Brush It Off

Why do you shrink when you think
That you don't have much to bring?
It's all you coming through
Know that we are family
Lesson learned moving on
I am singing you this song
It's about what the mind perceives

Brush it off
And get back up
Own your stuff
But don't give up
Brush it off
Its all just dust
You are a star
Stuck on a shelf
Now brush it off

You have a light meant to shine
And its finally time
There's no way to rewind
From the back going prime
Tell the doubt to get out
That was then this is now
It's a story you can rewrite

Brush it off
And get back up
Own your stuff
But don't give up
Brush it off
Its all just dust
You are a star
Stuck on a shelf
Now brush it off

Hear the ancestors speak
Of the history made
When the chosen are called
And step up to the plate
There is more to this life
And those fears are a lie
You were raised up
And now is the time...

To brush it off
And get back up
Own your stuff
But don't give up
Brush it off
Its all just dust
You are a star
Stuck on a shelf
Now brush it off!

-Mama Shawna Ray, today Nov 21, 2012
Copyright Rhythm Ray
www.shawnaray.com


Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Moments and Memories

So this is it - the grand experiment
It's Christmas time, the 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 I'm more or less
With fashion sense, style and etiquette
Well I can't hardly spell the 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
Take time to appreciate
All we 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 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 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
Make time to appreciate
All we 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's great value 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
Make time to appreciate
All we have, may be cliche
Still I want more love and peace
Welcoming the Holy Spirit
Light the night with new awareness
Giving love and living peace
Sharing moments and memories

-Mama Shawna Ray,
November 19, 2012
The morning brought this new song and I have to share these days. I figure the time is stamped here for copyright while I also process the official. I so wish I had the means to record new music right now, but I figure these come through me to be shared in any way that I am able. This went out in an email to personal friends and I will add you to the list...
I've decided not to mail Christmas cards or buy forced gifts this year, but I want you to know that I am thinking of you today; so thankful that you are in my life. It's been a busy season of lessons learned. Thanks again to those who are local and took such good care of me while I recovered from yet another major surgery. The dreaded pelvic mesh has been removed! Phew! A painful three year ordeal. I am feeling much better and hope to get back to work soon.
Enjoy a Happy Thanksgiving! I am grateful for the moments and memories we've shared. May there be many more...

Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn,
Shawna

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Noon

I've watched the young in love
I've seen them stay together
So what happened to us?
The always fought forever

Now what? Now what?

Fairy tale is over
Stronger sunflower
May be late to bloom
Singing in the shower
Turning on the hour
Meet me at the stroke of noon

Still hoping for a kiss
The ending with a twist
Was there someone I missed?
Awake...What day is it?

Now what? Now what?

Fairy tale is over
Stronger sunflower
May be late to bloom
Singing in the shower
Turning on the hour
Meet me at the stroke of noon

Breakfast in bed
Hang over head
Night owl just said good afternoon
That broken shoe
Never did fit
But my love lips where made for you

Fairy tale is over
Stronger sunflower
May be late to bloom
Singing in the shower
Turning on the hour
Take me to the stroke of
Chords that are strumming with a tune
Base that is pump'n with a boom
Brush on the canvas in an open room
Love me to the stroke of noon

-shawna ray, today 11/11/12
(An imaginary love story)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Advocate

One of the many things I've learned through these surgeries and health challenges is that I have to be my own health advocate. This applies to many aspects of life where we sometimes just let life happen to us and rely on others to tell us what to think and what to do. Self actualization starts by loving and owning you. Know that you have the ability, wisdom and power within. Let that awareness guide you in then working and sharing with others and seeking the light on a daily basis. This is a lifelong process and each individual has their own journey. I don't know if this is a song, a poem or maybe just a new mantra. But I am living it out and hope to also encourage you to be your own...
ADVOCATE
By shawna ray 10/25/12

I will be my own mirror
I will be my own light
I will be my own healer
Flowing in the Divine

I will be my own lover
I will be my own friend
I'll be the show director
With a changing script

As I live by faith, walking in the way
That I know to go. Growing every day
This is one life. Make the most of it!
I will be my own health advocate.

I will be my own preacher
I will be ministry
I will be my own mentor
Joining fellow colleagues
I will be my own doctor
I will be my own nurse
I will be my own teacher
A collaborative process

As I live by faith, walking in the way
That I know to go. Growing every day
This is one life. Make the most of it!
I will be my own health advocate.

When my gifts need an assist
I'll partner with an advocate
As CEO, research and sow
As coach I will direct and know
To motivate and dodge the hate
Negotiate and delegate
Share life with friends and family
My heart's a home but I've installed security...

While I live by faith walking in the way
That I know to go growing every day
This is one life make the most of it
I will be my own health advocate
I will chart my own health benefits
I will laugh and lift my Spirit
I will be my own life advocate
--
Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn,
-by Shawna Ray
#health #advocate #shawna ray #mama shawna #own #grow #live #give #love #laugh #learn #1111 #soul #sunday
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Weeping Willow by Shawna Ray

(New song lyrics that I feel led to share tonight...)

Weeping willow
Standing solo
Let your heart grow
Baby don't you know you're beautiful?
Weeping willow
Dodging shadows
Please don't let go
Baby you are meant for so much more

Sometimes it's hard to see beyond
Emotional is chemical
So step outside and let it out
The fragile soul longs to belong

Weeping willow
Standing solo
Let your heart grow
Baby don't you know you're beautiful?
Weeping willow
Dodging shadows
Please don't let go
Baby you are meant for so much more

The tears will fall, the voices shout
Talk to someone that you can trust
Retrain the brain, look for the good
Let yourself laugh breathe in and out

Weeping willow
Standing solo
Let your heart grow
Baby don't you know you're beautiful?
Weeping willow
Dodging shadows
Please don't let go
Baby you are meant for so much more

Stay open, ride the tide
I see your smiling eyes
Pray through the darkest night
There's hope in the new sunrise

Weeping willow
Standing solo
Let your heart grow
Baby don't you know you're beautiful?
Weeping willow
Dodging shadows
Please don't let go
Baby you are meant for so much more
So much more
So much more
So much more
-----
Live, Give, Love, Laugh, Learn,
-shawna ray

#shawna ray #weeping willow #lyrics #music #original #sadness #tears #suicide #hope #love #dont give up
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

See You Tomorrow

Candy girl thinks she can't get through this
In the dark we get lost and dissorient
Listening I can see that she needs help
More than me redirecting to someone else

Don't give up
Look for the good

'Cuz we all need love
And we all fall short
And we're all connected
To an energy source
Walking in the light
Look into those eyes
I will hold the line
Know the sun will rise tomorrow
I want to see you tomorrow!

Calling out for the one who feels weak
When in need seeking help shows your strength
Standing up for ones who are bullied
Celebrating the ones befriending

Don't give up
Look for the good

'Cuz we all need love
And we all fall short
And we're all connected
To an energy source
Walking in the light
Look into those eyes
I will hold the line
Know the sun will rise tomorrow
I want to see you tomorrow

I will hold your hand seek to understand
There is no judgment with a fellow friend
You are beautiful and I see your soul
I won't claim to know I'm no savior
But I do care...

'Cuz we all need love
And we all fall short
And we're all connected
To an energy source
Walking in the light
Look into those eyes
I will hold the line
Know the sun will rise tomorrow
I want to see you tomorrow!

By shawna ray, today 9-16-12

If you or someone you know is ever in distress or contemplating #suicide, make the time to listen and empathize. And know when to seek help...

You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255
Available 24 hrs a day, 365 days a year
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Around the Bend

Once I caught the vision, dream was deep inside
Somehow lost direction on this bumpy ride
Got a bowl of popcorn to keep me occupied
Tired of pretending that I'm satisfied

What looks like the end is changing road when you get there
Around that sharp bend is the view you haven't seen yet
If you stop short of your dream, you won't get to where you can see
Around the bend, just around the bend

Dragging all these worries, my "but" gets in the way
List of frazzled questions and wounds from yesterday
Help me claim the victory, fighting to revive
But I'm tired of being alone at night

What looks like the end is changing road when you get there
Around that sharp bend is the view you haven't seen yet
If you stop short of your dream, you won't get to where you can see
Around the bend, just around the bend

Around, around, around, around
Friends who do not understand
They try to keep you down with them
One climbs out, the crab effect
Don't go there, what's up with that?
Family they might mean well
Say work for retirement
I cannot wait I want to live
They fear you're falling off a cliff...

But what looks like the end is changing road when you get there
Around that sharp bend is the view you haven't seen yet
If you stop short of your dream, you won't get to where you can see
Around the bend

Don't give up! Don't you dare give up!
Tyler Perry Just said that
Thank you man, I needed it
You inspire me to live and keep going
Around the bend, just around the bend

shawna ray, today I found a sound I wrote in 2005. It has kept me going, and I can see everything I have been through as part of the process, while I still don't feel as if I will ever arrive.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Schemer

Schemer
From one who has been there done that with “that guy”, shawna ray today, 8-31-12

He’s a schemer
You can see it in his eyes
Do not go there!
There's a devil in disguise
And you know that
To your face he’s telling lies
Learn this lesson and be wise
Steer clear, steer clear, steer clear of the schemer

You know the type, all front and hype
Deep down something just don’t feel right
He stalks the scene, maneuvering
Seems cold but he keeps talking talking talking about nothing but a…

Schemer!
You can see it in his eyes
Do not go there!
There's a devil in disguise
And you know that
To your face he’s telling lies
Learn this lesson and be wise
Steer clear, steer clear, steer clear of the schemer

She acts like you are nothing new
You sense intentions are not true
Backlash she’s fast starts talking trash
Heart cold as cash that could care less no feeling there’s no felling from a…

Schemer!
You can see it in her eyes
Do not go there!
There's a devil in disguise
And you know that
To your face she’s telling lies
Learning how to recognize
Steer clear, steer clear, steer clear
Steer clear, steer clear, steer clear
Steer clear, steer clear, steer clear
Of the schemer

 

Please Don't Preach

He tried to share his life. I went and missed the mark

Been burned a hundred times, He wasn’t hearing much

(He said), you speak their language, there is a tone I sense 

All that just seems connected, to one who first rejected

Didn’t understand; Wouldn’t hold my hand

Didn’t show the love I needed back then

Please don’t preach at me

Please don’t preach at me

Love me just where I am

Let me tell you where I’ve been

I will learn to call you friend,

If you don’t preach at me, please

She had her own faith walk, nature with shifting views

I grew to understand what she was working through

Seeking a place of peace; daily discovering

Questioning the things that hypocrites release

You who throw a stone, hey what's with all the judging?

Please don’t preach at me

Please don’t preach at me

Love me just where I am

Let me tell you where I’ve been

I will learn to call you friend,

If you don’t preach at me, please

Each journey is its own. Don’t try to put a notch on your belt

This pain goes far and deep. Respect the time and need for healing

Please don’t preach at me

Please don’t preach at me

Love me just where I am

Let me tell you where I’ve been

I will learn to call you friend,

If you don’t preach at me, please

Let life speak, let love speak, let hope speak to those who are listening

Let life seek, let love seek, let hope seek those who are seeking

Open to see all God’s children connecting

Don’t be condescending if you want to pray for me

I'm a fellow traveler; willing to share this journey

Conversate and contemplate, I’ll learn from you, you learn from me

But please, please, please don’t preach

by shawna ray, this was written on 4-22-05 but is a remindable thought for today

Bug Off

Interrupt the bugs
When they try to invade
Growth that is in progress
Plants will need protecting
Keep sowing good seeds
Nutrition for the healthy
Stand up as a team
Not afraid to say
Bug off, bug off, bug off

Watch out for the thieves
Who try to come and take
All of your belongings
And steal your energy
Lock and use the key
Sensors are alarming
Action as a team
Not afraid to say
Bug off, bug off, bug off

Look up to the light
Find a new awareness
Purpose is refined
Recognize our oneness
Heart can lead the mind
Look inside with kindness
Change will come in time
Chase away the darkness
Bug off, bug off, bug off
You buggers better bug off!

shawna ray, today 8-15-12
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Miraculous

"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." - Albert Einstein

Where is this road leading?
What do you have for me?
Find myself on my knees asking why?
So many variables
Juggling too many balls
Will this work for the good? Seek and find...

Everyday miracles
Nothing is impossible
When I watch one door close
I believe there's something more
Miraculous
Miraculous

Lead me into your will
I'll follow and be still
Even as storms will come I see your hand
Calming the raging sea
Arms open beckoning
Walk on the water with me, you can stand...

Everyday miracles
Nothing is impossible
When I watch one door close
I believe there's something more
Miraculous
Miraculous

Look for the rainbows in the rain
Come expecting healing through pain
Being rich has nothing to do with money
I can say that I have seen...

Everyday miracles
Nothing is impossible
When I watch one door close
I believe there's something more
Miraculous
Miraculous

Let God blow your mind
Seek and you will find...
Miraculous
Miraculous

shawna ray 8-9-12


Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Dig In

"If I step on your toes, maybe it's just because you refuse to dance." - Shawna Ray

This heavy load has been thrown in my lap
And a part of me laughs
Should've seen this coming
I still don't know what I should do next?
Throw my hands what the heck?
Well I'm not the one to give up like that!

Dig in, dig in
Do what I can
Dig in dig in
Look for the good
Dig in, dig in
Keep on moving
The road won't end
As long as you can turn
And wake up to see the sun rise again

With all this crap, there's a pony somewhere
I will find it I swear
Diamonds come from coal -right?
It might be rough but I'm finding my way
At the end of the day
I can hold my head up high and say I tried

Dig in, dig in
Do what I can
Dig in dig in
Look for the good
Dig in, dig in
Keep on moving
The road won't end
As long as you can turn
And wake up to see the lesson you learned

Lighten up
Lighten up
Lift it up and let the excess fall away
What you need will stay

Dig in, dig in
Do what you can
Dig in dig in
Look for the good
Dig in, dig in
Keep on moving
The road won't end
As long as you can turn
And wake up to see the sun rise again
See this mess start making sense
When the dust finally clears
And you get there it will be worth it

Dig in, dig in
Do what you can
Dig in dig in
Look for the good
Dig in, dig in
Keep on movin
Keep on living
Keep on laughing
Keep on looking for the Sun...

shawna ray, today 8/3/12
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Song Inspired by 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremonies- In the Now, Shawna Ray

Watching the #Olympic opening ceremonies tonight I could feel this sentiment in the diverse faces of so many uniquely beautiful, hopeful athletes. It was interesting to see them holding cameras up to capture the moment while they too were being filmed.

I have been writing and sharing song lyrics in the moment for a few years now. Someday I will have the means to also record more music. For all of us who keep pushing through barriers to move one step further to realizing our dreams, day by day...Don't give up! Breathe...

IN THE NOW

Capture frames of what the eye sees
Energy that rises quickly
Walking steady, friends surrounding
Etching memories for reminding

This is the opportunity of a lifetime
Breathe it all in now
A new beginning to seize the moment
Breathe it all in the now, in the now

Every day that you've been moving
Every dream that you've been dreaming
Adding up and finally leading
Through the open door, revealing

This is the opportunity of a lifetime
Breathe it all in now
A new beginning to seize the moment
Breathe it all in the now, in the now

Feel the presence of your purpose
Move the will and make a way
There is more beyond the surface
Pushing past with all your strength

This is the opportunity of a lifetime
Breathe it all in now
A new awareness to seize the moment
Breathe it all in the now, in the now

by shawna ray, today 7/27/12 11:11pm

All are winners, 2012 Olympics 

Epiphany

Clear the cobwebs in the corners
Wipe the counters of the mind
One go round it doesn't come twice
How we live will redefine

Am I dividing time or adding life?
Moving the moments or feeling them?

Epiphany says to me...Why wait?
Epiphany why aren't we still laughing?
Epiphany says to me there is something more
Do not waste this love on worry
Off the pause and now press play
Do not look at what you can't do
Just get out and live this day

I can hear it loud and clear
All the unknowns will get here
Peace is turning off the noise
Even when the music blares

Am I just cluttering or living clean?
Fearing belief or feasting on faith?

Epiphany says to me...Why wait?
Epiphany why aren't we still laughing?
Epiphany says to me there is something more
Do not waste this love on worry
Off the pause and now press play
Do not look at what you can't do
Just get out and live this day

Do what you can then rest and relax
Cold drink in hand I am drifting like sand

Clear the cobwebs in the corners
Wipe the counters of the mind
One go round it doesn't come twice
How we live will redefine

Am I dividing time or adding life?
Moving the moments or feeling them?

Epiphany says to me...Why wait?
Epiphany why aren't we still laughing?
Epiphany says to me there is something more
Do not waste this love on worry
Off the pause and now press play
Do not look at what you can't do
Just get out and live this day

By shawna ray, today, Friday the 13th
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

After the Storm, Simplicity is Sacred

"Patience is the kind of character trait everyone wants to possess but no one wants to develop" from Simple Words of Wisdom, by Penelope J. Stokes
I was writing the final paragraphs of my book yesterday afternoon (still in need of some serious editing) when a hot sunny day brewed quickly into a #thunderstorm that has left hundreds of thousands of people without power in #Columbus, #Ohio and surrounding areas this weekend. I had been writing all day so my creative mind was in a daze and startled by this sudden shift in the energy, as if it was somehow related or fighting against me. It was a crazy turn of events that will simply become part of the story, but it was scary for a moment as the winds whipped and twisted quickly through this little town bringing huge trees crashing into power lines and exploding generators with a bright burst of light that then darkened the block. Those of us without generators are SOL this weekend. They are saying it could be 5 to 7 days before power is restored and only a few business' are open in nearby areas.
Something I have noticed is having conversations with neighbors who rarely come out of their homes and some that I met for the first time after the storm. My teenage (sometimes couch potato) son was full of energy and went into town to help clear the trees that were blocking the road. He was out there directing traffic and talking with everyone. Members of the community pitched in to help those with damage to their houses clear the trees and cover up holes. I was thankful that I have a gas stove instead of complaining about the smell and took the time to make a big home cooked dinner last night and breakfast today before food might spoil. We enjoyed family conversation and a game of Jenga and Monopoly at the table without the threat of TV, computers, and video games luring us away from these scared moments. My kids and I have spent the day reading books and having conversations about how thankful we are that our house was not damaged in the storm. We recognized that many families in Colorado and Arizona are being evacuated from major fires that have destroyed hundreds of homes. We talked about how people survived different Tsunami and flooding tragedies and what that must have been like to find ways to endure and rebuild.
Sudden shifts in perspective can be pure reminders of what matters most and can bring communities together in a powerful way. I have other short term means of charging my cell phone thankfully, but this has shown me how dependent we have become on electricity for quick cooking, laundry, electronics, and so many other things. It makes me wonder what we would do without electricity in the event of a major catastrophe? One thing it does require is patience and a willingness to go with the flow rather than get stuck in frustration that we have been inconvenienced.
I choose to deal with what I can control and say, "It is what it is" with acceptance. I will appreciate all that we do have while absorbing this forced down time and lesson in patience. I will keep writing and recognize what comes natural to me with renewed determination in pursuing my passion. And I will enjoy more face to face time with the friends and family that are sometimes missed when we are otherwise distracted by electronics.

Turn the Page

Somewhere sleeping in the rain
I've been dwelling in my brain
Heart alone and holding steady
Hurt and angry, throwing blame

And I've been the guilty party
Bidding the rules of the game
Something about you gets me
Wanting to turn the page
Turn the page
Turn the page

There's an artist hidden well
Always pleasing someone else
So obliging, secrets kept
Till the morning shadows left

And I've been the guilty party
Bidding the rules of the game
Something about you gets me
Wanting to turn the page
Turn the page
Turn the page

This next chapter is reserved
For letting go and being heard
This next chapter I will see
Love awake and pardon me

Release the guilty party
Set free the shaming game
Something about you gets me
Wanting to turn the page
Turn the page
Turn the page
Turn the page
Turn the page
What will be will be
See what we shall see...

shawna ray, today, June 17, 2012
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Vicarious

Vicarious, I wish I was
Walking in shoes I don't lace up
Notorious, not showing up
Detoured from what I say I want

Casting for a big fish
with a little hook
Somehow got the bait and switch
It's a chance I took
Dreaming of a someday
Man it could be good
If I could get out of my own way

Oblivious, to what it takes
I wish on stars and hesitate
Unanimous, we all have days
When go is stopped and we are late

Jumping through a big hoop with no clue
How to get to Oz when
Stuck inside a zoo
Dreaming of a someday
Man it could be good
If I could get out of my own way

Get out of my own head
Get out of the fear that
Only hurts me when I let it
Walking right on through this
Saying you can do this!
Come on little scaredy cat!
Do you really want to live...

Various?
Though conscious of...

Casting for a big fish
With a little hook
Finally I am baited with a long heavy thread
Holding tight and looking out not in
Man this will be really good
Reeling in reeling in...
Reaching for the good is when you catch it!
Now release it if you can...

Casting for a big fish

with a little hook

Somehow got the bait and switch

It's a chance I took

Dreaming of a someday

Man it could be good

If I could get out of my own way

Doing things my own way, my own way

Shawna Ray yesterday, 5/25/12
The idea for video to this song is very cool. Yes I know I am a fool with limited outlets ...

www.shawnaray.com

It Is What It Is

It's strange this time
Talking over wine
BB King playing like he's giving advise
You are my friend
And it is what it is
I can't tell my heart who to love, how to live

Ooh ooh ooh
This one is a miss
Ooh ooh ooh
It is what it is

I fell in love
It never seemed to work
Frozen in time with a jaded heart
I'm glad you're here
I love you my dear
Brother and sister with a hug at the door

Ooh ooh ooh
This one is a miss
Ooh ooh ooh
It is what it is

I cannot imagine you not in my life

But it's missing that thing, you know that we've tried

You deserve someone who will love you like you do

Ooh ooh ooh
This one is a miss
Ooh ooh ooh
It is what it is

Ooh ooh ooh
This one is a miss
Ooh ooh ooh
It is what it is
It is what it is
It is what it is

Shawna Ray, today, May 20, 2012
www.shawnaray.com

I'm listening to John Mayer

Captured the 11:11 Countdown to #JohnMayer new album Born and Raised streaming for free. I already bought the album and look forward to May 22nd release, but early first listen is cool. An unexpected gift. Like the time I went to LA for an author's conference and found out via twitter that John was doing an impromptu secret show at the Troubadour a block away from where I was staying. 

True story…My friend since sixth grade, Michelle's husband had passed away a week before and her kids were going to stay with family for the weekend. She didn't want to be alone in the house, so I bought her a plane ticket at the last minute so she could come with me to California to relax and enjoy the sunshine while I was at the SCBWI Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators conference. We had planned to go to dinner that night after the session. I checked Twitter and got the message late about the concert. I was also scheduled to pitch a show idea from my children's book to Disney and Nickelodeon that next day and John was on Twitter talking about pitching a show somewhere. At the time it all seemed like some sort of fickle finger of fate that I was there and he was there. I am also a singer songwriter, and I wish I had pursued that earlier in life before I had kids and became a single Mom that needs to work. In that same breath, I have no regrets. I love my kids and enjoy my music that is not based on making money. 

We got there and found out that the show was sold out for us ordinary folk. So we went to eat and grumble at an Italian restaurant next door. Some of John's friends were right next to us at the bar saying John was on his way. When we were walking out I saw a body guard and then this guy came out and met these skinny California girls and started to lead them into the back room. I say that because I was feeling self conscious after gaining weight in the midst of some health challenges. In Ohio I look normal but California is full of skinny people it seems like. Anyway, all of a sudden I just found myself walking in behind these girls like I belonged there and was with them. John was at a long table eating with his friends and crew. They watched the two girls sit down and then all looked at me standing there like, "Who are you?" I felt stupid and walked on through because I didn't want to interrupt or for him to think I'm a strange stalker. I had thought that I would say, "Hi John. I'm Shawna Ray. Could you please open up more tickets so we can get into the show?" 

Instead I walked right past him and back to the bathroom, laughing at myself. I still can't believe I had the guts to walk in that room and then wimped out!?! I was seriously looking in the bathroom mirror and laughing at myself like WTF??? People are people, no matter what their title or celebrity status is in my opinion. But maybe I do crush a bit on this one and it freaked me out that he would look at me as a crazed fan. Maybe I am a crazy fan? All artists have those who inspire us- right? I am a music lover. Say what you will...John Mayer is still my favorite guitar player and songwriter. I dream of collaborating on a song with him one day. It could happen- right!?! Dream a little dream... 

So we went back and waited in line because they said there was a chance we could get in if seats became available from "no shows" on the important people list. I was so pissed that I almost left, but Michelle would not let me. Truth is,  it was one of those defining moments because I was mad at myself for living vicariously. I wish I was playing at the Troubadour with MY band, or at least  doing more with my life so I could have my name on the list and get in to see a show if I want to. What is that about anyway? My work in the inner city helps to empower people to move beyond poverty. Why is that not on the A list? The human list? I want to do more, but I have two kids who need me. I think my songs are okay for something I produced myself on a limited budget with no experience or guidance from professionals. I know I could do more. But I haven't.  And now I am babbling about it. I work in Public Relations and have coordinated large events. I understand crowd control. So it is what it is. The good news is we did get into the show after the first song and it was worth the wait. Small crowd, cool venue and we were close to the stage on the steps stage left. Felt like old times, when I first discovered John's music in college and had the time to take it all in. It was a great night. So much has happened since then...  


OK, so why is this thing not streaming yet? Ahhh the time space continuum is gonna kill me. I was up till 3 am last night working on the dreaded annual report for work. Sleep might just make me wait a few more days for new music. Yay! A Tumblr friend just told me to change the time on my computer. Brilliant! Thanks Tumblr friend. Streaming myself to sleep with Born and Raised. All good. 

Picture of Love (Mom) song Chords and soundtrack by Shawna Ray

Picture of Love (Mom)

Singer/Songwriter, Shawna Ray, Open album, ASCAP

Download song on itunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/open/id364506056 

Download instrumental soundtrack to sing it yourself:http://shawnaray.bandcamp.com/track/mom-instrumental

Make your own picture video: 

                 Bb                          Eb                         Bb                   Eb

Picture of love, you are my mother.  We have a special kind of bond.

                   Bb                                     Eb                   Gm                  Cm

You have a heart that cares no matter, so that I can feel at home.

                 Eb                           D                     Cm                  Am

You are the one who’ll sit and listen, with a helping hand to lend

        Eb                        D                           Ab                         F

And now, as we are growing, you’ve become one of my best friends.

                     Bb  F                  C         Eb

A picture of love, a pillar of strength,

Eb                       Bb     F                    Cm         Eb

With comforting warmth and beautiful grace;

                    Cm

Thank you Mom,

                F                       Ab

You have been there for me.

                 Bb                          Eb                         Bb                   Eb

Picture a smile, a lifelong teacher, cheering me to always try

              Bb                           Eb                      Gm                  Cm

You give hugs and won’t let go when you know I need to be held

                 Eb               D                     Cm                  Am

You don’t claim to be perfect, but you love your family.

             Eb                   D                                 Ab                          F

What a gift when you admitted you’ve been learning along with me.

                      Bb                     C    Eb

A picture of love, pillar of strength,

Eb                       Bb     F                    Cm         Eb

With comforting warmth and grace;

       Cm

Thank you Mom,

    F                       Ab

You have been there…

            G/C                 Bb                   Cm                 F/D

For time together with lots of laughter, over meals we talk, (and talk and talk)

            Eb                    Bb                   Cm                              F

Those memories I will always treasure even after you pass on...

            Gm                  F/A                       Ab                          Bb

Picture respect and gratitude; picture my arms wrapped around you;

             Gm                 F/A                  Eb                           Bb                                   

Picture a child saying, “I love you.  Thank you for being there”…

      Gm F

A picture of love,

                        Cm Eb

Pillar of strength,

Eb                       Bb     F                    Cm         Eb

With comforting warmth and beautiful grace;

                        Gm                  Am

I picture your wise, forgiving face,

                        Ab       Bb

Waiting and praying; full of faith.

                   G/C                      Am

Thank you Mom, you have been there

                        G/C                       Am

Thank you Mom, you’ve always been there

                        G/C                 Ab                       Bb

Thank you Mom, you have been my picture of love

Well Fed

I like fresh muffins from the oven with chai tea
These things they make me happy
So why should I feel bad for missing
The mark of a perfect body?
I crave good sauce with spaghetti
And bread just laps up all the yummy
I love food and hate all the judging
Rock blankets are not comforting

If that's what you are expecting
You can keep your perfect pretty
I am laughing and you're gaging
Love and hugs from well-fed me

Is it ugly to be healthy?
I don't get just one way of looking
It's shallow, a plated kind of beauty
Heart and mind and spirit run deep
Agreed that exercise is needed
Be mindful not prone to over eating
I just think we need to be accepting
Each species has a purpose and place

If that's not what you're expecting
You can keep your perfect pretty
I am laughing and you're gaging
Love and hugs from well-fed me

I get that there is a balance
Moderation is the key
But this beauty misconception
Was built by advertising
Surgery and marketing
With Airbrushed models who are starving
This illusion now enlightening
The broken matrix needs fixing

More aware the tide is shifting
You can keep your perfect pretty
I am laughing and you're gaging
Love and hugs from well-fed me

I like fresh muffins from the oven
With chai tea
These things they make me happy

by shawna ray, today 4/28/12
My birthday is in 2 days and I want cake!
www.shawnaray.com

There is a Difference

I am reading Catching Fire at the urging of my tweenage daughter Kaiya, who is completely into the Hunger Games trilogy and has seen the first movie three times now, (FYI- I only paid for one). Josh Hutcherson is her first crush, but as an actress she is even more into and inspired by Jennifer Lawrence. It is what it is.

There are some who have warned against young teens watching this movie and reading the books because the premise is so violent. I guess that all depends upon the maturity of the youth and the conversation you have with them as they read through the books and see the bigger picture and story, while also keeping perspective of it all as fiction with life parallels. My daughter's grandfather was a Sergeant Major in the Army and we have other family currently serving in the US military. I have had many interesting conversations with my kids on the subject of war and peace; prejudice and poverty; compassion and humility. I do not shelter my kids from life. I work as a community advocate and they have been with me serving at soup kitchens and played with the children who were homeless; they have been to Goodwill Industries where I worked with individuals who live with disabilities; to the inner city as I now work in outreach at the local university to empower health, wellness, social entrepreneurism, with violence prevention initiatives in the city. My kids have also grown up attending various churches where they questioned why "Christians" seem to be so judgmental and clique.

We read and know of so much violence in the Bible and throughout history. No one seems to flinch at kids watching passion plays that nail a bloody Jesus to the cross. I am moved by those scenes because of the relationship and understanding that I have there spiritually. I see situation which  force us to fight against the violence to defend and survive. I see men and women with the courage and determination to defend what is right and the honor that should always be awarded to those who fight for our freedom. I also see how power has been abused many times as the enemy sometimes lies within and war has become big business and corruption is a virus.

Ultimately I do believe that peace of heart and mind will be the only force that will win for good. I seek to understand the other's culture and viewpoint to hopefully bring forth new understanding that is not at war. Even in moments when I have to remind myself to live and forgive my ex husband who sometimes acts as an enemy to my family. I am open and will continue to seek peace. As Kaiya says, "Haters are gonna hate and potatoes are gonna potate." So when I see that there is a fierce and hateful force in the universe that is not in its right heart and mind and is determined to fight, I write...

"There is a difference between violence and resistance; defending verses being defeated
There is a difference between wrong and right; where courageous souls may sacrifice
There is a difference between night and day; a dawn that breaks and penetrates
There is a difference between interrupting hate with the intention of lives to save
There is a difference between what you say and how you choose to live today
There is a difference between violence and resistance; defending verses being defeated"

By shawna ray, today 4/12/2012
(And please forgive me if I write typos. I am so not an editor and usually write this stuff in the moment and send it out as it is written with my thumbs from my phone. Hashtags still seem odd to me too, but they work. I welcome edits and do go and back and make changes as they are needed. I am always surprised to find that someone has actually read and responded to something that I have written and released. So it's all good. Thank you for sharing this journey with me. If I had the means and money to record and release the songs that come with these thoughts and moments, and connections to those who are more experienced and talented at producing and making music, I would love to share those too. I have yet to be able to fully create the music that I hear in my head as I write along. There is a difference between ready and reality too. Someday soon...)
www.shawnaray.com

Say the Name

A new song that came out in the shower today on Easter.
For me, this is where Happy Easter comes from.
Please respect that this is my personal faith walk and life.
I embrace all life as one. Celebrate, don't judge our differences.
This is where I share in the moment a variety of Shawna Ray today lyrics...

Say the Name

Sometimes I feel the darkness creeping
As if it wants to trip and steal me
I start to fall but find I'm standing
Firm I have learned that I can speak
To the mountain I say move
To the demons you must flee
To the light I walk in you
To the dawning of new day
Just say the name, say the name of Jesus
Power claimed in the name of Jesus
Say the name say the name of Jesus
I am saved by grace

When I am tired, tempted, lonely
The poisoned fruit awaits, attracting
Inside I know it's not fulfilling
Engage the heart to lead the brain

To the mountains I say move
To the demons you must flee
To the light I walk in you
To the dawning of new day
I say the name, say the name
Say the name of Jesus
Power claimed in the name of Jesus
Say the name, say the name of Jesus
I am saved by grace

Hallelujah
Calling to the children of light
Hallelujah
Calling to the well aware, don't fight
Hallelujah
Calling to revive and now unite
In peace and love, I feel alive

To the mountains we say move
To the demons, you must leave!
To the light we are the sea
Reflecting the dawning
Say the name, say the name of Jesus
Power claimed in the name of Jesus
Say the name say the name of Jesus
Elements received

No matter where you've been
No matter what you've done
No matter what they say
If you are feeling this...
Say the name say the name of Jesus
Love awaits in the name of Jesus
I am here asking forgiveness
Face to face with Spirit within us
Power claimed in the name of Jesus
Healing claimed in the name of Jesus
Purpose claimed in the name of Jesus
Say the name, say the name of Jesus
I am filled with grace


shawna ray, today April 8, 2012
www.shawnaray.com

Day One

DAY ONE

shawna ray

Yesterday went from bad to worse
The toilet clogged and the squad was called
Talked to my family, we played a game
Of touched you last with hurtful words

Am I hard to love or is it just
Enough is enough?
Do I self destruct? Or is it just
Some things need cooled off?
I'm sending out a dove to find new love

Starting from - day one
Day one

Seeing things more clearly now
The rain is gone, rainbow appears
On my own and steering clear of
People always speaking fears

Am I push and shove or is it just
that I'm not going down?
Do I suck at love? Or is it just
that I have learned the difference
I'm sending out a song to move along 

Starting from - day one
Day one

Where do I want to go from here?
What footprints do I leave and follow?
What if I have to part with
Friends and family I knew before?

Am I hard to like or is it just
that I want more in life?
Do I think I'm smart? Or is it just
that I've been playing stupid
Sending out the dove to find new love

Starting from - day one
Day one

Doing my best to overcome
Looking out at a great big ocean
Finding a way to build back up
All it takes is a mustard seed to move a mountain, move the mountain,

"Move that bus!"lol
Starting from - day one

Day one

As You Are

A recent conversation...
lyrics by shawna ray

"There will always be
a place for you in my arms."
No matter where you roam,
I hope that you know
I'll be waiting here
To love you as you are

Don't know if I can believe the word always
I've loved before and it hurt when that all changed
I sit and wait for "the one" who will get me
Around the ring in a fight with my feelings

Hear you say...

"There will always be 

a place for you in my arms."
No matter where you roam,
I hope that you know
I'll be waiting here 

To love you as you are

You want to help and be a true partner

Sometimes I see us letting love go there

Just understand it will be a slow roll up

You have been steady and wont give up on us

"There will always be 

a place for you in my arms."
No matter where you roam,
I hope that you know
I'll be waiting here 

To love you as you are

As you are someone that I love
Easy how you just make me laugh
As you are someone that I trust
But friend is all I have to give right now

"There will always be 

a place for you in my arms."
No matter where you roam,
I hope that you know
I'll be waiting here 

To love you as you are

As you are someone that I love

shawna ray today, 3/18/12
Can someone become "the one" or is "the one" not just someone?

If you have an answer to that question, email rhythmray@live.com

www.shawnaray.com

Unstoppable

For Sophia and all of my Goodwill and IPSC friends...

What is handicapped?
You are not defined by what you lack
Focus on your strengths
You are capable of so many things
For you see beyond your vision
You move beyond your legs
You learn with a new wisdom
Knowing you are perfectly made
To be unstoppable
You are unstoppable
What is a disease?
You are not the injury
What is poverty?
Merely a starting place
For you rise above the challenge
You reach beyond your means
You teach the world to balance
Knowing you are perfectly made
To be unstoppable
You are unstoppable
Your smile is energizing
Your courage is inspiring
Your love is pure refreshing
I melt when you hug me
I can see beyond my vision
I can move beyond my legs
I learn with a new wisdom
Knowing we are perfectly made
To be unstoppable
You are unstoppable
You are beautiful
You are powerful
You are capable of so many things
Unstoppable!
shawna ray, today
www.shawnaray.com