It's About The Soul!: Part 07 of The Drummer's Almanac

My good buddy Swanger came over last night and played some music for my wife and me. We had a really good time and great conversation.

I told him about going to a drum clinic and it was fun. He said, "You like technical drumming, don't you?" My response was, "I like subtlety better then technical." He said, "But everytime we talk about drumming, you talk about technical things." I didn't want him to be right, but it seems that is how I have come across to people.

This conversation made me think about my drumming and how I approach musical situations. I used to be into the technical side of music, but lately, I'm finding that I like music to be fluid and dynamic. I like ups and downs and a groove with a deep pocket. It also made me think about how people may perceive me as a player.

I think Swanger was right about how I used to look at drumming. I don't think I look at it that way anymore because I want to be able to let go in my worship and not focus so much on my playing. I like to be able to sing and play and experience worship. Because I only get to play music on the worship team, I sometimes get more technical because I like to push myself and give my best to the Lord. I just make sure that it doesn't step on my team's toes or make worship seem awkward.

I would rather my playing be about my soul than about my physical skills. I don't want to be known for having great technique, but for expressing myself freely to the Lord and fitting the musical situation.

Honored and Blessed

Hello again.

I went to the hospital last week to visit my cousin who just had a baby. She and her husband were there having their celebration dinner, the hospital provides, when I showed up with some clothes for their newborn son.

They were happy to see me and right away sprung a question on me that excited and scared me at the same time. They asked me if I would do the honor of facilitating their wedding ceremony.

I am no ordained minister or pastor. I have no experience with this kind of thing, yet they asked me to do it. I don't see myself doing this or that others would either. (Low self-esteem issues)

They are already married, so I don't have to worry about legal issues. Yet, that doesn't help me not feel a little anxiety. What I also feel is peace about it which assures me that God is in it.

So, I said, "yes."

I am very honored and blessed that they thought of me to do this for them. They said they aren't affiliated with a church and don't know any pastors, so I was the next one in line. It just goes to show that you never know when people are watching you or what people are thinking about you.

So, I talked with my pastor about this and he asked me if they want God to bless their union. I need to talk with them and iron out the details. My pastor is going to help me format the ceremony which is very encouraging and my cousin said they want it nice and laid back.

What a blessing this will be!