"Mercy"

"A hot dog, listening to some "Mercy" blues"

NOT to long ago, I posted a quote from Charles Swindoll ( and I paraphrase) "that 10% is what happens in life and 90% is how you respond." SO what do you do when your air conditioning goes out the day before record heat waves of 109? Sing the blues? Or better yet go listen to a long time friend sing them?

We have some wonderful vineyards and wineries here in Oregon. On these hot summer evenings they offer a venue of wonderfully gifted musicians and vocalists. My long time friend Lynda sent me a little note when her band was playing "............come see meeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!Lynda" When it comes to hearing Lynda sing you don't have to twist my arm!

I remember the first time I heard my friend sing. My husband (then boyfriend 24 years ago) went to church and the young lady I sat next to was Lynda. Her eyes were closed and her heart seemed obviously engaged, worshipping her maker with every sweet note. I on the other hand, was listening to her in amazement! Okay, no judging now ;)

Lynda has been gifted with a voice that IF velvety dark chocolate could make a sound, it would sound like her. She has a voice that could kick some American Idol backside! She has sang with some of the very best vocalists and has been accompanied by extremely talented musicians. But the thing I admire THE most about my friend is her love for God, her humble heart and her wonderful sense of humor!

A few years back, there was a benefit concert for a young woman diagnosed with a rare cancer. Four women were put together to sing that night, as one of several bands to help raise money for the medical bills. Lynda was placed along the sides of 2 very well trained, gifted vocalists and ONE marginal so-so "want to be" singer.

This left such a lasting impression on me. While it was obvious that the caliber of vocalists were "mismatched" shall we say? Lynda didn't think twice about teaming up for the cause. She joyfully coached and encouraged each one of us. She definitely raised the bar, but she was willing to help you reach that bar as best as YOU could. She didn't look down on those who didn't have her ability. She didn't play diva or snobbishly criticize. Lynda was there to serve Christ. She reflected His attitude, encouragement and His love in a very generous manner.

The concert went very well with a full house of people to support the young lady.

The young woman who had cancer is now in remission, happily married and has started a family .

The air conditioner has to be fully ripped out and replaced $$$$........NOW I'm singing the blues!

The so-so marginal singer, has learned so much from my friend. Lynda, you have touched my heart in a way I'll never forget. I am very blessed to know you and call you my friend.

Friends, take time to encourage someone. No personal agendas or strings attached, just give of your heart and serve Him generously. Reflect His love and you just never know how you will impact someones life.

Here are a few pictures of my friend's band "Mercy" singing at a local vineyard. It was a little dark in there and I didn't want to use a flash.......so they are kind of blurred.

Love ya friends!!! Anni