear Reader,

I have only ridden in a sleigh on snow once.  It was cold and very much fun.  I would love to do it again.  I chose this song today because of the blizzard that is blustering outside my home.  It is beautiful and terrible all at once. 

I will spend the day writing and preparing to share Christmas with my family.  I do, however, wish it were more Currier and Ives. There are gatherings I used to be a part of that came close to that and I am missing them this year.  I am content though to give good gifts to my children and remember that no matter how the day unfolds I have Christ to celebrate and honor.

Sleigh Ride – Mitchell Parish and Leroy Anderson

Our Wintery Wonder Land

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling, too.

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.

Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling, "Yoo-hoo!"

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.

Giddy-yap, giddy-yap, giddy-yap, let's go,

Let's look at the show

We're riding in a wonderland of snow.

Giddy-yap, giddy-yap, giddy-yap, it's grand,

Just holding your hand.

We're gliding along with a song of a wintery fairyland.

Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy-cozy are we.

We've snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be.

Let's take that road before us and sing a chorus or two.

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.

There's a birthday party at the home of Farmer Gray.

It'll be the perfect ending of a perfect day.

We'll be singing the songs we love to sing without a single stop,

At the fireplace we will watch the chestnuts pop. Pop! Pop! Pop!

There's a happy feeling nothing in this world can buy,

When they pass around the coffee and the pumpkin pie.

It'll nearly be like a picture print by Currier and Ives.

These wonderful things are the things we remember all through our lives!

These wonderful things are the things we remember all through our lives!

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling, too.

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.

Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling, "Yoo-hoo!"

Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – The First Noel

Greetings Dear Reader,

I think I must first begin my comments on this hymn with an apology.  A friend really loves this song and I used to always make a joke about it.  Though harmless it had an adverse impact on my friend.  I hope that she has forgiven me my insensitivity.

I have learned to appreciate its simplicity over the years and I truly will not again make the joke.  As I sit here enjoying a writing day whilst the blizzard billows outside I find myself hoping that I will be both more simple in my enjoyment of Christ and more sensitive to the needs of others.

The First Noel - Unknown

The first Noel the angel did say

Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay:

In fields where they lay a keeping their sheep

On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Noel Noel Noel Noel

Born is the King of Israel.

They looked up and saw a star

Shining in the east beyond them far:

And to the earth it gave great light

And so it continued both day and night.

Noel Noel Noel Noel

Born is the King of Israel.

And by the light of that same star

Three wise men came from the country far;

To seek for a King was their intent,

And to follow the star wherever it went.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

Born is the King of Israel.

This star drew nigh to the north-west;

O'er Bethlehem it took it's rest,

And there it did both stop and stay,

Right over the place where Jesus lay.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

Born is the King of Israel.

Then entered in those wise men three,

Fell reverently upon their knee,

And offered there in his presence

Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

Born is the kind of Israel.

Then let us all with one accord

Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,

That hath made heaven and earth of naught,

And with his blood mankind has bought.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,

Born is the King of Israel.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – A Christmas Song

Greetings Dear Reader,

Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull have provided a great deal of excellent music in my life.  The entire Christmas Album is one I listen to year round.  Of note is this song that though simple and short is very finely poignant. 

If you have not discovered Jethro Tull’s music it is a great gift to give oneself. 

A Christmas Song - Ian Anderson

Once in Royal David’s City stood a lowly cattle shed,

where a mother laid her baby.

You’d do well to remember the things He later said.

When you’re stuffing yourselves at the Christmas parties,

you’ll laugh when I tell you to take a running jump.

You’re missing the point I’m sure does not need making;

that Christmas spirit is not what you drink.

So how can you laugh when your own mother’s hungry

and how can you smile when the reasons for smiling are wrong?

And if I messed up your thoughtless pleasures,

remember, if you wish, this is just a Christmas song.

Hey, Santa: pass us that bottle, will you?

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Once in Royal David’s City

Greetings Dear Reader,

This song, originally written as a poem for children, did not come to my attention until another song referenced it.  I had heard it every year but never given it any attention.  It is often performed by choirs and rarely by an individual.  For some reason my mind finds a contrast between the humility of the words and the pomp of royal choirs singing this song whilst dressed in finery.

I need to remember the humility that was the beginning of the incarnation.  I need to recall the simplicity with which Jesus entered the world.  I must remember that the meekness that Christ wishes me to live is rooted in his human beginning.  It is the humanity of Christ that makes him approachable for our reclamation. 

Once in Royal David’s City – Cecil Francis Humphreys Alexander

Once in royal David's city

Stood a lowly cattle shed,

Where a mother laid her Baby

In a manger for His bed:

Mary was that mother mild,

Jesus Christ her little Child.

He came down to earth from heaven,

Who is God and Lord of all,

And His shelter was a stable,

And His cradle was a stall;

With the poor, and mean, and lowly,

Lived on earth our Savior holy.

And through all His wondrous childhood

He would honor and obey,

Love and watch the lowly maiden,

In whose gentle arms He lay:

Christian children all must be

Mild, obedient, good as He.

For he is our childhood's pattern;

Day by day, like us He grew;

He was little, weak and helpless,

Tears and smiles like us He knew;

And He feeleth for our sadness,

And He shareth in our gladness.

And our eyes at last shall see Him,

Through His own redeeming love;

For that Child so dear and gentle

Is our Lord in heaven above,

And He leads His children on

To the place where He is gone.

Not in that poor lowly stable,

With the oxen standing by,

We shall see Him; but in heaven,

Set at God's right hand on high;

Where like stars His children crowned

All in white shall wait around

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – In the Bleak Midwinter

Greetings Dear Reader,

This song is so hauntingly beautiful.  The words are very simple.  One of the most beautiful recordings is the one performed by Sarah McLachlan.  Her unique voice gives the words an ethereal quality that they deserve.

It is worth the time to follow the link and sit through the song.  It is worth it to take the time to ponder the words and examine ourselves.  The Christ wants most from us is our hearts.  Everything else is subtext.

In the Bleak Midwinter – Christian Rossetti

In the bleak midwinter

Frosty wind made moan

Earth stood

Hard as iron

Water like a stone

Snow had fallen

Snow on snow

Snow on snow

In the bleak midwinter

Long ago

Our God

Heaven cannot hold him

Nor earth sustain

Heaven and Earth

Shall flee away

When he comes to reign

In the bleak midwinter

A stable place sufficed

The lord God almighty

Jesus Christ

Angels and archangels

May have gathered there

Cherubim and seraphim

Thronged in the air

But his mother only

In her maiden bliss

Worshiped the beloved

With a kiss

What can I give him

Poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd

I would bring a lamb

If I were a wise man

I would do my part

Yet

What I can I give him

Give my heart

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – We Three Kings

Greetings Dear Reader,

I love this song because I love the story so much.  I am finished with the research and am working on a novel about the journey and story of the Magi.  What I love about the song is that it is both terrible and beautiful all at once.  John Henry Hopkins captures the amazing paradox of the joy of Christ’s advent and the horror of his destiny in this beautiful piece of music.

One of my favorite recordings of this song is the California Raisins Christmas Special with the doo wop camels.  I think of the faith and courage it must have taken for these men to journey from the east to honor a king.  This journey was one of danger and discovery. 

We Three Kings – John Henry Hopkins

We three kings of Orient are

Bearing gifts we traverse afar.

Field and fountain, moor and mountain,

Following yonder star.

Chorus:

O star of wonder, star of night,

Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding,

Guide us to thy perfect Light.

Born a king on Bethlehem's plain,

Gold I bring to crown Him again,

King forever, ceasing never

Over us all to reign.

 (Chorus)

Frankincense to offer have I.

Incense owns a Deity nigh.

Prayer and praising all men raising,

Worship Him, God on high.

(Chorus)

Myrrh is mine: Its bitter perfume

Breaths a life of gathering gloom.

Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding dying,

Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

(Chorus)

Glorious now behold Him arise,

King and God and Sacrifice.

Alleluia, Alleluia

Sounds through the earth and skies.

(Chorus)

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Christmasing with You

Greetings Dear Reader,

Today is our annual Christmas open house.  I love this day so much when I get to share my home and larder with my friends and family.  I have so many rich blessings in my life and I love sharing my love for Christmas with others.

This year, however, I am especially missing some absent friends.  I am sentimental, emotional, and a bit corny.  My mind has been on friends I have not seen in years and in ones I see but get no real time with during the year.  I have always been someone who feels things very deeply. 

So amidst the joy of the party there will be moments a memory and prayer for absent friends.  I have no way to digitally allow you to hear this song, but I am sure the words covey the feelings in my heart.

Christmasing with You – M. and S.

Snow is drifting in the meadow

Postman’s ringing at the door

Bringing cards and packages by the score

Ornaments sparkle from the fireplace

Lights are twinkling in the lane

But I find myself thinking of you again

And I’m missing you this Christmas

If I tell it true

I wish I was Christmasing with you

Nephews and nieces filled with wonder

Sister is busy with the meal

Just a moment to call you can I steal

Your phone rings on without an answer

I return to the frolic feeling blue

Wishing I was Christmasing with you

Lovers dance a final waltz

Then for home depart

This year I’ll have to be content

To hold you in my heart

Alone in the evening sorting mail

Wish I were sitting with you

Pondering all the sweet things that you do

My eye catches your handwriting

Anxious to open up the card

Hungry for your words to warm my heart

Tears fall on the card you sent me

If what I read is true

Tomorrow I’ll be Christmasing with you

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow

Greetings Dear Reader,

So much of what we do at this time of year is focused on family and that is a good thing.  I value so highly time with my children and the chance to share food and leisure with them.  I also must remember during these times that there are “those who have no coin to save for turkey wine or gifts.”

Every day of the season I must consider the needs of others, whether they be physical, social, or spiritual.  It is possible that if I do not my own situation could leave me wanting. 

Jack Frost and The Hooded Crow – Ian Anderson

Through long December nights we talk in words of rain or snow,

While you, through chattering teeth, reply and curse us as you go.

Why not spare a thought this day for those who have no flame

To warm their bones at Christmas time?

Say Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow.

Now as the last broad oak leaf falls, we beg: consider this:

there's some who have no coin to save for turkey, wine or gifts.

No children's laughter round the fire, no family left to know.

So lend a warm and a helping hand:

say Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow.

As holly pricks and ivy clings, your fate is none too clear.

The Lord may find you wanting; let your good fortune disappear.

All homely comforts blown away and all that's left to show

Is to share your joy at Christmas time

With Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow.

Through long December nights we talk in words of rain or snow,

while you, through chattering teeth, reply and curse us as you go.

Why not spare a thought this day for those who have no flame

to warm their bones at Christmas time?

Say Jack Frost and the Hooded Crow.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Mary Mary

Greetings Dear Reader,

This is one of those songs that is one of my earliest Christmas memories.  It is not as well-known but it is very ponderous and lovely. The nursery that I went to as a boy was a very interesting place.  It was called the Stork Resort.  One of the ladies who cared for us was named Annie.  She sang all the time in her rich southern lilt.  She sang this song even when it was not Christmas time.

Aside from her voice my favorite rendition of it is the one recorded in 1962 by Harry Belafonte.  Sarah McLachlan recorded a medley of this and The First Noel on her Christmas Album, Winter Song.  This is also a lovely rendition.

For me it causes me to think deeply about the intimacy between Mary and her Son.  It humanizes Christ in a very respectful way while still acknowledging his deity.  The title below is also a link to this beautiful song.  Perhaps you can take a moment to ponder it with me.

Mary Mary - Unknown

Mary, Mary, had a little baby,

Oo pretty little baby,

Oo pretty little baby

Glory be to the newborn king.

Star a shinin', shinin' on the manger,

Oo, shinin' on the manger

Oo, welcoming a stranger

Glory be to the newborn king.

Mary, Mary, who was here who knew him,

Oo, did anybody know him,

The ox and the donkey they bowed right down before him,

Glory be to the newborn king.

Mary, what you gonna name your baby?

Oo, pretty little baby,

Mm, pretty little baby

Glory be to the newborn king.

Some call him Manuel, think I'll call him Jesus,

Mm, yes think I'll call him Jesus

Mm, my pretty little Jesus

Glory be to the newborn king

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Greetings Dear Reader,

“...at the first sound of — 'God bless you, merry gentlemen! May nothing you dismay!'— Scrooge seized the ruler with such energy of action that the singer fled in terror, leaving the keyhole to the fog and even more congenial frost." – Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

Of note in this song is the very first line.   The placement of the comma matters greatly.  You see the word merry does not mean that the gentlemen are merry but rather that the writer is saying that God will rest us merry.  We will be happy in our contentment that what God offers are tidings of comfort and joy.

We can rest in the knowledge that the advent of Christ heralds rest for our worries over the fate of mankind.  The words below have changed much over the years and the version I know is quite different.  No matter which version you know, I wish you much comfort and joy.

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen – Author Unknown

God rest you merry, gentlemen,

Let nothing you dismay,

For Jesus Christ our Saviour

Was born upon this day,

To save us all from Satan's power

When we were gone astray:

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy,

O tidings of comfort and joy.

From God our heavenly Father

A blessed angel came,

And unto certain shepherds

Brought tidings of the same,

How that in Bethlehem was born

The Son of God by name:

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy,

O tidings of comfort and joy.

The shepherds at those tidings

Rejoiced much in mind,

And left their flocks a-feeding

In tempest, storm and wind,

And went to Bethlehem straightway,

This blessed Babe to find:

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy,

O tidings of comfort and joy.

But when to Bethlehem they came,

Whereat this Infant lay,

They found Him in a manger,

Where oxen feed on hay;

His mother Mary kneeling,

Unto the Lord did pray:

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy,

O tidings of comfort and joy.

Now to the Lord sing praises,

All you within this place,

And with true love and brotherhood

Each other now embrace;

This holy tide of Christmas

All other doth deface

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy,

O tidings of comfort and joy.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season - Hark the Herald Angels Sing

Greetings Dear Reader,

Last night I unwound from teaching by watching the Charlie Brown Christmas Special.  It always makes me smile and bolsters my love for the Christmas season.  One of my favorite moments is when the gang gathers around the tree and sings Hark the Herald Angels Sing. 

The words to this hymn were penned about three hundred years ago.  The meaning is still so vital.  It is one of those songs that remains timeless in its message; the message of the angels.  We sing it easily enough but do we really ponder the words.  I know I do often.

The reminders of reconciliation, humility, and redemption are key to understanding the advent of Christ.  Without this moment there is no cross.  There is no atonement.  There is no resurrection.

Hark the Herald Angels Sing – Charles Wesley

Hark the herald angels sing

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Glory to the newborn King

Peace on earth and mercy mild,

God and sinners reconciled

Joyful, all ye nations, rise,

Join the triumph of the skies;

With th' angelic host proclaim

Christ is born in Bethlehem.

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the newborn King.

Christ, by highest heaven adored;

Christ, the everlasting Lord;

Late in time behold him come,

Offspring of the Virgin's womb.

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;

Hail the incarnate Deity,

Pleased as man with man to dwell;

Jesus, our Emmanuel.

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the newborn King.

Mild he lays his glory by,

Born that man no more may die,

Born to raise the sons of earth,

Born to give them second birth.

Risen with healing in his wings,

Light and life to all he brings,

Hail, the Sun of Righteousness

Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace.

Hark the herald angels sing

Glory to the newborn King.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Silver Bells

Greetings Dear Reader,

I write often about the things that are very important to me at Christmas time.  This song is one of the most important non-Christian songs there is for me.  You see the silver bells that we hear are what matters most about this song.

Often now it is in the parking lot that I first hear them.  It is something I listen for with intent.  The sound of the small bell ringing carries so well through the air.  I immediately check to see if I have something to give.

The Salvation Army does so much for so many.  They care for those in need by feeding and sheltering them.  The Silver Bells one hears is the sound of them reminding us that there are those in need.  I have so much and helping them during the Christmas season is a great joy for me.  I even found my own real silver bell to use when I go ringing this year.

Silver Bells – Jay Livingston and Jay Evans

City sidewalks busy sidewalks

Dressed in holiday style

In the air

There's a feeling of Christmas

Children laughing

People passing

Meeting smile after smile

And on ev'ry street corner you'll hear

Silver bells silver bells

It's Christmas time in the city

Ring a ling hear them sing

Soon it will be Christmas day

Hear the snow crunch

See the kids bunch

This is Santa's big scene

And above all this bustle you'll hear

Strings of street lights

Even stop lights

Blink a bright red and green

As the shoppers rush home with their treasures

Silver bells, silver bells

It's Christmas time in the city

Ring-a-ling, hear them sing

Soon it will be Christmas day

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."

Music of the Season – Promises to Keep

Greetings Dear Reader,

In the world of acting there is a term; “fake it ‘til you make it.”  This is used to cover the pretense of making your career sound better than it is.  In contrast there is also the thinking that says to make an attitude or habit a part of your life you can live that until it becomes part of you.  In the final song I will visit from Christmas Eve and Other Stories we have a moment of meditation.

It is so appropriate that as I write this the first real snowfall of winter is happening.  I will go to church and prepare for our Christmas open house next week.  This song reminds me that Christmas is a promise.  It is an old an ongoing promise by God to return the world to himself.  He will eventually move past our failures to a world where things are good again.

The reason it is taking so long is because he uses us to do it.  Whenever I do not live the promise of Christmas I hinder the reclamation process.  When I do live it I become closer to becoming it.  So I walk through this season singing and praying that I can be a benefit to those around me.  I desire to make Christmas last forever one moment at a time.

So even when I am tired or feel burdened I must remember the goal of my journey.  I have a long way to go and I can see the cold and snow as either a hindrance or a blessing.  To me it is always a blessing.  So now while my world is still asleep I will continue to prepare.  For Christmas and I both have promises to keep.

PROMISES TO KEEP – Trans Siberian Orchestra

Christmas time

On a cold December morning

All is calm

And the world is still asleep

Christmas lights

That have been caught without warning

Gently glitter on

Stars to wish upon

All the world is at peace

Christmas time and the year will soon be leaving

Cloaked in time till it's just a memory

Christmas stays if we don't forget its meaning

Days go quickly by

Years they multiply

And we go searching for thee

And the dream is still alive

From that first December morning

And it always will survive

As long as we can see

That the dreams we find in life

Are the dreams we tend to seek

And Christmas has its promises to keep

Star Ornaments photo
by Natascha Jones

Christmas time

And the moments just beginning

From last night

When we'd wished upon a star

If our kindness

This day is just pretending

If we pretend long enough

Never giving up

It just might be who we are

POSTLUDE:

And so it's good that we remember

Just as soon as we've discovered

That the things we do in life

Will always end up touching others

So from a fading neon star

Somewhere shining in the night

We find a father far away

Now reflecting in its light

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store."