{Originally posted on my other blog}
Last week our nation found itself in mourning, remembering individuals who each changed our culture through talent and personal will. Aretha Franklin's funeral was Friday, an event that was lived streamed with many other outlets covering from different angles. She earned a position where our nation cared and needed final closure on her life. Not too shabby for any person, let alone a black woman.
Over the past several days I have enjoyed hearing stories about Ms. Franklin’s life and career. Once, when Luciano Pavarotti became ill, Ms. Franklin filled in singing "Nessun Dorma," a song she would later perform for the Pope. Filling in for Pavarotti on what is said to be a difficult song (outside of her normal repertoire) is impressive in and of itself. Doing so during the 1998 Grammys in front of a world wide audience is a testimony of courage as well as talent. This is a story that speaks volumes of the type of person and talent that was Aretha Franklin.
As a child I was not a fan of soul music. Back then I did not appreciate the artistry found on the various soul labels. I did however enjoy Aretha Franklin. Hers was a unique talent. One I could and will always appreciate.
We lost another unique individual last month. Arizona Sen. John McCain passed away after ending treatments for cancer. Described as a, "Maverick," McCain is well known for taking stands for what he thought best for his country, often without regards for what his party wanted. During an interview on Public Radio’s Radio Times writer Dick Polman spoke of how McCain earned the title "Maverick," by doing what's right. If that's the case we need more "Mavericks." Thank you Sen. McCain for setting the example.
Last week President Trump hosted a closed door meeting with evangelicals during which he encouraged leaders to get their congregations out to vote in the November elections. Original reports described how he spoke of the "violence," that might happen if the GOP does not do well, allowing opponents the opportunity to roll back the gains of the last two years. However attendees of the meeting did not interpret the president's statements as reported. Either way I think Christians must remember Who really protects us. We should get out and vote but not because we are afraid.
I originally intended to end most weeks with a post called Friday thoughts. However I find it...challenging to do anything on a Friday evening after getting home from the day job. So from time to time I will put together my random thoughts, posting them on random days. These will be observations on our culture: my opportunity to climb on my soapbox. I don't know what these posts will say but the times we live in should provide plenty of material.
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