The Return of Arthur

Today has been an overcast day here in NC with a band of thunderstorms moving through. I used to really love a good thunderstorm in the warm weather months. There was just something invigorating about it. Now, however, I dread these systems because it brings with it and old enemy named Arthur. Arthur Itis. Arthur and I have never really got along all that well. I would just as soon that he leave forever. He usually just brings a lot of pain in my shoulders, hands, hips and knees. He is just one of those ungrateful house guests that you can't wait to see go. He always arrives unannounced and stays for an indeterminate time. I think it will be a relatively short visit this time, but one never knows. I had not planned to post again to this blog until after Easter, but he has infuriated me so that I just had to get it off my chest! So Mr. Arthur Itis! Will you please leave this place? Be sure not to let the door hit you on the way out!

Music to my ears.

One summer day, when I was young, I saw a man (about 20 years old) with a guitar sitting against a tree with 2 women beside him. One girl on each side as he was sitting against a tree. They were captivated by this man, listening intently to him. The next month, I had a guitar. I worked at this infernal device for 2 years before I could carry a tune with it. I was about 15 years old at that time. Over the years my guitar has been a source of comfort and amusement to me. If you ask "Were you any good?" I would have to say "Not very." I was okay as far as self taught guitar players go. Had a good ear and could carry a tune and such. Never thought I should quit a day job for it.

The guitar that I have now is a Martin acoustic. I was given this guitar by Jesus, and nothing will ever sway my mind from that. I was supposed to play in a church that Sunday and the money for it came on a Saturday, quite unexpectedly. I played that thing for the next 3 years. In 2005 I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which is an insidious auto-immune disease that affects the joints in your body. My own immune system was attacking my feet, hands, knees and shoulders. I haven't played since. Surely what the Lord gives, He has the right to take away and I have no problem with that. Still I wondered if I would ever be able to pick it up again. However, in the last few months, I have changed medications and doctors. Things have improved to the point that I may try to pick it up again. I made a promise that I would use that guitar to the Glory of God! If I am able to play it, that is what I will do.

So soon, I will try to pick that guitar up and give it another go. Wish me well! I plan to use it for it's original purpose. Will I be any good this time? "Not very." :) Never claimed to be any good at it folks.