Beautiful Dreamer

So The Buried Life, MTV's newest reality show, has captivated me. in case you are unaware of this new slice of reality life, allow me to fill you in: four cute and wonderfully charming boys have set off across the country in a large purple bus (appropriatly named Penelope) and are set to cross off items on their "bucket list", that is, the list of things they would like to do before they die. The desires most people have buried deep inside. For every item they cross off their list, they help a stranger cross off something on theirs. Every show ends with the question, "What would you like to do before you die." and so this has made me do some thinking. now, i have had my own "bucket list" in the works for quite some time. At this point, it is close to 40 items long and i am continually adding to that number. It spans everything from learning how to surf, to traveling to various countries, to writing a song. However, as i was driving in the car today, i thought, 'if i could only pick one thing, what would it be? what would i like to leave behind? how would i like to effect the world i live in?" and i was struck with and idea.

what is this o-so-wonderful idea, you ask? Before i die, i would like to open up a coffee house dedicated to fostering Christian artists. the decor would be inspired by the various cultures i have visited, insisting that all are welcome, no matter their background. It would be a place where writers, actors, musicians, photographers, artists and the like could come together as a support group and cultivate art. We would have open mic nights, poetry readings, art showings, staged readings, scheduled music performances. there would also be small groups/ bible studies available in the evenings. Maybe even a worship night or two. It would be a safe place for a Christian artist to try out their Christian work, knowing that there is a group of supportive brothers and sisters sitting in the audience before them, praying them on. It would act as a refuge after a tiring battle in the artists' world. A place filled with vintage tables and comfy chairs, where you could get a cup of coffee and some biscotti, enjoy some music that lifts you up as opposed to challenging everything you hold dear.

now, dont get me wrong. As artists, it is important that we immerse ourselves in challenges. it is important that we enter the world we disagree with and fight for our beliefs, no matter our politcal or spiritual leanings. but sometimes it is nice to have a place to come home to. a place to recharge our batteries and rekindle the fire. As an artist, i would love some good old fashioned christian fellowship with other artists, and that is what this coffee shop would be all about.

Of course, everyone would be welcome, no matter your beliefs. we would welcome you with warm hearts, just glad that you came in for a cup-o-joe this beautiful afternoon. In fact, please do come in. we would love to answer any questions you may have about our mission, and accept any challenges you may offer. im just glad to have met you.

the name of my cafe? Selah. the most beautiful name in the world. While there are many discrepancies to its exact meaning, most agree that it is a Hebrew term used in music. it is frequently found in the psalms and indicates an interlude where the people were to look back and reflect on what had just been sung. Scholars also believe that it may mean forever, or eternal, just like our God, and His love for us. That is exactly what my cafe is for. Let us gather together, one body in Christ, and create art. something new, original and captivating. something that reflects on the almighty glory of our God above. My savior, my father, my friend. Let us shout together as our joy spills our of our hearts and onto the pages, the walls, the tables and chairs of my little cafe. our little cafe. artists united in Christ.

Everyday we have is a gift from God. how will you use it? what is your buried life?