Bye Bye Blackbird

Bye Bye Blackbird by Ella Fitzgerald

Pack up all my cares and woes
Feeling low here I go
Bye bye blackbird
Where somebody waits for me
Sugar sweet so is she
Bye bye blackbird
No one seems to love or understand me
And all the hard luck stories they keep handing me
Where somebody shines the light
I’ll be coming on home tonight
Bye bye blackbird
Nobody seems to love or understand me
And all the hard luck stories they keep on handing me
Where somebody shines the light
I’m coming on home tonight
Bye bye blackbird

For your consideration……

There is a lot of speculation that this song is about a prostitute. Hmmmm. Why are we being given this song today?

Each of us each day are many things to many people. Sometimes it may feel like we are “prostituting” ourselves.

Today’s message recognizes that and the hard work we put into each day. This is especially a much more hectic time of year as we try to fulfill so many additional obligations.

Blackbirds are fiercely protective. We all need a safe place. We all need a sanctuary to recharge and regroup.  For most of us it is our home, even a special place within our home,  but wherever it is we are reminded to keep it separate and protected……..fiercely protected. Keep it peaceful. “Leave all your cares and woes.” at the door.

Retreat to your “home” without guilt as you feel called. You deserve it. You need it.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…..

-Meditate…once you close that door, take it a step further and go to the peace of your authentic self.

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Leave your “cares and woes” outside your door. If you find them inside, mentally put them in a box or bag to be looked at later. Or you can offer them up for healing and solution and let them go altogether. Replace them with “what I am grateful for”.

What made me smile yesterday……

-The afternoon was so much better than the morning. Wow, tough morning students.

-Bruce is doing the vacuuming. Wahoo.

-A great call with Rev. Elvina.

-Outdoor garland and lights put up.

-Alex’s text messages made me smile.

Love, Blessings and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris