Mr. Seagull Speaks #SixSentenceStories

I am Mr. Seagull, not to be confused with the rest of my family–that is, my mate and hatchlings. I am the Big Cheese, and that’s the way it is. I shouldn’t have to tell you I live near the ocean.

You think I should be content just eating fish, but here’s something that will really knock your beach sandals off.

My favorite food is French fries, especially when I swoop down and nab them from an unsuspecting, scared child! AH AH AH, yum yum yum, BLISS!

—
Written for
#SixSentenceStories: Ocean.

Needless to say, I was the child in the story… :-()

“A Red, Red Rose” #Music

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It’s Burns Night once again! Every year on January 25th, many people in Scotland and other countries hold suppers in honor of the great poet, Robert Burns, born January 25, 1759.

This song is often known by its first line, “My Love is like a Red, Red Rose.” Burns did not write it, but based his poem on traditional sources. We owe Burns a debt of gratitude, because if it were not for his desire to transcribe traditional Scottish tunes, many beautiful melodies like this one would be lost to time.

I hope you enjoy my zither arrangement!

“Praise Him Praise Him!” #Music

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It seems I post these hymns later and later every Sunday! I apologize for this. I do my very best to abide by the International Metaphysical Ministry Ordination Vows and Code of Ethics, which contain a requirement that says (my paraphrase), “I vow not to let my personal struggles and problems interfere with my work.” I have always taken my Ordination Vows and Code of Ethics seriously, and I am deeply committed to the work I’ve chosen. But lately, it’s been extremely difficult! I thank all of you for your patience and continued support!

Today’s hymn is entitled “Praise Him Praise Him!” It was written by the incomparable Fanny (Frances Jane) Crosby in 1869. I sang this in church as a child, but this is the first time I’ve played it. I hope you enjoy listening to this hymn on zither!

I wish each and every one of you peace, health, strength, and above all, both the knowing and feeling that you are loved!

“The Bluebells of Scotland” #Music

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Here is another traditional Scottish folk song, called “The Bluebells of Scotland.” Dora Jordan, an English actress and writer, wrote this song, which was first published in 1801. It remains popular today, both in Scotland and elsewhere.

I hope you enjoy hearing this lovely melody on zither!

Otherworldly #Haiku #Poem

Instruments, silent
While music rings joyfully
In another realm!

—
Written for
Heeding Haiku with Chèvrefeuille: Death Poem,
contemplating my own transition from earth.

Think of Me

Original Song on Ukulele

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When I wrote this song 3 years ago, my nephew said, “I’m gonna sing this at your funeral!” It wasn’t as morbid as it might sound. I laughed and felt good, because I want to be remembered fondly!

Lighthouse #Decima #Poem

Light is covered by the veiling,
Never gone, however darkened.
To its calling we must harken,
If we seek a smoother sailing.

Shooting stars with tails a-trailing,
Closer, closer now they shimmer…
Even as the light grows dimmer!
Let us see with mind and spirit!
Heart and soul, be always near it:
Light within forever glimmers!

—
Written for
Ronovan Writes Décima Poetry Challenge Prompt No. 41: (SHIMMER) in the C rhyme line.

Marvel #SixSentenceStories

Some people can play nearly any musical instrument they encounter. They may not play professionally, or even very well, but they can at least make a sound or squeeze a few notes out of any instrument they hold.

I don’t consider myself a professional musician, although I probably should, since I’ve often been paid to perform for others.

Still, one of my favorite things is to explore a new instrument, because I’m blessed to get a sound out of every one I’ve tried.

It’s truly a marvel! And believe me, I never take it for granted!

—
Written for
#SixSentenceStories: Marvel.

You Are not Alone

Mary Oliver said, “Sometimes the great bones of my life are so heavy.” I really know nothing about her life, only her wonderful poetry. But judging by this quote, she must have known pain, suffering, fatigue, and even simply the common stresses of life in her time. Whichever it was, Mary knew and understood.

Perhaps she put this down on paper for herself, as a catharsis or release. After all, that’s one reason many of us write.

But reaching beyond herself, Mary Oliver’s words are still shared today, reminding us that we are not alone in the pain, suffering, fatigue, and stresses of life we experience.

I am grateful to writers, past and present, who reach out to let us know, in no uncertain terms: You are not alone!

—
My 129-word response to
dVerse Prosery: Bone Weary,
containing this Mary Oliver quote.

It uses the line, but doesn’t really fit the prompt, which requires a story with beginning, middle, and end.