Day Seven

Day Six

Day Five

Day Four

Day Three

Day Two

Day One

Times Like These

Not a lot to say about this one, based on the Foo Fighters song.  We all probably need to learn to love again, to give again, and to live again.  If you are anything like me, we also need to learn it again and again too.  Many things can put us in those places, be it work, health, relationships with each other or God. 

The good thing is that God is the God of second chances, especially in Times Like These...

I am a one way motorway
I’m the one that drives away
Then follows you back home
I am a street light shining
I’m a wild light blinding bright
Burning off alone

It’s times like these you learn to live again
It’s times like these you give and give again
It’s times like these you learn to love again
It’s times like these time and time again

I am a new day rising
I’m a brand new sky
To hang the stars upon tonight
I am a little divided
Do I stay or run away
And leave it all behind?

It’s times like these you learn to live again
It’s times like these you give and give again
It’s times like these you learn to love again
It’s times like these time and time again

Yet another one based on a song by The Specials.  Again this song to me summed the time when it was written in the 1980's, but is also apt now.  Reference is made about living life without meaning, of talking without thinking, of walking the same old streets, and doing the same old stuff, over and over again. 

This is an all to easy a trap to fall into, just existing without living.  Why should I try to change my circumstances, when I do not feel there is a way out?  Why should I try to stand up for injustice, when who will listen to my voice?  Why should I try to do the best I can, when no one notices me at all?

We should all show more respect to those around us, and maybe become less self centred at the same time.  If we believe that by doing the best we can in all that we do, and by standing up for injustice, we are honouring God, then it starts to make sense.  It can be easier said than done at times, as circumstances can be trying, but by clinging onto the truth that it is God in control in the end, should make it easier to do.  There should not really be the option to Do Nothing...

Do Nothing

Lynval Golding

Each Day I walk along this lonely street
Trying to find, find a future
New pair of shoes are on my feet
Cos' fashion is my only culture

Nothing ever change, oh no
Nothing ever change

People say to me just be yourself
It makes no sense to follow fashion
How could I be anybody else
I don't try, I've got no reason

Nothing ever change, oh no
Nothing ever change

I'm just living in a life without meaning
I walk and walk, do nothing
I'm just living in a life without feeling
I talk and talk, say nothing

Nothing ever change, oh no
Nothing ever change

I walk along this same old lonely street
Still trying to find, find a reason
Policeman comes and smacks me in the teeth
I don't complain, it's not my function

Nothing ever change, oh no
Nothing ever change

They're just living in a life without meaning
I walk and walk, do nothing
They're just playing in a life without thinking
They talk and talk, say nothing
I'm just living in a life without feeling
I walk and walk, I'm dreaming
I'm just living in a life without feeling
I talk and talk, say nothing
I'm just living in a life without meaning
I walk and walk, do nothing

This one is based on a song by The Specials, who are an excellent band in my opinion.  Their lyrics and haunting music helped to define a generation and time in the 1980's.  I was lucky enough to see them last month on their current tour, when they played Cheltenham.

Typing this on 11/11/11 makes me read into this probably far more than was originally intended.  I am not sure at what the lyrics were aimed, but you can read in both bullying and racism.  Both of these are intolerable and we should stand against them.  I think they can also be seen as a rage against the repeated troubles, of all kinds, in the world.  The world keeps on changing, but the problems appear to remain the same.  There are still race relations issues now, as there were when the song came out, and there has been forever.  There are still bullies that will put you down for no reason, as there has been for thousands of years.  Opinions will always differ from person to person, respect is what is needed not hatred.

In my opinion there is only one person that can make it alright, that being God.  It will not necessarily happen in this life, but most definitely will in the next.  That is the only hope I can cling to at times.

Enjoy the song...

Doesn't Make It Alright

D Goldberg / Jerry Dammers

Just because you're nobody
It doesn't mean that you're no good
Just because there's a reason
It doesn't mean it's understood

It doesn't make it alright
It doesn't make it alright
It's the worst excuse in the world
And it, it doesn't make it alright

Some people think they're really clever
To smash your head against the wall
Then they say "you got it my way"
They really think they know it all

It doesn't make it alright
It doesn't make it alright
It's the worst excuse in the world
And it, it doesn't make it alright

Just because you're a black boy
Just because you're a white
It doesn't mean you've got to hate him
It doesn't mean you've got to fight

It doesn't make it alright
It doesn't make it alright
It's the worst excuse in the world
And it, it doesn't make it alright

In Memorium

We Will Remember Them

Just come accross this post from 2008, still valid today, so a re-post for this significant date.

In this day and age it is not "cool" to observe Remembrance Day. To me, that way of thinking is a load of cobblers. By remembering the sacrifice of those who have given their lives for our freedom, we are not celebrating war and death themselves. To me the act of remembrance is something that I have observed for as long as I can remember. The church I attended as a child, held the town's official service, and now as an adult, I still try to have a time of reflection at 11am on 11th November. It is not just remembering history, but the ongoing situations around the world. I am fortunate, in that I have not lost anyone directly to war, but I am still grateful for those who have defended the liberty of this country.

In my opinion, a greater sacrifice was that made by God, the giving of his only son, Jesus, for the freedom of all mankind. The shame is that not everyone has accepted this gift.

Years ago I bought the book Up the line to death, which is a collection of war poems from 1914-1918. The one that always gets me is by E.A.Mackintosh, who was killed in action in 1916. It is called In Memoriam, and is dedicated to Private David Sutherland, who was killed in action on May 16th 1916, and others who died.

In Memoriam

So you were David's father,
And he was your only son,
And the new-cut peats are rotting
And the work is left undone,
Because of an old man weeping,
Just an old man in pain,
For David, his son David,
That will not come again.

Oh, the letters he wrote you,
And I can see them still,
Not a word of the fighting
But just the sheep on the hill
And how you should get the crops in
Ere the year get stormier,
And the Bosches have got his body,
And I was his officer.

You were only David's father,
But I had fifty sons
When we went up in the evening
Under the arch of the guns,
And we came back at twilight -
O God! I heard them call
To me for help and pity
That could not help at all.

Oh, never will I forget you,
My men that trusted me,
More my sons than your fathers',
For they could only see
The little helpless babies
And the young men in their pride,
They could not see you dying,
And hold you while you died.

Happy and young and gallant,
They saw their first-born go,
But not he strong limbs broken
And the beautiful men bought low,
The piteous writhing bodies,
They screamed "Don't leave me, Sir,"
For they were only your fathers
But I was your officer.


I for one, will continue to remember them for the rest of my life.

CORNWALL 2011 (3)

A lot of driving on the penultimate day, starting of at Wheal Peevor.  This is a site of an old mine, which could be seen from the guest house across the hills.  It is a few miles south of Redruth.  Most of the buildings are semi derelict as you would expect.  It is not a pay attraction, though there are very good information panels around the site.  The site also gives the impression of being a nature reserve as well.

From there we then drove to just outside Newquay to visit Trerice House.  This Elizabethan house is set within some amazing countryside.  The house itself is National Trust run, and as you would expect is well looked after.  The boys were able to dress up in soldiers garb of the period.  The gardens too were good to look at, and included a lawn version of the Cornish version of skittles.

A drive back down, past Wheal Peevor to Godrevey was my choice, the others wanted to go back to Fistral Beach.  They let me off, when we spotted that the seals were on their secluded beach there.  There must have been over 20 adults and at least 3 pups.  A truly amazing sight.

The last day saw a long drive home, including yet another visit to the Eden Project on the way. We also stopped in a totally forgettable village on the Devon border, to try to find a beach.  Tide was in, but pleasant enough. Can not remember where this was though, and would not hurry back, so it's probably just as well.

In case anyone is interested, the places we chose to eat in the evenings were:

Hayle - Pizza Patio x3
Redruth - Inn For All Seasons x2
Hayle - Dan's Plaice x1
Redruth - Morrish Fish & Chip Restaurant

CORNWALL 2011 (2)

The Saturday morning saw us heading off to different places.  We dropped my lovely wife off at The Lost Gardens of Helligan, which she explored, and then picked her up again some hours later.  Apparently a good garden to visit.

I took the boys into Mevagissey.  We went mainly to visit the World of Model Railways, but to be hones we found this very disappointing.  It was a pay attraction, but the two other places we saw were both free, and we would have willingly paid at both.  The Aquarium is sited within the old lifeboat house.  It displays fish which would be found off the Cornish coast.  The small town museum was also a fascinating visit.

The day was rounded off with a return visit to Fistral Beach in Newquay.

Sunday saw us driving down to Falmouth to visit the excellent Pendennis Castle.  This castle has been in the forefront of defending the Cornish coast from the days of Henry VIII through to World War 2.  There is lots to see here, and the history is laid out in an easily understood way.

The day ended with yet another trip to Fistral Beach.

Monday was spent in the other direction completely.  About 10 miles north of Lands End you will find Geevor Tin Mine.  It was one of the three most famous mines in the Cornish tin mining industry.  Part of the site has been preserved as it was when nearly shut in 1986.  This is a poignant part of the visit for me, as the mine manager's office is very similar to my father's office from the same period, when he died.  There is the chance to go on an underground tour too.

The beach this day involved a return visit to Godrevey.

CORNWALL 2011 (1)

Earlier this month we had yet another great family holiday for a week in Cornwall. We stayed in a small village called Wheal Rose just outside Redruth. The Goonearl Cottage Guest House was an ideal place for a base. Amazing breakfasts, with most of the produce from the immediate locality. The family suite was the best we have encountered, with two large rooms and spacious bathroom.

On the way down we stopped off at the Eden Project again.  This place never ceases to amaze all of us, as each time you visit something is different.  The only slight downside, was the new viewing platform being closed due to high temperatures and humidity.

Our first full day there was spent up in Newquay, about 20 miles north of where we stayed.  The afternoon was spent on the vast expanse of Fistral Beach, enjoying the sand, safe bathing, and rock pools.  The morning was spent looking round Newquay Zoo.  This is yet another good example of a small zoo which clearly looks after their animals.  There is no cramping of space, with all creatures having plenty of space and enrichment.  My personal favourites here were the Eurasian Lynx and the Fossa.

The second day was spent west of base, in fact the morning was as far west as we could go, Lands End.  We ignored the tourist themed areas, and after finding the memorial stone to the four boys from Stoke Poges who drowned there in 1985, one of whom was known to me, we went on a walk.  We walked down to Sennen Cove and back.  For a while the lifeboat at Sennen Cove was named The Lost Boys and was partly funded by a sponsored walk from Stoke Poges to Lands End.

The afternoon was spent at Godreavy beach just east of Hayle.  The point is one end of St.Ives Bay which includes three miles of sandy beaches.  The north side of the point has rocky coves a long way down, which are home to seals.  Again hours of fun playing on the beach and rock pooling.

City Of Hope

Following on from the Vigilante post, this is another offering for uncertain times. I have no idea whatsoever as to whether the author of these words is a Christian or not, but to me the lyrics convey a lot of what many people are thinking or hoping for at the moment. 
I too am praying that God will shine His light into our world a bit brighter at present, and give people reason to re-believe, both in Him and in hope for their cities.

The song is performed by the band Journey.

People waiting for some kind of sign from above,
Lost in the shadows of doubt, need a message of love,
Nothing is certain in uncertain times,
Hard to see beyond the greed and the crime,
Oh, the faithful refuse to give up,
Homeless and hungry survive just enough,
Learn to smile through it all,
They are blessed from above

Never stop believin,
Change will come

There's a city of hope beyond our fears,
Where miracles happen,
Where truth can be heard,
Don't you wanna go to the city of hope

On the edge of the world, across oceans of blue,
It's a place where a dream has a chance to come true,
Don't be fooled by illusions, or falling from grace,
Make your own destiny
Find your own place,
Where the streets beat the last things of trouble over own play

Never stop believ'n,
Change will come

There's a city of hope beyond our fears,
Where miracles happen,
Where truth can be heard,
Don't you wanna go to the city of hope

Founded on faith,
Connecting us all,
A network of love to answer the call,
Yeah, that's where I am from
The city of hope

I hear them whisper, "Sendin a prayer,"
A cry to the spirit where they no longer wonder

Never stop believin,
Change will come

There's a city of hope beyond our fears,
Where miracles happen,
Where truth can be heard,
Don't you wanna go to the city of hope

Psalm 33

Psalm 33

1 Let the godly sing for joy to the Lord;
it is fitting for the pure to praise him.
2 Praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre;
make music for him on the ten-stringed harp.
3 Sing a new song of praise to him;
play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.
4 For the word of the Lord holds true,
and we can trust everything he does.
5 He loves whatever is just and good;
the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.

6 The Lord merely spoke,
and the heavens were created.
He breathed the word,
and all the stars were born.
7 He assigned the sea its boundaries
and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.
8 Let the whole world fear the Lord,
and let everyone stand in awe of him.
9 For when he spoke, the world began!
It appeared at his command.

10 The Lord frustrates the plans of the nations
and thwarts all their schemes.
11 But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever;
his intentions can never be shaken.

12 What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord,
whose people he has chosen as his inheritance.

13 The Lord looks down from heaven
and sees the whole human race.
14 From his throne he observes
all who live on the earth.
15 He made their hearts,
so he understands everything they do.
16 The best-equipped army cannot save a king,
nor is great strength enough to save a warrior.
17 Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—
for all its strength, it cannot save you.

18 But the Lord watches over those who fear him,
those who rely on his unfailing love.
19 He rescues them from death
and keeps them alive in times of famine.

20 We put our hope in the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord,
for our hope is in you alone.

Vigilante

At the time of writing this there is much talk of vigilante groups defending their neighbourhoods from the threat of attack by groups of rioters. I am not going to go into the rights or wrongs of what the rioters claim to be their grievances, but in my mind they are outweighed by sheer criminality.

The song Vigilante was recorded by Magnum, as seems to be apt at the moment, which is why I am posting on it.

I personally believe though, that we should not be looking for a vigilante to act on our behalf, but that we should leave it to God on the day of judgement.

Racing in the shadows pounding of the feet
While the old men get to praying
And the children try to sleep
Just another promise they don't really care
'Cause the movement on the borders
Got the people running scared
Standing on the corner never got things done
If you leave your front door open
You'll be the foolish one
No misunderstanding no honour among thieves
It's a sorry situation
When a gun is all you need
Go call the vigilante
He'll turn this place upside down
Go call the vigilante
He don't get kicked around
Hold on there's a new way a comin'
Looks like it's arriving tonight
There's no more hiding or running
There's no more walking on ice
Racing in the shadows pounding of the feet
While the old men get to praying
And the children try to sleep
Just another promise they don't really care
'Cause the movement on the borders
Got the people running scared
Go call the vigilante
He'll turn this place upside down
Go call the vigilante
He don't get kicked around
Hold on there's a new way a comin'
Looks like it's arriving tonight
There's no more hiding or running
There's no more walking on ice
Hold on there's a new way a comin'
Looks like it's arriving tonight
There's no more hiding or running
There's no more walking on ice
Hold on there's a new way a comin'
Looks like it's arriving tonight
There's no more hiding or running
There's no more walking on ice
Vigilante vigilante man
Vigilante call the vigilante man

I Refuse

I Refuse is a song by Josh Wilson with very challenging lyrics. I think that most of us would aspire to the sentiments contained in them, though they are by far easier to say than to act out.

I just pray that God will melt our hearts to refuse to just pay "lip service" to the problems around us.

I Refuse lyrics
Songwriters: Benjamin Glover;Joshua David Wilson

Sometimes I
I just want to close my eyes
And act like everyone's alright
When I know they're not

This world needs God
But it's easier to stand and watch
I could say a prayer and just move on
Like nothing's wrong

But I refuse
'Cause I don't want to live like I don't care
I don't want to say another empty prayer
Oh, I refuse

To sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse

I can hear the least of these
Crying out so desperately
And I know we are the hands and feet
Of You, oh God

So, if You say move
It's time for me to follow through
And do what I was made to do
Show them who You are

'Cause I don't want to live like I don't care
I don't want to say another empty prayer
Oh, I refuse

To sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse

To stand and watch the weary and lost
Cry out for help
I refuse to turn my back
And try and act like all is well

I refuse to stay unchanged
To wait another day, to die to myself
I refuse to make one more excuse

'Cause I don't want to live like I don't care
I don't want to say another empty prayer
Oh, I refuse

To sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse

I refuse
I refuse

Wild Angels

Magnum are a band I have heard of for years, but to my shame never really given much of a listen to. I am in the process of changing this. Wild Angels is a recent single, which had quite a bit of airplay on Planet Rock earlier this year.

I would not pretend to know what the lyrics are about, and do not want to make a guess either. I find the song to be both catchy and singable.

Like a lot of songs there does appear to be a sense of longing, or searching within the lyrics. We all are searching for something to satisfy that inner yearning. For me it is my Christian faith that sustains in the time of trouble, or bewilderment.

Enjoy what I think is a truly cracking song, the clip below was recorded in Southampton in April this year.

Nobody's leaving this world tonight
The way I'm feeling, we'll be all right
So many people, going nowhere
The poor forsaken, nobody cares

I wonder what you're thinking
I don't know where you are
Can't stop my heart from sinking
Before it gets too far

Wild angels in the sky, baby
Diamonds fall like rain
Nobody told you why, baby
Isn't that a shame?

The room is empty, the city sleeps
We pass by gently, and shadows creep
But come tomorrow, there's no relief
And I'm still looking in disbelief

I wonder what you're thinking
I don't know where you are
Can't stop my heart from sinking
Before it gets too far

Wild angels in the sky, baby
Thunder in the air
Don't let it make you cry, baby
You won't have a prayer

Something out of nothing, tell me if I'm right
Stranded here forever, take me home tonight
Maybe let it happen, keep it in your mind
Maybe there's no answer, don't get left behind

Wild angels in the sky, baby
Diamonds fall like rain
Nobody told you why, baby
Isn't that a shame?

Wild angels in the sky, baby
Thunder in the air
Don't let it make you cry, baby
You won't have a prayer

Clarence Clemons RIP

Just a short posting of a track in tribute to the great man, who died recently. I had the joy of seeing him perform at Wembley many moons ago as part of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Enjoy Junglelands, performed live in Hyde Park in 2009.....

I Am A Cider Drinker

Well I do like a pint or two of cider, or real ale, but this is not about me.

The Wurzles clip that follows is by way of tribute to John Venter, who's funeral is this coming Friday. John was the village butcher in Prestbury, as well as almost living in The Plough. His death at 56 last week has left a big hole in the lives of so many people. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. He was a larger than life character and a friend to many. Over the last three years that I have been a regular at The Plough, rather than an occasional visitor, I have come to count John as a good friend. In the cold winter's months when the tourists are absent, we have often been the only two left in there at closing time on a Saturday. In the last six weeks since his nephew has taken on the running of the pub, we have often departed at some silly time in the morning!

I am going to miss you John, until we meet again, enjoy the cider....

I Wont Back Down

This song by Tom Petty has pretty simplistic lyrics, but to me they are also fairly profound. With references to standing your ground, and not backing down, it could quite easily be the way we as Christians should react. The reference to standing at the gates of hell, could be seen as any temptation. In these situations, I hope, that I would not back down from doing the right thing. The song says there is no easy way out, that is very true. In our own strength we can not avoid temptation's lure. If we lean on the strength of Jesus Christ, we will not avoid the temptation, but we should have the inner strength to overcome it. In other words...I wont back down.

Well I won't back down
No I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down

No I'll stand my ground, won't be turned around
And I'll keep this world from draggin me down
gonna stand my ground
... and I won't back down

(I won't back down...)
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(and I won't back down...)
hey I will stand my ground
and I won't back down

Well I know what's right, I got just one life
in a world that keeps on pushin me around
but I'll stand my ground
...and I won't back down

(I won't back down...)
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(and I won't back down...)
hey I will stand my ground
(I won't back down)
and I won't back down...

(I won't back down...)
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(I won't back down)
hey I won't back down
(and I won't back down)
hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(and I won't back down)
hey I will stand my ground
(and I won't back down)
and I won't back down
(I won't back down)
No I won't back down...

A Sinner Saved By Grace

I first heard this song at the recent funeral for Pete Berryman. Pete was the manager of Cornerstone United in the Cotswold Churches League. He was a passionate man, both about his faith and football. After hearing the many tributes to him at his funeral, this song appears to describe the way he thought of his life. By extension, it applies to most, if not all, of us as well.

If you could see
What I once was
If u could go with me
Back to where I started from
Then, I know you would see
A miracle of Love that put me
in it's sweet embrace
and made me what I am today
just an old sinner
Saved by grace

I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
when I stood
condemned to death
He took my place
Now I live and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace

How could I boast on anything
I've ever seen or done
how could I dare to claim as mine
the victories GOD has won
where would I be
had GOD not brought me
gently to this place
I'm here to say I'm nothing but
a sinner
Saved by grace

I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
when I stood condemned to death
He took my place
Now I grow and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace

Now I grow and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
Saved by grace
If you could see
What I once was
If u could go with me
Back to where I started from
Then, I know you would see
A miracle of Love that put me
in it's sweet embrace
and made me what I am today
just an old sinner
Saved by grace

I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
when I stood
condemned to death
He took my place
Now I live and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace

How could I boast on anything
I've ever seen or done
how could I dare to claim as mine
the victories GOD has won
where would I be
had GOD not brought me
gently to this place
I'm here to say I'm nothing but
a sinner
Saved by grace

I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
when I stood condemned to death
He took my place
Now I grow and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace

Now I grow and breathe in freedom
with each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiving
backed with a living
I'm just a sinner
Saved by grace
Saved by grace

Smiley Culture

Whatever the reasons behind his untimely death, Smiley Culture was a great reggae artist in his time. It is a pity that his time at the top was only brief, and that his life then allegedly went into a downhill spiral. In my diverse record collection I have both of his hit singles, Cockney Translation and Police Officer. The latter being an autobiographical song about him being constantly stopped whilst driving. The former a translation of Cockney mob slang into Jamaican yardie slang. Both were good in their own way. As a tribute to Smiley Culture, there are below the lyrics to, and a rendition of, Cockney Translation.

11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1,
It's I Smiley Culture with the mike in a me hand
Me come to teach you right and not the wrong
In a de Cockney Translation

Cockney's not a language it is only a slang
And was originated yah so inna England
The first place it was used was over East London
It was respect for the different style pronunciation
But it wasn't really used by any and any man
Me say strictly con-man also the villain
But through me full up of lyrics and education
Right here now you a go get a little translation

Cockney have name like Terry, Arthur and del-boy
We have name like Winston, Lloyd and Leroy
We bawl out YOW! While cockneys say OI!
What cockney call a Jack's we call a Blue Bwoy
Say cockney have mates while we have spar
Cockney live in a brum while we live in a yard
Say we nyam while cockney get capture
Cockney say guv'nor. We say Big Bout ya
In a de Cockney Translation!
In a de Cockney Translation!


Well watch a man..............................
The translation of cockney to understand is easy
So long as you don't deaf and you listen me keenly
You should pick it up likea youth who find some money
Go tell it to your friends also your family
No matter if a English or a Yardy
Ca' you never when them might buck up a cockney
Remember warm dem dem deh man dem don't easy
Dem no fire sling shot a me say strictly double B
Dem run protection racket and control 'nuff C.I.D.

Say cockney fire shooter, We bus' gun
Cockney say tea leaf, We say sticks man
You know dem have wedge while we have corn
Say cockney say be first, my son! We just say Gwan!
Cockney say grass, We say outformer man
When dem talk 'bout iron dem really meam batty man
Rope chain and choparita me say cockney call tom
Say cockney say Old Bill, We dutty Babylon
In a de Cockney Translation!
In a de Cockney Translation!

Well watch a man........................
Slam bam
Jah man
Hear dam
Fashion
Smiley
Culture
Origiantion


But first let me tell you more about the cockney
Who live comfortably and have yacht by the sea
And when it come to money most of then have plenty
But where dum spend it? In de bookie
Lose it all on the dogs or on the gee gees
Or paying off fe dem bribes to the Sweeney
So dem nah go do no time fe no armed robbery
Or catching antthing that fell off the back of a lorry


Slam bam
Jah man
Hear dem
Fashion
Me strong
Me long
Me at the mike stand
More time
In a dance
Me chat
'Pon a sound


But sometimes me shake out and leave me home town
And that's when me travel a East London
Where I have to speak as a different man
So that the cockney can understand
So black man and white man hear dem fashion


Cockney say scarper, We say scatter
Cockney say rabbit, We chatter
We say bleach, Cockney Knackered!
Cockney say triffic, We say waaacked!


Cockney say blokes, We say guys
Cockney say Alright? We say Ites!
we say pants, Cockney say strides
Sweet as a nut...................... just level vibes. Seen?

Lately

I think the lyrics of this song by Brother Clyde sum up how a lot of us feel from time to time. A little less angry, crazy, selfish. A little more grounded, patient and forgiving. Sometimes it does feel like the world is ending, often due to our own stupidity.

I know that I can become a better person, but it takes a lot of continuing work, but by the grace of God I will get there. God wants me to be the best I can be, and to do that I have to allow Him to work in my life. I want to feel good again.

I came across this track and video on the Rock Refuge site a few months ago. I think the video accompanying the song goes very well with the lyrics. Enjoy...


I wish I was a little more solid
A little more grounded
Maybe just a little more
I wish I was a little less angry
A little less selfish
Maybe just a little less

Lately I feel like crashin'
I feel like the whole world is coming to an end
Lately I feel like nothing really matters
I want to feel good again

I wish I was a little more patient
A little more forgiving
Maybe just a little more

I wish I was a little less crazy
A little less out there
Maybe just a little less

Lately I feel like crashin'
I feel like the whole world is coming to an end
Lately I feel like nothing really matters
I want to feel good again
I want to feel good again

Lately I feel like crashin'
I feel like I hate rapping
I feel like the worlds gonna end
And the gang situations keep no attraction
I feel like the feats gonna happen
In here no bail we're packed in
Everything just keeps on lasting
I just want to keep gettin past it
I want to waste away
I want to be left alone in hell
No one gave a damn
When I was sitting in my cell
So what they gonna do or feel
When I get close to the edge
And I feel I'm about to break
And I can't take the fact that lately
I've been through the ashes greatly

Lately I feel like crashin'
Feels like the whole world is coming to an end
Lately I feel like nothing really matters
I want to feel good again
I want to feel good again

I wish I was a little more solid
A little more grounded
Maybe just a little more


Brother Clyde - Lately found on Pop

Another Cup Of Coffee?

I really like this "haunting" song by Mike & The Mechanics. To me it can easily be looked upon as a 1990's version of Eleanor Rigby by The Beatles, in so far as it is a good piece of social commentary.

All too often a loving relationship turns sour over the years, through many different and varied reasons. It could be that when children are grown up and left home, that you find that they were the only things holding it together by then. Again some people are convinced that despite obvious character traits that they can change their partner to be the person they want them to be after marriage.

There may or may not be obvious courses of action to be taken in these situations. For some addictions are a way out. The song refers to the "simple" addiction of caffeine, pour yourself another cup of coffee.

I would not presume to tell anyone what to do in any of these situations. I am very fortunate, that my loving relationship with my wife is still strong after twenty two years. What I do know though, is that relationships have to be worked at, with give and take on both sides. I find too, that being a Christian with a relationship with God also helps. I find great help and advise in the bible, specifically in the book of Proverbs. Wisdom is needed to keep any relationship alive.

Enjoy the song...

And she pours herself another cup of coffee
As she contemplates the stain across the wall
and it's in between the cleaning and the washing
That's when looking back's
The hardest part of all

And she always did her best to try and please him
While he always did his best to make her cry
And she got down on her knees to stop him leaving
But he always knew one day he'd say goodbye

Where are your friends
Where are your children
Is this your house
Is this your home
Does nothing ever last forever
Does everybody sleep alone

And he tears the business tags from his old suitcase
As he packs away the pieces of his life
They all love him but they always try to change him
That's what happens when a girl becomes a wife

And she pours herself another cup of coffee
As the pictures leave a clean space on the wall
and it's in between the leaving and the loving
That's when looking back's
The hardest part of all

Where are your friends
Where are your children
Is this your house
Is this your home
Does nothing ever last forever
Does everybody sleep alone

Don't look back
Don't give up
Pour yourself another cup

Movie Star

This song has been back in my head over the last few months, which is a surprise as I have not heard it played anywhere for probably 30 years! It is not even my usual style, being a very catchy pop song. I first heard, and loved this song back in about 1976 on Thames Valley Radio. This was a local independent radio station broadcasting out of Reading. This was when local radio was local radio, not just part of a national corporation. Harpo was a Swedish artist, and this was multi national hit for him, though it peaked at 24 in this country.

The gist of the lyrics are about someone pretending to be who they are not. In this case an actor whose credits only really are adverts, living the trappings of a big star.

I think, however, that we are all in danger of falling into this trap. How often do we say that we are fine, when we are not. We have a tendency to gloss over failings and to "big up" successes. We can say we live in a particular nice area nearby, rather that the real place we live. We also "upgrade" our jobs in conversations with strangers. Well I say we, I know I have been guilty of all these, and more, at sometime or other.

We have no need to do this though, as the one who really matters, God, knows the real us anyway. It should not matter to us what other people think about us, though this is often difficult to put into practice. I ought to be happy to be the person God has created me to be, and not pretend to be someone else. I am a work in progress, and God is steering me in the right direction.

Enjoy a bit of nostalgic pop music....

You feel like Steve McQueen
when you're driving in your car
and you think you look like James Bond
when you're smoking your cigar
it's so bizarre you think you are
a new kind of James Dean
but the only thing I've ever seen of you
was a commercial spot on the screen

Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a movie
Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a Movie Star

You should belong to the jet set
fly your own private Lear jet
but you worked in a grocery store
every day until you could afford to get away
so you went to Sweden to meet Ingmar Bergman
he wasn't there or he just didn't care
I think it's time for you, my friend
to stop pretending that you are a

Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a movie
Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a Movie Star

The frozen hero!
Your words are zero
when your dreams had vanished into dark
along the go that you don't want to know

Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a movie
Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a Movie Star

Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a movie
Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a Movie Star

Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a movie
Movie Star, Movie Star,
you think you are a Movie Star
you think you are a Movie Star
you think you are a Movie Star
you think you are a Movie Star

New Years Day

A new year, a new start...well not really as the song says nothing changes on new years day! Today is just the same as yesterday, and the day before in reality. People do use the start of a new year to make resolutions to do things better or differently, but most are discarded soon afterwards, so whats the point?

There are lots of things I do want to do differently, and I can start the changes anytime, it does not have to be today's date that makes me do them. It is high time that I did lose some weight and got fitter. Having lost a parent at a young age myself, I want to see my boys grow up. I will look after myself better, I will build even stronger relationships with family and friends.

At our church we are being encouraged to read the bible in a year. This I intend to do as well. I believe reading God's word will help me achieve my aims mentioned above. I am sure you could achieve them without knowing God, but you are then dependent on will power alone. I want to be with you night and day, and the you to whom I refer is the spirit of God.

Happy New Year to you all.

All is quiet on New Year's Day
A world in white gets underway
I want to be with you
Be with you night and day
Nothing changes on New Year's Day
On New Year's Day

I will be with you again
I will be with you again

Under a blood red sky
A crowd has gathered in black and white
Arms entwined, the chosen few
The newspapers says, says
Say it's true it's true...
And we can break through
Though torn in two
We can be one

I...I will begin again
I...I will begin again

Oh...
Maybe the time is right
Oh...maybe tonight...

I will be with you again
I will be with you again

And so we're told this is the golden age
And gold is the reason for the wars we wage
Though I want to be with you
Be with you night and day
Nothing changes
On New Year's Day