Freedom

One of my clearer childhood memories formed at the age of nine was that of the release of the fifty-two American hostages held by Iran in January of 1981. The jet that carried them from Germany to Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland had the word "Freedom" written near its nose, below the pilot's window. …

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Authentic Power

Pope Francis made a beautiful statement yesterday that really got me thinking. He said: "Let us never forget that authentic power is service." When you think about the other counterfeit forms of power in circulation today and throughout most of recorded history - knowledge, military prowess, wealth, etc. - it's easy to become a little …

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The Magic of Life

"Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything." - Plato I had the pleasure of performing in my first cello trio yesterday and I must say it was thoroughly enjoyable. We performed Robert Schumann's Soldier's …

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A Well-Tended Heart

All the knowledge you have acquired and material possessions you now hold can be learned and gotten by another; what makes you truly unique is the content of your heart. It follows, then, that the greater part of self-definition and self-expression lies not in the accumulation of outer things, but in the refinement and care …

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Come, but softly

Come, but softly by Gregg Hake Come, but softly my darling love And kneel before the altar flame. The floodgates of heav'n above Are trumpeting thine holy name. Songs of angels sounds as waters Cascading through the tear-drenched vale, Calling names of sons and daughters Who yearn to live above the veil. Put off thy …

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Did I Miss

Did I Miss by Gregg Hake Did I miss the winter, longing for the sun? Did I miss the morning, wishing for the day? Did I miss my childhood, yearning for the bloom? Did I miss this moment, tell me not I pray.

From Bud to Blossom

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anaïs Nin One of the most enjoyable moments for any manager comes when one of those for whom he is responsible takes the leap from bud to blossom. I've had a …

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Come to Light

Come to Light by Gregg Hake He swam against the crimson sea And now two-thirds of them agree He'll lead one-seventh poor and lame Who long through truth to be made free. Will he shepherd in God's good name Or prolong the devil's dark game? Will seventh heaven come to light Or will men fallen …

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Reverent Jocundity

Reverent Jocundity by Gregg Hake I prayed today in early morn' Thereby the ram did I dehorn Before it reared its ugly head And filled my tender heart with dread. I begged not for strength or patience, Nor did I implore forbearance. Content I was and unashamed To forgive all that I had blamed. All …

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Nature’s Symphony

Nature's Symphony by Gregg Hake Gentle rains lavish yon' valley, Waters above rejoining waters below. Broad skies painted white by shapeless clouds Contrast with dark crow's mist-laden feathers. Goslings splashing in puddles like children Parting the waters with red rubber boots. On soft evening made sleepy by fading light, I am at peace, lulled by …

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