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The Pilot Who Soared on Eagle's Wings

January 20, 2012

(In memory of my father, Thomas M. Gilbert, Jr.)

My dad served 26 years in the United States Air Force. He loved to fly! He often remarked that he couldn't believe his good fortune at being paid to do it for so many years.

Dad also had a strong faith, but it came after many years of seeking and as a result of some significant spiritual experiences. One of his favorite Bible verses comes from Isaiah 40:31, "those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles". That verse really spoke to him. I can only imagine what it must have been like to soar through the clouds at twice the speed of sound in a big bomber jet.

Dad passed away a few days ago on January 14, 2012. He'd been sick and in and out of the hospital the past few months. It became clearer to family that his time on earth was nearing an end. My sister, Leslie, lives in Kansas City and so was able to keep tabs on Dad and let us know how things were going. Brother Doug in Virginia and I in Albuquerque made the wise decision in November to book a flight to visit. We chose the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend. It would give us a three day weekend and seemed like good timing. We had no idea just how good the timing would be!

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New Mexico - Looking Good for a Hundred!

January 5, 2011

Tomorrow we get a new Centenarian as New Mexico celebrates 100 years of statehood. The state became a US Territory in 1848, but it didn't get statehood until 1912. There is a lot of history behind that. New Mexico is known as the "Land of Enchantment" and it certainly has been that for me. I first moved to Albuquerque in 1979 and left 8 years later. I returned in 1997 and this has been my home ever since.

New Mexico is rich in culture (Hispanic, Native American, Mexican and early Americans) with colorful stories about conquistadors, pueblo Indians, wild west outlaws (remember Billy the Kid?) and many artists (Georgia O'Keeffe among them). The state has a beautiful and varied geography and amazing skies. Plus, we have chile - red and green flow through our veins!

The official website for all things related to New Mexico's Centennial is www.nmcentennial.org. It's interesting to explore. Just today I was sharing with my 7th grade social studies class the story of the 47 stars American Flag. Find out why it was an unofficial official stars and stripes - here.

Writing with Heart, Honesty and Skill

December 30, 2011

 What we get down in writing can be painful, like child birth (I suppose - what do I know? I'm a man). But it also can flow like a mountain stream, tripping and giggling over stones and branches.

When people try to write about their lives I've noticed many freeze up or close down. The mistake that is perhaps made is the expectation you must produce in your first draft brilliance, insight and pathos. Hey, some of that may spring forth, but don't be too harsh of a critic. First drafts should be written rapidly with little attention paid to your inner critic. Just let it come out.

Over time your writing will improve. And if you have a voice that is articulate and creative what you will write will sing, soar and contain passion. If you are honest, yet tactful, heartfelt and disciplined, the words you produce will have weight. Others will drink them up and appreciate your insight and feed on it for their own soul searching.

I read a couple of postings today by fellow life writers who possess the skill and the heart to write honestly, fearlessly and generously. Sharon Lippincott (The Heart and Craft of Life Writing) reflected on dancing and writing and how embarrasment mustn't stop you from doing what you love (here). Sarah White (True Stories Well Told) posted about her family in 1973, how their camping excursions were coming to an end as the teenage children faced their futures amidst their father's personal demons (here).

We write to tell others (and ourselves) about life. Our lives and the meaning among the mingling with the lives of others. It's a varied and endlessly fascinating tapestry. When you sit down to write be willing to face your fears, sing your song and tell your tale. It may free you in a way you've never experienced.

A Bit About the Obit (Obituary)

December 29, 2011

One of the harder things to do is prepare for the passing of a family member/loved one. Sometimes you see it coming and that can make it easier. At least you have time.

If it is sudden it that makes it tougher.

Preparation meeting opportunity has sometimes been described as "luck".

If you are the one in the family charged with gathering what would be in a loved one's obituary it is a good idea to prepare ahead of time. You don't have to sit down today and write it, but it isn't a bad idea to have some of the information saved and ready as well as an understanding of what goes into an obituary and how you might want to present it.

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