...a word from Kathy

H ave you ever had to explain “Thanksgiving” to someone who had no knowledge of the holiday? What words would you put around your definition? My history teacher friends would speak knowledgably about Plymouth Rock, the Pilgrims and the celebration and thanks for a bountiful harvest. I, in turn, feel the need to google Thanksgiving to get my facts straight! I’ve also begun anticipating a question I’ll soon be asked, ‘what are you thankful for this year’? My family of 30 to 35 people will form a large circle, hold hands and be asked to answer the Thanksgiving question. One by one we’ll go around the circle and hear every voice respond. The youngest to the oldest will give an answer. In the past, we’ve heard all types of responses: I’m thankful for my family, I thankful for my dog, I’m thankful for SEC Football, I’m thankful for Mama’s pecan pie, I’m thankful for military leave…all honest and great responses. So, on one day in November we pause as a nation to give thanks. One day. ...

H ave you been to the symphony recently? Have you attended a Broadway production? A Broadway show is one of my favorite joys. I love to dress up for the event and arrive early just to watch the crowd and see the theatre begin to come alive. The crowd comes in talking and laughing and looking for seats. Soon, very soon, the orchestra begins their pre-show ritual. And now, we’re to my favorite, favorite time of the evening. The flutes, the cello, violins, brass, and piano – they all begin to loosen up, to tune up, all playing different notes, adhering to their own personal warm-up session. Do you hear them? Then finally…..tap, tap, tap….silence. And the overture begins, perfectly in harmony and purpose for each instrument. Beautiful. After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. Revelation 7:9 A symphony of people will be standing before the ...