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Sunday, March 11, 2018

Agree to Disagree


Let’s face it, we don’t all see eye to eye. But that’s OK. I wouldn’t want to live in a vanilla world where each of us thought exactly the same thing. And, in truth, we need each other’s opinions in order to evaluate and sharpen our own. Sometimes I’m dead wrong and can’t even see it. That’s when the insight of others is so helpful. It’s also true that we formulate many of our opinions and arguments based upon our own world views. I believe in a God. You might not. You come from a certain type of family or educational background. I have had different life experiences. Each of these things shapes our perspectives. And often we draw lines in the sand that divide relationships, cultures, and even nations. So there are many times, especially among people we care about, where we have to agree to disagree. When that happens, we can continue to have productive and provocative discussions across a broad range of subjects. I have strong opinions, but I also want to honor relationships. So this goes out to those whom I might not agree with, but whom I still love and respect. Let’s keep talking.

Agree to Disagree
Although we love each other
There are areas, it’s true
Where we don’t see quite eye to eye
And I must disagree with you
We’re entitled to opinions
So at least philosophically
We diverge on several issues
And so you disagree with me
But I like that we can talk about
Whatever’s on our hearts
And discuss a host of issues
That seem to tear some folks apart
I respect how you feel and
Think you do the same for me
We live somewhere in the middle
As we agree to disagree
So I say let’s keep talking
Let’s keep wrestling with things
So we can challenge one another
Embracing what perspective brings
Wisdom never flourishes
Within a vacuum, it is true
And I relish the exchanges
That I have with each of you
              By Frank Carpenter

Sunday, March 04, 2018

A Marriage Blessing


It’s another wedding season and as I prepare for Austin and Jenice’s  ceremony I spend a lot of time thinking about them and praying for them. With my heart leaning in that direction, I paused to write the below wedding blessing to recite over them while we are together this weekend. These words are kind of the culmination of what I’ve been praying over them in recent weeks, and when my heart is focused in that way, it often ends up as a poem. So, Austin and Jenice, this is for you. Be happy forever!
Frank

A Marriage Blessing
May God bless and keep you
Through the passing of the years
May you feel His arms about you
In the triumph and the tears
May you celebrate together
The joy of simple things
And learn to find the beauty
In whatever this life brings
May God grant you wisdom
When you need it on your way
Love and patience in full measure
Along with countless happy days
Filled with faith enough to trust Him
And trust one another too
Even when you may not want to
Then, most of all, may you be true
May your home be a haven
Of encouragement and rest
So that you, and all who visit
Feel welcome there, and blessed
May God bless your union
And may you strive to understand
The mystery of faith together
As you face life hand in hand
May God gently guide you
And draw you ever near
May He bless your life together
From day to day, and year to year
                  By Frank Carpenter ©