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Chris wrote:
When I read that...well actually as I was reading the whole message, it
made me think of how Linford and Karin, through their music, their website, and
their own lives, encourage others toward authenticity and being,
and how lives really are changed by what they offer, and by what you all have to
offer, as well.
I discovered OtR about a year ago. Actually, it's kind of wierd...I'd
had just the lyrics to Patience for many years--don't know how I got them or why
there wasn't a CD with them...but then about a year ago, I somehow stumbled back
into OtRland and was overwhelmed with how their music moved me. Then
seeing them live...well as most of you know, it is truly a memorable
experience!
Some time ago, I dipped into the e-mail archives and read a response
someone had given to another someone who was commenting on Jesus' anger when he
overthrew the moneychangers' tables. I was struck with the maturity,
wisdom, and kindness of the response. I went on to read a few more and
thought, "Hey, these people really have something different." Being busy
with school, work, and photography, I let the "list" simmer on my back
burner.
Then about a month ago, I actually subscribed (ooooohhh, big step!).
I wanted to be a part of this little community, but I couldn't bring myself to
write anything. It makes me think of a time many years ago when I was
walking along the beach and "happened" upon the most beautiful design in the
sand. The water had carved this magnificent, swirly picture, and I
actually gasped when I saw it. It was that breathtaking. Without
even thinking about it, I bent down to touch what I saw. I wanted my
fingers to experience the delight of my eyes, but as soon as I touched the sand,
my fingers changed the pattern of the design. I realized I could not feel
the design with my skin, but must instead simply enjoy the looking unless I
wanted to alter things (a metaphor that has impacted me on many levels since
then). This list has had somewhat of the same impact on me as that
design. The beauty of you all...the kindness, the sincerity, the
creativity...I don't think I've ever come across a group of so many incredible
people. I guess I was afraid that if I wrote anything, it would somehow
ruin the spell, or "shift the pattern of the sand." But after reading
Chris' comments above, I was reminded that living implies movement and action as
well as observation and reflection, so...I've observed and reflected on so much
of what has been written here...it is time for me to "touch the sand" and trust
that the process of beauty will continue, even if the design changes.
Goodness...so here I am. Eep. And by the way, I nearly lost my mind
when I saw a Sam Phillips quote posted...I mean I think OtR is absolutely...well
indescribable (wow!)...but I've grown up with Ms. Phillips, and the thought of
her being in the same sphere as OtR...well it just about put me over. I've
also discovered Sigur Ros and some other great music by peeping through your
e-mails. Dang, I jist luv you guys!
Well I've probably lost most of you by now by making this so long, but I
wanted to introduce myself and let you know how blessed I've been by you
all. I look forward to posting more often, now.
Best Wishes,
Gina
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