TGIF ebook FINAL

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Slide 2 : Click on heading or Artist’s name to go directly to that page C O N T E N T S poetry Shalyn Renee Lex artistic creations acoustic stage Linda Billet Reese Crane Wendy Crane Jim Malone Angie Key Lauren Rinaldi Wendy Crane Mindy Reichard Nance Welch Susan Momberger Debbie Connolly Jessie Carter Vera Martz Vickie Devaney Margery Kokal Darlene Della Loggia Kris Kyler Terry Kneasel Karen Kneasel Heather Stuckey Rex Athey Jimmy Clisham Bob Jones Stacey Dee Skylar Neal Julie Nevel Johnny Ramos Dawn Snyder Templeton Heather Stuckey John Reitz Karen Kneasel Kate Brubaker Lynda Haines Patrick Dee Rebecca Bond Susan Momberger Anonymous

Slide 3 : Poetry Return to Table of Contents

Slide 4 : Anonymous Inspiration: This writing is lyrics to a song I wrote entitled, “What Ifs”, which is a term taken directly from one of Pastor John’s messages.   I experienced a depression for a number of months in mid 2008. It seemed to be triggered by numerous unhappy and seemingly unfair events happening in the lives of people I loved and cared about, including many friends and family members. There seemed to be so much injustice, as well as intolerance in the world, and it weighed extremely heavily on my shoulders. But I was sort of jolted back to normal through viewing some life changing experiences that happened to others. I realized I needed to conduct a sort of “re-examining my faith 101” course of action. And what an eye-opening course it’s been. I’m still on the journey, but now I can see promise instead of only despair. It feels like my mind and heart have been opened to see the good that is possible, if we allow our perspectives to change.   I wrote the attached lyrics in December of 2008, literally because the words came into my head one day and I just wrote them down in a flourish (about two or three minutes I believe). To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 5 : The hurts have cut so deep sometimes, And I struggle to think, “I’m okay.” Wish life could be just pretty rhymes, But then I wouldn’t be who I am today. Injustice has nearly defeated me, I’ve bent beneath its fierce might. But wanting to live a life that’s free, Means never giving up the fight. (Chorus) Have our thoughts become so jaded That we cannot be persuaded To open up our hearts to see The truth that lies within? Intolerance and bias, Serve only to deny us Of the what ifs that can be, That we still have yet to see. Don’t give up – let a miracle begin. Seeing differences in one another Can turn fear to hatred in some. It pits a sister against a brother, Until I wonder, can it be overcome? Love and acceptance of others is key, And knowledge will abate our fear. So in that truth I choose to believe That the healing times of change are here. “What Ifs” (Chorus) Have our thoughts become so jaded That we cannot be persuaded To open up our hearts to see the truth that lies within? Intolerance and bias, Serve only to deny us Of the what ifs that can be, That we still have yet to see. Don’t give up – let a miracle begin. (Bridge) Let me be a what if person, See the possibilities. Refined within the fire, Purged of my impurities. Let’s dare to see tomorrow Even brighter than today. Where prejudice and sorrow fade away. (Chorus) No, our thoughts are not so jaded That we cannot be persuaded To open up our hearts to see The truth that lies within. Intolerance and bias, Serve only to deny us Of the what ifs that can be, With opened eyes we’ll see. We won’t give up. Now the miracles begin. - Anonymous Return to Table of Contents

Slide 6 : Rebecca Bond Inspiration: Becoming a mother for me was like experiencing culture shock. Changes in my body, my marriage, my job, my day-to-day living, my sleep, my social network... to name just a few. My writing has allowed me to deal with the emotional, physical and spiritual stress of these changes and helped me figure out me again. “Separation Anxiety” is one of my many midnight ramblings. “Village Women“ was written out of the longing to raise my daughter in a community, such as the villages I’ve visited in Malawi recently. I love the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I asked God, “Where’s my village?” and this poem came out of that questioning. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 7 : Separation Anxiety I wonder if newborns cry so much because they were used to God taking care of them and then they got squeezed through the birth canal and got us. How do I care for a baby who seems to understand so much more of God than I do? This mothering thing, the constant giving, comforting, nursing, and clinging forced me into the darkest places of myself. It’s exhausting trying to be a human pacifier, being the one trying to bring peace when you don’t have it yourself. If only she would stop crying… But I’m learning from her separation anxiety. Learning it’s ok to have strong needs. Not just for her, but for myself. Have we, as adults, grown out of this clingy phase? Have I stopped crying and stopped trusting that someone would hear my cry? Whether it’s our mother’s legs, a relationship, alcohol, food, our job or God, maybe we’re clinging because we’re made to cling. - Rebecca R. Bond Return to Table of Contents

Slide 8 : By moonlight, women wail For water for crops, For food for empty bellies Over a new grave.   Women wake before the sun Preparing. Brushing dirt floors clean, Starting cooking fires, Pressing children’s school uniforms.   Women walk into their village Gathering. Round water holes, market squares and cities’ gates, Sharing gossip, Giving advice, Hearing news. Women work All the day Sowing maize While balancing water buckets on their heads And babies on their backs.   Women wander Home. Picking up rotting fish, Firewood Themselves.   Women, by fires in the evening, Wait For husbands to come home For water to boil For miracles.   - Rebecca R. Bond Village Women Return to Table of Contents

Slide 9 : Kate Brubaker Inspiration: The poem was written upon learning that my brother would be leaving home for the first time. Not for college, but for a job he had taken that was over three hours from home. Even though there was sibling rivalry, not having my “big brother” close to home was something I never really wrapped my head around until this point. Of course, growing up we eventually realize that our family will always be that – family – but putting distance between loved ones isn’t always an easily mastered concept. It was difficult to think about and deal with someone leaving – no matter who, or how it’s done. However, sometimes having someone further from you in miles, brings them closer to you in your heart. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 10 : Gone Swear I heard music on the morning that you left. The world seemed the same, minus your footsteps. The room beside me…empty, but sheets still smelled the same. I heard whispers of you speaking, before I knew that you were gone. The dishes in the sink, milk still in the bowl. Towels across the bathroom, wet footprints on the floor. I knew I heard you laughing, as you went out the door. Garage door swinging open, your oily rags inside. Parts of things unfinished, still in places that you left. I heard the rumble of your engine, just one second more. Louder than the words you spoke, silence fills my head. I never knew I missed you…until you were not there. Swear I said I love you, before I heard you leave. - Kate Brubaker Return to Table of Contents

Slide 11 : Wendy Crane Inspiration: The poem, “Stare,” was initially penned under the title “Vacant.” The office I worked in at the time sat across the alley of a vacant building. And for some odd reason, I was fascinated with this building and would stare at it out my window. I started to think how my life resembled it, because at the time, I felt very empty and spiritually desolate. On the outside, people would pass me by and not realize what was really going on inside of me. And so I wrote the poem with that in mind… Years later, I re-read the poem and was inspired to take it a step further. I wanted to write a song about it. This time, emphasizing the correlation between the “vacant” building and the people that I passed by every day. We often dismiss people that we casually encounter throughout our daily routines. But something deep within connects us all. God is so invested in relationships and, I believe, He has placed a desire within each of us —a longing—to connect with one another. We each have our own unique story to tell and there is so much more to those around us than what we perceive on the outside. We have a common thread — our Creator. What amazing things would we discover if we just took some time and dug a little deeper? It’s intriguing to me. To view Wendy’s poem and song, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 12 : I don’t know you but I pass by you most every day And I get this feeling of déjà vu There’s just something about you I can’t explain But it overwhelms me every time Forgive me, forgive me, forgive me I can’t help but stare I long to hear your story hidden within your soul I’m sure you’ve got a tale or two On the outside you appear an ordinary man But I’m sure there’s more to you Forgive me, forgive me, forgive me I can’t help but stare I sense your secret passions And I feel your hidden pain I hear your sobs and laughter And I’m awakened by your dreams   But how could it be? I feel I know you What could it be that makes me stop and stare? I look at you… deeply… and see the face of your identity… Familiar to me — that face. I feel I know you… as if we’ve met As if… (sigh)… who are you? I long to hear your story ...concealed within mute walls. To chronicle your lingering memories that rove in empty space. To give them a resting place upon paper and within hearts. I sense your masked passion… I feel your aged pain… I’m acquainted with your fears… and overtaken by your dreams. But how? I do not know. I feel I know you… as if we’ve met As if… we’re one. Forgive me… I can’t help but stare. Across the alleyway you stand… outwardly stoic, yet inwardly aflame. Countless people walk by you every day but who has ears to hear the crackling inferno of age… and who has eyes to see the veiled secrets of history — the hidden wants and wishes awaiting. Somehow… by sovereign endowment… this traveler passes by; my senses awaken as I near you. I am arrested by all I hear… by all I perceive. Forgive me… I can’t help but stare. Particles crumbling from your outer walls as years of loneliness deface you. Your hollow, sleepy eyes… Your wrinkled, painted skin… Your lonely, empty halls. But there is so much more to you beyond these apparent features. STARE by Wendy Crane Stare lyrics (the song inspired from this poem) Click to Play/Stop Song Return to Table of Contents

Slide 13 : Patrick Dee Inspiration: Over the last few years I have needed to make several transitions – changing careers and moving my family to different parts of the country. In the midst of those changes it has been difficult at times to find connection with people and a sense of stability in my life. Letting go of the things that for many years had defined who I was (career, extended family, the region I lived in, etc.) has been challenging and overwhelming at times. The process of letting go of the things that I have leaned on in the past to provide me security and learning to embrace the reality of life’s uncertainties fueled my journaling that this writing came out of. Being able to put on paper some of my emotions in a form like this served as a bit of inspiration (along with Pastor John’s Imagine Christmas series) for starting a creative contemplations group and partly fueled the idea for this TGIF event. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 14 : What is Real What is real, just what I feel Is there more than uncertainty, are You there beyond what I see What do I really know for sure Affections and approvals may fall like rain but run right on, they dry up, They don’t sustain Possessions come and go and every gain is only another demon of the fear of loss This world holds nothing for me. Nothing can I firmly grasp Only can I enjoy what has been given in the moment With hands open and heart grateful I am thankful for what is It is not mine to determine all that will be The Creator of reality must be That is my only confidence, my joy in the uncertainty It is You. - Patrick Dee Return to Table of Contents

Slide 15 : Lynda Haines Inspiration: I began writing when I was 16 years old; a response to the loss of my best friend’s death in a tragic accident. I was Catholic then and didn’t understand the concept of relationship with God, so writing gave me a place to unload all the emotions bottled up inside me. I have always kept a journal, a gift to which I am thankful to Abba for instilling in me and helping me to keep up with. There are so many things that I forget over the years that are brought back to memory only by my having recorded it on paper. I wonder how many precious memories have gone forever just because I did not take the time to record them.   Jesus (Yeshi, I like to call Him) became my best friend in the pages of my journals. In the tear-stained pulp of mass we call paper; the Holy Spirit found me and bathed me. Over and over again she met me until I knew she was not only true, but living inside me, holding me up and carrying me, day after day through storm after storm of my life. It was here that Yeshi told me of the many secrets he has only for me, because it was there that I learned to take the time to listen to Him and not just “talk” at Him. Yeshi inspires me, over and over. He fills my mind with words that are not my own, fascinating me in the process of my own writing. He is the reason I write, the reason I live, the reason I want to continue the fight. He is with me, holding my hand, smiling at me and when I fall, He is the first one there to love me, comfort me, and help me back up. He is everything to me and through my writing I give everything back to Him. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 16 : The Greatest Gift Inspiration: In November of 2008, the son of a dear friend was hit by a mortar in Iraq. He lost all of one arm, part of another and had significant wounds to both legs. He did survive and is recovering at Walter Read Veterans Hospital in Washington DC. When I heard this, the amount of love, respect and gratefulness was difficult for me to sum up. It was close to Christmas and I wanted him, his wife and children to know that there were people who appreciated, beyond measure, the sacrifice he had so willingly made. This poem is the result. He loved it. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 17 : Frankincense and Myrrh and Gold The greatest gifts of Old Brought by Kings to a tiny babe Our greatest King foretold These gifts were very common then As simple as can be One’s heady perfume filled the room Another, well-known currency The other gift was meant to be A final offering for our King As we sadly laid Him down to rest While the Heavenly Angels sing The uniqueness in these gifts of Old Was not the wealth or fame But humble sacrifice upon the part Of those who gave in Jesus’ name Now gifts like these are rare indeed But one can find them still Tucked away inside the hearts Of those whom Jesus fills The sacrificial hearts of men Have lasted through the years Treasures sweet as finest wine And bought with many tears Greater love has no one Whose life he will lay down For those who’ll never know the man Who fought to save their Town. With open hearts they bring their gifts These men who’ve given all To lay before the King foretold Their crowns, there in the stall Few men know the cost or price It took to bring their treasure Not so, the Babe who bore their sin Heaven’s gift that has no measure - Lynda Sue Haines December 9, 2008 The Greatest Gift Return to Table of Contents

Slide 18 : The Mountain Climber Inspiration: I had just gone through my second back surgery and was entering my third year in a body cast when I realized that it had not fixed the problem. This was perhaps my 21st or 22nd surgery overall. My grandfather had just died and I was coming through a very difficult time in my marriage. My mother (in law), whom I have always felt was my spiritual mom, was facing the worst depression of her life and my husband was in active addiction. My 8-year-old middle son was having gripping night terrors that I could not help. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 19 : The Mountain Climber She stood on the precipice, facing the already darkening mountain, tears in her eyes. Thinking that once she finally made the summit of that last range, sunshine and fields of meadow flowers, their beauty unspeakable, would await her. She had been climbing for years. Bruised and battered, she found herself facing the foot of yet another huge mountain. By now, she knew her companion was with her somewhere, though at this very moment she couldn’t see or feel him. Crumbling down onto the rocky path, she wanted to become part of the mountain; to stop the struggle that never seemed to go away. Each time she thought there would be rest; another seemingly insurmountable mountain loomed in front of her. Tired and worn, she laid down, more from emotional fatigue than sleepiness. Sometime after she shut her eyes, He appeared. In that Peter Pan place between spirit and physical, she first felt His presence. Truth be known, she was expecting Him. Ever since the first time they were together and He promised He would never leave her, He has been faithful to His Word. He is so incredible. In all the years when she was lost, He sought her. He never stopped looking, day and night, until He found her. What was so amazing to her was that at the time, she didn’t even know Him! Even more astounding is the fact that He has always known of all the sin and selfishness and pride in her heart, He knows every single fault. Now, true to His Word, He was back when she needed Him most. How long she laid there in that state, she was unsure, but when she awoke, He was there, her head cradled in His lap, the most loving look in His eyes. Typically that look refreshed her soul. But this time she just wanted to jump into those loving pools and go home with Him. She was so very tired of the struggle. She was completely alone, except for this man. It was lonely, day after day, through the pain. Though she was young, she’d been through more than anyone she knew. In truth, she was exhausted. Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 20 : He said not a word, simply holding her close until she finished her tears, something He had done many times before. For a long time she lay there beside her Savior. He stroked her hair and spoke gentle words of encouragement, words meant only for her. She somehow knew that everything about Him was completely for her at that moment, though she couldn’t understand how. She didn’t speak, but listened as her Savior spoke the life-renewing words into her spirit. As in the past, He would sit with her and wait until she was ready. Eternally, if need be. She melted further into His robes and slept, the first really peaceful sleep she’d had in years, it seemed. She knew He would stand guard over her thoughts and against the enemy. Just before she fell off to sleep, she whispered the words “Thank you”. The love in His eyes was His response. These two needed few words. They had been together 12 years now. Though there was an unfathomable amount to know about Him, He knew her perfectly, every thought, every strength, and every weakness. When she awoke this time, she felt stronger, though not nearly strong enough to go on alone. She would never be that strong, which was exactly how her Savior wanted it. She must always need Him, for He knew she would never make it even an hour without Him. As they stood, He took her small hand in one of His calloused larger ones, His staff in the other. He asked if she were ready to move on. This is one reason she loves Him. He always asked her if she had the strength first, before they started a new trail. Miraculously, she always had exactly enough strength to get to the next point. She smiled and He saw the love and gratitude on her face. He cherished that look of complete trust and faith, like that of a child. “The Mountain Climber” continued Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 21 : They walked hand in hand in the quiet of the evening and watched the sun sink behind the mountain. Her Savior spoke of things they had experienced together; the birds singing in the early morning while the grass was wet with dew; the warm sunshine on their faces and the sun sparkling off the mountain lakes like so many diamonds. And the stars…Oh, my goodness, how they loved the simple, majestic beauty of stars He placed in the sky. But what she liked the most was when Jesus would describe the beautiful home that He had built just for her, every detail, right down to the welcome mat. He told her that one day, at the end of their journey, He would take her there. He was also fond of mentioning that with her new home came a beautiful new name He had chosen just for her…but it was a secret, He always added with a wink. As she walked, her spirit quieted. Her burden had lightened somewhere as they walked the narrow path, hand in hand. She found herself rested as they passed the many dangerous forks in the road. In that golden hour, her heart found peace and understanding that once again her Savior had restored her soul. For the Love of my Savior, Jesus Christ. - Lynda Haines May 30, 2001 “The Mountain Climber” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 22 : The moment I stepped through the haze Everything came clear The picture of my Father’s face Was suddenly so near The voice I’d only heard in dreams Wrapped ‘round me like a cloud Like many other things in life It’d been stifled by a shroud He was the first to greet me The first to bring me in With open arms, warm and wide He wiped away my sin As we walked along My Old Friend told me what He’d done Of how He’d come to know me Through the seed that was His Son I looked ahead to see Someone was running down the trail His arms were opened wide for me Revealing the scars left by nails At once He was there with us This King who is my Brother A sense of love overflowed my soul Where I have felt no other He took me to a garden We wandered through my soul It was there that Jesus gave me back Everything Satan stole Now, this is for my Sister My playmate and my friend I heard you say “I love you” And I love you, too, without end Hello, Goodbye, See Ya Soon Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 23 : There is One who lives up here Her name I cannot say I know now that she lived with me As she lives with you each day She has a very special job Though I really don’t know how Before I would have laughed at it But I see its value now She catches tears, Sis, in a jar And puts them on a shelf And then she puts the lid on top Like they contain the world’s wealth And then she puts the names on them As she fairly breezes by And then One more Amazing thing She kisses each one dry James, it looks like your jar Is nearly to the top With both of us working ‘round the clock We can’t kiss your crying stopped But Sis, Look out in the snow See the diamonds in the sun Then look inside that heart of yours And remember all the fun I am waiting here for you And it will be okay The Three that love and met me here Will Never go away Let out the pain and in the love Your life will have no end It starts today, I’m watching you ALWAYS, Your brother and his Three New Friends For Jamie A beginning in your road to healing Love, Lynda Haines “Hello, Goodbye, See Ya Soon” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 24 : The House That Love Built Inspiration: I had recently moved from Colorado and knew very few people. I met a family who took me in like a stray cat that they fed and now refused to go away. These people loved me when I felt all alone in the world. I was entering a divorce and things couldn’t possible have looked any bleaker than they did at that point in my life. It was their loving kindness and support that got me through the most difficult days and months of my life. Some say we are given our family but we get to choose our friends. I say if we choose well, our friends become our family. Thank you, Jesus. To view poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 25 : The House That Love Built A regular structure, a plain simple shack Like gold among ashes it kept drawing me back A different foundation, exquisite and rare Each simple brick laid precisely with care The frame had the strength of 10,000 trees And was girded with words like ‘Thank you’ and ‘Please’ The walls, straight and true, set distinctly in place To capture the joy that these rooms would embrace After all else was done the roof then was laid And I asked of the builder the price he had paid His eyes shone so brightly as he lifted my hand His words were like honey as he looked ‘cross his land Sweetheart, he said, look at all that you see These gifts are from God; a treasure given to me Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 26 : Like the gift of a heart and the love that it brings This house is my gift, it comes without strings For those who will live here and those passing through I pray they feel loved for each day my love’s new I’ve learned from my Father who never forsakes That love is a journey, it gives and it takes So for those who are weary or are sent from above They will find on their way, this house filled with love. From one who has found Love here! - Lynda Haines “The House That Love Built” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 27 : To view poem, proceed to next page… Karen Kneasel Inspiration: When I think back over my life and its series of complications, I see where God was guiding my life, even when I wasn’t aware that He was there. Even when things seemed their darkest…during the death of my parents, my divorce, all the medical issues, etc. He has given me so many blessings and gifts to use in order to praise Him. One of the gifts He has sent my way is the ability to cheer and comfort others by writing. I thank God for all the people and challenges He has brought into my life. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 28 : “Easter Memories” It’s Friday and like most every other day, we’re off to work. What a crazy, hectic day with sooooo many problems. I can’t wait for this day to be over. Wait…it’s GOOD FRIDAY…gotta go to church tonight…we missed last night because I screwed up, but we’re not going to miss tonight. Better call Sandy…”Hey Sandy, are you guys going to church tonight? Oh that’s right, I forgot about the family get together, but don’t forget about Saturday’s Easter Vigil…we get to sit up front!!!” Rushing home from work in the cold and rain, all I can think about is getting into the warm house, fixing supper and calming down from this wacky day…do we really have to go tonight? Supper’s over and Terry says we better get there early, it will probably be crowded. There are a dozen cars in the parking lot when we arrive, but upon entering the church there are only a few people in the sanctuary. We walk in and find a seat. I’m glad we’re early and it’s quiet…Finally Lord, it’s time for You. No more excuses, no more meetings, nothing to do but kneel and pray. It seems like forever since we’ve had quiet time, You and I…so many things are rushing through my head…I apologize again for not taking time out just for YOU…I thank You for the many, many blessings you have given to me and say a special thank you for the man who is sitting by my side. You have blessed our marriage and our lives and yet we do so little in return. I run through the usual thank yous, ask for your healing touch on some dear friends, share some special concerns and then open my eyes and look around. The pews are full of people waiting to hear about your Son…His suffering and death. As I look around, the room appears to be quite empty…all the special flowers, and bright colors are missing from the altar…it’s very plain and yet…I feel such a feeling of peace and reverence. As I continue looking around, my gaze stops on several of our RCIA classmates. We have learned much these past few months and I feel a twinge of jealousy. Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 29 : They are going to be confirmed and will be able to take the Sacrament of the Eucharist tomorrow night, while Terry & I must wait a while yet until we can finish the process. It has been so long since I have been able to participate in the special blessing of the body and blood of my Lord. My heart aches to be able to share in this Sacrament. “Soon”, you whisper gently in my ear, “soon you too shall share my Son.” First comes the reading of scripture and the lector reads with such conviction that I am drawn to her every word. Then Father John reads to us. The tone of his voice and the inflection he puts into the words carries me along and I am there watching my Lord being betrayed, ridiculed, and tortured…I can see the crown of thorns on His head and the blood streaming down His face…but His face has a determined look upon it…a look of acceptance and understanding of what lies ahead. It is a tortured, but peaceful face as He accepts His cross. God, what a gift you have given!! What an opportunity you have given to me…I can come back and be in fellowship with You because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. I feel your presence here tonight and a conviction in my heart. Help me Lord to be what you want me to be…Help me find my way!!! Father John then goes on to share his homily with us…more stirring words to lift my heart. Then he walks out…just leaves and I’m wondering what is going on. Everyone seems to be thinking “what do we do now?” Suddenly the young men carrying the candles come in, followed by Father John carrying a cross. He slowly raises the cross, holding it high above him. Chanting, he lowers the cross and continues down the aisle, stopping midway and again he lifts the cross…”It has to be heavy and hard to hold up like that” I think, but it is so much lighter than the cross carried by my Lord…and yet it brings home to me the willingness of Your disciples to go beyond what they are capable of…for YOU. I’m surprised to see everyone start to leave their seats and go up and kiss the cross. I’ve never seen this done before…are we allowed to do this too? Everyone seems to be going up, so I guess it’s ok. “Easter Memories” continued Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 30 : What do I do? Do I kneel and bow or do I really kiss the cross? We walk slowly to the front and I watch as others kiss the place where His hands could have been and my heart aches with pain thinking of His suffering. It’s my turn and I reach out and touch the cross and kiss it…what a feeling!!! It’s overwhelming. I feel closer to You than every before. Once again Father John and the young men leave the sanctuary, this time they return and it is time for the Eucharist. Once again the overpowering feeling that I am unable to participate betrays me and my eyes fill with tears. Tonight I feel so close to you…so I turn to you asking forgiveness because I am not able to rid my heart of this feeling of frustration that comes every time others pass me on their way to partake of the Eucharist. You fill my heart with your presence and gently wipe away my tears with your love. You give me peace. This has been a very emotional service and I leave…filled with a strong yearning to find myself closer to you. I can’t wait for tomorrow night. I know it will be another chance to get closer to you… - Karen Kneasel “Easter Memories” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 31 : “Here’s to You”   My cousin was attending The Bridge and had asked us to come to her Baptism at Messiah College. We agreed… and it was there that God told me it was time to come back where I belonged! We started attending The Bridge and found it to be our Home. God has given me many gifts over my lifetime…to help me thru a divorce, numerous medical problems, personal issues and one of those gifts was writing to cheer others. “Here’s to you.” To view Karen’s writing, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 32 : Here’s to You Newsletter article for April - 2009 The renewing of the earth at this time of year never ceases to astonish me. According to the “Good Book” on the third day, “God said. ‘Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so! WOW! What an amazing place this earth really is, and what a “gardener” He must be. Did you ever stop to think about how things really work here on earth? Look around you at all of the things in nature. Did you know that the earth replenishes itself, simply by each of the seasons doing their part…not by anything we do…in fact, sometimes it seems we are trying very hard to destroy her. Do you look at each beautiful sunrise as a sign of a new day and a chance to grow, share and learn…and the gorgeous sunsets as a signal that it’s time to rest and replenish our bodies? Think about it!! Think about this…Spring starts things off with new life; not only to all of the earth’s vegetation, but also to the animal kingdom where new lives ensure each species continued existence on the earth. I think God planned this special season to remind us how important the beginning of a new life is, not only here on earth…but also in finding a new life in Him. Spring has finally arrived…even though you can’t always tell it by the temperature…at least the sun has been shining. Have you noticed how green the grass is becoming…and those buds starting to sprout on the trees. How many of you have already started planning the flowers or what exciting goodies to plant in the garden you love to tend? Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 33 : Soon the warming of Spring gives way to the heat of Summer, while the sun combines with the moisture of the earth to keep all those living things blooming and growing, sharing their beauty everywhere we look. The warm temperatures bring people out of their homes to work in their yard, plant brightly colored flowers and beautiful bushes; to enjoy picnics where they share fun, food and fellowship with family and friends; to travel to new places or to those “old” places that feel just like home. It give us the opportunity to watch some of God’s creatures, like the lightening bug that sparkles in the dark…followed by the peals of laughter from the children trying to catch them… reminding us of a time long ago (ha ha) when we were young chasing those special creatures. Not only do we see His beauty, but we also get to smell some of His creatures too…like those beautiful black and white critters that are “beautiful” only as long as you don’t get too close, or they don’t make it across the road. More pleasantly…soft gentle breezes touch us with the scent of lilac, and the smell of fresh cut grass. (Sorry to those with allergies) Let’s not forget the aroma of those steaks and burgers cooking on the grill, and the special smell of campfires burning, glowing in the night surrounded by friends talking, sharing life’s stories, making s’mores and roasting hot dogs. This is where we learn more about Him through all the people He has placed in our lives… to help us through them. All too soon the nights start getting cooler, then Fall in all its magnificent glory bursts forth with a new color palette of oranges, reds, yellows and browns that always manages to take my breath away. The vivid colors that paint the trees and the changes in all that surrounds us, reveal so much more of God’s handiwork. I find it amazing that the simple green leaves that cover the trees in Summer can change to all of those magnificent colors…simply just by being. No one has to do anything to make it happen… it just does. AWESOME!! It’s simply another wonder of creation which He shares with us. “Here’s to You” continued Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 34 : Temperatures drop as Winter fast approaches. Although vegetation on the earth appears to die, the earth actually starts to replenish herself by dropping the seeds to the ground, or blowing them gently in the wind to a new destination, where they will fall to begin a new life in the Spring. The rain and snow that falls helps replenish the earth’s natural water supply. Meanwhile people and animals move back inside their “nests” to rest in order to start yet another season of their lives. Personally I think that the four seasons symbolize life. It starts with our birth and continues as we grow learn more about life. Of course, we don’t always appreciating all the blessings that He sends our way, nor do we always follow the path He has planned for us. Gently, He shows us how to grow in knowledge, faith, love and understanding, changing us from green leaves to a leaf with vivid colors. Then we begin to use all that we have learned to share both Him and our life with others, and to follow that path He had planned for us by spreading seeds for new growth. Then finally, when the time comes to go Home to rest, we will be ready to begin the best season of our lives. And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Genesis 2:3 Love & Prayers, Karen Kneasel “Here’s to You” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 35 : Shalyn Renee Lex Inspiration: I am a junior at one of the local high schools. Throughout late October of 2008 to March 2009 I was being harassed by two people that said they were my best friends. Almost every day they cut me down, and I thought I had no where to turn. The school got involved in the situation and it was eventually somewhat resolved. Both people want back into my life, but I know that they do not quite belong. After the incident was taken care of I wrote a poem about getting through the tough times. My mama always told me that poetry was my talent. She was right. To view Shalyn’s poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 36 : The beaten path once followed is a memory for her.The barren path with worry is gone from her.Her heart still aches with thoughts of last,Though those seasons have all passed.A darkness she was surrounded by has gone,For now she is moving on.The forest she has know has withered,With no intention of growth.A new light is present,A new day for hope.The life she has known has left,The old is done.Supports for her self temple are constructed,Renovations have begun.She will not be the same person when they are gone.The change is much needed,The time overdue;Please let her be accepted,When all this is through. - Shalyn Renee Lex Return to Table of Contents

Slide 37 : Susan Momberger Inspiration: Creative writing for me began as journaling my feelings during a very difficult and emotional time in my life. I was encouraged by someone close to me to try it. They told me it helped them to get rid of some thoughts and feelings that they couldn’t let go of. I had my doubts (in college I detested English 101 and 102) but my friend seemed fairly well adjusted so I figured it couldn’t harm me and I made an attempt. I think the first session lasted over an hour and took up at least 8 pages. Since then the process has become a bit more refined. Writing poetry was never on my “Things I Want To Do In Life List.” However, I have found that when I am able to express what I need to in a form I can share with others, the needs of my mind, body and spirit are truly met. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 38 : Susan Momberger “Loneliness” I wrote this piece sitting in a noisy, garlic-scented pizza shop on Front Street in Harrisburg sitting between two widescreen TVs showing the 2007 college football playoffs. The work week had been stressful, my confidence as an Occupational Therapist was shaken. As usual I chose to spend time alone instead of seeking support from friends. The downward spiral felt familiar so I comforted myself with favorite things-gooey extra cheesy pizza, diet coke and strangers who won’t ask probing questions. How I was able to focus on the writing amongst all the noise still amazes me. I suppose God wanted to show me I have another gift to share. Presenting me with it in a public place made a huge impression and I’ll cherish it forever. “Swirling” I wrote this a couple of years ago. I spent most of my waking moments with the mindset that every challenge presented before me was black and white. There was either a right or a wrong answer. Typically, no matter how much thought I put into a decision I always felt like I had made the wrong choice. I tried to reduce everything to the lowest common denominator, to simplify the process. Apparently this system wasn’t working very well for me because I spent more time stressing over decisions than I did smiling. During the time when this was written I was struggling with how to leave my comfortable, well-worn view of the world behind and take the leap into considering there may be a gray area out there. To view poems, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 39 : “Loneliness” Sneaks up on me when I least expect it Blindsided by the assault Attempt to thwart the attack Keep in constant movement; a moving target is harder to find Desire for structure morphs movement into routine Routine demands less attention to detail The sentry tires The perimeter is vulnerable Opportunity for infiltration is everywhere Slowly, silently the darkness creeps in At first, extra time is welcomed for rest, rejuvenation Gradually, once well rested, mind drifts to unmet needs Sadness sets in Tears offer release, but still no comfort comes forth How do I protect myself from the pain and darkness loneliness brings? What must my defense consist of? How many weapons must my arsenal hold? Will I then be safe, secure, protected? Can I avoid the onslaught of emotions that drain my physical being? I need for there to be an answer, a solution, a light in the darkness But how? - Susan E Momberger Return to Table of Contents

Slide 40 : Swirling Swirling, swirling, swirling, Round and round and round, Rings so perfect and so calm, Yet so easily unwound   Exposed, unprotected, vulnerable, Along the outer edge, Tight, quick, impenetrable, At the center’s edge   Somewhere in the middle Is the place of perfect balance Ready to learn, to love, to risk, to give, to share special talents   So why then do I only see, the center and the edges.  - Susan E. Momberger Return to Table of Contents

Slide 41 : John Reitz Inspiration: In April of 1993 my wife found a lump in her breast. In May a biopsy revealed cancer, in June a lumpectomy was done, followed by a summer of chemotherapy and a fall of radiation. In September of 1994 my wife took on a new job, we moved into a new house, and a new set of symptoms reared their ugly head. On November 4th (the night before our one daughter’s 15th birthday) a brain scan revealed a massive tumor on her brain. Before Thanksgiving there would be surgery and discovery of more cancer. Our Christmas season was marked by full brain radiation. In January of 1995 the return of a “suspicious spot” at the brain stem created a new set of worries. By April the word came that there was no cure. Our home, with the help of hospice care, became the setting for the final days of her life. She died on October 5, 1995. As an introvert, my pain resided deep within me. The need to continue living was like a garment that guarded most of my grief. However, in the middle of the night I would awaken with tears seeping from my eyes. What I was guarding by day, God awakened by night. My writings began to be the way I released my grief and cleansed my soul. As I wrote during the day I found I could sleep during the night. To view poems, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 42 : Seep Reservoir of memories, from waters fathoms deep; life goes on as usual, so many people think. Surveillance team of divers, journeying far within; revealing deepest caverns, sacred writings on the soul. Remembrance stirs the waters, lifting treasures towards the sun; feelings welling up, almost unaware. Without the slightest warning, eyes begin to fill; high tide of emotions, wash up upon the shore. Warm tears gently seep, falling quietly upon the cheek; wake up O grieving one, and find those are tears that you drink, sweet water of memories, from the very deep. - John Reitz Return to Table of Contents

Slide 43 : Weep Tears, the silent voice, salty flavoring, seasoning the sounds of crying. There are no words, only a syncopated orchestration of intense guttural sounds. Crying irrigates the wounded heart and cleanses the repression of grief. The dirge is a song of desolation, with verses of pervasive loss, joined by a chorus of extreme loneliness. Music, Music that no one wants to sing, but everyone lends their voice to the choir. - John Reitz Return to Table of Contents

Slide 44 : Wail Deep in the caldron of the soul, a fire is burning; fueled by the unlikely mixture, of despair and hope, love and anger, hurt and comfort, faith and doubt. Agitation, pressure, leading to an eruption without warning. The pain acts as a vacuum, sucking life, emptying the world of meaning. It is here where nothing makes sense, memory brings no relief, and reason has taken leave to a distant land. The turbulent storm of unbearable anguish strikes from within; no place to hide, nowhere to find shelter, no prophylactic from the seeds of reality. Paradoxically, the storm is fed by the intense feelings of my heart. I hate the storm. I beg for the storm to end, but the energy of my love is what sustains the ravaging winds. So for now, my tears seep, I often weep, and sometimes I even wail. - John Reitz January 1996 Return to Table of Contents

Slide 45 : Hospice Care Heart to heart, caught together in a web of care Oasis in a sea of despair, refreshing with waters of hope Sacrament of life, humanity at a common table Picasso in the art of dying, dipping into a palette of living colors Incarnation of peace and hope, meeting at the crossroads of heaven and earth Companions on the final journey, bringing guidance to illuminate the way Ensemble of unfailing support, lending voices to the words of the speechless Cisterns of compassion, quenching the thirst of the soul Advocate for the dying, Obstetrician for the mother of grief Ruminating the story of a lifetime, accentuating the lines of purpose and meaning Existential in the fleeting of time, forever memorialized by a survivor’s peace of mind - John Reitz January 2, 1996 Return to Table of Contents

Slide 46 : Approaching Death with Hope -the circumstances and God’s faithful care Lump, mammogram, biopsy approaching death surgery, chemotherapy, radiation approaching death hair loss, nausea, exhaustion approaching death new job, new house, new symptoms approaching death headaches, word confusion, vomiting approaching death brain scan, brain swelling, brain surgery approaching death scar, radiation, hair loss approaching death questionable shadow, diminishing shadow, overwhelming shadow approaching death cancer in brain, cancer in neck, cancer in spine approaching death Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 47 : consultation, radiation, hair loss approaching death cane, walker, wheelchair approaching death seat lift, bedside commode, attends approaching death tylenol III, pain patches, morphine approaching death loss of conversation, loss of appetite, loss of waking hours approaching death morphine by drop, temperature drop, pulse drop approaching death reconciliation, affirmation, continuation approaching death with hope caring physicians, compassionate nurses, competent technicians approaching death with hope renewed curls, regained appetite, restored strength approaching death with hope stableness of seasons, continuity of months, surety of today approaching death with hope faith in God, hope in the future, love in relationships approaching death with hope “Approaching Death with Hope” continued Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 48 : purpose of life, witness to Christ, courage of spirit approaching death with hope dreams, divine interventions, daily manna approaching death with hope torch of scripture, fire of the Spirit, Light of the world approaching death with hope new friends, abiding friends, unknown friends approaching death with hope poignant messages, gentle conversations, comfortable silences approaching death with hope husband’s inner strength, daughter’s continuing legacy, mother’s tender mercies approaching death with hope loving followers of Christ, supportive community of faith, encompassing family approaching death with hope comic relief, pain relief, physical relief approaching death with hope contentment, commitment, consignment approaching death with hope Good Shepherd, Great Physician, Wonderful Counselor approaching death with hope - John Reitz December 1995 “Approaching Death with Hope” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 49 : To view poems, proceed to next page… Heather Stuckey Inspiration: For over 25 years, I have been dealing with insulin dependent diabetes. Although some days, having diabetes isn’t so bad, there are other days when it feels overwhelming to have a chronic disease that I have to take care of for the rest of my life. At times like this, I like to write about what is going on, and how I am feeling, so that it can be released from me and onto the page. If I can just get my frustrations or my feelings onto paper, or the computer, or even in the sand, then I feel much better about living day to day with the disease. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 50 : The China Plate As I pass the China plate in my mother’s dining room, I gaze into its translucency. My fingers scan the smooth edges, and I am amazed at both its strength and its fragility. I continue to admire the beauty of its whiteness and simplicity, unadorned with decoration. My eyes shift from the edges to the center of the plate, and I am startled to find my reflection peering into the porcelain. I am looking at the plate. I have become it. I am translucent. In this transcending moment, I hold my gaze to the plate. Years of misunderstanding, hatred, and denial pass by. As translucent as the China, I see the lucidity within. My feelings which have been repressed seem to rise to the surface. I find both fragility and strength there. Living with diabetes, I was always waiting for the moment for my life to drop, to explode, to break. Shattering me into unrecognizable pieces. I believed this to be true, that no one could help or repair the damage of this disease. That I was alone and broken. Silently, I waited for a careless moment when the beauty of my original design would be destroyed. Yet, if the plate is treated with reasonable care, it will last forever. If recovered from the ground in one thousand years, it will look as fresh and new as the day it left its potter’s hands. While gazing into the whiteness of the plate, I imagined my soul living forever. I focused on the strength which could help me understand the disease, to work with it rather than against it. To heal rather than to split. Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 51 : This Monday, I will have the opportunity to begin healing myself. I will be put on an insulin pump, which will infuse the hormone into my body in a new way. For ten years, I have resented the fact that I have diabetes at all, much less recognize that I need the help of an outside machine to manage my blood sugars. I was offended at the thought of depending upon this machine, my doctors, my friends, my family, anything and anyone. I have experienced great heat in my life. As in the China plate, heat is necessary in order to form the plate. The natural clays and substances can never revert to their origins, nor can they decay. Having diabetes is a fragile balance, but it has the potential to give strength to those who accept it. - Heather Stuckey “The China Plate” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 52 : Circles Circles. Our lives are circles, moving from one activity to another, moving in endless patterns. Look at a circle, and see its infinity, yet its controlled power within those lines. A circle of both freedom and restriction. Spirals of circles that move us from one lifetime to the next, from one activity to another. We are connected by circles. Our eyes, the letter O, lampshade stands, support for Lady Liberty, lids to coffee cups, all circles in shapes and directions. Backward and forward, we all move. From the moment we are born, we are delivered from a circle, and at the end of life, we are cremated into one. It is the perfect pattern of this world, to have a circle that is fulfilled, to have a purpose for being. Learning circles, wisdom circles, three ring circles. Sexy, dangling, earring circles. Crystal balls, shapes of breasts, the egg from which all is created. It is the perfect shape of life. When I was younger, I traced circles in the blue velvet cushion on the sitting room sofa. Watching the shape disappear and reappear from light to dark. This relaxed me, and for a moment I was not aware that I was alive. I was observing this stream of motion contained in the elegant circle of richness and vibrancy. No one cared that I was doing this. It was like watching a fountain, with water flowing both from and to. The mesmerizing trance of the fabric moved me to deeper levels of mindlessness. Although I would not have categorized it at the time, the motion was hypnotizing. I felt the fabric speaking to me, enjoying the caress. I could talk to it, and say, “Now, now. You don’t need to cry. It is going to be better.” I was both receiving and giving comfort, as the circles of the moon and sun radiate light and dark. The never-ending circle comforts us. - Heather Stuckey Return to Table of Contents

Slide 53 : Dry Bones I have been battling Type I diabetes for 20 years. Tonight I hear a new voice. I see healing in the white flakes sailing past the window. I sense peace, a covering, a moment when the world stops to watch the forgiveness of heaven. Through the clouds, the sky brings healing. I ask myself about my feelings about diabetes. I am angry that I am the one who is diagnosed with it, but anger doesn’t quite describe it. It is a word, but not an emotion. Other people have diseases which are worse than diabetes. Like cancer. Like MS. Patients need to stay in the hospital for diseases like that. I run from hospitals. I run from my diabetes. When you ask that question, I want to fly far from you. I don’t want to answer. You would say I am afraid, but again, that word is not enough to tell you how I feel. I feel alone, walking in a dark place, a dungeon, with skeletons around me. There are lights on the wall, and I take them to light my way, but all I see are dead skulls and bones. I walk through them, hoping to get out of the tunnel, but I find that the cave ends, and all I can do is turn back, or sit down with the rest of them and wait my turn. This is what diabetes feels like. It is the waiting that is the worst part, the anticipation of what is going to happen. The shots, the syringes, the sore fingers are so insignificant compared to the unknown. One unit of insulin could either bring healing or death. I don’t know when I go to bed at night whether I will have an insulin reaction by morning, or whether with certainty I will wake up to treat it. Even worse, every pain I feel somehow relates to my diabetes. The fact that I have had nausea for over a month … is that the flu? Is it nerves? Or is gastroparesis, of which there is no cure. Of course, I could take medication to help me. But that medicine brings other complications like nerve damage, perhaps heart problems. Which is worse? The bunion on my foot keeps getting larger, and it is harder to find shoes that fit. Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 54 : I can’t find shoes, so then my toes rub against the sides. My feet now have large calluses and corns on them because of the bunion. The bunion won’t heal because I have diabetes. I have cuts that last for months, and scars that last for years. My eyes twitch, and I wonder if something is really wrong, or whether I just have a little dust in them. When I see spider veins in my eyes, does that mean that another blood vessel has broken, or is this a normal result of laser surgery? I am always anxious, because I am always wondering what is going to happen next. I walk through the Valley of bones and wonder whether I will get out. I wonder if I will ever be stranded somewhere without my insulin, or without my blood glucose meter, and I become panicked inside. I would die without it. I wouldn’t be able to eat because I wouldn’t have insulin, and I would starve. Either that, or I would starve because my body had too many ketones and was feeding upon itself. There is no winning with diabetes. There is little hope. There is just the constant wondering of what will happen next, and how will it affect my quality of life. I choose to ignore my kidneys, and hope that everything is going OK. I’d rather not go to the doctor to find out, because the last time I went, I knew that everything was fine. Don’t tell me that you understand this, because you don’t. Diabetes feels like being trapped in a casket, alive, with dirt falling through the cracks. You have just enough air to live, but you are waiting until the dirt surrounds you. It slowly envelops your feet, then your legs. It has not reached past that point on me. But, soon it will be around my face, and then it will be over. I will have lost the battle. It also feels like I am in a room with snakes. The snakes are slithering around my feet, checking me out, only striking here and then. A strike to the eyes, a bite to the foot. A chomp on the kidneys. Sooner or later, one of their strikes will be poisonous and I will die. But it is random. I don’t know if the snakebite will come today or fifty years from now. It is that feeling over my head that makes me crazy. It makes me hate the disease. “Dry Bones” continued Continued… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 55 : Doctors tell me to better manage my disease, to try to get better numbers. To me, it is like telling the snakes to go away, or for the ground to stop falling. I cannot do it. It won’t matter. One day, I, too, am going to the Valley where the other skulls lie. I will be one of them, and the next diabetic, and the next. Despair led me to Ezekiel 37, a passage of scripture relating to dry bones. I normally do not read the Bible, nor do I understand it. Tonight, this scripture makes sense. I cannot believe the likening and hope in these words. The hand of Yahweh was on me; he carried me away by the spirit of Yahweh and set me down in the middle of the Valley, a Valley full of bones. He made me walk up and down and all around them. There were vast quantities of these bones on the floor of the Valley; and they were completely dry. He said to me, “Can these bones live?” I said, “Only you know, Lord.” He said, “Prophesy over these bones. Say, Dry bones, hear the word of Yahweh. The Lord says this to the bones: I am now going to make breath enter you, and you will live. I shall make flesh grow on you. I shall cover you with skin and give you breath, and you will live, and you will know I am Yahweh. I prophesied as I had been ordered. While I was prophesying there was a noise, a clattering sound; it was the bones coming together. And as I looked, they were covered with flesh; flesh was growing on them and skin was covering them, yet there was no breath in them. He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man. Say to the breath, The Lord Yahweh says this: Come from the four winds, breath; breathe on these dead, so that they come to life.” I prophesied as he had ordered me, and the breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet, a great, immense army. What would diabetes look like if God suddenly put flesh and muscle on the dry bones and caused them to breathe and live? I do believe the dry bones can live. The bones which are haunting me can lead to a new perspective. Help the dry bones in this Valley of diabetes rise up into a great, immense army. Help me, Yahweh. - Heather Stuckey “Dry Bones” continued Return to Table of Contents

Slide 56 : The River Flows My spirit has filled with energy and life. As I place my hands over my heart, my emptiness expands with love, hope, life. I have connections to the spirit world and channels to intuition of which only some may sense. It is a gift, but it carries with it great power. To listen to the river and move from the desert has taken you on a journey. You have found the river. You see it, but you are still observing. To become integrated and whole, allow the river to flow through you. Allow the sense of value and great worth to fill your heart. Flow, and open your spirit to the knowing that you have been given diabetes not to harm you. Your body is temporary, but your purpose lives through the searching souls of others. I have not punished you, my child, by giving you this chronic illness, but you are strong, creative, and able to see the hearts of those in suffering. Your throat and lungs respond to the souls of sorrow. You feel the current of silence behind the cloak of skin. Look within. Do you understand the river flows through you to give you the heart to continue? By having diabetes, you have a story to tell, a purpose in helping other people see what they cannot express. You view your diabetes as a punishment, but it is a way to reach other souls who need to know the river. They are thirsty, they are dry, and you sense the beads of tears in the corner of their eyes. You bring them from the dry land and you show them the flowing water. No one but you, Heather, could have done this thing, to recreate and change the lives of those who suffer. You have known suffering, abuse, and lies, and you have known light. You need to know the river. Feel it travel through your veins and through your heart center. The river is love. Love for yourself. It is a spirit of awareness. You radiate the love of ghost angel, your keeper and light. She brings the peace that comes to your life, but the river must flow. You must not resist the river. Do not fight it. The river comes from the Mother of Peace and the Father of Love. - Heather Stuckey Return to Table of Contents

Slide 57 : Dawn Snyder Templeton Inspiration: My best friend, Karol, was murdered at the age of 19…by her father (who killed her, her mother and then himself)…because she got pregnant. Her father was an elder in our church. For 16 years, I cried, shook my little fist at God, and screamed why. Why did this have to happen? The result of my limited understanding of her death was that while I trusted God with my soul, I did not trust him to take care of my physical body in this world. Why wouldn’t God just take care of her. Why didn’t he prevent this from happening? It took 16 years of “anniversaries” (birthdays, deathdays, and the day her baby would have been born), and 2 years in recovery before I stopped asking why…the why that would never be answered in this lifetime. I thought that knowing the answer would lighten the load; but low and behold, I learned that wanting to understand why she died was my way of wanting to control the past. I had to let go of my friend along with the expectation that the answer to my why would make me feel better. The month of her death, I returned to school for my junior year. One day when I was feeling miserable and alone, I decided to go to the library to do some work. I frequently took my walkman and listened to music. I had a copy of DeGarmo & Key and was listening to a wordless song entitled “The Gift.” For some reason, lyrics came to me like a wave and I wrote them down as fast as I could, each line corresponding with the music I was listening to. This lyrical poem, for I cannot take credit for the music, became my lullaby for the next 16 years. Whenever I felt down, depressed, or just introspective, I sang these words to myself and considered them a gift from God himself. Thank God for music. It helps to transform my mood, my situation and my life. To view lyrical poem, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 58 : “Seeking Your Face” Pushing past the crowds alone Trying to get where I can see. A view of Your brilliant face Shining down on me. Lord I’ve waited oh so long Just to catch a glimpse of You. And all the times I’ve tried before, I could never seem to see through. Your arms are open and reaching out, Then they close to hold me tight. Like a little child upon the knee, Of Daddy for a kiss good night. Seeing Your longing face And your arms open wide. I’ll run ‘til I fall into them And in them forever I’ll hide. Then I hear Your silent whispers of love to pull me through. Through the night I’ll cling to them as if onto You. Oh why you worry? Why do you fear? I’m holding onto you in this place. I’ll let go of the world and hold onto the passion of seeking Your face. Thanks for listening. - Dawn Snyder (Templeton) Return to Table of Contents

Slide 59 : Return to Table of Contents

Slide 60 : Linda Billet Inspiration: “January 14th 2008” and “Blessed” are the most revealing work I have ever done. Generally, my work will show you very little about who I am, but more about what I like. I was working on a fused piece that I was trying to get done for a 2008, winter themed, group show. It was my typical patchwork of bubble glass and stripes. I used frosty blues, whites and clear to make what I felt would look like ice and snow. I thought a pair of cardinals would add a punch of color and also add a bit of familiarity to give even more of a winter feel. When the piece was finished, I wasn’t happy with it, sawed it up, and left the parts lay for a year. Meanwhile, that fateful date, 1/14/08, approached. My husband and I became empty nesters and it wasn’t the way we had expected. Suddenly, our bird feeder became extremely interesting. For a week, I found myself standing with a cup of tea in my hand, staring out over the deck, watching birds for huge chunks of time. I took the pieces of the winter collage that I had worked on a year ago and used them in a mosaic. I added the tree behind our deck rails, the bird food, and the footprints in the snow to make it about the worst day our family had ever experienced. “Blessed” is actually a self portrait. At some point after 1/14/08, I started to again notice how many blessings I was showered with. My problems became more like background. Some of the blessings were actually BECAUSE we went through the painful event of 1/14/08. To view Linda’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 61 : “January 14, 2008” “Blessed” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 62 : Jessie Carter Inspiration: “Sunny” Getting through my high school years was very difficult for me… struggling to get good grades so that I could go to college. I found that during those years, the happiest times for me were expressing myself in Art Class or being with my horse, Sunny. I painted this oil painting from a photo I took during one summer. The finished piece was displayed at some county fairs and art shows in Bedford, PA. It makes me happy to see this piece and the likeness to my horse which I do not have anymore. “Griffon Coming to Life” I’ve always wanted to do a night scene with the moon, after seeing the moon plenty of times. I also like Griffons. Did you know there are 15 different ways to spell Griffon? In 1996 I had my first job after graduating college. I worked 2nd shift in Ohio and hated it and was feeling really dejected at the time. I wanted to paint a Griffon with a moon setting, so I used the concept of a Griffon statue coming to life at night. This painting was done free hand, with no sketch or model. I came out of my head. This painting resembles the difficulty I had starting the job market and the hardship I experienced for the next 11 years. To view Jessie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 63 : “Sunny” “Griffon Coming to Life” (Oil, 1990) (Acrylic 1996) Return to Table of Contents

Slide 64 : Debbie Connolly Inspiration: “Peace and Serenity”   I did this drawing when I was holding on to a marriage that was filled with nothing but alcoholism. He and I both were in it full blown. I remember sitting down with my charcoal and paper and starting to draw in front of the sliding glass doors. The sun was shining in and it was a beautiful day. I needed light, since I always felt like I was living in the dark.   As I began to draw the piece, it became one of my favorite drawings and the memories of how it made me feel, because it was of something I treasured. Just her face and the calmness of the baby were very soothing to my heart. I have since gone into recovery and been sober now for 2 years. I have this piece hanging in my living room at home. It is a daily reminder to me of what my past thinking was, but has really come to be true in my life. To view Debbie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 65 : “Peace and Serenity” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 66 : Debbie Connolly “Babies”   These two pictures were done back to back. My brother had two boys after age 38. I honestly didn’t understand why he waited so long to have children, but it really didn’t matter…God blessed him with two beautiful children. My part was wondering, “Why?” He has a huge issue with alcoholism and anger. I know that when the boys were born, were two of his happiest moments; but then he spent the next days celebrating and really wasn’t there for my sister-in-law. Today those boys are 9 and 13. They have their issues and my brother still has his. He is still married to their mother, but how happy they all are is left only to your imagination. I’m sure, what you are thinking is right…I can only pray for them. These pictures to me were a way of expressing their lives and what they would mean to the world. They are great boys…hopefully, happy. I don’t get to talk to them much, but they know I love them. These two pieces were dedicated to them. To view Debbie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 67 : “Babies” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 68 : Debbie Connolly “Unlucky”   I did this picture at a time in my life that was filled with a lot of very bad physical and verbal abuse in my old marriage. At that time, I felt that no matter where I tried to land, I always had to pay for it. If I tried to be strong for all the right reasons, I was knocked down. Just couldn’t ever seem to get over the hump…of seeing how different life could be if I left. I felt I had no God! As you can see, I felt like the little fairy at the top; just in limbo…waiting to land just somewhere different than where I was. I always had that feeling of being “Unlucky” in that marriage. It has since dissolved and I found the courage and motivation to move on. Today, I can say, “I am no longer “unlucky,” but rather absolutely one of the luckiest people in the world…just to be alive.” Thank you to God for giving me this talent to help me through some of the hardest times I have ever endured.   “The Disease Within”   This picture was drawn when I was having some major symptoms of depression. I didn’t really know the cause of why I always felt sad, irritable and restless. It has affected my home life and then trickled down into my family’s life. The disease of addiction was not helping. I sought help from counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists but it still never relieved the symptoms. Drawing has always been a passion and through art, I could always escape and take my mind away from the real problem – ME. This piece is a great example of what I do not suffer from today. Today, I am drawing happy faces. To view Debbie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 69 : “Unlucky” “The Disease Within” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 70 : Vickie Devaney Inspiration: Losing a loved one is always a difficult time. Having lost both of my parents, it meant going thru that “difficult time” twice: Dad in 2004 and my mother in 2008. With special “visits” from both of them in different ways, it enabled me to feel peace and comfort in their passing. I would like to share two pieces of remembrance with you. “Mom’s Angel”    Christmas or any other holiday is a very challenging time to lose a loved one, but Mother passed on in December 2008. She loved angels…so my sister, a friend and I made the “angel” you see on display here to be given out at the luncheon after her funeral on December 22. My heart was touched and the healing process begun when I saw the smiles on all the faces that were touched by mom’s love.   Believe it or not experience: I might mention that about a month after mom’s passing, I had a spiritual experience with an angel visiting my husband and me. I awoke to find a figure with a body, head without facial features and wings fluttering over my husband. The next morning, when I shared the experience with him, he said, “Oh NO, is she coming for me next?” I laughed and said I felt it was Mom visiting and making sure we were fine. The experience was very comforting for me and I have not had another experience since that date. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 71 : Vickie Devaney “Cardinal’s for Dad”   One of the things that my father enjoyed during his life was his beautiful red “cardinals.” He even had a room in their home dedicated to the birds. When he passed on in June 2004, that room provided us with a reminder of him and some comfort.   That summer, I was working in my backyard one day and there was a bird chirping in a tree nearby. Since we live in the country, I simply ignored it. But the bird would not give up. Finally I looked up and by darn, it was a cardinal. I said, “Oh my! Yes Dad, I’m doing just fine.” And off flew the cardinal. So, in my eyes, when I see a cardinal, it is my Dad checking in on me. My sister and I have so many cardinal experiences, and it is very comforting. To view Vickie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 72 : “Mom’s Angel” “Cardinal’s for Dad” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 73 : Angie Key Inspiration: When my parents divorced after 25 years of marriage, my world was thrown upside down. Through the anger and pain, I realized the perfect unfailing love of my heavenly Father. My relationship with God comforted me and filled me in new ways, allowing my healing to begin. To view Angie’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 75 : Karen Kneasel Inspiration: When I think back over my life and its series of complications, I see where God was guiding my life, even when I wasn’t aware that He was there. Even when things seemed their darkest…during the death of my parents, my divorce, all the medical issues, etc. He has given me so many blessings and gifts to use in order to praise Him. One of the gifts He has sent my way is the ability to cheer and comfort others by writing. I thank God for all the people and challenges He has brought into my life. To view Karen’s cards, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 78 : “Love Times With Jackson”   This exhibit contains cards I created for our first grandchild. Our son & his wife had lived only a few short blocks away from us when Jackson was born and we got to spend a lot of time with him. Needless to say...we were hooked. Then came the news they were moving…halfway between his job and her job in Philadelphia. It was like someone ripped out my heart…I missed him terribly. Every time we spent together was so special, especially when he would spend the weekend. After he left, I would design and send him a card to remind him of some of the things we had done, or a favorite song he liked me to sing when it was time to go to bed, or a particular book that he liked. It was my way of reminding him how much he was loved and how important our time together was. To view Karen’s cards, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 80 : Terry Kneasel Inspiration: Sitting here thinking about the past several years of my life, the changes that occurred since being diagnosed with MS and where God has put me today, simply amazes me. Little did I know that God had something special in mind for me, that day when my boss called me in the office and explained the disease that was affecting my balance was not only putting me in danger, but also my fellow employees. He was giving me some time to start checking my options. It was a day I will never forget. Leaving the office inwardly filled with rage…I had been a good employee; didn’t take off no matter how sick I was; did all the crap jobs when my work was caught up, just to make sure I was doing the best I could; why I gave them 16 years of my life for what? This? Even though my head knew that my body was getting the better of me on some days…I just couldn’t give in to the disease and felt as long as I was working, I was still someone. To give in and admit there was something wrong was more than I was willing to do. But God apparently had other ideas for me. Several happenings lead us to start attending The Bridge. One day I mentioned to someone about organizing my shop and they asked if I would be willing to help make birdhouses for the kids to decorate as “gingerbread houses.” After some initial hesitation, I agreed. (Never having done any woodworking I was extremely nervous about making something). After he left I wondered, “What have I done?” That’s when God opened up my eyes to a new world and gave me a knowledge of woodworking that never in my wildest dreams would I have believed possible. Sitting here looking at the list of projects that people have asked me to do and those that still need to be completed, I think back to my life before MS and realized it wasn’t much of a life. Everything was music, playing guitar for several bands, never thinking about the effect it had on my family. Coming to The Bridge has helped me get closer to God, I’ve made some great friends and it certainly has made a difference in my life and in the lives of those around me. I thank God for His very special gifts, even the MS. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 81 : Birdhouse   This was my very first wood project. We started attending The Bridge, and it happened that one of the men who worked at our Post Office also attended the Bridge. It was through him that I got involved in making the bird houses for the Bridge Kidz to decorate as gingerbread houses. In the past three years, I have constructed 190 of theses houses for the kids. It is one of my favorite things to do. I cut all the individual pieces for each house; then create an assembly line… arranging them in the order necessary to put each house together. The first two years the houses were assembled using a hammer and nails. This past year my family surprised me with a nail gun and air compressor so it really makes things go much easier. This is one project I hope to continue doing for years to come. To view Terry’s woodwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 84 : Bird Feeders   Since being home from work allowed me time to do things I had never done before, one of my favorite pastimes was to put out food to feed the birds (or squirrels depending on who got there first) and to watch them come and go. Apparently many others do this too. Numerous people asked me to design special bird feeders for them. Pictured are some of the results of their requests. To view Terry’s woodwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 86 : Birdhouse Bag Holder  My neighbor asked me to make her a board with a trio of tulips on it, so that she could hang her zip lock bags there to dry after she washed them. Since so many people are recycling things now, it seemed like a pretty good idea. She was so pleased that she requested two more for Christmas presents. I then decided to make the birdhouse one for my wife to use. Not only does it work to dry the bags, it saves money. Bolt Board A dear friend of mine is an Occupational Therapist and asked if I could create a board to be used to help her physically challenged kids learn hand & eye coordination. She told me what size board she needed along with the various sizes of the bolts, nuts and washers to be used, etc. These various sizes would help the kids to learn to recognize the sizes and the finger dexterity to put them together. Between the two of us, we created a special board for her special kids. It was another one of those projects that makes a person Thank God for his gifts. To view Terry’s woodwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 87 : Birdhouse Bag Holder Bolt Board Return to Table of Contents

Slide 88 : Wooden Boxes The boxes for match box cars and other Christmas presents for the Navajo Mission in New Mexico was another first time project for me. I had never worked with lumber this thin and it presented me with lots of new challenges. In fact, this was the first project that I used the nail gun on. The Bridge needed 40 of these 7” X 3” boxes made out of ¼” Poplar. What a joy it was for me, knowing how excited these kids would be opening these boxes and finding special surprises in each one.   After making these boxes for the kids, I decided to do something special for my wife for our 32nd anniversary using that same box pattern, only making it a little larger. I used two of the wooden hearts we had purchased for our house shutters and arranged them on the top of the box; finishing it off with a very special saying I came up with “32, only God knew” and using an arrangement suggested by a friend to put the saying into the shape of a cross.    Prayer Boxes My wife and I were attending a class on prayer. One of the fellow class people brought a prayer box to me and asked me if I could design something like it. She wanted to give one to each of the people in our class as a special gift to remember our time together. After checking out the sample box, I made some changes in the format and created the box here on display. She then took the boxes to her house and applied the finishing touches by staining them and decorating each one differently.   Another reminder that God is available always to handle whatever “problems” we think we have. To view Terry’s woodwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 89 : Wooden Boxes Prayer Boxes Return to Table of Contents

Slide 90 : Margery Kokal Inspiration:   Fortunately, or unfortunately, I have survived a number of accidents from broken legs, spinal fusion, to a broken neck, etc. While being in bed for six weeks with an elevated broken leg, I thought setting goals for me would be a great idea.  I then made one sweater per week for someone who needed it.  It was a win/win situation. Then, when my dear husband developed Alzheimer's, I was home most of the time, and that was when I began to make baskets. He would watch me and that was another win/win situation. I learned long ago that things happen for a reason.  Just because you have an accident (and they could all be worse), make the best of it. Accomplishing something positive during a negative situation speeds the recovery process, and you also have something tangible to show for the time you didn't waste. To view Margery’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 92 : Kris Kyler Inspiration:   I learned to knit when I was a little girl growing up in Pennsylvania's hard coal country.  Our neighbor, Betty Kull, had a corner knit shop where the girls from Ashland would gather.  Many of us had stressful childhoods, and the warmth and comfort of our knitted items were symbolic of the warmth and comfort we found in Betty's Knit Shop.  Over the years I have found comfort, peace, and contentment through the colors, textures, and patterns of knitting. To view Kris’ knitting, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 94 : Darlene Della Loggia Inspiration:   How the Lord Saved My Life When I was just a teen, I learned how to knit and crochet.  Little did I know at that time that the lord was preparing me for a time when it would save my life. I was assaulted on the job and was left pretty much unable to do anything. To this day my daily activities are very limited.  I just wanted to die.  I had no reason to live. I'd lost my ability to work, and could not even enjoy my favorite hobby of gardening.  People that I thought were my friends, disappeared from my life. My family thought I had gone crazy. Each day becomes a challenge as I deal with the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder resulting from the assault. As I sat alone on my couch, the Lord spoke to me, telling me, "I want you to live".  So for over 3 years now I have been knitting and crocheting a little at a time, as much as I am able.  Most of my work is given away, as praise to the Lord for giving me the gift of this art.  I still have bad days and sometimes very bad days.  But the Lord reminds me of his presence and his desire to want me to live.  The Bridge has allowed us to begin a group at my home for survivors of disabilities.  We meet every Monday at 2 PM.  I will be forever grateful to my God for giving me the opportunity to live and the chance to learn the art of knitting and crocheting. To view Darlene’s knitting, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 96 : Jim Malone Inspiration: Throughout my life during difficult times, I have been able to use my creative imagination through my artwork to help define visually my emotions and feelings. The paintings and sculptures that I have chosen for TGIF follow the theme of Addiction, Turmoil, Separation, Death, and the Journey to Hades. The sculpture of Jesus is my artistic interpretation of his pain and suffering as he was absorbing all mankind’s sins. Good Friday is a time to reflect on his forgiveness, grace and love. I believe this event will be able to help others in need to realize that there is salvation to their problems, which is through Jesus. To view Jim’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 97 : “Crashing Waves (Turmoil)” Return to Table of Contents (Oil on canvas, 1990)

Slide 98 : “Addiction” “Skull (Death)” Return to Table of Contents (Marblex Sculpture) (Painted Marblex Sculpture)

Slide 99 : “River Styx (Journey to Hades)” Return to Table of Contents (Oil on Wood Panel)

Slide 100 : “Separation” “Jesus” Return to Table of Contents (Marblex Sculpture) (Oil on canvas)

Slide 101 : Vera Martz Inspiration: I was a drug addict and alcoholic for 17 years until I was 33 years old. Then I went to college and got a job with the government. Where I worked on Alameda Inland in the Bay Area California they closed the command I was working in. My husband at that time was transferred to Pennsylvania. I had just moved to Pennsylvania away from all my family. My marriage was failing and I was alone with out family or friends to call on. I started a new job and was losing my husband at the same time. One day outside the front gate of where I worked I went into a vacuum store and there was a sign about quilting classes so I signed up. Between the fighting and drinking at home there was no peace for me. Once the classes started I was able to close myself into my sewing room and stay busy creating something I had always dreamed of. I was not very proud of my life and thought what will I be remembered for nothing. Then it came to me…I could make quilts for my children so they could remember me with love and pass them down. If it had not been for my 8 years of quilting classes I really don't know if I would have made it to having this beautiful life I have today. My marriage ended and the weight of the world was lifted. I wasn't allowed to go to church and visit with friends when I was married to my ex-husband. Today many years later I have many quilts and a new life here at the Bridge. I make quilts with many colors and sizes. I have wall hangings and queen size quilts and king size quilts. I have given some to my grand children and children. I cried when I made my first quilt because I could not believe that God gave me so much talent as to be able to quilt in the first place. To view Vera’s quilts, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 102 : “A Gift of Love” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 103 : Susan E. Momberger Inspiration: Creative expression has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. As a young girl I enjoyed making gifts for friends and family out of scraps of wood, yarn or fabric found around our house. To me it was more fun to create something out of scraps than to buy something at a store. Still today I can pick up an empty soda bottle and see a scoop for a game of bean bag toss.   When I was introduced to the art of making beaded jewelry a few years ago my creativity found a new outlet. Once I learned the basic techniques and bought the tools the flood gates were open. I enjoy creating unique, personal pieces of jewelry. I find getting to know the person I am designing for helps me to create one-of-a-kind pieces and explore different skills for myself. I particularly enjoy working on spiritual jewelry. When making a piece that someone is going to be wearing to express their beliefs I become intensely focused on my work. I often layout the design more than seven times before I feel like I have created the right piece of jewelry for my friend. Expressing myself in this art form allows me to show my friends how much I deeply care for them. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 104 : Susan E. Momberger “Dove Necklace” I created this piece as a birthday present for myself in 2008. I saw the dove in a store and immediately decided I needed it in my collection. The openness of the body, the upward turned head makes me think of looking up to the sky toward God and reminding me to trust him. It took a few months and some help from a very close friend before I decided what type of stones and beads I would use. Creating it came very easily, almost as though God was guiding my hand. It is my favorite piece and I wear it whenever I am feeling like I need a little extra support in my day. To view Susan’s jewelry, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 105 : “Dove Necklace” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 106 : Mindy Reichard Inspiration: My past 56 years have shared with me many difficult times. Probably the first real difficult time was when I had to go through my divorce. Since then I faced many other challenges like job loss to leaving my job. Finally, my latest challenge was when Greg and I lived through the Campbelltown 2004 Tornado. With all these occurrences I have learned how to look at life with a glass half full instead of always empty. Life is just getting better and so is my relationship with God! My creative expression began with reading and learning to do many survival skills as a single mother. I found I could do almost anything I put my mind to. It was also during this time I began to explore the emotional part of me and questioning what the difference was between men and women in my same position. Women do more networking where men do more physical work. I realized I had to find things I loved to do or wanted to love to do. I also lost my job and had to support my family. It was a struggle, but I found the entrepreneur person inside of me. Not only was this helpful during the years, but it has encouraged me to keep plugging away and not to job shop. Being the entrepreneur has really shaped me into taking more risks and trying more things. As I have grown from all these things and especially after the tornado, I am finding out more of what I can do and what I want to do. I am teaching myself acrylic painting after studying watercolors for 5 years. I love to landscape and garden, and Greg and I both have rebuilt our house with a touch of our own creativity, making it a lovely place to live. I finally feel confident enough to move on to bigger things, like starting a new business, Granny Bookworm and Booker, and selling my art pieces. I am in costume this evening and have a couple of my paintings displayed here. To view Mindy’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 110 : Lauren Rinaldi Inspiration: Lauren was troubled with a severe chronic problem of the colon that was eventually corrected surgically with the removal of her colon – the large intestine – at age 21 in March 2005. She has painted multiple paintings of the human body and each painting was inspired from her life experience. Many of her paintings hang in galleries in Philadelphia where she lives with her husband and one year old son. This painting resulted from chronic health problems with her colon. It was a gift to her Gastroenterologist who proudly displays it in his office in Hershey, Pennsylvania. To view Lauren’s artwork, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 111 : “Painting of Colon” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 112 : Heather Stuckey Inspiration: For over 25 years, I have been dealing with insulin dependent diabetes. Although some days, having diabetes isn’t so bad, there are other days when it feels overwhelming to have a chronic disease that I have to take care of for the rest of my life. At times like this, I like to write about what is going on, and how I am feeling, so that it can be released from me and onto the page. If I can just get my frustrations or my feelings onto paper, or the computer, or even in the sand, then I feel much better about living day to day with the disease. Having diabetes has also inspired me to help other people who have diabetes, through the use of photography and imagery. I am fortunate in my profession to be able to do research and teaching that helps other people understand what having diabetes means to them. The photos featured here were taken by patients with diabetes as part of a research study at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center. During the research, patients were asked to take photos of what it means to have a chronic illness, with four chosen to display today. To view these pictures, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 113 : FRIENDS Friends help you look at the bright side of having diabetes. FLOWER AND WEEDS Even though I want my illness to stay away, like the X of the flower, sometimes symptoms keep showing up, like the weeds in the garden. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 114 : DRY Sometimes living with chronic illness feels dry and it’s hard to find the source of water. Look to the spirit that guides you to the source. THE KEY The key to living well is a combination of self- management and hope for better days ahead. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 115 : Nance Welch Inspiration: Thinking back, I've lost a lot of people I cared about very early in life. My dad when I was nine, my son, almost five, in 1970, Timmy, the Wonder Dog just two years ago, and various other people, mostly through death, but some just went away. I keep people mostly at arm's length, possibly because of those losses. Most people who know me would probably dispute that 'arm's length' thing, but in reality, I do most everything alone. Well, with THESE guys! These are some pictures of my 'friends' who will never go away! They travel with me, and are wonderful companions! They're always happy, and we ALWAYS have a great time! They've been across the country with me, on a couple of cruises, to Canada, Mexico, Maine...and they particularly love the Outer Banks. To view Nance’s pictures, proceed to next page… Return to Table of Contents

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Slide 122 : Acoustic Stage The Artists and their Stories… Return to Table of Contents

Slide 123 : Jimmy Clisham “Welcome” and “Blasphemy” “Welcome” was written after coming to the end of living the junkie life (17 yrs.) and beginning a life of recovery. “Blasphemy” was written in the light (although sometimes it can feel dark) of realizing the truth that my whole life has been only a dream of the ego and the shock of seeing that it’s all been a lie. The “pain” of dying to self. Click to Play/Stop Song Rex Athey “Runaround”, “Cry In The Night/Joy In The Mourning”, “Phyllis” and “Neighbor” “Runaround” was from early college days – my struggle with new and original expression in music. “Cry In The Night/Joy In The Mourning” is an expression of my continual emotional turmoil, which cannot be expressed in words – only in music. “Phyllis” was written in 1985 after an attempt at trying to release what was inside and ending up extremely rejected by the native New Yorker by said name. “Neighbor” is a song written in 1998, which expressed my frustration and extreme depressive struggle with trying to be a neighbor to my new neighbors and the always bad or no timing. I have an alternate title now for this piece – “My Struggle With Autism” – when diagnosed in 2006, many pieces just fell into place, though the struggle is still as (if not more) intense. Click to Play/Stop Song Return to Table of Contents

Slide 124 : Wendy Crane “The Tears I Cry” I wrote this song for a friend who was going through a very difficult time. I felt such a deep connection with this person, as if the weight of their distress was carried upon my own heart. I realized the truth of “if one suffers, we all suffer.” When we go through the hard times, sometimes all we need are people who will sit with us, cry with us, and help carry our sorrows to the heart of God in prayer. “a river of passion flows • whose waters embody • the tears of God • and the tears of man • carrying the desires of heaven • and the pains of humanity • to a place of union” Click to Play/Stop Song Reese Crane “Not My Will (The Same Cup Song)” This song came out of time when I began to identify myself as different from the norm. When I was growing up, I felt out of place because I never gravitated towards sports or activities in which other families participated. Things were much different in my family, and so I grew up doing things a lot differently than most. I felt being different was a bad thing. And even today, many people consider my ways “unorthodox.” Then I realized that the people of Jesus’ day saw Him the same way. He came speaking a totally different “language” than the God they perceived. People, I’m sure, looked at Him strangely because he was so different. And so I could relate to Jesus in that way. He probably felt very alone at times, like a man without a country, as I felt many times. Jesus was thought to be crazy, too, hanging out with people that the religious leaders of the day would never dream of being close to lest they revile themselves and become unclean before God. And so I decided that more than anything, I wanted to be like Jesus, regardless of how “different” I seemed to others. He was so different. I am different. It’s ok. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 125 : Bob Jones “Chama River Canyon” and “Dine” (din-ay') I bought a Native American flute over twenty years ago after attending a performance while visiting the Cherokee Reservation in North Carolina. As hard as I tried, I could never produce anything that sounded even remotely like music. Eventually, the flute moved onto a shelf and then into a box at the back of the closet. An invitation last year to join other men from The Bridge on a mission trip to the Navajo Nation rekindled my interest in the flute. I attended a monthly meeting of the PA Native American Flute Circle and learned that my flute was poorly constructed and hopelessly out of tune. After replacing it with a new, locally-crafted instrument, I quickly learned that an untrained beginner like me could easily play simple music from the first day. (Continued on next page) Stacey Dee “2003” and “Learning to Love” 2003 was a rough year for me in many ways.  I was going through some marriage difficulties, had an extremely busy schedule running my own horse training/breeding/sales/showing business, and home schooling my 3 girls. In the midst of all that, my favorite and best horse died in a tragic accident at a horse show.  She was like one of the kids, and I went through a very deep mourning time after her loss.  So I was glad to say good-bye to that year, but yet there was a lot of growth that took place because of all the heartache – and that is the part I embrace.   “Learning to Love” came out of a time of questioning myself and my relationships – many of which were/are somewhat dysfunctional.  I realized that I didn't know what true love was, and this song was how I processed through that discovery. Click to Play/Stop Song Return to Table of Contents Click to Play/Stop Song

Slide 126 : Bob Jones "Chama River Canyon" is named for the wilderness area in New Mexico where I camped for three days with Navajo men and fellow travelers from The Bridge. "Dine", the name the Navajo use when referring to their own people, reminds me of the playful spirit I sensed in them as they teased each other and joked with us. I play my flute daily. Often it relaxes me. At other times it provides a way to explore and express strong feelings for which I have no words. I never trained as a musician. I never learned to read music. Most of my playing is improvisational. I find myself reaching for my flute when I am happy or sad, lonely, angry or bored. It has become another voice by which I can communicate to others and with myself. Skylar Neal “When All Hope Is Lost” My aunt was very close to me, as well as my cousins. She had just been through a divorce and moved into an old Hershey home, which was closer to me. So every weekend my brother and I would spend the night there. She eventually met someone through an online dating service and before we knew it, she moved miles away and our relationship was severed. I lost all contact with her and my cousins, which was very painful to me. Therefore, when I write my songs, it gives me a chance to release my feelings about all of it. It also helps me calm down and try to think of positive things. If this hardship had not happened, I would not be writing the songs that I do today. I would not have the courage to stand on the stage and sing. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 127 : Johnny Ramos “I Couldn’t Sleep Last Night” and “It’s All About Things” “I Couldn’t Sleep Last Night” is a song about a guy who’s been dating a girl for a long time and can’t even say I love you… until he finally decides to say it and proposes marriage. “It’s All About Things” is about one of my employees who always complains about everything in her life – it’s a funny song. Julie Nevel “Merciful & Mighty” and “Covered in Quiet” The chorus of “Merciful & Mighty” came to me while I was processing a situation where I was really hurt by a friend.  I didn't really understand what had gone wrong and just felt hurt and alone.  I was at a youth church camp to lead worship for the week, praying and singing at my keyboard alone one afternoon, and God reminded me that He's there when we need His gentle mercy and also when we need His mighty power. He is so many things to and for us, all at the same time.  Playing it over and over was a balm to my soul. “Covered in Quiet” came from a combination of emotions, feelings and experiences, and things that sometimes go unsaid.  It has been another song that has been comforting in times of dealing with lost love. Return to Table of Contents

Slide 128 : “Communion” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 129 : “Art Participation Wall” Return to Table of Contents

Slide 130 : Return to Table of Contents We meet Sundays at 10:00 am at the Lower Dauphin Middle School (251 Quarry Road, Hummelstown), located off the Hummelstown/Middletown Exit of Rt. 322. Visit for more info Or phone (717) 566-6578. www.thebridgeonline.com