A BROTHER WITH A WORD !

Grover Washington, Jr. mural at North Broad Street in Philadelphia.



Here begins the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.[fn1]
In the book of the prophet Isaiah, God said, "Look, I am sending my messenger before you, and he will prepare your way.[fn2]
He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: `Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!'[fn3] "
Mark 1: 1-3

I sat reflecting on August Wilson’s play: Joe Turners Come and Gone, looked over at my husband and smiled because I notice lately that he has been a voracious reader and glued to the computer composing some powerful and poignant posts like: The Power of Love which dealt with reconciliation, love and forgiveness. After going to the theatre yesterday evening and remembering Ricky's prose, it sunk into my brain, A Brother With A Word! That was the phrase that spilled out of my mouth as Ricky and I sailed down 264’s HOV Lane. This morning we whizzed past the bumper to bumper traffic and I thought about how I really want to acknowledge men who’s work clearly signals for me that theirs' is a distinct voice in the wilderness. This living can be such a chilling experience, but it doesn’t necessarily remain that way! Thank God! But the wilderness experience can be harsh and deadly to the spirit and the body!

My husband’s, August Wilson’s and other voices are heard and appreciated; they are the John The Baptists’ in our midst, telling through their actions-their anointed works and words that the incarnate, the deity is here and for those of us that aren’t aware to make way in our lives, hearts, and endeavors for the emancipating and mighty presence of God. Yes, a new day is dawning! And it is apparent that God is at the helm! I do appreciate their strength, love and conviction.

In the months days and weeks to come I will feature several outstanding men ( in my perspective) which are impacting or have influenced some aspect of our lives for the better. No they may not all declare their faith though a streaming banner or megaphones but through their life’s work and passions. We clearly realize, they believe in the power of God who does choose in His infinite wisdom and time to rectify wrongs, be ever present to usher them through the strife and hardships, provide a restorative healing that exhibits a love divine and more importantly to love them in spite of their struggles. God holds no fault with them who have a repenting spirit. They are Ministers, Poets, Teachers, Authors, Writers, Fathers, Artist, Lovers, Musicians, Emancipated, Counselors, Blue Collar and No Collar Fellas’ and Every Day working men!

Grover Washington, Jr.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grover_Washington,_Jr.
Soul-jazz Saxophonist, Composer and Instrumentalist
Sax (Tenor), Sax (Soprano), Sax (Alto)
December 12, 1943 – 17 December 17,1999




Pieces Of A Dream Performing with Grover





Mr . Magic- Grover’s Signature Song





A Tribute to Grover from Sweet Daddy Bugg

So let’s celebrate A Brother With A Word –The Wonderful "Mr. Magic", the man that started smooth jazz sounds before there was such a phrase! The awesome Grover Washington Jr. was the pride not only of Philadelphia, PA. , but of Buffalo, New York’. He's our native son! Buffalonians love Grover! Many have tried to define his music and still remain challeneged: soul-fusion, funk jazz, classic jazz with soul, whatever and however you wish to lable his music, once introduced to Grover, you just know Grover’s distinct sound and flavor.

Many imitate but have yet to duplicate this quintessential renaissance musical genius. Truly he’d pack the venues out and the crows and audiences would go up in smoke; his music would ignite the atmosphere and celebration would erupt. The outdoor summer concerts or the jazz clubs took you to another musical dimension! To be in his presence was electric!

Grover’s musical ability as an instrumentalist and composer defy description and generalizations. His work is outstanding.

I am confident that Grover experienced sheer joy being able to convey his emotions into music,his saxophones did the speaking.

Grover was a nurturing spirit. How do I know? Well friends I witnessed many of his unselfish acts and demeanor first hand when I visited from Howard University and would catch the train for many weekend visits to see my cousin and family. He was so down to earth, he’d answer the house phone and be interested in what was concerning me and those around him. Selfish and boastful were foreign characteristics for him. Humility was his daily garb. Laughter, generosity and pleasantness were his companions.

Grover Washington, Jr. was a wonderful atmosphere changer, you were glad to be in his midst. I witnessed the tons of mail from correctional facilities for him. He‘d review many musical scores and letters that inmates and other fans would send, he reply with a sincere critique in a letter encouraging them to study and trust in their dreams. Visiting the local public high schools to musically accompanying the students was right up his alley. he loved the students and had great pride in their accomplishments and eagerness for learning. He’d carve out time for his family, he’d dream bigger dreams and help aspiring young musicians make their mark! Pieces of A Dream was the birth of his vision and ultimately he’d return to his first love musically and record classical music in Aria . Oh he lived the way he wanted, with passion and zeal and would not succumb to the status quo. Need a spiritual lift? Well reach for and enjoy Grover’s music. Come on and celebrate with joyful praise that indeed this was everyone’s brother across the globe who had a musical word and made an impact like no other! He had a sweet spirit and an infectious smile.

Without a doubt music was his mouthpiece, his expressions about faith, reverence for God’s love, joy of life, and personal sorrow all which resonated in his heartfelt soulful music. Thank you Grover, thank you for your music which shouts in the wilderness!

Shared With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

THE POWER OF LOVE

Ricky at Towne Point Park

THE POWER OF LOVE…

Posted by Richard D. Meadows, Jr

Posted on February 4, 2009 at 7:30am —

on iseecolor.com

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

I was deep in conversation with a brother yesterday and we were talking about reconciliation. One of the most profound events that arose from the slaying of my son was not only would I choose to forgive this “brother” but totally see him in a different light. I take a lesson from Ernest Gaines book A Lesson Before Dying where I would transform this brother in my mind. I see his humanity and that he was created by God.

Desomond Tutu speaks of Ubuntu whereby I am because you are. Even with all life’s disappointments and flaws you still are therefore I am. My son had no trouble understanding that in his role as peacemaker. My first thought was he died doing what he knew to do, “No greater love has a man than this, that he would give his life for a friend.”

John 15:18 That was it, it clicked like the proverbial light bulb, Courtney was giving his life for a friend. His friend Nate, who I have not heard from nor seen since that day, was with him and Nate who Court has known from about the age of six was one of his friends. Courtney became friends with Nate after I had him clean Nate’s home after a egging.

Thinking about this made me write a letter to Jamar.

Dear Brother Jamar:

I have been thinking for a long time about you and how you are doing. I have prayed for you on many occasions. I have never met you or anyone from your family, and I know quite a few people in Buffalo, but I can’t say that I know you or your familiy. I don’t know if anyone took the time to tell you about my son Courtney, but I will give you a brief description. He loved people especially the underdog and was extremely loyal to his friends. He was very big but you may not have known he was harmless. I don’t know exactly what went down on that day, but I figured something made you nervous or scared that someone might harm you so you did what you knew to do. On that day I lost a son and your family lost you. I imagine you would do anything to have that moment back again.

I want you to know that I forgive you; I have reconciled your actions and I don’t hold this against you. I have no malice or hatred toward you only forgiveness. You will learn that one of life’s most powerful weapons is the ability to forgive. I wonder who you are and what your hopes and dreams are, I wonder about your family and how your little girl is doing. I don’t believe life is over for you and pray that one day you will find peace to avoid the fear that keeps black men from living. Be strong and may God be with you.Richard D. Meadows, Jr.

This letter now become an open letter, which I did not mail, but my hope is that someone will truly understand that I have reconcilled our brother Jamar, who may be free someday to live again, for his daughter’s sake.This is an invitation to join my group Griefitti on my page. Peace and love.

Shared with consent of my beloved husband.

Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

LAUNCHING THE BLESSEDNESS OF BELIEVING COMMUNITY HELPING HANDS WISH LIST!

I sought the Lord,

and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to him are radiant;

their faces are never covered with shame.

Psalm 14:4-5

Friends have you had this very urgent feeling that there's much more that you needed to be doing to lend a helping hand outside of your own circle? I am sure you have and are possibly experiencing this right now ! Well count me in that number! I desire to do more, step out on faith with bigger, bolder steps and rest assured it can't be about busy work!

I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THE POTENTIAL OF THIS ENDEAVOR-HAVING A NEED AND YOUR WISH BEING GRANTED OR, BEING ABLE TO ASSIST WITH A HELPING HAND AND GIVING HELP TO THOSE IN NEED.

My husband and I were chatting, and then in the conversation I felt the mental light bulb click on and light was emitted. My spirit shouted: "I've got it!"

We both agreed why not create a BLESSEDNESS OF BELIEVING COMMUNITY HELPING HANDS WISH LIST? We have friends in ministry, you have friends in ministry, friends that always help others and several never call it ministry that are doing exceptional work with meager supplies and little or no money! Yes, a helping hand goes a very long way. SO NOT ONLY DO I WANT TO ASSIST OTHERS, I AM HOPING THAT YOU'LL PLAY A BIG PART IN THIS ENDEAVOR AND PARTNER WITH US IN ASSISTING OTHERS TO REALIZE AND ADDRESS THE NEED TO CONTINUE SERVING.

On the Right hand column of my blog I will begin listing Ministries' "WISH LISTS" or persons names that have a real desire to continue their calling-their work to positively touch lives, make great differences and demonstrate GOD'S LOVE! Love is an action word!

My friends you are invited to contact THOSE LISTED regarding their ministries need. I encourage you to give from the heart, connect them with your resources, volunteers etc. and just watch the seeds blossom into something extraordinary.

If you wish to have your ministries name placed on the Wish List simply comment on this blog with your contact information or email me at: blessedbelievers1@yahoo.com and indicate in subject: BB Community Helping Hands Wish List. I will not collect monies, nor any handle gifts or solicit goods; but will gladly share your need on my blogs, list your ministry information and pray that this endeavor catches someone's eye and touches the heart's of the wellmeaning to give.

Let’s witness your need being met with God’s gifts through a divine human touch. Keep me posted.

With tremendous joy!
Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/