Ab ovo usque ad mala

Here I am.

I've lost the music. There was a time in my life when I made music. I didn't make it up but I was involved in a creative process, interpretation. I was not that bad at it. I really enjoyed it. But now it seems I've lost the music. There are certainly other things in my life to which I apply myself creatively...but I'm not as good at any of them as I was at the music. I think some of this feeling of loss comes partially from the winter season, which right now feels like a time for me to look back and remember stuff. It's...an empty feeling. While other aspects of my life feel full, that particular part feels empty. I know exactly what happened. I was there for every part of it. I made all the decisions that led to where I am now. I know that some important things in my life would have suffered had I not...given up the music. But still I mourn for it.

"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. (attributed to Jesus in Matthew 5:38-41, Revised Standard Version) "Many who have committed their lives to working for change and justice in the world simply dismiss Jesus' teachings about nonviolence as impractical idealism. And with good reason. 'Turn the other cheek' suggests the passive, Christian doormat quality that has made so many Christians cowardly and complicit in the face of injustice. 'Resist not evil' seems to break the back of all opposition to evil and counsel submission. 'Going the second mile' has become a platitude meaning nothing more than 'extend yourself.' Rather than f...

Yesterday was Veterans Day, and today I guess is a bank holiday. Here's the story: I, a veteran, try to deposit my paycheck at the bank. So, on this day honoring me and all those other veterans, I receive a closed door and a wasted trip. Thanks, guys.