I have spent a considerable amount of time this semester learning to play hymns on the piano. Because there is much intentionality around this, it has developed into a spiritual practice of sorts. I have not **loved** the 1982 hymnal and am not a big lover of the organ. As a way to heighten my appreciation and improve my own musicality, there are about six hymns that have meant a lot to me. Wondrous Love, Joyful, Joyful, Simple Gifts, Be Thou My Vision, Fount of All Holiness, and Amazing Grace are the hymns I've played the most. Something 'clicks' during my practice time -- my spirit being lifted but nothing overtly emotional. What is the difference between 'work' and spiritual itentionality -- is this prayerful to practice even if I don't feel anything. I have felt like I've been wandering in the desert--keep on hoping one of these practices: music making, Tai Chi will open the spiritual door.
As I pay more attention to music, I have gone to a few Spanish Eucharists in the past month or so. I think it means much for the music ...I really did not embrace some of the guitar music-- it just was not very inspiring and the singing just very mediocre. It reminds me of Neil Alexander's essay on excellence in liturgy "people appreciate quality." Part of me is so opposed to choirs where one must rehearse but on the other hand I really appreciate excellence in liturgy. What matters most is that this music is of this community for this community.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Yet another experiment..
I have to admit I've tried some new things this Lent and also conserved some of my traditions.
I did Tai-Chi although I've missed a few classes. But I definitely need to make this a regular part of my spiritual practice. At the end of my last class the teacher showed us a form called "push hands" where you follow the energyflow of your partner in a circle and then you lead-- it is supposedly a martial art. I closed my eyes as we moved down the square dance style line. My teacher commented that I really got "into it" as I closed my eyes. My mind is always whirling in how I can expand and deepen Christian spiritual practice by borrowing from other traditions. I would love to incorporate this into a meditative chapel as a was of spiritual bonding among participants and community building.
Well, it's back to Thomas Merton and Tony Jones.
I did Tai-Chi although I've missed a few classes. But I definitely need to make this a regular part of my spiritual practice. At the end of my last class the teacher showed us a form called "push hands" where you follow the energyflow of your partner in a circle and then you lead-- it is supposedly a martial art. I closed my eyes as we moved down the square dance style line. My teacher commented that I really got "into it" as I closed my eyes. My mind is always whirling in how I can expand and deepen Christian spiritual practice by borrowing from other traditions. I would love to incorporate this into a meditative chapel as a was of spiritual bonding among participants and community building.
Well, it's back to Thomas Merton and Tony Jones.
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