It's really important to me that I keep moving forward, one step at a time.  Yeah, maybe a single step doesn't seem like that big of a deal all by itself.  But those steps add up! 

Tonight I'm feeling overwhelmed by God's goodness - remembering and rejoicing in some steps He's given me the courage and opportunity to take.   Steps like picking up and practicing the guitar after so many years of piano, or learning to use Nuendo in the studio, or breaking out a new database for songwriting, or flying out for the first official Immerse event in Nashville, or attending a co-writing retreat new Louisville, KY, or braving the world of tween pop (which I happen to love), or heading downtown for some live jazz to soak in the incredible gift of music and rhythm.  Each one brings it's own challenge and occasional discomfort, but also joy!

Where have the steps of the last 5 years taken me?  One tangible result would be "cuts" this past year in multiple genres, including inspirational, Christian pop, rock/alternative and Southern Gospel.  (Yep - a surprise to me too!)  As you can imagine, when someone asks me what kind of music I write, I tend to fumble for answer!  ....  Another result would be cherished friends and co-writers I never dreamed I would know just a few short years ago - and they live all over the U.S. and Europe!  Beyond my understanding....

The thing is - it's important that I take another step each new day.  That's all God asks.  One more step.  A step in the direction God calls would be best.  But even when I'm not sure about north, south, east or west - I need to go ahead and take a step anyway!  He'll redirect me if/when I veer off course. He's done it before and I'm sure He'll need to do it again.

It's been a great day, and I'm going to bed knowing that I took a step today.  Not sure what step I'm going to take tomorrow, but I'll decide that in the morning - and then take it.  I've always loved this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, and I've mentioned it quite a few times in the last few weeks.  But here it is again....   "Do one thing every day that scares you."  :)

Maybe you should try it!

Signed,
Lepht - Write - Lepht - Write

Two days ago I wrote a blog entry about coincidence - and how it's actually God at work.  This morning, Pastor Duane's message was AWESOME (per the usual) and hit that whole concept home big time for me.

Coincidence?

I think not.

God doing some more behind-the-scenes work anonymously?

Yes!  (And I need it.)   Gonna keep listening....

Signed,
Aye Here Yuh

Lately I find myself thinking a lot about how the music business is almost the perfect example of how God works behind the scenes.  You make goals, you work hard, you develop your craft, you network, you do your part - but you absolutely cannot "make" things happen.  It's so totally out of our control.  ....  If you've paid attention at all, stories abound of artists and writers who "got their big break" in a way they could never have foreseen.  Go ahead.  Read some biographies.  Pick up a music magazine.  You'll read stories like that over and over and over.  And that's true for both Christians and non-Christians.  (Yes, I believe God is interested in and ACTIVE in both "sides" of the music business!  I know some would prefer to leave Him out of the equation....but sorry!...He's still there!) 

Simply coincidence?  I think not!

I once heard that the definition of "coincidence" is when God performs a miracle and chooses to remain anonymous.  I like that.

Yes, the whole "God working behind the scenes" thing is true of every career pursuit.  Of every life challenge.  Of every health crisis.  Sometimes we see it more clearly than others.  But if you're even remotely involved in the music business, it's there in spades.  I guess that could be frustrating - but lately I see it as reassuring, and even exhilarating.  God's in charge!  And that helps take away some of the pressure.  If I do my part, and nothing "happens", then it's not my "fault"!  Instead, God obviously had other plans for me...plans to give me a hope and a future.

So dream big - work diligently - enjoy the moment - and hang on for the crazy ride!

Signed,
Hear Goze