20 Comments

Jeff, Thank you for the powerful insight into Psalm 130. I hope Tristan and you grow through the process. D

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I guess how to stay motivated with writing ?

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I guess I don't have a question. I just miss Rachel so much and wonder what she would be saying and doing about all the difficult things happening in the Tennessee State Legislature. I just read Bishop Curry's book again about Love being the way. I am just struggling to respond in love to what is being called the slate of hate in Nashville. Dr Curry says to get people to agree that we treat people in the same way that they want to be treated. I am not sure how to do that. What would Rachel say!?

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Since you asked…

There have been deaths in my family as well and it’s been really hard on my mental health. Though, what does mental wellness look like? My psychiatrist wants me to get back to “my baseline” and is throwing every known medication at “the problem.” I’m wondering if I am supposed to be the same extroverted person I was before these deaths? What if grief changed me - how do we evaluate “wellness” in the midst of metamorphosis?

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Q: How do you work through disappointment, especially when you feel let down by someone close to you?

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I like to hear talking about all the things. Especially garden growing things. Thank you for this. Those sudden moments (ex: photographing your meal and sending it) are the most breathtaking ones, and they honor the one who passed...

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Jeff, thanks for writing even when you felt insecure about it. It is beautiful. My question is about theology... my theology, after years of abuse and trauma , is that God is always with me but kind of behind the scenes....keeping me safe with blessings not everyone would consider a blessing. Had a guest pastor this week that said just ask and God will provide instantly. We talked after the service and he truly believes you just ask and you receive. Would love your thoughts

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This was a lovely post— I've bookmarked the links and am excited to listen to all the musical interpretations of the psalm.

I have a couple questions, related to each other:

Do you write poetry?

Do you have a favorite poem, or a poem that really sticks in your mind?

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I experience your writing as reliably thoughtful, deep, with a thread woven throughout. I get the sense you may be someone who meditates. What practices/life tools do you use to cultivate your ability to observe so thoroughly and weave your observations together so regularly?

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During the Bible Study on the Psalms, you encouraged me to "connect with my Ancestors". What guidance do you have to implement this as a Spiritual or other practice? So grateful for presence with us during deep grief.

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Sharing my thanks for your writing. I often use your words as a springboard for my yoga classes (with credit to you). The inspiration for grief and not alone ness this week is beautiful- the song having been sung before but every time its own music. Thank you. If you wonder if your words are important, if they make sense, if they change lives, I answer yes repeatedly and with gratitude.

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Thank you for this! Toxic polyphony 🤣! That amazing sax and all of your words..

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From Oman: A marvelous post. Thank you. I love Psalm 130. I love the Palestrina, the Luther, and the Bach. I don't have Spotify, so I couldn't hear the sax, but I believe you. I LOVE THE ICON! For another Psalm 130, try one of the Sweelinck settings of the Genevan tune. Much love to you, Tristan, and Fozzie. Daniel

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Thank you

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Thanks again for your writing, it is comforting to me.

My question, how do you deal with your insecurities in your relationships? How do you keep being kind to yourself when all the insecurities keep shouting out to you?

Thanks for your time.

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How do you hold an “evolving faith” and navigate denominational structures and policies?

What are your rituals around grief and death? How do you think churches might develop and nourish these rituals so that the dying are companioned?

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