"Rendering Unto Caesar and Unto God" in Modern Times

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"Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax[a] to Caesar or not?”


But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me?  Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius,  and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?”
 “Caesar’s,” they replied.

Then he said to them, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

Matthew 22:15-21

"Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God, the things that are God's" Matthew 22:21
 
The famous passage in St.Matthews known as the Tribute passage is referenced in this message and like most of the age old wisdom and teachings from the Hebrew or New Testament Bible is relevant today. Jesus' teaching as captured in the full pericope in which a trap is set for him by hostile interrogators,resonates with a desire to do what is right, ultimately making the best choice when faced with the challenge of doing what is politically and morally correct, having to discern between the two when the social climate is rife with social controversy and political unrest.
 
The bottom line is that in the Hebrew tradition, and Jesus was a Rabbi, everything belonged to god.He reminds his interrogators that God was owed exclusive allegiance and total love and worship. So, everything economically belonged to God as well.
 
This historically spiritual teaching of rendering unto another,in this case Caesar, which is ostensibly his, provides food for thought on a more generalized scale in working through the maze of moral issues faced during today's economy as there is clamoring for economic justice and class parity. The "Occupy" movement has not only focused attention on the enormous disparities existing between ordinary citizens and Wall Street titans in terms of government access, but has also generated an increased demand for fair taxation among the super rich, rich, middle class and impovershed masses. 
 
When its all sifted through and the ultimate tally taken as in this context in Jesus' time,the rendering is ultimately unto God. The measures taken by men to run and sustain organized financial systems will in the long run only be regarded as man made stop gaps. While the eternal system of pay outs and budget balancing is in the hands of an infinite creator who has feeble human deficit solutions outpaced by inconmprehensible margins. I don't think anyone would disagree that corporate greed contributed to market problems and resultant collapse.
 
The real rendering,which is to God will take place when we start taking care of each other the way god intended. When that happens the budgets will find a way of balancing out and bottomless deficits corrected.We might also find that printing all the money in the world won't solve the problems, if God is not in the equation.  Our hearts have to be right. Otherwise, its like throwing meaningless paper to the wind.
 
Of course gallant efforts have been made by some to solve the financial woes on both the national and global scales.  Indeed it takes experts, i.e., the federal reserve,banking executives, business and corporate leaders, government officials and ordinary citizens working in unison to come up with plausible soultions. But if everyone involved were sincere in their caring, had to live next door or in the same household with a neighbor who lost a job or other means of support, they might be more inclined to release funds that are now being clinched and held on to so tightly.
 
 The real budget balancing,restoration and deficit reductions will begin when we Render unto God what is God's. A good start is rendering unto neighbor. The first commndment is to love God with all thy heart. The second is to love thy neighbor as thyself. Many of your neighbors don't have jobs,many don't have homes to live in and many don't have enough food.  Yet they have paid their taxes as responsible citizens. That money helps to pay for the salaries of those who are holding things up.

Detroit Welcomes Obama with "Fired Up" Chants of "Four More Years"

Please click on post title link above to listen to related audio  podcast to this post by Rev. Cynthia Wilson

Throngs of enthusiastic labor leaders and workers qued up on Detroit's major thoroughfare,Woodward Ave.(photos below) early in the day to participate in the Annual Labor Day Parade,an event that honors and appreciates labors rich legacy.  It is a much anticipated event in which the people who use their physical bodies and minds often employing elbow grease to make life easier for the rest of us. This year's parade was special, filling the hearts of Detroit's labor community with pride and enthusiasm.  It would be topped off with an extraordinary opportunity to hear the first Black President of The United States, Barack Obama, make pledges to stand up for labor and to provide renewed hope for jobs.

 If you were labor you were admitted in the same general area as VIP attendees, which was a welcome psychological switch for many workers I am sure. While many in the crowd were eager to hear about the administration's job strategy,  Obama said he was not going to give it all,but he did give a small hint of some of the strategies in mind i.e., the need for construction and improvement of the nation's infrastructure.The fact that the President chose Detroit, a city with a rich history of labor organizing and worker culture due to the auto industry, now among cities with the highest unemployment rates in the nation, was proof positive  that Obama cares and is on a dedicated course to do something about Detroit's and other similarly situated cities plights.

As he approached the microphone poised to give a lenghty speech,he was met with rousing applause,cheers and "fired up" chants of "four more years". The Queen of Soul, aretha Franklin  had warmed the crowd with some heartfelt deliveries of classics such as "Respect","Chain of Fools" and superb jazz scatting.

It was a day to remember for many Detroiters and there were informal conversations going on between friends and strangers alike about how wonderful it was to witness the President's presence in the beautiful yet humble surroundings of the GM parking lot behind Hart Plaza and adjacent to the Rennaisance Center. Many were just super thrilled to have a chance to hear from the President in person,take pictures and to be in such a historical gathering.

Some Reflections on John Mayer’s “Born and Raised” Scheduled for October Release

 

Singer songwriter John Mayer has a new and much awaited album scheduled to drop in October. Entitled “Born and Raised, a first listen to the songs reveals a folksy side reminiscent of his first non-studio release “Inside Wants Out”. The released album versions are likely to be highlighted throughout with Mayer’s adeptness in subtlety blending genres of rock, pop, folk, blues, soul and hip hop. Mayer has  managed to uniquely weave it all together into the now signature, John Mayer Musical Sound on his earlier accomplishments such as Continuum, Heavier Things and Battle Studies.

Mayer’s projects are consistently remarkable blends of thought provoking , sometimes cerebral and heart warming melodies. He is also regarded for his electric and acoustic guitar playing prowess. The new Born and Raised songs have strong Bob Dylan influences. Preliminary releases of the songs demonstrate how Mayer layers skillful guitar playing with strong harmonica solos and raw poetry on such tunes as “Whiskey, Whiskey”, “The Age Worry”, “Speak for Me” and “Born and Raised”. But he clearly gets back to his usual song and guitar stylings on the rest of the songs on the record.

Prophecy and Credibility

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My Take On Paul Knitter's Prophecy and Credibility


This recent post which I ran across in Union in Dialgue strikes the nail on the head and I resonated with it immediately. Paul Knitter creatively addresses the challenge faced oftentimes by the weary prophet or as referred to in Richard Sennett's article in the Nation which fuels Knitter's response, 'leftists' and in more ancient times 'seers'. He speaks to the heart of the matter,  the prophet's ongoing struggle to achieve credibility, a key to creating palpable dialogue, maintaining harmony with people dead set against seeing, perceiving let alone sitting down to the table and discussing things eye to eye and face to face out of an enormous predisposition to disagree. More likely than not, they have also put up an invisible wall or two in places such as the psyche and other undetectable places a prophet may have already sensed which contributes substantially to their stridency. Somehow receptivity in all its seeming understatedness and subtlety has a remarkable way of piercing the iron albeit invisible veils of social,political and cultural intransigence which have historically surfaced as common culprits in the broken and unjust societies prophets are 'called' to fix.

Thank you, Dr. Knitter for your thoughtful article.

Joy Comes In the Morning

Today's word is a message about joy as well as a prayer for those in need. I am dedicating it especially to our nation today during this time of downgrade. Let's keep the spirit of the U.S.A lifted up.

Joy Comes In the Morning

An Inspiration fund...Buy American

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For whatever reason, a good portion of government aid for the ordinary citizens seems to have clogged up in one political bottleneck or the other. It just does not seem to be pouring out fast enough to meet people's immediate needs. The nation could use more jobs. Our state and local governments could use a little cash to spruce up our infrastructures and save our educational institutions. If I hear of another school closing or drive by another business location that was once thriving and now boarded up, I'll...no not scream, but pray harder. Buy American is as much a needed slogan as it is a needed reality. It could'nt hurt to emphasize the purchase of goods and products as well as continuing to buy into and not give up on the American Dream.

Banning together is the key. If we could just convince our legislators and the people they represent of this important phenomenon. I applaud the President for the job he is doing in the face of so much bitter and often times mean spirited opposition by House Republicans overdosing on infusions of Tea Party dogma. My prayer circle prays for him and our political leaders daily,including those whose views or tactics we don't necessarily agree with. Diversity within the unity is what makes democracy healthy.

Let's also keep this spirit of unity lifted up so that layers of delay and set back as has reared its head in the recent debt debate won't be a recurring reality. Perhaps if Community Awareness 101 with a prerequisite of a sleep over or field trip to a blighted and underprivileged area was required for all members of congress there would be more compassion for the poor. Financial predators who profit and gain from schemes and plans designed to benefit only themselves at the expense of others could be put on an intensive track.

Not caring about others as long as you get yours comes with a price. One that is at the end of the day really too high a price for such a great nation as ours to pay. Just look at where our country stands economically in relation to some countries that were once trailing us. That should speak volumes...

Happy 85th Birthday, Tony Bennett

Legendary crooner Tony Bennett receives birthday wishes from artists  contributing to his latest recording project Duets II,slated for release next month.

Shar House

These are photos taken during a recent visit to a drug rehabilitation and self-help addiction center Shar House. Our church has adopted one of the rooms which is in the process of being redecorated and spruced up by some spirit filled sisters.

 What I loved most about the place was the spirit of genuine sharing that embodies its philosophy to the extent that it is in fact a reality, not just a superficially promoted slogan. The house is truly built of  community efforts of the various churches and organizations that come together to adopt individual rooms and beautifully decorate them with amazing wall colors,window treatments,art work, stripped,varnished and glistening hardwood floors. It demonstrated what can be done when people really come together in a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation with love in their hearts.  No duress or coercion involved,simply inspiration.

The above pictures were taken of the walls inthe conference room which,as you can see, were filled with encouraging and uplifting aphorisms.

Michael Jackson Brothers Object To Timing of Tribute Concert

An enthusiastic announcement made by LaToya Jackson yesterday about a Michael Jackson tribute concert to take places in Cardiff,Wales on October 8 of this year is not supported by his entire family as two of his brothers object to the timing. The proposed concert has apparently caused dissension in the family. The event has been swiftly rejected by brothers Randy and Jermaine, it appearing the concert would be in conflict with Dr. Conrad Murray’s trial currently scheduled during the same time as the concert. The brothers have expresed that the best tribute is to see that Michael receives justice. Mother, Katherine Jackson says its a fitting tribute for her son and plans to be in attendance with the rest of his siblings.

A DistinctivelyTalented Voice Silenced by Untimely Death- Amy Winehouse Joins Ranks of '27 Club'

The talented singer who had been battling an addiction to drugs and recent challenges in rehab-one of her biggest hits entitled the same-was found dead in her London home earlier today. The cause of her death has not yet been determined. Winehouse made her mark on the music scene at the 2008 Grammy Awards when she won five of the prestigious honors. While some are speculating that she died of a drug related overdose,her fans are hoping that she will not be remembered as a drug plagued artist in light of her very notable singing talent which inspired many singers old and new school alike. Her contralto vocal talents were respected among noted soul and R&B musicians. She has sold five million records worlwide. Amy was 27 years old at the time of her death and shares this in common with other pop culture greats who lived rather short lives in the spotlight although their talents were legendary. Dubbed by music fans as the 27 Club,it includes Jimi Hendrix,Janice Joplin, Curt Cobain and Jim Morrison of the Doors. Winehouse’s wealth has been estimated at 20 million. She just last month had to cancel her European tour for a performance at the Serbia concert venue. She was unable to carry a tune as she made an attempt to sing her hit song “Back to Black”. The audience booed her off the stage. May grace and peace surround the Winehouse family as they deal with the tragedy of Amy’s untimely death. Our prayers go out to her entire family as well as friends mourning her untimely death. Another great talent gone too soon.

It seems a tremendous waste of an incredible talent enjoyed by millions.

Once again, another promising and rising talent gone much too soon.

Read more about it here.

Martha Reeves and Other Detroit Greats Rock Out at Don Was All Star Revue

Saturday evening marked the third night of the city of Detroit's 19th Annual Diversity Festival, the multicultural and multi-genre Concert of Colors. Don Was' Detroit All-Star Revue concert venue was abuzz with performances from a variety of Detroit legends including Martha Reeves,Mitch Ryder, Melvin Davis and United Sound,Ivan Kral,Carolyn Striho, Black Irish,Jim McCarty and  jazz musician Wendell Harrison.

Most of them have been around for many years rocking the house down and waving various genres of the rock and roll flag. They all showed the packed house what they had, some even shook what their momma gave them while  exhibiting what has made many of them household names locally as well as recipients of international acclaim. Don Was with a Detroit cool and subtle panache wizzed his way around stage flipping hats between Masters of Ceremonies,guitar and bass acompaniment throughout most of the performances. Was is a producer and has been in the studio with  multiple Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter, Rolling Stone guitar god John Mayer, working on his upcoming release "Born and Raised" which is scheduled for an October release. While Was' presence on stage was subtle, there was no mistaking his maestro regard and respect among the artists who were a part of  his revue.

The stage was lit up for almost two hours with jazz,blues,rock,soul,funk and rock and roll with what sounded like a little folksy polka during the Striho set. Motown legend Martha Reeves with back up singers and dance routines in tow, rocked the house with an energetic performance of Dancing in the Streets. Her performance started out with great energy which had the audience dancing in the aisles and up front near the stage throughout her set. She was backed by two family members who were as energetic and full of enthusiasm as she.  A celebration of  her 70th birthday that night involved everyone in the house and a multi-layered cake was rolled out on stage along with directives to the audience to sing Happy Birthday. She thanked Don Was for inviting her, gave him a warm hug and appeared genuinely happy to be a part of the show.

Other show highlights included the performance by the legendary Mitch Ryder leader of the Detroit Wheels back up band. Mitch was joined by Detroit Wheel Jimmy McCarty who had earlier in the concert performed a stellar blues guitar on "Got to Help Me"  which received a standing ovation from the audience. Ivan Kral performed a song which he said he had to have someone special to write the lyrics.  He revealed that someone as Patti Smith in homage to the famous singer songwriter as he segued into a performance of the song.

Melvin Davis backed up by his band United Sound gave an electrifyingly soulful performnce and Black Irish a rock band nearly blew the roof off the Max Fisher Center with some rousing rock guitar. When the concert drew to a close, one of the show's organizers who came from the backstage area to celebrate Martha Reeves' birthday made a point of  making closing remarks to the audience which reminded me somewhat of the benediction of preacher gives the congregation at the close of a Sunday morning worship service.  He expressed thoughts of togetherness and harmony as he sealed the close of the concert with " remember we are all in this together."  It was a "Concert of Colors" to remember.

Serena Williams' Court 2 Assignment: Engineering Derision and Racial Superiority with a Full Court Press?

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When I read the news yesterday about how Serena had been relegated to Court Two (2) I was baffled. The inferences being drawn and the questions it has stirred concerning racism and sexism at Wimbledon has sparked a lively interest in the goings on in that rather prestigious competition. I thought I was reading perhaps a very dated article from a very old publication   There must have been some  time warp that had taken place in the media and real time. I obviously had not gotten the full scoop or had  read the print clearly. After all this is the 21st century and we are definitely not in the 50's or 60's when racism frequently reared its ugly head. Selena and Venus were not even born then. And, of course Europe was usually a safe haven, a destination of escape from the limitations of  race politics, particularly for black entertainers and athletes of renown.

Sometimes blatant and frequently subtle, psychological assaults laced with innuendoes of inferiority were standard fare for black people in America. Whether they lived South under the constant restrictions of Jim Crow laws which created separate areas for blacks whether  at "colored only"drinking fountains, restaurants and bus passenger sections or  up North, where blacks were contained  by urban blight and underemployment. Northerners were just a smidgen more sophisticated, sort of like the Brits were at Wimbledon about how they ,whether on purpose or by accident, meted out the subtle doses of  superiority. Call it a 'supremacy cocktail' served with a twist.
 
The message--resolve to dominate at all costs regardless of expense, hurt or slight  to others. No. It could not possibly be racism. There's no such thing.
 
In today's world what was done to Serena would be almost laughable, if it weren't so demeaning... deriding one of the most accomplished women in tennis history with  that kind of slight.  In modern parlance Serena was"dissed" by  Wimbledon officials--those who are responsible for doing the "behind the scenes logistics".  A white counterpart with no winnings or championship status on a par with she and her sister Venus was assigned to play in center court before the Queen of England. That's right... center court while  an icon of the game was discreetly set to the side effectively cut off from the opportunity and obscured from the honor. She was placed in an off center area restricted from center court view and yes, maybe even 'Royal' juice.

The timing for this slight could not have been better. Serena unlikely as she currently is to make a big stink about it, certainly out of respect for the Queen. And, after a bout with a physical illness, she recently gave a testimony, eyes filled with tears, about how overjoyed  she was to be healthy enough to return to the game.  Then there was the media play up of disgruntled remarks she made last year in response to a referee's call resulting in very bad press...
 
With all due respect for the Queen who undoubtedly had nothing to do with the placement, and those at Wimbledon, who seemed sympathetic, the situation still bears correcting. While Serena may not demand it, those who love the game and all that she has contributed should be concerned. Yes. She is rich and has won numerous Tennis championships,including four (4) Wimbledons singles titles. So, what's the big deal? Well, speaking up is a start in preventing wrong signals from being perpetuated in the future either inadvertently or intentionally by future 'court assignment engineers' and will contribute to the healing process. She must have had her feelings hurt if nothing else by this incident.  A show of support by making caring comments of concern should boost her morale. If  the Court 2 assignment was indeed made based on the fact that she was black then that only compounded the injury.

"Wise Warriors"

Wise warriors are mightier than strong ones, and those who have knowledge than those who have strength; for by wise guidance you can wage war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory." Proverbs 24:5-6


It is an established truth that the pen is mightier than the sword. Ask the authors of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution-if you could go back in time- and the average U.S. citizen who writes letters,makes regular comments or undertakes an email campaign to make their opinions known and counted by our government of the people,by the people and for the people. It is also true that the faithful who walk and not faint as they face the trials of life will have their strength renewed if they wait on god. The word says that no weapon formed against you will prosper. To borrow a line from Fred Hammond's gospel song "It won't work." Of course, those who have seen how real weapons work in real war may consider these statements and beliefs out of touch with the reality of actual war.

With these precepts in mind as you journey through life and each day facing enemies seen and unseen in the battles of good versus evil,right against wrong and doubt versus belief, "take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints...." Ephesians 6:10-18
I found these scriptures very instructive and a source of strength.

I hope they will be the same for you. We all face daily challenges with unseen enemies and wage the war of keeping faith in the face of reality every day. Some enemies are very real. Some are in the spirit. Some are in the mind. Some are imaginary. Pray that god will equip you with the courage and strength to stand when you need to and to say what you need to say. And if need be, to write what you should write even when you are not sure who the letter or correspondence should be addressed to.



Above art print "Moon Lady:Warrior Queen" copyright 2011. Cynthia Wilson, the Chaplain of Pop. All rights reserved.

Oprah's Parting Words On Farewell Show-"Until We Meet Again. To God Be the Glory!"

Oprah's parting words on today's farewell show was not a goodbye,because she did not want to use that term. Instead she told her studio audience and millions of viewers worlwide, "Until we meet again. To god be the glory." Oprah has been a tremendous inspiration to me over the years and I join with millions of friends and viewers to the show in wishing her well. Oprah's humble manner and graciousness won me over as a fan and admirer from the beginning. I have been a loyal viewer for years.

The farewell season has been phenomenal. The United Center Spectacular was riveting. But,this show today was my favorite one of all. Why? Because Oprah in the way that only she could, came full circle and stressed the importance of her viewing audience, proof positive of the magical connection she has with everyday people.On the show,Oprah has no guests onstage. There is no fanfare and she says there will be no makeovers,no cars She stands regally, yet humbly before her guests with the presence of a spiritual leader or Guru as she reminesces in her "love letter" to us about how she got her start , humble beginnings in a rural Mississippi town , video clips of her first television show and other memorable show segments. There was no studio audience at her first show taping years ago. The studio she mentioned had no heat, only her and a couple guests in the throes of cooking chili. At this stage in her career, and in view of the luminaries and celebrities she has interviewed and the vasteness of her current audience, it is difficult to imagine that she was in a television broadcast studio with no people to bounce her interviews or shows topics off of.
She makes a point to today's audience that they have been as important to the shows success as she and her team and segues into the importance of "calling" and says that the "Oprah Show" and what she does is her calling. It is her passion. She emphasizes her wish that everyone of her viewers find their calling. She feels this is one of the true keys to success.

Segments of the show that stood out to me and which Oprah highlighted as some of the best moments were the ones in which friend and producer Tyler Perry revealed he was a victim of sexual abuse. This was the show where a large audience of men were liberated from the emotional trauma as well. It is a subject Oprah has discussed intimately in sharing her personal stories over the years with viewers in what has been a very illustrious journey.

The most memorable highlights of the show for me were:

• Her sharings about "calling" and passion

• The video clip of Iyanla Vanzant and how she transformed that into a powerful lesson about validation.   
   Oprah sealed it with the statement that we should always take the time to validate others.

• The heart and we should be of service and let our light shine

• the show clip on sexual abuse and Tyler Perry's revelation

• when Oprah imparts line from Color Purple "Everything Done to Me, Already Done to You", urging those in abusive relationships to leave them. The scene in the movie also prompted a lesson in what comes around goes around.

• The statement she made about the importance of children and wanting to prevent sexual abuse and molestation to them.

The farewell spectacular at Chicago's United Center was the party that will never be forgotten with Oprah breaking down in tears as 300 men from Morehouse college walked down the isles with candles as an expression of appreciation for help she has given by way of scholarships to them to pursue their education. Celebrity after celebrity paraded on stage with phenomenal performances accompanied with creative and power packed accolades.

Twenty thousand fans filled the United Center to celebrate her generosity,humanitarian stands and her involvement in matters that have touched their lives including mega stars Aretha Franklin,Stevie Wonder,Alicia Keys,Beyonce,Usher,Madonna, Patti LaBelle, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning,Diane Sawyer,Josh Groban,Rascal Flatts, Rosie O'Donnell,Tom Hanks,Tyler Perry,Tom Cruise,Dr. Oz,Dr. Phil,Nate Burkus and ordinary viewers. Close friend Gayle King and partner Stedman Graham. Regular people traveled from all over the country to express their appreciation,support, and some, even sadness about the void they anticipate will be left on the tube in their living rooms during the time her broadcast usually fills for the first time in 25 years.

No matter what the controversy, the need to be met after a disaster, individual, family or community tragedy Oprah has always been a comforting presence. Two of my most poignant memories of her care and humanitarian range was the handling of the New Orleans Metro Dome disaster after Hurricane Katrina and her involvement in Barack Obama's Presidential campaign. She was there on the scene early to find out just what was going on and doing all she could, lending her influence in correcting the situation while making sure the news got out to the world. The second is the role she played in the election of President Barack Obama.

The courage to stand up for a presidential candidate in light of the risks and backlash she received was profound. Many have credited her with playing an instrumental role in the election of this nation's first Black President, Barack Obama. She while playing the feat down and being extremely modest about it--it wouldn't have been Oprah-ish to laud those laurels--will undoubtedly go down in history as achieving that whether it be an oral one in the griot tradition or substantiated on the books. I have also enjoyed blogging about several of her show episodes involving major celebrities and their involvement in humanitarian projects, which she has also embraced on her program including Alicia Keys, Bono, John Mayer and others. I enjoyed attending an Oprah taping at the Fox Theater in Detroit years ago and it was a singular experience. She was gracious and very down to earth. People,mostly women stood around the block waiting for hours to get a good seat in the audience.

Her "Oprah" show will be missed, but I feel that she is going on to broader purpose and influence on the OWN Network which has gotten off to a tremendous start with insightful, self help and life improving programming. I hope she can continue with her book club somehow as well as some spin off of "Oprah's Favorite Things" with an expansion into favorite causes and programs. Perhaps I've just summed up OWN?

I also fervently hope that I will have the opportunity to meet and work with her one day. I've been blessed with meeting many celebrities over the years,but only an audience encounter with Oprah. And,while you gave viewers and those wanting to get in contact with you your personal email address with an open invitation to send one, I can't help but think of the millions and millions of emails that will come flooding in. How will you possibly be able to answer them all? Well,I suppose in the same manner as you answered so many dreams,letters and emails of those who faithfully wrote you during your 25 years on television.By the grace of god,you answered so many.

For every tree is known by his own fruit.-Luke 6:44. I think we can all agree that Oprah has been a bearer of  exceptionally good fruit.

God bless you Oprah!

Prayers for Japan

Japan indeed is a wealthy country and the yen has amazingly soared after the worst natural disaster in its history. However, Japan is still very much in need of support in moral,spiritual and financial form. It was reported recently that fundraising for this disaster has lagged behind the last two disasters,including Haiti, Katrina and the Tsunami which all but demolished areas of Thailand and Sri Lanka.

Efforts are underway to raise funds and people from ordinary citizens doing art fundraisers to our national government sending in troops and supplies are all pitching in to save Japan. Please do what you can whether it be one dollar or a million dollars. The important thing is to give from your heart sincerely and with love.

Cynthia Wilson

Grammy Highlights:Mavis Staples Wins First Grammy,Aretha Tribute,Solomon Burke Tribute,John Mayer's New Look and Other Notable Moments

                                    

It did my heart good to see such respect paid by the Recording Academy at Sunday night's Grammy Award show to some of the more seasoned among the artists honored. I am happy for Mavis Staples who received her first Grammy award ever after nearly 60 years in the business. If you are a Baby Boomer you certainly remember growing up listening to some of the hit tunes performed by the Staple singers consisting of Mavis ,her dad and sister. It was a family affair for sure. There was always a place that we were willing to have them take us. "I'll Take You There" was one of their most renown hits.

What pleases me most about her big win-and,yes she won only one Grammy- but it was a gigantic win for her because of what it represented.  It must have justified her many years of perserverance,pressing on in faith and conviction even when the chips were down. The irony of it is that the record consists of spiritual songs  produced and written by Jeff Tweedy, the lead member of the successful Chicago rock band Wilco. Mavis went back to her roots. She started out singing Gospel. "You Are Not Alone" won in the Americana category,but it still is church music. Staples beat out Rosanne Cash, Los Lobos, Willie Nelson, Robert Plant for the Grammy. She stated "this isn't the last the world has seen from Mavis Staples." That is good to know.






The tribute to Aretha Franklin was on fire and filled with soul. The Queen of Soul could not have been represented by a better group of voices. Yolanda Adams,Jennifer Hudson,Christina Aguillera,Martina McBride and Florence Welch did a wonderful job. Although she earned her credentials as a blue-eyed soul sister when she performed "This Is A Man's World" for the late James Brown, Christina Aguillerra definitely deserved her "soul" diva props for her handling of "Ain't No Way". It would be safe to say that she sang with almost as much soul as Aretha if not on a par. Jennifer Hudson definitely gets "Respect" for her performance of that classic Aretha song--the one that started it all. Martina McBride, Yolanda Adams and Florence welch demonstrated their vocal chops as well.

The Queen of Soul has been faced with health challenges lately. Unfortunately she could not be present for what would have certainly been a healing dose of music. She watched it from her home. But,music connoisseurs and plain music lovers alike know how good music can make you feel when you're their live and in concert. Let's keep Aretha lifted in prayer and keep her songs alive. Was it just me or did anyone else think that Mick Jagger's performance was "off the hook"? He really proved why he is a rock music legend. Hands down! That tribute to Solomon Burke was incredible. He is still going strong at nearly 70 years old. I feel that Solomon himself could feel that performance at the Grammy Awards. He done Mr. burke proud. I must admit I've been a Stones fan since the early days. I've seen Jagger get soulful with onstage appearances with Tina Turner,but this performance was extra special. This was also his first appearance on the Grammy stage. I gained a new appreciation for his range as an entertainer,artist and,of course, rock legend. He got the audience thoroughly stoked. Take a look:



I also thought Barbra Striesand did a wonderful job on Evergreen. Her pipes are still in excellent shape. She can still hit those notes. She seems to have gotten over her stage fright as well. She looked stunning.

Eminem and Dr. Dre were awesome. That slowed down version of "Love the Way You Lie" made me see the song in a whole different light. They took the song to another level. The lyrics that Dr. Dre rapped were either different or he gave the original words a whole new twist. His skills as a legendary rapper came shining through.


There were so many good performances I feel I could write pages before I got all of my opinions out. The music production was particularly good as well. The arrangements were all very polished and the notes were on key. It must have been something about the acoustics. But, I have noticed in the past during live Grammy shows where the music has not always been consistently excellent throughout each performance. Whoever the sound mixers and engineers were-and I'll have to do my research on that- they did a great job.

Props to Jaden Smith and Justin Beiber for that very energetic performance. Will and Jada really enjoyed it. You could see them glowing about their son's performance in the audience. Jonelle Monae. One word-- dazzling. Great performances and wins by Arcade Fire, Muse and Lady GaGa.

Last but not least, another suprising segment for me was to watch John Mayer do a very short guitar and vocal performance with Keith Urban and Norah Jones before presenting the Song of the Year Award. I was expecting a guitar solo or at least a full song. But,anyway it was good to see him there enjoying himself and sticking to the script performing the Dolly Pardon classic "Jolene". He looked marvelous in his white and black.
I certainly don't want to slight anyone. I enjoyed the entire show. Just sharing what were highlights for me.

Well done. Bravo!

Weekend Inspiration: A Bridge of Hope

                              "Avenue "B" Bridge"

Sometimes we have to look at things differently to find hope beyond appearances and seeming limitations. This drawing represents an imaginative perception of a city through a lens of love and hope. Viewed through a lens of love, hope and expectancy, decay and rust can be transformed into building blocks for a brighter day.

As I progressed through what started out as a sketch, it turned into a colorful drawing which incorporates some of the ambience of each of my favorite cities.Under the heading of Avenue "B'" Bridge and the auspices of love, I suppose it could be summed up as a love of city or City Love. Another way of looking at a real city from an imaginary standpoint while showing and hopefully symbolizing the love of urban life as we know it in the USA. I don't think there is anyone around that would not agree that our cities could use some love and devotion.  With Valentine's Day just around the corner, this is a very timely theme. So let's pump up the volume. Think of something, however small or large,you could do to improve the quality of life in your city.

Have a great weekend and have a good time hanging out in your favorite places with the people you love and enjoy most. Hope you like the drawing. Don't forget to show some city love.

Brings to mind some of my favorite pop/soul tunes including Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City", John Mayer's "City Love and Jay-Z's featuring Alicia Keys Empire State of Mind.

It is uplifting to look at my favorite cities from this perspective. What do you need to look at from a heightened perspective today and perhaps tomorrow?

Have a great weekend and "be" loving and hopeful.

By the way, Happy Valentine's Day!

Cynthia

Scripture reference

I Corinthians13:13:

AND now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love



--

Oh Freedom

"Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, " If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, "You will be made free?" Jesus answered them, "Very truly I tell you everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the son makes you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:31-36




Soar in the freedom of the word today', knowing you have been set free.

Peace,



cynthia



Graphic design "ON His Wings" copyright 2011.cynthia wilson. All rights reserved.





"OH Freedom" public domain freedom song audio part of this message can be downloaded here.

Aretha Franklin to be Honored at Grammy Awards Sunday: A Special Prayer for The Queen

The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, who is challenged with cancer will be honored at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards music's biggest night. Joining in the tribute are Jennifer Hudson, Yolanda Adams, Christina Aguilera, Martina McBride and Florence Welch. The awards show will air live on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011, 8 P.M. ET/PT, on CBS.


I'd like to lift up Aretha Franklin who was born and raised in the Motown in her hour of need. She has been blessed with a voice that has been a force in the soul,R&B and Pop genres for  nearly forty years. Her singing voice and style is original. No one else sings like Aretha.When she opens her mouth and that amazing force of music and emotion come wailing out, your soul has been blessed .  She has given us so much. I remember every song she has ever recorded and as a Baby Boomer,grew up with "Respect",Ain't No Way,This is the House That Jack Built, Baby,Baby Sweet Baby, Call Me, and so many more. She started out singing gospel music like so many other popular recording artists and soul divas. Amazing Grace was her signature song and if you have listened to it you now immediately why she has been raved about for having a fantastic set of pipes.
     
She has had her share of personal trials including losing a dear sister, Carolyn Franklin,who also penned some of her earlier songs, to cancer years ago. The family hails from the city of Detroit and there is a rich history of the Franklins which began with her dad C.L. Franklin who served as the Pastor of the famous New Bethel Church.

There have been several prayer vigils that have been organized to give her support and love. I was happy to participate in a circle of prayer with my prayer line. I am very happy that she is being honored by her peers at the Grammy Awards on Sunday. She is richly deserving of the tribute. I'd love to be there in person to perform a special prayer for her. But since I won't be there in person I am dedicating this inspirational word to her:

"We stand on god's promise that the fervent, effectual prayers of the righteous availeth much and that where two or more are gathered in god's name touching and agreeing that it will be done then it is so. we claim god's healing of your body right now and wish you a long and productive life. May every blood cell,every molecule,every atom in your body and your bloodstream line up with the word of god for total healing now in the name of Jesus"- Amen.


Peace and blessings.

Weighing the Equities: Fret Not

I thought this was a beautiful guitar. A nice diversion from the deep analytical .

Alembic Custom Guitar in honor of Woody Guthrie Photo Source

Marketing the Bad Boy Image

There is something to be said about the tremendous success, media attention and hefty paychecks that a bad boy image can garner in today's entertainment market, catapulting many of the misbehaving or those rumored of being dark and twisted to the top of the Hollywood dung heap. Taylor Swift's recent album including a song entitled Dear John,which alludes to an alleged past relationship with guitar god/singer songwriter John Mayer was said to be the fastest selling album of 2010. The song describes Mayer as dark and asks the question of him "Don't you think I was too young to be messed with?
John Mayer's media coverage concerning Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson overshadowed significantly his extraordinary talent as an artist. Our culture seems to promote and thrive on the antics of the shocking and the outrageous. The brazen and raw outtakes are in today's reality driven market the kind of incidents that draw mass attention and are almost certain to go viral, in the process attracting devoted followings and even offers ranging in the tens of thousands to the millions for product endorsement and advertising deals. Call it the dark side or the hard cold reality of the business.
The domestic violence episode on the Kardashian reality show some months ago where blood was actually drawn due to the severity of the injuries certainly had everyone talking and "outraged" for days, if not weeks. The ratings of course went through the roof and, of course, the Kardashian clan came out on top financially last year grossing upwards of 11 million dollars. There have been other attention drawing antics that have also generated attention and controversy. By today's television standards they are considered royalty, and, a standard to measure up to.
Seriously, how can you really blame stars and their handlers hungry for either money or attention for taking the more lucrative, albeit less tasteful and sometimes sleazier route if it will mean the difference between a hefty paycheck or a paltry one? And, in some cases it could mean the difference between having a career or simply not working at all. For some it is simply a formula, a method and a calculation for guaranteed success, assuring popularity and a rise in mass appeal. I can imagine the tremendous pressure that some artists must be under to conform their real selves to the image that sells.
I don't want to sound too preachy or for my observations to take on a self-righteous tone because I am well aware and painfully in tune with the realities of the world in which we live. Yet somehow in the midst of all of this there seems to be a higher standard, a mark or a bar which we are being called to raise ourselves in order to bring some sense of sanity and decency back into the equation. If not it seems the frenzy of mass appeal generated by the thrill rides of shock value and the like are poised to overtake our sense of decency and morality, heading our society on a collision course with itself and a sure route to implosion. The examples cited are just a tip of the iceberg. If the low achievements in US education revealed in plumeting test scores and our ranking 30 on the list with China at number one is not a subtle wake up call of sorts and a barometer of misplaced priorities then what other signals do we need and what else will it take?



I read recently that John Mayer was heckled on city streets by women who were still railing from his treatment of ex-girlfriends Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson, proclaiming rather boisterously in a public place that he was a horrible person. Mayer has been portrayed consistently in the media as the serial heartbreaker, the tell all ex who characterized Jessica Simpson as sexual napalm. He was so distressed by this incident that he is currently on a full court press to make an "image" adjustment and change people's perspective about "it." I said "image" and not him because an artist's image and who they are authentically outside of the public persona that is oftentimes developed to sell a product varies significantly. Many of John's close friends and fans have experienced him as a completely different person. A horrible person is something that would not even come across their minds as a way of describing him.
Charlie Sheen, the most notorious bad boy these days is the highest paid actor on television commanding 1.25 million per episode after renegotiations which came despite a Christmastime arrest over an assault on his wife and subsequent sentencing to 30 days of rehab. Sheen made over 40 million dollars last year and his television sitcom is number one.

While there are no hard and fast solutions to what seems to be an ongoing dilemma of the marketability of the authentic person in contrast to the profitability of the 'bad boy" image, it seems to me it will boil down ultimately to the following questions. The first is what will the market ,and, ultimately society, bear? The second is how well does the sporter of the bad boy image sleep at night? Charlie Sheen and other bad boys have either at some point in the process overdosed on drugs, been in and out of rehab and clocked up numerous hours on their therapists couches. So, the question at the end of the day and eventually, at the end of life's journey is "how much is or was it really worth?"

Something upon which to ponder,reflect and perhaps rethink...

Multiple Grammy Winners Jamie Foxx and John Mayer Join List of Grammy Presenters

Grammy Award winner Jamie Fox and seven(7) time grammy winner John Mayer who is also nominated this year for three Grammy Awards, including best pop vocal performance on Half of My Heart, best Solo Rock Vocal Performance for "Crossroads", both singles are from his best pop vocal nominated album Battle Studies,will join the awards show line up as presenters. Their names were announced today in a growing list.