Grace in Unexpected Places

Finding Grace

“We could never have guessed
We were already blessed
There we were, where we are…”
James Taylor

Friday night, I went to a concert at a funky little church that would remind you of the one in Alice’s Restaurant. The musicians were not what you’d call ‘mentally mainstream’, but they came together, disparate as they were, to raise money for the church. The organizer is a friend of mine who has Bi-Polar disorder and even though she faithfully takes her medicine, pushes the boundaries of containment most all the time. In addition to this plague of the psyche, she is brilliant, has a voice like a bell, and writes songs that are at times poignant, often filled with passion, occasionally full of angst or playfulness, and always beautiful. Others played improvisational music with unusual instruments and kitchen utensils, a water harp and some objects I could not identify. One little group of newbie-hippies sat on the floor with their backs to the audience with drum, triangle, autoharp and sticks and simply vocalized sounds that rose and fell with the rhythm. It was different. Different and heart warming and wrapped up in kindness and generosity. Some of the presenters had brought food from home; chili, breadsticks, chips and salsa, humus and a delightful concoction called ‘Sweet Joline.’ With their sincere hearts, they raised more than $500.00 for the church.

Grace is best when found in unexpected places. I have noticed that grace seems most palpably present among people who have given up all claims to egotism; folks who no longer prop themselves up with titles or stations or possessions, but are aware of being blessed none-the-less, right where they are. When grace is present, you know it. You don’t have to make small talk or act sophisticated; you can be yourself and know that you’re accepted, and even valued, just as you are. You feel peaceful and well…happy.

I hope today is full of grace for you.

In the spirit,
Jane