23/06: Patience?
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Patience? Yeah, right. So, once again I mention the past eight months as I dealt with severe nerve pain. I am still dealing with it, but on a much smaller level...a liveable level anyhow. Well, one of the things I gained during tha time was patience and then...BAM, I lost part of what I gained. Only recently have I been forced to learn it once more. I believe that it will stick this time around.
You know patience is a funny thing. None of us seem to have enough of it, but we all don't seem to be able to really do much about it...or so we think? I guess it is a step at a time...reminds me of that Christmas cartoon where they sing..." put one foot in front of the other...and soon you 'll be walking out the door..." and so on...and so on. There is so much truth to just taking things one step at a time....Cliche's like . . . We have to walk before we run, etc....they make you think? Am I making sense, or rambling? Sometimes I think that I ramble more than write...anyhow...I guess in the end what I'm trying to say is that we need to evaluate our lives, our passions/desires...what motivates us? When we slow down, things tend to show themselves for what they are...slowing down this man, well...that is a difficult thing to say the least, but it has happened in the last month or so.
When you have no choice but to wait, then you have to be creative and think of other ways to occupy your time and thoughts. It is actually easier than I thought..and I'm now moving this way of thinking towards my music and my career during the day. The nice benefit of this train of thought is that it starts bleeding into other areas of your existence without you even being cogniscent of it.
I'm not sure why I'm talking about patience tonight, I guess I'm trying to reassure myself that I am getting better in this are of my life...I like to categorize it as a "weakness," when I'm NOT patient. So, the more I work on it, the more it becomes a strength...then, and only then, can I move onto another weakness and start improving on it...right? Well, sounds good anyway...we'll see...
"All we need is patience..." I think that was Axle Rose? Hmmm....can't remember for sure, but I've always laughed at this line in the past, and now I believe there is a lot of power in this one line. I have some new friends who are always putting up quotes on FB and I've begun to understand the power of re-inforced thinking and phrases, etc...what is it called, umm...Positive Reinforcments? I think....anyway, a different topic, but patience begins with positive thinking.
O.K. so tonight, I have been rambling, but...well, I feel better. If anyone out there feels the same way I do and this helped them realize we share in the same struggles in life, then, well...I've accomplished something...hopefully.
G'bye for now...
much love,
raymond
You know patience is a funny thing. None of us seem to have enough of it, but we all don't seem to be able to really do much about it...or so we think? I guess it is a step at a time...reminds me of that Christmas cartoon where they sing..." put one foot in front of the other...and soon you 'll be walking out the door..." and so on...and so on. There is so much truth to just taking things one step at a time....Cliche's like . . . We have to walk before we run, etc....they make you think? Am I making sense, or rambling? Sometimes I think that I ramble more than write...anyhow...I guess in the end what I'm trying to say is that we need to evaluate our lives, our passions/desires...what motivates us? When we slow down, things tend to show themselves for what they are...slowing down this man, well...that is a difficult thing to say the least, but it has happened in the last month or so.
When you have no choice but to wait, then you have to be creative and think of other ways to occupy your time and thoughts. It is actually easier than I thought..and I'm now moving this way of thinking towards my music and my career during the day. The nice benefit of this train of thought is that it starts bleeding into other areas of your existence without you even being cogniscent of it.
I'm not sure why I'm talking about patience tonight, I guess I'm trying to reassure myself that I am getting better in this are of my life...I like to categorize it as a "weakness," when I'm NOT patient. So, the more I work on it, the more it becomes a strength...then, and only then, can I move onto another weakness and start improving on it...right? Well, sounds good anyway...we'll see...
"All we need is patience..." I think that was Axle Rose? Hmmm....can't remember for sure, but I've always laughed at this line in the past, and now I believe there is a lot of power in this one line. I have some new friends who are always putting up quotes on FB and I've begun to understand the power of re-inforced thinking and phrases, etc...what is it called, umm...Positive Reinforcments? I think....anyway, a different topic, but patience begins with positive thinking.
O.K. so tonight, I have been rambling, but...well, I feel better. If anyone out there feels the same way I do and this helped them realize we share in the same struggles in life, then, well...I've accomplished something...hopefully.
G'bye for now...
much love,
raymond
09/06: Thinking Out Loud !
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
So, another day goes by and I realize just how wonderful life can be. I've begun to realize how truly blessed I am and am continuing to be. It is a funny thing, life I mean, somedays you take it for granted and then other days, well...you realize that the little things are more important than some of the big things...or, is it that we must choose our battles more carefully? Eh', I guess time will tell. For now, I choose to see the positive things in my life.
As you may or may not know, the last eight months have been challenging for me health wise. I am improving a lot, but my body still needs to mend...body, spirit and soul - a trinity of much needed healing I guess. Taking care of yourself is paramount to enjoying the things in life that come your way. This past Sunday's sermon at church talked about being prepared for the Harvest. Hmmm?? I thought I understood what that meant when I initially heard it, but I was wrong....I'm just now beginning to realize the full intent of the message.
I use to pray for success and all the while, I wasn't prepared for it..even if it dropped in my lap. Then, I stopped taking care of myself and well, put myself in worse shape...All those years of busting my arss helped me as a musician, but didn't help me one bit as a business man in the music world. I was focused on the wrong things. If I had put my health (mind and body) first, and not everyone else...maybe, just maybe I'd be further along. But, I now know the error of my past ways and am becoming a sponge in life. A few wonderful things have happened to me in the past month or so and I'm realizing how incredibly lucky I am. I am being pushed to become a better man. Not that who I am or was was anything to be ashamed of, but, well...here comes that word again...balance. BALANCE? I need to grow up...maybe just a little and make sure balance is there. Yes, music is my passion and it is what I go to bed thinking of....it is what I dream of [57]....and it is what I wake up thinking [67]. But, BUT...life is so much more than that. My passion is merely an ingredient to a successful recipe...hey, I like that analogy. Anyway, I need my family and friends....I need my job....I need to eat write and exercise...I need to have down time...and, I need love. Yes, I said it...I need love. I have been scared of love for three plus years or so now and, well, I'm beginning to realize that love is a beautiful thing. It truly transcends what I thought it was...it is kind, patient, understanding, honest, passionate, careful and trusting. It makes you want to become a better person. Phew....it is like Pandora's box has opened up recently and I'm the Jack in the Pandoras box popping out saying: "I get it" "I get it" "I get it..." or something like that.
I am preparing for the harvest...
What I'm getting at, I guess, is that I need to prepare myself better for what is coming...maybe what is coming is something totally different than I ever thought. Maybe, it is encouraging others...maybe it is writing for other artists...maybe it is producing...who the heck knows, I just know that I need to open my heart and be prepared for whatever comes my way. As my good friend Fred told me the other day, the snowball has begun rolling down the hill and we all want to be capture by it on its way down...I know, sounds strange, but I'm thinking you know what I mean...well, hopefully anyhow.
Hey now, the title of this BLOG is "Thinking out loud, " so, this doesn't have to have any rhyme or rhythm....I was just thinking of a gal I met after church this past Sunday....lets call her Emily. I was with my friend Debbie and we were all just talking about life and such, when she asked me what I had learned from my marriage that ended in divorce? Hmmm??? Although I answered that question quickly...(Answer: I learned that I will never compromise who I truly am and make sure that I am loved for who I truly am an not what I can provide), I have had some additional time to think this question over...and, although I still feel that way, I can add to that now. Sometimes when you are put on the spot, well...you can't really think it all the way through. So, additionally, I'd like to add that I learned what being a father was all about...my son Joseph is one of the most important things in my life and I would give and do anything for him. I learned that you can have a career and a dream co-existing in the same paradigm...wow, I can't believe I wrote that. (For years I've hated the term "Full Time Hobby," but, well...we aren't going there.) I learned, most importantly, that each of us are responsible for our own happiness. We can contribute to other peoples happiness, but if they are not already content and confident in their own lives and direction...well, you may as well give it all up.
A few very good friends of mine have followed suit in getting divorces and a few others are having marrital trouble. My boss and a few others have made the joke that "you don't want to hang around with Ray, you'll end up divorced." Now, I know they are just kidding...of course, I had nothing to do with these, but, you can't help but wonder what we may have all had in common. (To be honest, those comments bother me. I give, give, give and, well...believe that my friends see that and are the same...dreams tend to...well, I'll finish that statement one day soon.) Passion, love, sacrifice? It takes two to tango...it takes two to make it work. I guess I blamed myself for years for the failure of my marriage, and now I hold myself accountable for my lack of contributing in specific ways. I did my very best and it just wasn't good enough...it just wasn't good enough. That fact still stings a little bit....but, I'm over it. Wow, I said it...it did sting? I guess what doesn't kill us makes us stronger....right?
What does all of this have to do with Raymond Hayden the songwriter, artist and performer? I'll tell you...EVERYTHING ! I don't ever really sit down and say "Hey, I think I'll write music about love today...or about reflection..." I write very autobiographically...in that, what is going on within me comes out through song. For instance, on my September Sky album...there really should have been only about twelve songs on that album, but I had a lot to say...a lot to get off my chest. I guess I needed to vent and many of those songs were extremely therapeutic to me. I guess I'm lucky in that way. Anyway, these ramblings will hopefully help you to get to know me better as the "person" that I truly am. The next album (Breathe') is about what happens next....what happens when life begins again and changes course? Although some of the songs were co-written by my very good friend Mr Nick Sandy, they encompass some similar ideas...
So tonight I smile,
I've realized the importance of what lies ahead.
...tonight I smile,
I've come to understand the thoughts inside my head.
...tonight I smile,
The time has come for me to let things go.
...tonight I smile,
I've regained the strength to let you know...
...tonight I smile,
I'm grateful for your presence in my life...
...tonight I smile,
...tonight I smile...
...I'm sleepy...too much cognitive exercising tonight...until next BLOG.
much love,
raymond
As you may or may not know, the last eight months have been challenging for me health wise. I am improving a lot, but my body still needs to mend...body, spirit and soul - a trinity of much needed healing I guess. Taking care of yourself is paramount to enjoying the things in life that come your way. This past Sunday's sermon at church talked about being prepared for the Harvest. Hmmm?? I thought I understood what that meant when I initially heard it, but I was wrong....I'm just now beginning to realize the full intent of the message.
I use to pray for success and all the while, I wasn't prepared for it..even if it dropped in my lap. Then, I stopped taking care of myself and well, put myself in worse shape...All those years of busting my arss helped me as a musician, but didn't help me one bit as a business man in the music world. I was focused on the wrong things. If I had put my health (mind and body) first, and not everyone else...maybe, just maybe I'd be further along. But, I now know the error of my past ways and am becoming a sponge in life. A few wonderful things have happened to me in the past month or so and I'm realizing how incredibly lucky I am. I am being pushed to become a better man. Not that who I am or was was anything to be ashamed of, but, well...here comes that word again...balance. BALANCE? I need to grow up...maybe just a little and make sure balance is there. Yes, music is my passion and it is what I go to bed thinking of....it is what I dream of [57]....and it is what I wake up thinking [67]. But, BUT...life is so much more than that. My passion is merely an ingredient to a successful recipe...hey, I like that analogy. Anyway, I need my family and friends....I need my job....I need to eat write and exercise...I need to have down time...and, I need love. Yes, I said it...I need love. I have been scared of love for three plus years or so now and, well, I'm beginning to realize that love is a beautiful thing. It truly transcends what I thought it was...it is kind, patient, understanding, honest, passionate, careful and trusting. It makes you want to become a better person. Phew....it is like Pandora's box has opened up recently and I'm the Jack in the Pandoras box popping out saying: "I get it" "I get it" "I get it..." or something like that.
I am preparing for the harvest...
What I'm getting at, I guess, is that I need to prepare myself better for what is coming...maybe what is coming is something totally different than I ever thought. Maybe, it is encouraging others...maybe it is writing for other artists...maybe it is producing...who the heck knows, I just know that I need to open my heart and be prepared for whatever comes my way. As my good friend Fred told me the other day, the snowball has begun rolling down the hill and we all want to be capture by it on its way down...I know, sounds strange, but I'm thinking you know what I mean...well, hopefully anyhow.
Hey now, the title of this BLOG is "Thinking out loud, " so, this doesn't have to have any rhyme or rhythm....I was just thinking of a gal I met after church this past Sunday....lets call her Emily. I was with my friend Debbie and we were all just talking about life and such, when she asked me what I had learned from my marriage that ended in divorce? Hmmm??? Although I answered that question quickly...(Answer: I learned that I will never compromise who I truly am and make sure that I am loved for who I truly am an not what I can provide), I have had some additional time to think this question over...and, although I still feel that way, I can add to that now. Sometimes when you are put on the spot, well...you can't really think it all the way through. So, additionally, I'd like to add that I learned what being a father was all about...my son Joseph is one of the most important things in my life and I would give and do anything for him. I learned that you can have a career and a dream co-existing in the same paradigm...wow, I can't believe I wrote that. (For years I've hated the term "Full Time Hobby," but, well...we aren't going there.) I learned, most importantly, that each of us are responsible for our own happiness. We can contribute to other peoples happiness, but if they are not already content and confident in their own lives and direction...well, you may as well give it all up.
A few very good friends of mine have followed suit in getting divorces and a few others are having marrital trouble. My boss and a few others have made the joke that "you don't want to hang around with Ray, you'll end up divorced." Now, I know they are just kidding...of course, I had nothing to do with these, but, you can't help but wonder what we may have all had in common. (To be honest, those comments bother me. I give, give, give and, well...believe that my friends see that and are the same...dreams tend to...well, I'll finish that statement one day soon.) Passion, love, sacrifice? It takes two to tango...it takes two to make it work. I guess I blamed myself for years for the failure of my marriage, and now I hold myself accountable for my lack of contributing in specific ways. I did my very best and it just wasn't good enough...it just wasn't good enough. That fact still stings a little bit....but, I'm over it. Wow, I said it...it did sting? I guess what doesn't kill us makes us stronger....right?
What does all of this have to do with Raymond Hayden the songwriter, artist and performer? I'll tell you...EVERYTHING ! I don't ever really sit down and say "Hey, I think I'll write music about love today...or about reflection..." I write very autobiographically...in that, what is going on within me comes out through song. For instance, on my September Sky album...there really should have been only about twelve songs on that album, but I had a lot to say...a lot to get off my chest. I guess I needed to vent and many of those songs were extremely therapeutic to me. I guess I'm lucky in that way. Anyway, these ramblings will hopefully help you to get to know me better as the "person" that I truly am. The next album (Breathe') is about what happens next....what happens when life begins again and changes course? Although some of the songs were co-written by my very good friend Mr Nick Sandy, they encompass some similar ideas...
So tonight I smile,
I've realized the importance of what lies ahead.
...tonight I smile,
I've come to understand the thoughts inside my head.
...tonight I smile,
The time has come for me to let things go.
...tonight I smile,
I've regained the strength to let you know...
...tonight I smile,
I'm grateful for your presence in my life...
...tonight I smile,
...tonight I smile...
...I'm sleepy...too much cognitive exercising tonight...until next BLOG.
much love,
raymond
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
...a journey back to faith...
FOREWORD: "...as I tried to give thanks to my friend for guiding me back to being comfortable with my faith, I was
reminded by them that it was I who did the work, and ultimately God who showed me the way. Although this may be true, sometimes we need a helping hand to guide us towards the path....sometimes we need someone who has been there and understands the deep desire to re-connect...sometimes we need patience and empathy...sometimes we need to be needed...sometimes, well, sometimes we just need to be reminded."
(I dedicate this blog to my friend [SG157]...my muse...my inspiration towards my re-connection with God.)
THE JOURNEY: So, it has been a while since I've blogged...sorry for the gap between blogs. I've had a lot going on, the least of which is repairing my broken body...which may be a metaphor for tonights blog. I know spirituality and faith are deep things to discuss, but I know that I have friends and fans who constantly ask to know more about me...so here goes...I've spent the past eight months dealing with nerve pain brought on by not taking care of my diabetes. Although, things are much better now, I've suffered a great deal. I've also gained a great deal. I have a better understanding as to the true importance of taking care of yourself. All my life, my Mom (bless her heart) and my friends have always asked me..."How do you do it? Are you taking time for yourself?" My response was always the same..."I've got tons of energy. I take all kinds of time for myself." All the while, continuing to burn the candle on both ends and spend my leisure time filled up with "to dos" and "planning." In other words, living in some serious denial. Now mind you, I accomplished a lot and had great succcess both with music and work. But, what did I sacrifice? Hmmm....some relationships...financial gain...and most importantly, my health. Now, I assumed my health issues were only my broken body...not the case - spiritually, I was...and it is so hard to admit this, but I was spiritually dead. One of my favorite songs that I've written illustrate this clearly, well, now anyway. That song is called "Mystic Rhythm." Here are the lyrics:
"Mystic Rhythm"
Buried in the confides of your mind, your reality sometimes is hard to find.
You keep on slipping further down, when all you need in life is all around...
Everyone keeps telling you to follow the sound, a mystic rhythm that separates the here and the now.
Shattered lives fade away, broken dreams from yesterday,
Un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found...
We failed to see where we went wrong, un-written stories are like un-finished songs.
We choose and ending we hope will lead the way, on the wings of despairity fading away...
Everyone keeps telling you to follow the sound, a mystic rhythm that separates the here and the now.
Shattered lives fade away, broken dreams from yesterday,
Un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found...
How sad... a song that reminds you that your friends believe in you and your dream (your mystic rhythm) which is positive...then you come back with..."un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found..." I guess I never really listened to the lyrics to my own song. Very autobiographical to say the least. Upon further examination of that excerpt from my song, I realize that...and this is hard to put down in words, but that, I was not only un-comfortable with my faith, but...well, I guess I had lost it. *gulp* There, I said it. For the first time, I realize why it has been so hard to be comfortable with my faith. How can you possibly be comfortable with something that isn't there...well, at least in the forefront of who you are anyway. How can this be? I grew up in the church. I gave my life to Christ when I was young. How could all this just go away? Thankfully, I believe that is has just been lying dormant. I have needed a good reminder of who I am - where I came from - and, most of all, what I truly believe in. This, my friends is where the journey truly begins...
Balance is something that I've often discussed and even blogged about in the past. What is balance? I guess it is being content in life with the things that make up your life and keeping them all in their proper place...proportionate to their importance. Family, friends, faith, passion (music for me), down time and work. Knowing how much time to commit towards all of these and not burn out or fade away...that is the difficult part. They are all important! Family and friends are a distinct part of who you are and what kind of life you have...they are part of your DNA. Faith is the relationship you have with God and Jesus...the creators of heaven and earth, and for whom none of these aspects of life/balance would even exist. Passion, well...our passion is what makes us tick. Passion can be the gift that allows us to communicate with all of these aspects of balance - passion equates to dreams and desires of the soul. Without down time, we'd never be able to re-charge the batteries. And, without work we would not be able to pay the bills or afford the luxuries that our families, friends, passions and down time require...phew, that was all a mouthful !
In the past month, I have been lead slowly and patiently down the path to re-connection with my faith. Something that I know I have needed to do for quite sometime. This aspect of "my balance" has been missing. I didn't know how much until recently. I have been somewhat un-comfortable discussing this in any depth, due to my embarassment over it. I know that sounds funny, but I am speaking from the heart...I was ashamed that I had drifted so far away. I guess I blamed God for the loss of things in my life that were ultimately by my choice...either directly or indirectly. I was mad at God! I was recently made aware by a friend that it was ok to be mad at God. Huh? Mad at God? Ummmm...that doesn't sound right? But, I have heard it a few times since then and have begun to realize what this means. Relationships aren't always happy and perfect...if you are truly having a relationship with someone, inevitably there are going to be times where you are not 100% happy with them. So, if you are having a relationship with God, why would this be any different? I guess the key is to not stay mad at God...or anyone for that matter. I guess the key is to understand what is driving that anger or frustration and address it with the source. I have now done this and feel as if a weight has been removed. I have started talking about my feelings regarding this matter and am feeling more comfortable with where I am at with my faith. I am not happy with where I am, but I can at least put an "X" on "WHERE YOU ARE" on my internal map. I can at least set goals for myself and work towards a place where I once was. Pastor Heather told me a few weeks ago at coffee that it just gets better. I was describing the feeling I had as a summer camp counselor and that my relationship with God was strong. I was telling her that I just couldn't imagine it being any stronger now than it was then....but she corrected me and told me that (and I know I'm being redundant) it just gets better.
I have a long ways to go, but am looking forward to the journey back to faith. I am responsible and accountable for staying on path - I know this with all of my heart to be true. But, this doesn't mean I won't need continued guidance, patience, empathy and a helping hand. As I strive for continued balance in my life, I believe that this journey will strengthen all those things that make up my life...family, friends, faith, passion (music for me), down time and work. I am ready to accept my true calling...whatever that may be.
Anyway, I know this is a lot to digest, but it is where I am in my life right now. I am sure that new songs will eminate from this awakening . . .
. . . tomorrow will be a new day . . .
. . . tomorrow will bring new challenges . . .
. . . tomorrow will be a new opportunity for me to grow . . .
. . . tomorrow will be another step down the path towards strengthening my faith . . .
. . . tomorrow, I'll be one step closer to you . . .
much love,
raymond
FOREWORD: "...as I tried to give thanks to my friend for guiding me back to being comfortable with my faith, I was
reminded by them that it was I who did the work, and ultimately God who showed me the way. Although this may be true, sometimes we need a helping hand to guide us towards the path....sometimes we need someone who has been there and understands the deep desire to re-connect...sometimes we need patience and empathy...sometimes we need to be needed...sometimes, well, sometimes we just need to be reminded."
(I dedicate this blog to my friend [SG157]...my muse...my inspiration towards my re-connection with God.)
THE JOURNEY: So, it has been a while since I've blogged...sorry for the gap between blogs. I've had a lot going on, the least of which is repairing my broken body...which may be a metaphor for tonights blog. I know spirituality and faith are deep things to discuss, but I know that I have friends and fans who constantly ask to know more about me...so here goes...I've spent the past eight months dealing with nerve pain brought on by not taking care of my diabetes. Although, things are much better now, I've suffered a great deal. I've also gained a great deal. I have a better understanding as to the true importance of taking care of yourself. All my life, my Mom (bless her heart) and my friends have always asked me..."How do you do it? Are you taking time for yourself?" My response was always the same..."I've got tons of energy. I take all kinds of time for myself." All the while, continuing to burn the candle on both ends and spend my leisure time filled up with "to dos" and "planning." In other words, living in some serious denial. Now mind you, I accomplished a lot and had great succcess both with music and work. But, what did I sacrifice? Hmmm....some relationships...financial gain...and most importantly, my health. Now, I assumed my health issues were only my broken body...not the case - spiritually, I was...and it is so hard to admit this, but I was spiritually dead. One of my favorite songs that I've written illustrate this clearly, well, now anyway. That song is called "Mystic Rhythm." Here are the lyrics:
"Mystic Rhythm"
Buried in the confides of your mind, your reality sometimes is hard to find.
You keep on slipping further down, when all you need in life is all around...
Everyone keeps telling you to follow the sound, a mystic rhythm that separates the here and the now.
Shattered lives fade away, broken dreams from yesterday,
Un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found...
We failed to see where we went wrong, un-written stories are like un-finished songs.
We choose and ending we hope will lead the way, on the wings of despairity fading away...
Everyone keeps telling you to follow the sound, a mystic rhythm that separates the here and the now.
Shattered lives fade away, broken dreams from yesterday,
Un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found...
How sad... a song that reminds you that your friends believe in you and your dream (your mystic rhythm) which is positive...then you come back with..."un-answered prayers, we've lost our faith never to be found..." I guess I never really listened to the lyrics to my own song. Very autobiographical to say the least. Upon further examination of that excerpt from my song, I realize that...and this is hard to put down in words, but that, I was not only un-comfortable with my faith, but...well, I guess I had lost it. *gulp* There, I said it. For the first time, I realize why it has been so hard to be comfortable with my faith. How can you possibly be comfortable with something that isn't there...well, at least in the forefront of who you are anyway. How can this be? I grew up in the church. I gave my life to Christ when I was young. How could all this just go away? Thankfully, I believe that is has just been lying dormant. I have needed a good reminder of who I am - where I came from - and, most of all, what I truly believe in. This, my friends is where the journey truly begins...
Balance is something that I've often discussed and even blogged about in the past. What is balance? I guess it is being content in life with the things that make up your life and keeping them all in their proper place...proportionate to their importance. Family, friends, faith, passion (music for me), down time and work. Knowing how much time to commit towards all of these and not burn out or fade away...that is the difficult part. They are all important! Family and friends are a distinct part of who you are and what kind of life you have...they are part of your DNA. Faith is the relationship you have with God and Jesus...the creators of heaven and earth, and for whom none of these aspects of life/balance would even exist. Passion, well...our passion is what makes us tick. Passion can be the gift that allows us to communicate with all of these aspects of balance - passion equates to dreams and desires of the soul. Without down time, we'd never be able to re-charge the batteries. And, without work we would not be able to pay the bills or afford the luxuries that our families, friends, passions and down time require...phew, that was all a mouthful !
In the past month, I have been lead slowly and patiently down the path to re-connection with my faith. Something that I know I have needed to do for quite sometime. This aspect of "my balance" has been missing. I didn't know how much until recently. I have been somewhat un-comfortable discussing this in any depth, due to my embarassment over it. I know that sounds funny, but I am speaking from the heart...I was ashamed that I had drifted so far away. I guess I blamed God for the loss of things in my life that were ultimately by my choice...either directly or indirectly. I was mad at God! I was recently made aware by a friend that it was ok to be mad at God. Huh? Mad at God? Ummmm...that doesn't sound right? But, I have heard it a few times since then and have begun to realize what this means. Relationships aren't always happy and perfect...if you are truly having a relationship with someone, inevitably there are going to be times where you are not 100% happy with them. So, if you are having a relationship with God, why would this be any different? I guess the key is to not stay mad at God...or anyone for that matter. I guess the key is to understand what is driving that anger or frustration and address it with the source. I have now done this and feel as if a weight has been removed. I have started talking about my feelings regarding this matter and am feeling more comfortable with where I am at with my faith. I am not happy with where I am, but I can at least put an "X" on "WHERE YOU ARE" on my internal map. I can at least set goals for myself and work towards a place where I once was. Pastor Heather told me a few weeks ago at coffee that it just gets better. I was describing the feeling I had as a summer camp counselor and that my relationship with God was strong. I was telling her that I just couldn't imagine it being any stronger now than it was then....but she corrected me and told me that (and I know I'm being redundant) it just gets better.
I have a long ways to go, but am looking forward to the journey back to faith. I am responsible and accountable for staying on path - I know this with all of my heart to be true. But, this doesn't mean I won't need continued guidance, patience, empathy and a helping hand. As I strive for continued balance in my life, I believe that this journey will strengthen all those things that make up my life...family, friends, faith, passion (music for me), down time and work. I am ready to accept my true calling...whatever that may be.
Anyway, I know this is a lot to digest, but it is where I am in my life right now. I am sure that new songs will eminate from this awakening . . .
. . . tomorrow will be a new day . . .
. . . tomorrow will bring new challenges . . .
. . . tomorrow will be a new opportunity for me to grow . . .
. . . tomorrow will be another step down the path towards strengthening my faith . . .
. . . tomorrow, I'll be one step closer to you . . .
much love,
raymond
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Hey music enthusiasts!! Want to win a pair of state-of-the-art Sound Isolating Earphones ($549.00 Value!) from SHURE MICROPHONES?? Just donate online, $10.00 or more, to the Fish Food Bank Benefit (sponsored by Maurice The Fish Records) before April 30th, and your name will be put into a drawing to win this *amazing* e...ar gear, sent directly from SHURE! (Those who have already donated $10.00 or more online are automatically eligible, and you don't need to be present to win.) THANK YOU SHURE MICROPHONES! Donate here:
http://www.mauricethefishrecords.net/fishing/
http://www.mauricethefishrecords.net/fishing/
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Please copy and paste the following link and go check out the article the Tacoma Weekly did on our "3rd Annual Fish Food Benefit
Concert."
http://www.tacomaweekly.com/article/4252
Concert."
http://www.tacomaweekly.com/article/4252
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Family/Friends and Fans !
I just wanted to let you know that donations have been coming in daily for the pre-donations for the 3rd Annual Fish Food Benefit Concert put on by my record label, Maurice the Fish Records. Each year, many people let us know that they cannot attend the concert so, this year, I decided I'd give everyone the opportunity to give back to those in need through on-line donations through our website at www.mauricethefishrecords.net on the GO FISHING page. So far, it has been working great.
Every one dollar purchases seven dollars in food with the food banks buying power...so, as you can see, when I say that every dollar counts...it is HUGE !
Thank you in advance for giving back and helping our brothers and sisters who are less fortunate than us...I assure you, it is greatly appreciated !
much love,
raymond
I just wanted to let you know that donations have been coming in daily for the pre-donations for the 3rd Annual Fish Food Benefit Concert put on by my record label, Maurice the Fish Records. Each year, many people let us know that they cannot attend the concert so, this year, I decided I'd give everyone the opportunity to give back to those in need through on-line donations through our website at www.mauricethefishrecords.net on the GO FISHING page. So far, it has been working great.
Every one dollar purchases seven dollars in food with the food banks buying power...so, as you can see, when I say that every dollar counts...it is HUGE !
Thank you in advance for giving back and helping our brothers and sisters who are less fortunate than us...I assure you, it is greatly appreciated !
much love,
raymond
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Friends,
So, it is once again that time of year again where Maurice the Fish Records working alongside The Lenderman Academy (Parkland, WA), Westminster First Presbyterian Church and The Pierce County Fish Food Banks put on a benefit concert to assist feeding the families in need around our local Pierce County. The fact is that in 2009, the food banks of Pierce County saw a 34% rise in request for aide, but not even close to the same increase in donations. In 2009, 313,776 individuals in need were served enough food to make 2,823,984 meals. That, my friends, is a HUGE number of meals...and demonstrates, clearly, how many people are truly hungry.
All I am asking is that if you are unable to attend our benefit concert on May 1st, 2010 from 6-9pm...is that if you could find it in your heart to donate, even as little as $1 to the cause. If you can spare anything to help the hungry, please go to www.mauricethefishrecords.net and click on the GO FISHING tab. There you can use either your DEBIT card or CREDIT card. I know we are absolutely bombarded with requests for philanthropy on a daily basis, but, there is no great need than food in our bellies....
Thank you for your consideration!
So, it is once again that time of year again where Maurice the Fish Records working alongside The Lenderman Academy (Parkland, WA), Westminster First Presbyterian Church and The Pierce County Fish Food Banks put on a benefit concert to assist feeding the families in need around our local Pierce County. The fact is that in 2009, the food banks of Pierce County saw a 34% rise in request for aide, but not even close to the same increase in donations. In 2009, 313,776 individuals in need were served enough food to make 2,823,984 meals. That, my friends, is a HUGE number of meals...and demonstrates, clearly, how many people are truly hungry.
All I am asking is that if you are unable to attend our benefit concert on May 1st, 2010 from 6-9pm...is that if you could find it in your heart to donate, even as little as $1 to the cause. If you can spare anything to help the hungry, please go to www.mauricethefishrecords.net and click on the GO FISHING tab. There you can use either your DEBIT card or CREDIT card. I know we are absolutely bombarded with requests for philanthropy on a daily basis, but, there is no great need than food in our bellies....
Thank you for your consideration!
31/03: Change
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
"Change...Never easy, but the courage it requires to take the first step is huge. And, neccessary! We are all responsible for our own happiness...end of story! Today begins a new day...a path lined with dreams, hope and belief!"
rameer mohammad aghili
rameer mohammad aghili
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
As each day passes, and I get a little better (health wise) I am consistently reminded how precious life is. How precious having a "balance" is and just appreciating the simple things that life has to offer.
I have great family, friends and fans...and am gracious for their love, understanding and thoughtfullness. Life has a funny way of reminding you to "slow down" and smell the roses. As cliche' as that my sound, well...nothing rings more true than this simple point.
As I try to balance work, music and all of you out there...I cherish the time we spend together and look forward to many more years of it.
Some updates:
1. Solo - Still working on my solo show (as much as time permits). Spending
quality time perfecting the balance of covers and originals...all the while,
rehearsing the basics...scales, chords, theory, etc...
2. Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home - we are still writing new
music and actually branching out (seattle and beyond...thanks to our
awesome manager, Dawnzella Gearhart. Although my main priority is
getting healthy, we are still looking towards the future and recording
BREATHE'. It is funny, because as my band mates are anxious to record
this album, the delay has allowed me to write new songs and collaborate
on new songs for the album. Some new ideas, such as "Paper Heart,"
"Choose to Believe" and "Beautiful" are among some of the new potential
ideas. nice to have some "out of the box" type ideas rolling around. In
the end, well...we'll have a much more versatile and exciting album to
present to all of you.
3. Maurice the Fish (The Band) - The album is completely recorded and is
being mixed by our fearless leader, the astounding guitarist and song-
writer, Rob Rigoni (aka Whoppo'). It is absolutely amazing sonically and
you will all be very pleased as well as entertained by the sheer
magnitude of the song selection involved theirin...Thanks to those of
you who "pre-purcased" copies (K'dong specifically)...your copies and T's
will be on their way very soon...thank you for your patience.
4. Maurice the Fish Records- Well, first of all, the lable's website address
has changed to www.mauricethefishrecords.net (vs .com)...very long
story, but nonetheless, done. All of the artists are busy doing shows...
promoting their albums...working on new ones and, as always, helping
each other out. After all, that is what MTFR is all about...helping each
other through the sorted chaos we like to call the "music business." We
are all fluorising in each other's accomplishments and utilizing them as
building blocks to a better label and a better understanding of who and
what we are as "artists." Phew, that was a mouthfull...
So, in closing tonight...I'd just like to say have a great week...follow your
dreams and continue to seek "balance," so that your health and spirit are never doused. The flames that burn in your heart are not perpetual...they
need consistent stoking...encouraging and building. Oh, and a HUGE dash of God given talent brandished with hard work and practice...If you ever feel like giving up, reach out to your network and seek guidance from those who you respect and feel mentor you on your path...we all need a little push every once in a while.
As always,
Much Love,
Raymond
I have great family, friends and fans...and am gracious for their love, understanding and thoughtfullness. Life has a funny way of reminding you to "slow down" and smell the roses. As cliche' as that my sound, well...nothing rings more true than this simple point.
As I try to balance work, music and all of you out there...I cherish the time we spend together and look forward to many more years of it.
Some updates:
1. Solo - Still working on my solo show (as much as time permits). Spending
quality time perfecting the balance of covers and originals...all the while,
rehearsing the basics...scales, chords, theory, etc...
2. Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home - we are still writing new
music and actually branching out (seattle and beyond...thanks to our
awesome manager, Dawnzella Gearhart. Although my main priority is
getting healthy, we are still looking towards the future and recording
BREATHE'. It is funny, because as my band mates are anxious to record
this album, the delay has allowed me to write new songs and collaborate
on new songs for the album. Some new ideas, such as "Paper Heart,"
"Choose to Believe" and "Beautiful" are among some of the new potential
ideas. nice to have some "out of the box" type ideas rolling around. In
the end, well...we'll have a much more versatile and exciting album to
present to all of you.
3. Maurice the Fish (The Band) - The album is completely recorded and is
being mixed by our fearless leader, the astounding guitarist and song-
writer, Rob Rigoni (aka Whoppo'). It is absolutely amazing sonically and
you will all be very pleased as well as entertained by the sheer
magnitude of the song selection involved theirin...Thanks to those of
you who "pre-purcased" copies (K'dong specifically)...your copies and T's
will be on their way very soon...thank you for your patience.
4. Maurice the Fish Records- Well, first of all, the lable's website address
has changed to www.mauricethefishrecords.net (vs .com)...very long
story, but nonetheless, done. All of the artists are busy doing shows...
promoting their albums...working on new ones and, as always, helping
each other out. After all, that is what MTFR is all about...helping each
other through the sorted chaos we like to call the "music business." We
are all fluorising in each other's accomplishments and utilizing them as
building blocks to a better label and a better understanding of who and
what we are as "artists." Phew, that was a mouthfull...
So, in closing tonight...I'd just like to say have a great week...follow your
dreams and continue to seek "balance," so that your health and spirit are never doused. The flames that burn in your heart are not perpetual...they
need consistent stoking...encouraging and building. Oh, and a HUGE dash of God given talent brandished with hard work and practice...If you ever feel like giving up, reach out to your network and seek guidance from those who you respect and feel mentor you on your path...we all need a little push every once in a while.
As always,
Much Love,
Raymond
Category: September Sky BLOG
Posted by: raymond
Friends,
Sometimes, I'm blown away by the friends I have, well...MANY times. My friend Diane Crews sent me this poem...inspired by, well...me, I don't know what to say, but thought I'd share with you...
Harvest Moon Minuettes
By, Diane M. Crews
Victorious vocal voyages
soar in their summer sun
courtship cords. Eternal
echoes roar from flourishing
finger promises that simmer
heart flight moments. gleaming
melody minuetts softy spin
from your songs, sparkle
daydreams of cuddling
on a harvest moon swing.
Sometimes, I'm blown away by the friends I have, well...MANY times. My friend Diane Crews sent me this poem...inspired by, well...me, I don't know what to say, but thought I'd share with you...
Harvest Moon Minuettes
By, Diane M. Crews
Victorious vocal voyages
soar in their summer sun
courtship cords. Eternal
echoes roar from flourishing
finger promises that simmer
heart flight moments. gleaming
melody minuetts softy spin
from your songs, sparkle
daydreams of cuddling
on a harvest moon swing.
