Saturday, December 21, 2013

Remember Me

It saddens me to hear stories of individuals who maybe unknowingly hurt or judge others they do not know or understand, while quoting Bible scriptures in the name of Jesus. These things are usually taken out of context on all sides to create hype or make someone feel right. It is because of this history that many individuals avoid the church and might not ever know what it feels like to receive unconditional love in the true Spirit of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. I am sorry. Forgive those who know not what they do. Forgive me when I fail to understand. Forgive me when I mess up and lack patience and kindness. We all fall short sometimes.

Christmas card that my daughter
Kaiya made a few years ago
I hope you know that you are loved, as you are, wherever you are in your personal journey. In this love, I hope you will enjoy giving and receiving this holiday season. In this light, I want to share a song that came through me in December, 2011. This reflects my personal journey and faith walk, so I am thankful that I can share freely. Know that I embrace all people and get that we might have different beliefs and experiences. However you connect, I wish you love, joy and peace all year. I love you!

Live, Give, Love, Laugh and Learn,
Shawna

Remember Me
- by Shawna Ray 2011

In the busyness of shopping malls
In the stress that comes with making meals
In this season that is filled with frills
A baby cries off in the distance

Remember me
Pure love and peace
Remember me
Your joy complete
My gift is free for eternity
Remember me

If acquiring things takes priority
Then the meaning here is unredeemed
There are people who are truly in need
Find your balance; give and receive

Remember me
Pure love and peace
Remember me
Your joy complete
My gift is free for eternity
Remember me

Remember December
Hold the baby near
Remember December
Look for light all year

Remember December
Slow it down to hear
The stillness of Spirit
Calling you near

Remember me
Pure love and peace
Remember me
Your joy complete
My gift is free for eternity
Remember me
Remember me



Friday, December 20, 2013

Moments and Memories


So this is it - the grand experiment
It's Christmas time and all my money's spent
In every scene there's so much marketing
Trying to make us scream, "I want!"

So what if I start sharing blame for this?
Stop trying to prove that I am more or less
My fashion sense, style and "etiquette"
Well I can't hardly spell that word

I want more time with you
I want hugs that are free
Please don't buy me any thing
Lend a hand, meet a need
I'm buying time to appreciate
All I have, may be cliche'
I want more love and peace
Making moments and memories

It can be tense, when family and friends
Bring baggage in years of experience
We get weighed down by all the bitterness
When freedom comes within forgiveness

Don't get me wrong, we need some boundaries
To have the space and remain healthy
It's never ending this growth and change
Let the good retain our focus

I want more time with you
I want hugs that are free
Please don't buy me any thing
Lend a hand, meet a need
Buying time to appreciate
All I have, may be cliche'
I want more love and peace
Making Moments and memories

Story telling, children laughing
Comfy cuddles on the couch
Music playing while we're cooking
No comparing, free from stress
Let it go and keep on smiling
There is value wrapped in kindness
Happiness is self contentment
Opening gifts with pure intent

I want more time with you
I want hugs that are free
Please don't buy me any thing
Lend a hand, meet a need
Buying time to appreciate
All I have, may be cliche'
Still I want more love and peace
Welcoming authenticity
Light the night with new awareness
Giving love and living peace
Sharing more moments and memories

-------
I posted these songs lyrics last year around Thanksgiving and want to share this again today with a reminder to spend more time with and less money on those we love this holiday season. 

A friend from college texted today to say that she was mailing me some gifts. She lives twenty minutes away from me and we have not seen each other in a while. In fact, we really need to talk through a misunderstanding. It made me laugh that she would buy me things, but not actually make time to talk to me. I don't have a lot of money and don't want to feel guilty for not buying her anything. I described this as "surburbia syndrome" and that pissed her off even more. We live such different lives and maybe it is time to let this friendship go. I just see things differently and am not so good at faking it. I want to see my friends face to face and if someone is in need, I want to give them a hug and let them know that I love them. 

Some people seem to hide so well behind their texts, emails  and "things" that keep a safe distance. They want to feel better about themselves by keeping up with token gifts and cards. This keeps the card and gift manufacturers in business, but it honestly does very little to truly build and strengthen relationships in my opinion. I guess we all have different love languages. Quality time is what means the most to me. And I am just tired of faking it when I hear things that have been said behind my back. Don't send me a card or gift and think that we are friends. If that makes me the odd one out, then so be it. I want to know who my true friends are and invest my time and energy with them. 

Life is short. Be present and make time for moments and memories in the now with those you truly love and respect this holiday season. 

Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn,
Shawna








Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Interesting

I walked into the coffee shop
So over it I didn’t stop
To notice that the energy was shifting
Sipping chai I sat a while
Looked over captured by a smile
The rush was instantaneous feelings
You walked up with a book in hand
And asked if I had any plans
I said hello explaining I was writing
You asked if I had anything
That you could read, ironically
The book you had just finished I was reading
(Side note: I was reading The Fault in our Stars at the time)

Pour a cup of conversation
Finding you completely interesting
Sip into a sort of daydream
Like the way you say exactly what you’re thinking
“This is some delicious dialog”
Thank you for treating me 
You are interesting

I get so bored with simple minds
And you my friend are countertype
A killer grin inquiring, “What’s your story?”
“My story or the one I’m writing?”
“Either one is cool with me”
Your candor and your wit feel so inviting
I gotta go but here’s my number
Snow is falling in December
Three weeks later you are asking to personify
That day was an experience
As if you’d read my narrative
But fiction novels can’t compare to air supply

Pour a cup of conversation
Finding you completely interesting
Sip into a sort of daydream
Like the way you say exactly what you’re thinking
“This is some delicious dialog”
Thank you for treating me
With respect and a side of sensuality
A jolt of hope inspiring creativity
All I know is I am finding you completely
Interesting
Interesting

- by shawna ray

Monday, November 11, 2013

Take a Trip to Diverse City


Link to buy Diverse City by Shawna Ray on Amazon

A student and teacher favorite, Take a Trip to DIVERSE CITY welcomes you to a free state of heart and mind; open to new and different people, places, and experiences. This rhyming picture book encourages children of all ages to accept and celebrate one another while welcoming cultural diversity. There is a message about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream, discussion questions, and a letter to young authors in the back. A portion of the proceeds goes to support unity initiatives.

This special B5 edition includes a CD with national music group B5 (kids might know their song “Get Your Head in the Game” from High School Musical) narrating the book and Shawna Ray singing the book in song form with added B5 chorus. 

Inspired by a true story, this educational children’s book begins as some of the kids on the playground in Same City will not let Jacob play because his skin color is different than theirs. Zachary stands with his friend and invites the kids on an imaginary trip to explore Diverse City. They enjoy a variety of savory meals at Spice of Life Cafe, and share in different ways of creating with an array of colors and textures at the Art Spot.  They hear different styles and moods of music in the streets and talk about the importance of each individual. When the kids return from their change in perspective, things are much more colorful and the children are free to appreciate their differences and enjoy playing together.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Shawna Ray is also a singer, songwriter, and mother of two students. She shares her passion for unity and talks to kids and young adults about diversity and resolving conflict in relationships with a full assembly presentation. Shawna tells the true story about her son Zachary and his friend Jacob who inspired her first book, encouraging young authors to follow through with their ideas. Shawna has a degree in Public Relations from Otterbein College and has previously worked in Outreach and Engagement at The Ohio State University and as an event coordinator and  disability/diversity awareness trainer and program coordinator with Goodwill Columbus and United Way of Central Ohio. Shawna currently lives in Columbus, Ohio. 

ABOUT B5: Atlanta Georgia is home to the 5 dynamic brothers known as B5 (Dustin, Kelly, Patrick, Carnell and Bryan)! You've seen them on Disney, Nickelodeon, MTV and BET; heard them on High School Musical, Hanna Montana and Disney! Growing up multi-racial, (black and white mix), the brothers have lived diversity! 'This is why we felt so passionate about participating with this project, because it all starts with kids!' states Bryan. 'Success, knowledge and love have no color! It's the way you think that makes the difference,' says Patrick. 'Diverse City is 100% B5 Approved! It lets kids know that we are all beautiful in our own way!' 

Book Content:

Take a Trip to Diverse City

Ó COPYRIGHT1/1/05 Shawna Ray
A Children’s book
Dedicated to Zachary & Jacob: May you always appreciate your differences and treasure your friendship.

‘Twas a gray kind of day outside in Same City.
The school bell rang; recess was beginning.
Jacob and Zac tried to join the ballgame.
But some kids told Jacob that he couldn’t play.

For his skin was “brown” and theirs was “white,”
Zac stood by his friend knowing that was not right.
“Why?” he thought, “should it matter at all?”
Each child in the class had a difference he saw.

“They’re trippin!” said Jacob, and Zachary agreed.
“A trip – hey, let’s all go to Diverse City!”
Some kids were afraid and chose not to go,
But adventure is fun and soon many followed

“Good food,” Zac said, “is the first thing we need.
Let’s walk down the street and get something to eat.”
At Same Café, the food can be dull
By adding some spice it becomes flavorful.

Let’s dine a place with savory meals.
We’ll enjoy all the various blends and appeals.
The aroma is sweet and the menu delights.
Everyone can find something they like.

Embrace all the tastes and the sounds and the smells.
New friends are welcome to dine and to tell
Stories and memories of journeys they’ve shared.
The table is open; acceptance is there.

Next stop is the art shop; the colors are vast.
You can paint every shade, be creative and laugh.
Mold the soft clay into balls and cool shapes.
Make a cup, a bowl or a tall flower vase.

We all have ideas that are new and exciting.
Let’s color together or sit alone writing.
Think of a story, imagine the scene.
It’s great to create when the mind is so free.

“Who wants to move on?” Zac said to his friends.
I hear a cool sound that is drawing us in
To the streets where live music is filling the air;
A bouncy drum beat and loud trumpets do blare.

A band plays aloud; music lifts like the moon.
Each different sound is forming a tune.
It then turns so gently as the melodies change
To a ballad sung sweetly, like soft falling rain.

“Each one is so wonderful, don’t you agree?”
Zac talked as he walked down Diverse City streets.
There are people at work, each with skills of their own
By joining together we get much more done.

“If all were the same, we’d be missing all this.
We need everyone to share their unique gift.
We learn from each other and life can be found
In all styles and flavors, new sights and new sounds.”

As they returned to the classroom later that day
The kids were different and everyone played.
There’s so much more fun in a place filled with color,
Where all are free to enjoy one another.


THE END, or maybe just the beginning of many more adventures…

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Commonality in Humanity

Perception is blinding, it's based on the past
Resistance is fighting, the present in shift 
We are...
Finding commonality in humanity
and every living thing
There's meaning and opportunity
to open and up and see
with new understanding

Expanding, creating, we're serving the whole
Still working and playing in a changing world
We are...
Finding commonality in humanity
and every living thing
There's meaning and opportunity
to open and up and see
with new understanding

Thankful in blessings
Hopeful in healing
Praying, revealing
Giving, receiving

Finding commonality in humanity
and every living thing
There's meaning and opportunity
to open and up and see
with new understanding

- shawna ray, today 11/3/13



Sunday, October 20, 2013

Living the Dream

"Forget about the days when it's been cloudy,  but don't forget your hours in the SUN...
Forget about the times you've been defeated,  but don't forget the VICTORIES you've won...
Forget about mistakes that you can't change now,  but don't forget the lessons that you've LEARNED...
Forget about misfortunes you've encountered, but don't forget the times your luck has TURNED...
Forget about the days when you've been lonely,  but don't forget the friendly SMILES you've seen...
Forget about the plans that didn't seem to work out right, but don't forget to always have a DREAM."
-Amanda Bradley

I'm staying at my Mom's house, where this artwork and poem by Amanda Bradley hangs as an optimist reminder in the guest bedroom. I love her use of the...A symbol of the neverending process of growth and discovery in achieving our goals and dreams,  while living each day with hope. 

Lately I have been struggling with the weight of frustration and wondering if I will ever fully achieve my dreams. I think sometimes we set these lofty goals and dreams in motion and then we're surprised and challenged by the shift and the shish that comes out. Or maybe this is just me? See how I tend to want to bring everyone into this with me in we? But I do think this part is true for everyone...Each experience and lesson received is a step toward where we need to be. It's all part of the process. 

Looking back while organizing my office this week, I think I have made it much harder and longer by constantly stepping down. I have backed off when encountering resistance and dissapointment. I would retreat to my comfort zone and wallow in my pitty party. I have wasted so much energy telling friends all about who did me wrong or what I am going through, so I could feel affirmed in my position as a victim. At this point I think my friends and family are sick of hearing about it. I too am sick and tired of being sick and wounded, waving the "woa is me I'm a single mother" banner. 

But the lesson and achievement comes through the process...Not what happens to you, but how you choose to handle it! The key is to remember the moments of sunshine, victories and that which you have accomplished, lessons learned and smiles you have seen and shared along the way. 

It's all good. Keep moving forward, living the dream...

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Rainbows from Rain

Artwork by Lojove 
Jump'n in puddles, lett'n it splatter
Haters will hate but it don't matter
Bubbling up I'm saved by laughter
Coming in from the rain

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Happily after dreaming of better
Sing'n along dog days are over
Keep'n it mov'n, pushing the chatter
Out of my brain

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Holding my own pot of gold
Giving to lighten the load
Playing to level the field
Sharing the stories that beg to be told

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Forecasting bright futures ahead
Finding rainbows from rain
Forecasting bright futures ahead
Finding rainbows from rain

Jump'n in puddles lett'n it splatter
Haters will hate but it don't matter

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Talkin' Guitar

Arm around body
Neck is inviting
Input the jack please
Bridge keeps it guarded
Vibrating whammy
Inlay surrounding
Music is the movement of soul ...

I'm talkin' guitar
'Cuz you get me like that
Bend into my heart
Moving down my frets
You know who you are
The head is at high pitch
So factor in firmness
Just talkin' guitar

Fingers are walking
Pick up the action
Chords are singing
Making sweet lovin
Smack it down, groov'n
Tear it up shredding
Music  is the rock and the roll ...

I'm talkin' guitar
'Cuz you get me like that
Bend into my heart
Moving down my frets
You know who you are
The head is at high pitch
So factor in firmness
Just talkin' guitar
   
I wanna hear that.....(bluesy guitar solo)
Well if you want to bend it skinny there's electric
Peddle to distort pitch, rock it then you drop it
And if you want to feell it, strum it on acoustic
Hear it in the lyric anytime you choose it
Music with a full body tone
Unplugged sing a la la la la la la la looooooooong
Come on and sing a la la la la la la la looooong... 


I'm talkin' guitar
'Cuz you get me like that
Bend into my heart
Moving down my frets
You know who you are
The head is at high pitch
So factor in firmness
Just talkin' guitar
I'm just talkin' guitar

- shawna ray, song lyrics, © Dec 25, 2011, Inspired by John Mayer

Live, Give, Love, Laugh and Learn, 
- Shawna Ray sharing again today, 9/22/13


Monday, August 19, 2013

Keep Love Alive

"If you weren't so afraid of letting go
You wouldn't feel so free when you do it"
If you didn't hold capacity to love
Your heart would not feel full when you've filled it
But the rush falls down
And the in love fades
When you're on the ground
With the time it takes

To stoke the flame
And jump again
A fellow friend
Knows how and when
To keep love alive
Alive
Keep love alive
And love again

So the trick is knowing who you really are
To find the one that fits- you will know it
Some people tend to only love the chase
The fragile soul will break if you throw it
Then the trust falls down
And the guard is placed
To keep others out
While inside you crave

To stoke the flame
And jump again
A fellow friend
Knows how and when
To keep love alive
Alive
Keep love alive
And love again

Letting go of the heavy
That you carry from before
You will love when you're ready
Are you ready to give more?

Stoke the flame
And jump again
A fellow friend
Knows how and when
To keep love alive
Alive
Keep love alive
The ever never end

-by shawna ray, today, 8/19/13
Quote in the first line shared by Paul, TheRipplesproject.org
Source unknown, originally shared by Nikki, Oxford, UK
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Saturday, July 27, 2013

You Again

I keep waiting for you to make a move
You keep waiting for me to change my tune
All this time on my own I'm still not grown
Colors fade into grey, wrapped in blankets at home

Wires crossed and moments missed
Weigh the cost, craving your kiss
Hear your voice inside my head
Wish I could see you again

You are still the one who can make me sing
When you strum it's sparking my chemistry
From afar I've learned how to get away
Now I think its time for me to rearrange

Wires crossed and moments missed
Weigh the cost, craving your kiss
Hear your voice inside my head
Wish I could see you again

Wish I could be with you again
Am I crazy? Have we ever been?
I keep sensing lives that I missed
You keep right on, drawing me in
Again and again and again and again

Wires crossed and moments missed
Weigh the cost, craving your kiss
Hear your voice inside my head
Wish I could see you again

-shawna ray, today 7/27/13


Friday, July 5, 2013

Twisted

I wrote this song years ago but found myself on the crazy train again this week. Added that last part. Passive aggressive is also a means of control. Stop the cycle! Find the meaning. Learn the lesson. Keep moving forward...

Live, give, love, laugh and learn,

Shawna

TWISTED
By shawna ray

What is it with you people who abuse?
What is it with me wanting to believe?
That I can change your brain
Mistaking love for need
Think I can be your saint
Without enabling

This twisted reality
Caught up in crazy
Twisted reality
You pull the rug from underneath
And it gets twisted
Twisted, twisted

What's up with this game?
Hiding from bully
What's up with the way
You try to control me?
Why does it have to be
All your way or nothing?
Why do I try to please?
Loosing and falling prey

It's twisted reality
Caught up in crazy
Twisted reality
You pull the rug from underneath
And it gets twisted
Twisted, twisted

What is twisted cannot be straightened
What is lacking cannot be counted
I've been riding the crazy train
And I am finally getting off..
It's twisted reality
Caught up in crazy
Twisted reality
You pull the rug from underneath
And it gets twisted
Twisted, twisted

Time will need taken for healing
Careful I don't do the same thing
To one who is weaker than me
No more cycling on the crazy train
It'd twisted!

(Ecc 1:15)

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Former to Future

- poem by shawna ray 6/13

From the former to the future
Changing tide is washing up
From the inner to the outer
Purify what was corrupt
From the core into the center
Luring tempting is a lust
From deliverance to disaster
Torrent winds whip up the dust

Sweet surrender in the Spirit
That is kissed upon love's lips
Soft but loud so all can hear it
Calling purpose to exist
Warding off the shameful arrows
Not to fear the bully's fist
With an eye upon the sparrow
Word fulfilling promises

Age of time is now upon us
Echoing the grave's release
We must lift and sound the trumpets
Welcoming and offering
One to stay and walk among us
Joyful celebration feast
In the present, full awareness
Former battle, future peace

---
#former to future, #shawna ray, #battle, #future, #peace, #trumpets, #purpose
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Masquerade, New Song In Honor of Pride Parade

An #ally song for my friends
By Shawna Ray
(Music to come starts out like a ballerina music box)

If you took the time to see
Behind the mask, a weight is carried
Years of haunting, hiding pain
While so afraid to break the tape
That plays inside a mind all day
Speaking lies while saving face
To fit inside the box, ashamed
Longing for love and belonging

Swirling twirling phase
Dizzy from the masquerade
This is a new day
Renovate the closet space
I am coming out to play myself for a change
You will see my face at the masquerade

Please don't take God's love away
I can feel it differently
All are made to be unique
Tried to pray the gay away
The voice of hope speaks quietly
Open arms, The Father is running
Welcoming so Heavenly
Saying, "Let us celebrate"

Swirling twirling phase
Dizzy from the masquerade
This is a new day
Renovate the closet space
I am coming out to play myself for a change
You will see my face at the masquerade

Love, love, love, love
Hold it sacred
Pure love, love, love
Worth the wait it's
Love, love, love, love
So many ways to
Love, love, love, love, love

I am an ally
This is what my friends say,
"I did not chose this!
It was chosen for me..."

Welcome a new day
Renovate the closet space
I am coming out to play myself for a change
You will see my face at the masquerade

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Monday, June 10, 2013

Don't Be a Dead Beat Dad!


I feel like posting these song lyrics to all the Dads who are MIA on Father's Day..

Don't Be a Dead Beat!

Always talkin 'bout the big deal
Grandiosity to growns
For yourself showing you don't care
Till you want to feel like home

No reply on the other end of the phone

Don’t be a dead beat
Your word is incomplete
You had everything
And you gave it away
Don’t need a dead beat
This ship has finally sailed
I try not to be angry but I've got to ask...
Is that really who you wanna be?
Just a dead beat?
Don't be a dead beat dad!

Tell me how's that working for you?
Boy you really show your ah...
Hiding underneath the table
All you'll ever get is scraps

No return never paying back tax

Don't be a dead beat!
Will you ever complete?
You start so many things
Keep running away
Don't need a dead beat
This ship has finally sailed
I try not to be angry but I've got to ask... 

Is that really who you wanna be?
Just a dead beat? 

Don't be a dead beat dad!

Actions speak..Checks in the mail?
Always blaming someone else
Missing disappointing them
Trading love you’ve lost yourself

You choose that dead beat
Your word is incomplete
You had everything
Why'd you give it away?
Don't need a dead beat!
This ship has finally sailed
I try not to be angry but I've got to ask...
Is that really who you wanna be?
Is that really who you wanna be?
Man up man 

Step up and be a good Dad

by Shawna Ray, 4/24/12

Monday, May 27, 2013

Rainbows From Rain

Jump'n in puddles, lett'n it splatter
Haters will hate but it don't matter
Bubbling up I'm saved by laughter
Coming in from the rain

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Happily after dreaming of better
Sing'n along dog days are over
Keep'n it mov'n, pushing the chatter
Out of my brain

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Holding my own pot of gold
Giving to lighten the load
Playing to level the field
Sharing the stories that beg to be told

Contrasting the dramedy
Love lights up the sky
Finding rainbows from rain
Rainbows from rain

Forecasting bright futures ahead
Finding rainbows from rain
Forecasting bright futures ahead
Finding rainbows from rain

Jump'n in puddles lett'n it splatter
Haters will hate but it don't matter
--

Inspired by Tyler Perry's Interview with Oprah on OWN and my Dad, who taught me to keep looking for the rainbows through every storm in life
By Shawna Ray, today 5/27/13
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Optimism

I found these creeds on my cousin's mirror this morning. Even if you are not a parent, we are all mentors in one way or another and this can also help to understand our own childhood, heal from any past wounds and make choices regarding how we want to live moving forward. Some of us are single parents because we did not want our children to live with hostility. I believe that as we learn from the past and keep moving forward, with healthy boundaries, blessings will come. Even when it doesn't always pay well in this lifetime or follow systematic religious rules taken out of context, I believe that God's love, happiness and true riches are realized when we choose to find the good in all people and all things...
THE OPTIMIST CREED:
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true
To think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
PARENTS CREED:
If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to disconnect.
If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world.
Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn,
Shawna Ray, today 5/19/13
#optimism, #parenting, #praise, #shawna ray, #open, #love
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®




Friday, May 10, 2013

Birthday

So I had another BIRTHDAY on April 30th. My Mom planned a dinner party with some of my lifelong friends and surprised me by flying my sister Amy in from New York. It was a fun weekend, even though I have been dreading this particular mile marker on the journey that is life. 

Birthdays are moments in time when I was meant to arrive into this life experience. If I had been born at any other time, I would be a completely different person. And yet it seems that looking back, I spent much of my time and energy wishing I looked like someone else or had a different life. Why do we do that? Let’s ENJOY this time by accepting who we are, as is, and be HAPPY on this BIRTHDAY! Of course this makes me think (MMT) and write a SONG about it…

Turning of an age
I see the candles on a cake
And wonder where am I suppose to be by now?
On a no back track
I picture what lies up ahead
And make myself get out of the bed to take next steps...

Moving into 

chapter two
On to thirty
Forty, fifty
Birthdays
Celebrate
Life is good
When we're living 
Presently
OoooOH, presently

Friends and family call
To wish me well, posts on the wall
Bring out a smile, inside I still feel like a child
Do I blow a wish?
Or is it more about the breath?
That I take in to capture moments of alive

Moving into 
Chapter two
On to thirty
Forty, fifty
Birthdays
Celebrate
Life is good
When we're living
Presently
OoooOH, presently

Learning to be healthy is happy
Loving and feeling it all
Now choosing the things I want to receive
Throwing the other trash out

Writing a new 
Chapter two
On to thirty
Forty, fifty
Unafraid!
Celebrate
Life is good
Loving and living
Presently
OooooOH, presently

-shawna ray, today 4/30/13

#birthday,#presents,#living,#presently, #friends,#family,#20,#30,#40,#50

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Everything

Note: Read the quotes at the bottom that inspired this song I've been singing in the morning shower to help me through the full time work day in an office. I do hope to record more soon because lyrics are sometimes hard to grasp without hearing them with music. It's coming! I'm just broke and trying to raise two kids as a single Mom. Someday...

Everything
-shawna ray, today 4/25/13
I can feel the stress hormones releasing in my blood
I need to find a way
To let go of weight and peacefully engage
By riding out the raging wave

It's all good
When you're looking for the good
I know that's right
When I'm doing things right

Happiness is not about having everything
It's about doing my best in everything
Loving me may never be that easy
But I will love you well; hope you love me back

Silently I'm drawn and answering the call Of what I love so naturally
Lifting up my voice its time I made a choice
The only one to live my life is free

It's all good
When you're looking for the good
I know that's right
When I'm doing things right

Happiness is not about having everything
It's about doing my best in everything
Loving me may never be that easy
But I will love you well; hope you love me back

Worry doesn't empty tomorrow of its sorrow
It takes the strength out of today
You can think that nothing in life is a miracle
Or live as there are miracles in everything!

It's all good
When you're looking for the good
I know that's right
When I'm doing things right

Don't shrink, don't settle
Don't fade away
Your light is needed
There are no mistakes
Don't shrink, don't settle
Don't fade away
Your light is needed
There are no mistakes!
-----------
Based on quotes on my fridge and bedroom mirror:

The happiest people don't necessarily have everything; they just make the best of everything!
- Unknown source

I know that's right
When I'm doing things right
(based on quote by Peter Drucker "Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.)

"It's all good when you're looking for the good"
(Shawna Ray quote...It use to irritate my former boss when I would say, "Its all good!" He would point out that it's not ALL good. And I would say, "If you're looking for the good, you can find it." He would then make that face and walks away thinking he's right and I'm crazy. Happy to now have a new boss. It's all good.

Worry doesn't empty tomorrow of its sorrow
It takes the strength out of today
(quote by Corrie ten Boom "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength")

You can think that nothing in life is a miracle
Or live as there are miracles in everything
(Albert Einstein quote-"There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle")

Don't shrink Don't settle
Don't fade away
Your light is needed There's no mistakes
("There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you" -Gregg LaVoy, from the book, Callings)

And some fortune cookie quotes:
"The minute that you settle for less than you deserve, you get less than you settled for"
"He who never makes mistakes never did anything that's worthy"

"Make it a great day!"
(I say this to my kids as they get on the bus every morning and we made it into a fridge magnet. After watching the movie, "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" my daughter now jokes with a quote from the movie"That's too much pressure", which makes us laugh.)

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Sunday, April 7, 2013

Behind the Line

-John 8 Jesus drew a line in the sand and said, "You who are without sin throw the first stone"

-Vs 1
Hands held high so quick to stone you
Those who hate resisting change
Setting up the argument so
Power is a binding chain

Jesus said you are forgiven
Lord of grace you wiped my shame away, away, away away...

-Chorus
You draw the line
Disarming weapons
You draw the line
Where we are safe
You draw the line
To keep us running
This race that we will win to give you praise

-Vs2
All have sinned and have been covered
Hearts of children sanctified
We are cleansed and now empowered
Walk this line and be revived

Jesus said you are forgiven
Lord of grace you wiped my shame away, away, away away...

You draw the line
Disarming weapons
You draw the line
Where we are safe
You draw the line
To keep us running
This race that we will win to give you praise

Jesus..
You see me
Free me
Redefining
Who I am
See me
Free me
Rolling
The stone away again and again and again...
You draw the line
Disarming weapons
You draw the line
Where we are safe
You draw the line
To keep us running
This race that we will win to give you praise

Jesus said you are forgiven
Lord of grace you wiped my shame away!

-through Pastor Matt Rice at Life Church Columbus last night inspiring song by Shawna Ray, today, 4/7/13

#grace,#Jesus,#freedom,#stone,#Behind the Line,#lifechurch,#shawnaray #seeme,#freeme,#running,#empowering
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Sunday, March 24, 2013

Palm Sunday Sermon Song

Sermon notes that turned into a song during the service. I got up and sang this Acappella last night at Life Church, Pastor Matt Rice 3/23/13


Make Your House a Home
-inspired during Pastor Matt's mssg 3/23/13
Jesus I want to know you
Light my heart on fire
Alter every part of my life before
I can feel your revival
Fresh wind and revelation
I am ready to see you break through the doors
Jesus is coming
Will you be open?
Will he be welcome
To make your house a home?
(Sing) Abide in me
Lord abide in me
Abide in me Lord
Make this house your home
Church and body the temple
Hear him knocking to enter
This is soul renovation from within
Grace is justification
Holiness is a cleansing
Break the power of past sin -never again
Jesus is with us
God I am open
Spirit is welcome
To make this house a home
(Sing) Abide in me
Lord abide in me
Abide in me Lord
Make this house your home
Work in me
Do your work in me
Lord work through me
Lord make this house your home
Love on me
Lord love on me
Lord love through me
Please make this house your home
Abide in me
Lord abide in me
Abide in me Lord
Make this house your home
-through shawna ray, today 3/23/13


Sermon Notes:
All Heaven breaks loose
An entry fitting for the king of Heaven
He comes in prophetic way, deeply theological (grounded in scripture)
Zachariah 9- he comes on a donkey as in the old testament
With power clothed in humility

Lowly-on a donkey
Elicits a highly passionate response
The first palm Sunday was spontaneous active worship in response - welcoming Jesus, laying down the path
When Jesus comes, there is a shift and movement ready to take place
Son of David - a King that God would raise up!
Procession concludes at the temple- God's home. Jesus drives out the money changers. Not about buying and selling. Make this a house of prayer and welcoming.
1 Corinthians 3:16- you are God's temple. Your body is a temple of the holy spirit
Revival is about the supernatural but true revival is about hearts turned toward Jesus (repentance) with a fresh revelation and affirming love
God wants to renovate your soul and decorate your house
He wants every part of you - hearts on fire not trying to please everyone. True to the word and messages in Spirit and truth
Might not be "seeker friendly" but we will be sensitive seekers, surrendered to God, allowing the Holy Spirit to flow through us and meet people as they are with love and acceptance, pure and real. This is God's house. All are welcome. God will set you free and wants to use you to welcome more souls into the Kingdom.

Romans 12

#palm sunday; #Jesus; #easter; #welcome; #House of God; #temple; #Spirit #abide; #make this house your home; #home; #renovation; #Grace; #holiness; #worship; #prayer
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Thursday, March 21, 2013

Walk On

This is sink or swim and I came diving in
But now I'm dodging sharks in the water
Always out for blood, maneuvering because
Everyone has their own agenda

Well we just need to take this thing higher
Cuz we're not playing games in the waves
Keep looking out beyond where it's deeper
Hearing as the wind seems to say...

Walk on
Keep moving through the storm
Walk on
Keep believing and holding on
Leading God's children
Into the promised land
Walk on
Woah Walk on

See the goal ahead beyond a sea of red
And know the power that is within you
Speaking to the dead remember what you read
Now watch the waters parting before you

Yes we are gonna take this thing higher
Cuz we're not playing games in the waves
Keep looking out beyond where it's deeper
Hearing as the wind seems to say...

Walk on
Keep moving through the storm
Walk on
Keep believing and holding on
Leading God's children
Into the promised land
Walk on
Woah Walk on

We will dance
We will celebrate
Love will conquer hate
Every time any day
Yes we will live
And we will laugh and learn
Not afraid of work
Together we'll build a bridge

To walk on
Keep moving through the storm
Walk on
Keep believing and holding on
Leading God's children
Into the promised land
Walk on
Woah Walk on
Walk on
Woah Walk on

- shawna ray 3/20/13
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Sunday, March 17, 2013

Fancy Free

Please don't tell me that God has made this happen
I don't want to believe he'd do this to me
But I can believe all things happen for a reason
I'll keep looking for lessons that can teach

And I will own it
Learn from it
And ask for forgiveness
Anytime I make a mistake
Keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Fancy free

Please don't feed me a line that feels self righteous
I could never be tied to your right way
But I can respect you and ask you to also respect me
We'll find love and commonality

Yes I will own it
Learn from it
And ask for forgiveness
Anytime I make a mistake
And keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Fancy free

So get your fancy free feet on the dance floor!
Come get down and don't mind them at all
I gave my fancy free heart to the savior
I keep walking through those open doors

And I have owned it
Learned from it
And asked for forgiveness
Anytime I've made a mistake
Keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Keep growing on...
Fancy free
Live fancy FREE!!!
Fancy free...
Live fancy free!

-shawna ray

"Don't let pride hold you outside"
-Pastor Gary Keesee
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Friday, March 8, 2013

Love That Lasts

I won't be tied to a run down life
I'm listening up when my gut speaks out
I let the fear and the pain pass by
I don't have time to keep going back

I see bigger, better brighter days ahead
I am stronger, wiser different from my past
I am living, learning, looking for the good
I will be in love to find a love that lasts

Let's keep it real, times are tough I know
When we can laugh state of mind is home
If you get stuck pick it up and go
Dig in and do what you can do now

I see bigger, better brighter days ahead
I am stronger, wiser different from my past
I am living, learning, looking for the good
I will be in love to find a love that lasts

Loving life
Feeling free
Just as happy with me
As I'll ever be with someone else...
Who sees bigger, better brighter days ahead
Who is stronger, wiser different from the past
Who is living, learning, looking for the good
Who will be in love to be my love that lasts?
I will be in love to love the one that lasts

By shawna ray, today 3/8/13
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Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Catalyst

Why does there have to be only one way to be right???

Reinvention isn't for the
Ones who avoid intervention
Things that worked then had their reason
Outgrown systems need attention

Now is a new day
Change is upon us
Open your mind wide
Life is a catalyst

Time awaiting steps we're taking
Foresight, insight, rearranging
Moving in collaboration
Listening and re-engaging

Now is a new day
Change is upon us
Open your mind wide
Life is a catalyst

For dissipating greed and angry
Pockets holding change resisting
Anything remotely close to
Fears so deeply rooted in the
Programming that ran the thing back then..
Well this is Now- feel a new day
Hope is within us
Open your mind wide
Life is a catalyst

Old dogs learn new tricks
Good is the new rich
Learning to teach with
Hands on assertive
Creative compassion 
That flexes and forges
The way to a new day
Change is upon us
Open your heart wide
Life is a catalyst

By shawna ray, today 2/20/13
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Thursday, February 14, 2013

Whole- Inspired by Geoffrey Canada at OSU

WHOLE
By Shawna Ray today, 2/13/13
Idea for Whole Health Outreach Learning & Engagement/Empowerment
Inspired by Geoffrey Canada's books and speaking at the Ohio State University about "cradle to college" community change and this past year of new awareness and lessons learned through the changes and challenges working in Weinland Park and also in the poverty of office systems. Also messages from Pastor Matt Rice at Life Church about Spirit-receiving, Soul, mind processing emotions, and body thats moving...

(vs 1)
Pieces and parts
Where does it start?
Conceive to college
Learning in birth

Feeling it all
Positive thoughts
Leading to purpose
Lifting our worth

(chorus)
Spirit Body and Soul
Human and Whole; Learning and Health
Mental and Physical
Stable the Core; Hopeful in love
Wholeness is Wellness
Wellness is Whole
Whole, Whole

(vs 2)
Recovery
Root of money
Meant to be traded
Meeting a need

Reprogramming
Research showing
Increment changes
Community

(chorus)
(chorus)
Spirit Body and Soul
Human and Whole; Learning and Health
Mental and Physical
Stable the Core; Hopeful in love
Wholeness is Wellness
Wellness is Whole
Whole, Whole

(bridge)
Feed the Hungry
Teaching, Learning
Jobs and Housing
Tide is Turning
Shift Incentives
Changing Thinking
Helping, Healing
and Sustaining

(chorus)
Spirit Body and Soul
Human and Whole; Learning and Health
Mental and Physical
Stable the Core; Hopeful in love
Wholeness is Wellness
Wellness is Whole
Whole
Whole


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Monday, February 4, 2013

Core of the Need

Some will sit on the board and a high horse
Some will judge moving power and politics
Underneath layered deep
There's a person who's feeling hopeless

Meet me at the core of the need
Take time to feel, help and see
You will learn just as much as you think you can teach
At the core of the need
Core of the need

Building relationships can be challenging
Change will come when the one is empowering
Are you willing to get a little messy
Leave your title and agenda at the door please

Meet me at the core of the need
Take time to feel, help and see
You will learn just as much as you think you can teach
At the core of the need
The core of the need...

Is love and understanding
Survival living will multiply pain
Show and share with me
If you just tell me I won't hear a thing
And if you only throw money some things will never change...
Until you meet me at the core of the need
Take time to feel, help and see
You will learn just as much as you think you can teach
At the core of the need
Core of the need
Core of the need
Core of the need

By Shawna Ray 1/30/13
All proceeds from this new song will go to Moms2B www.moms2bohio.com
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Sunday, January 27, 2013

Happy 13th Birthday Kaiya Marie


Kaiya Marie 
-Love, Mom, by Shawna Ray  


Her eyes see the sky 
Her smile cheers and warms 
Her ideas bring forth life 
Her strength moves through storms 
Her light brings in the day 
Her wisdom is a guide 
Her humor fills and frees 
Her beauty is pure, divine 

A stellar star 
Dancing to her own beat 
Creative and witty 
Strong, friendly, unique 
She is smart, fun and good 
Beautiful inside and out 
Spunky, free 
And wacky (in a good way) 
Colorful, intuitive, 
Interesting, independent 
She is gifted, aware 
Chosen, Spirited 
A peaceful, present sweetheart 
She is directive, dramatic 
Musical, playful, 
Crafty and curious 

Daughter, sister, granddaughter, friend 
She loves to laugh and talk  
And listens with understanding 
A teen in the process of becoming  
She is loved and lovely 
The one and only...Kaiya Marie
 


Happy 13th Birthday to my baby girl/beautiful teenager making her way through the challenging middle school season. It will get better. Look for the good as you continue on this journey through life.  

Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn... 
I love you and will always be your biggest fan, 
Mom

Monday, January 21, 2013

Noted While Watching President Obama Inauguration 2013

Invocation: Myrlie Evers Williams
Lead by example in consideration and favor
Prayer to strengthen us
God make me a blessing
In Jesus name and in the name of all who are holy and right
Find the good and praise it -Alex Haley, author of Roots
Restraint to respect the results
The peaceful transfer of power
Moving- Obama taking the oath with the Bible of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
We are one people, one country
Sonia Sotomayer
57th inaugural
So help me God
Music by James Taylor
President Obama Speech:
Enduring strength
Affirm the promise
What binds us together is not colors of our skin, tenants of our faith or the origins of our name
We hold these truths
Bridge the meaning
A government of and by and for the people
200 years
Liberty and equality
Together
Constants in our character
Collective action
Equip our children for the future
Bring the business
As one nation and one people
This generation has been tested
Economic recovery
Youth, drive, diversity and openness
So long as we seize it together
Out worn programs are inadequate
Our purpose endures
Nation that rewards the effort and determination of every single American
That is what this moment requires
That is what will give real meaning to our creed
Reduce the cost of healthcare and size of our deficit
Invest in the generation that will build its future
We the people
Obligations to all
The path toward sustainable energy sources...we must lead it!
Preserve our planet
Lend meaning to the creed...we the people...do not require perpetual war
We are also heirs of those who earned the peace as well as war
We must carry those lessons into this time as well
We will uphold our values through strength of arms and rule of law.
"We will show the courage to try to resolve our differences with other nations peacefully, not because we are naïve about the dangers we face, but because engagement can more durably lift suspicion and fear"
America will remain the anchor
Support democracy
"We must be a source of hope to the poor, the sick and victims of prejudice not out of mere charity but because the peace of our time requires tolerance and opportunity, human dignity and justice"
All of us are created equal...the star
We cannot walk alone

Carry on what those pioneers began
"For our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts"
"Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law"
"If we are truly created equal then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well"
"Our journey is not complete until we find a way to welcome the striving hopeful immigrants who still see America as a land of opportunity"
All our children know that they are cared for and cherished and always safe from harm
It does not mean we all have to agree
It does require us to act in our time
Decisions are upon us and we cannot afford delay
"We cannot mistake absolutism for principle or substitute spectacle for politics or treat name calling as reasoned debate"
We must act knowing that our work will be imperfect
Advance the timeless spirit
The oath I have sworn, like others...an oath to God and country, not party or faction
We must faithfully execute that pledge during the duration of our service
Common effort and common purpose
Thank you, God Bless you and may he forever bless these United States of America
-------
Kelly Clarkson, US Marine Band- wow!
Poet Richard Blanco
One Today
A simple truth..
One light..
A silent story...
My face, your face
All of us as vital as the one light we move through..
Sorrow that won't explain
Many prayers but one light
Light into the faces
One ground, our ground
Mingled by one wind, our breath
The unexpected songbird
Hear the doors we open carrying our lives
without prejudice
One sky
Thank the work of our hands
Giving thanks for a love that knew how to love you back
Hope- a new constellation
- beautiful!
-------
Benediction Luis Leon
Gracious and eternal God
Citizens of a beloved community
With your blessing we know that we can break down the walls that separate us
We can renew the ties
With your blessing we can see each other created in your image, a unit of God's grace
With a spirit of gratitude and humility
Prophet Micah- what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love kindness and always walk humbly with God
Beyonce- National Anthem- Always Awesome!! Love her!
Cabinet
Nominations that I know will be dealt with with great dispatch
1600 on the platform
220 guests for the lunch
Declaration of conscience
Parade...
Unite as a nation
I love seeing a strong, healthy family and marriage with real love
He introduces his wife "She inspires me every day.
"She makes me a better man"
"My better half and dance partner"
Jennifer Hudson singing "Let's Stay Together" - commitment, loved this!
Obama's On Fire- Alicia Keys- Yep! On fire and in light and love
Wish I could have been there. With you in Spirit
Goodnight
"