Category: Nonfiction

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Coffee and Contemplation: National Violin Day

I have always had the ambition of learning to play the violin. One day, I intend to buy one and learn to play. It’s low on my list or priorities at the moment but the dream hasn’t died. It’s a versatile instrument and transcends multiple musical genres from classical to hip hop to rock. It makes some cool sounds too. My desire to learn this instrument may have come from my interest in Sherlock Holmes. I also have a love for music and want to learn more about creating it. I did take a beginning piano class once but never pursued it further.

The earliest fiddlers were believed to be Turkic and Mongolian horseman. They played two-string upright fiddles using horsehair strings and bows. Even today, the bows are still made with horsehair. I’m curious how they obtain the horsehair and if the horse gives their consent. Violins haven’t changed too much since the 16th century although now we have electric violins which make different sounds. One day I’ll have time to focus on my musical desires and endeavors but for now, I’ll stick with writing the words. Is there any instrument you’ve always wanted to learn? Or do you already play an instrument?

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Spiritual Literacy Month

December is Spiritual Literacy Month. What does this mean? The goal is to read one or more books about spirituality, faith, or religion. The observance was conceived to show respect to all beliefs by encouraging people to read spiritual texts from other faiths. It’s possible to be spiritual without being religious. Being spiritual means believing in a higher power without following the doctrine of any organized religion. I don’t identify with any religion. If I did, the closest one to my personal beliefs is Buddhism. I also believe Buddhism is a spiritual practice rather than a religion, but that’s my opinion.

Several years ago, I was ordained through the Universal Life Church. Many people become ordained to officiate weddings and ceremonies. This was not my goal. I wanted to further my spiritual understanding of myself. I use it as a reminder to continue pursuing a path of positivity and acceptance. I still have a long way to go on that journey. I encourage everyone to learn about another religion different from their own. Don’t listen to other’s opinions, read the information at the source. You may find that your religion is similar to many others. You may discover that all religions preach the same message.

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Wacky Wednesday: December 9

Today isn’t filled with the usual amount of wackiness. That doesn’t we can’t make a little wackier on our own. We still have many old English insults to go through for our wacky words. First is Gnashgab. This is an 18th century northern English word for someone who only ever complains. We’ve all met someone like that. For a short time, I was someone like that. I’m better now. Our next word is Gobermouch. This is an old Irish word for a nosy, prying person who likes to interfere in other people’s business. I think I used to be like that too…

We only have a couple holidays to celebrate today. First, we have National Pastry Day. Pastry is a name given to a multitude of baked goods. They are most often made with ingredients such as flour, sugar, milk, butter, shortening, baking powder, and eggs. Pastries can be traced as far back as the ancient Mediterranean. Our final holiday today is Weary Willie Day. This day recognizes the art of clowning and the impact it has on our lives. This holiday was named for the character made famous by Emmett Kelly, who was born on this day in 1898. He was the first sad, down-on-his-luck clown or as I like to call it, the Hobo Clown.

So, get yourself a pastry from your favorite bakery, give some change to that Hobo Clown in your lives, and avoid the Gnashgabs and Gobermouches. Go make someone’s day a little wackier.