tag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:/blogs/blog?p=3Blog2022-05-29T14:20:05-04:00Ricky Fitzpatrickfalsetag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758512014-11-05T08:27:00-05:002020-01-27T07:39:34-05:00Acoustically Christmas LINKS
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<p>The Christmas Season is coming on fast. Gifts are already being bought, Holiday movies are playing, and Christmas Music is already playing! It’s humbling to see my <em>Acoustically Christmas</em> album continue to be a perennial best-seller. It was certainly one of my favorite projects and the guest artists who helped me out, helped give me some of my most precious memories in the studio.</p>
<p>Of course <em>AC </em>is available at hundreds of places, around the planet…but here are a few links to some of the more common ones, in case you want to order up (or download) a copy or two. Thank you, and Merry Christmas! - Ricky</p>
<ul>
<li>
<strong>iTunes</strong> <strong>- </strong><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/acoustically-christmas/id513743230" data-imported="1"><strong>https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/acoustically-christmas/id513743230</strong></a>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Amazon</strong> <strong>- </strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OQT3QU" data-imported="1"><strong>http://www.amazon.com/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OQT3QU</strong></a>
</li>
<li>Rhapsody - <a href="http://www.rhapsody.com/artist/ricky-fitzpatrick/album/acoustically-christmas-studio-634" data-imported="1">http://www.rhapsody.com/artist/ricky-fitzpatrick/album/acoustically-christmas-studio-634</a> </li>
<li>Google Play - <a href="https://play.google.com/store/music/album/Ricky_Fitzpatrick_Acoustically_Christmas?id=B2n424gts552shwufc7rtd7rv4a&hl=en" data-imported="1">https://play.google.com/store/music/album/Ricky_Fitzpatrick_Acoustically_Christmas?id=B2n424gts552shwufc7rtd7rv4a&hl=en</a> </li>
<li>eMusic - <a href="http://www.emusic.com/album/ricky-fitzpatrick/acoustically-christmas/13258578/" data-imported="1">http://www.emusic.com/album/ricky-fitzpatrick/acoustically-christmas/13258578/</a> </li>
<li>Spotify - <a href="http://open.spotify.com/album/12p3uNmkedsrB4O0bl3sUS" data-imported="1">http://open.spotify.com/album/12p3uNmkedsrB4O0bl3sUS</a> </li>
<li>Shazam - <a href="http://www.shazam.com/discover/artist/41521485/album/62558952" data-imported="1">http://www.shazam.com/discover/artist/41521485/album/62558952</a> </li>
<li>iHeart Radio - <a href="http://www.iheart.com/#/artist/Ricky-Fitzpatrick-456125/albums/Acoustically-Christmas-17829582/" data-imported="1">http://www.iheart.com/#/artist/Ricky-Fitzpatrick-456125/albums/Acoustically-Christmas-17829582/</a> </li>
<li>The Orchard - <a href="http://search.theorchard.com/release/886788707900/ricky-fitzpatrick/acoustically-christmas" data-imported="1">http://search.theorchard.com/release/886788707900/ricky-fitzpatrick/acoustically-christmas</a> </li>
<li>Easy Street Records - <a href="http://easystreetonline.com/Item/9001102908" data-imported="1">http://easystreetonline.com/Item/9001102908</a>
</li>
<li>Harvest Music - <a href="http://harvestmusiconline.com/Item/9001102908" data-imported="1">http://harvestmusiconline.com/Item/9001102908</a> </li>
<li>Waterloo Records - <a href="http://www.waterloorecords.com/Item/9001102908" data-imported="1">http://www.waterloorecords.com/Item/9001102908</a> </li>
<li>Streetlight Records - <a href="http://streetlightrecords.com/Item/9001102908" data-imported="1">http://streetlightrecords.com/Item/9001102908</a> </li>
<li>Young Ones Records - <a href="http://youngonesrecords.com/Item/9003864106" data-imported="1">http://youngonesrecords.com/Item/9003864106</a> </li>
<li>Amazon UK - <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OWCYM4" data-imported="1">http://www.amazon.co.uk/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OWCYM4</a>
</li>
<li>Amazon Japan - <a href="http://www.amazon.co.jp/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OQG9Z8" data-imported="1">http://www.amazon.co.jp/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OQG9Z8</a> </li>
<li>Amazon France - <a href="http://www.amazon.fr/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OS6EII/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_3/276-7792255-5149309" data-imported="1">http://www.amazon.fr/Acoustically-Christmas-Ricky-Fitzpatrick/dp/B007OS6EII/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_3/276-7792255-5149309</a>
</li>
</ul>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758502014-07-25T03:12:33-04:002020-01-27T07:39:33-05:00Mama Is Always Right
<h2>Fitzpatrick Family Vacation 2014 </h2>
<p><img src="https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/10502162_747510775306733_1891254605945427889_n.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Ricky & Cretia" height="400" style=" margin: 8px;" width="267" />I must admit, I did not want to go on a vacation this year. I mean, I <em><em>wanted</em> </em>a vacation, but I absolutely did not want to <em>go</em> anywhere. For one, I don’t enjoy going somewhere and having to watch every dollar, which is where we are currently. And secondly, I just didn’t want the hassle of packing, driving, planning, itinerary-ing…I just wanted to stay at home for a week and chill. Period. </p>
<p>So being the man of the house, <em><em>the paderfamilias</em></em>, as it were, I made it clear to the family that we would stay home this year. End of story. And with that in mind… </p>
<p>About 4 hours into the drive to <strong>Hilton Head Island</strong>, SC (yes, mama’s idea to get away, always trumps any grand plans of my own)…my back is hurting, I’m on a half-hour rant about everything from other drivers to Obamacare, I’ve lost my cool at the kids (and apologized). In short, it’s been a long drive. </p>
<p>My worst fears are apparently coming to pass, and I’m secretly biding my time until I can drop the bomb on Cretia and say “See, I <em><em>told</em> </em>you this was a bad idea.”</p>
<p>I’m anticipating that at the end of this fiasco, I’ll be grouchy, tired and broke and looking forward to the following Monday when I can get back to work and return to some semblance of sanity. </p>
<p>We arrive in Hilton Head, which by the way, is beautiful. As the scenery unfolds in front of us, I’m sort of easing up. <em><em>Maybe I was wrong</em></em><em>.</em> </p>
<p>We turn into the hotel, the booking of which, I took charge and handled. Like a man. It looks…old. Not like nostalgic-old, but 70’s old. 1970’s old. It is quaint, I notice. But it’s a little untidy, from the outside. I can feel my emotions sinking again. </p>
<p>We check in, without issue. Good. Up to the third floor we go and get off the elevator onto a landing of some sort. Then we sort of accidentally discover and go through a non-latching door with flaking paint, into a musty hallway. Getting worse. I peer down the hall which disappears into a tiny point approximately a mile away, and ascertain that our room is about three quarters of a mile due West. So we hike. </p>
<p>In the room we go, and my first thought is “We must have taken a wrong turn at Albuquerque.” The room is roughly the size of a janitorial closet. Still, we press on, after verifying the room number on the door. I find that it actually isn’t <em><em>that</em> </em>bad. We can pass one another between the bed and TV if we suck our stomachs in and hold our breath. It’s small. Did I mention? Surprisingly small, considering the nightly rate that I so expertly negotiated. </p>
<p>It is also not a suite. A fact that dear old dad overlooked when booking. It does however, have a microwave and mini fridge. The fridge is not yet running though, and the door “bottle holder” thingy is missing. The carpet is clean, the beds are tidy, all the lights work, and the A/C works perfectly. So I’m encouraged. </p>
<p>First thing after a 5 ½ hour drive…go to the bathroom. So I head in to check out the facilities and reach down to the toilet, which by the way, must have been designed for either children or midgets. Still…a minor inconvenience. Lifting the lid (of course I do), I see a tiny guy swimming in the blue water. Mr. <em><em>Periplaneta Americana</em></em>, aka the American cockroach, is doing the backstroke and waving up at me. </p>
<p>What’s a guy to do. “It happens”, I tell myself, give him a flush, and proceed. Still, this is just one more piece of a quickly crumbling castle. Not looking good. </p>
<p>Nevertheless, I keep the roach discovery under wraps for now. We unpack, settle in and turn on the nice looking flatscreen to catch a familiar show or two. For some reason, the volume appears to be in sync with Atlantic wave action. Meaning, it just goes up and down, seemingly at random. Not very conducive to relaxation when the <em>Wild Kratts</em> force us to turn them up to hear, then suddenly shake us silly as some random phrase spikes in volume. Then back down again. </p>
<p>Lord. Anyway, we get our stuff all in and decide to grab a fast bite and a few items at a nearby <em>Kroger</em>. It’s getting late. </p>
<p>About 30 minutes and 15-20 miles later, I succumb to the fact that I have no idea how to navigate this crazy place, nor do I know where any fast food establishments are. Apparently, Hilton Head does not allow the display of the colorful fast food signage that we’ve all come to take so much for granted. So with night having fallen and every sign in a pale shade of beige, I’m driving up and down 278 squinting and incurring the wrath of every other driver on the road. </p>
<p>Needless to say, my nervous twitch is in high gear now, and I’m having PTSD symptoms and longing for the solace of home. Cretia isn’t saying much, but I’m feeling like the proverbial failed husband who can’t seem to get it together, and his family suffers the effects of his incompetence. The kids are also coming out of their skin by now, and of course, not having eaten in like 3 hours, they’re absolutely starving. They’re on death’s door as we finally give in to a <em>Burger King</em>, a “restaurant” that we typically avoid like the plague. </p>
<p>We pile out, head in, and are greeted with the type of service we’ve come to expect in a fast food chain. We order simple, common items, and get them rather quickly. We then discover that the speed of order fulfillment, very probably is conversely proportionate to the quality of said order. It was terrible. Even for BK expectations, it was awful. </p>
<p>Then to <em>Kroger</em>, a store that we’ve actually come to love because of the selection and service at our local branch. We discover however, that the rudest people in America have obviously descended upon Hilton Head. Maybe there’s a <em><em>We Hate Manners</em> </em>convention in town. We endure the heathens, and of course have to wrangle the tired, bored and now, hungry-again kids, and eventually complete our grocery mission, and head back to our spacious room. </p>
<p>At the end of day one, I’m a nervous wreck. My head hurts, my chest hurts, my thumb is twitching (nervous habit), and I am so over this place that I can’t stand it. The kids get changed, tucked in and finally give in to sleep around midnight. </p>
<p>And as Cretia and I snuggle closely…not so much due to romance, but because we’re sharing a freakishly narrow Full-Sized bed…it starts to sink in. I’m in one of the most beautiful vacation spots in the country, a stone’s throw from some of the most desirable beaches in the world, safe and comfortable with my beautiful wife and two of my loving kids, and they’re loving it. And I’m loving it. </p>
<p>God has blessed me with wonderful opportunities and given me the chance to escape and enjoy and spend time with my family. The weather is perfect. The ocean is near. Our bed is soft. And Cretia is a great snuggle partner. </p>
<p>And suddenly I realize that this was a pretty good idea after all. <strong>And mama…is always right.</strong></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758492014-07-15T06:01:12-04:002020-01-27T07:39:32-05:00Songwriting With the DAWG Pound Kids
<p>I am SO proud of the brand-new song I got to write with Jude and his classmates at the <strong>Homer Baptist DAWG Pound program</strong> today, “<em>I Want To Dance Dance Dance</em>”. We wrote it, on the spot, in like 10 minutes. They were incredible. Blew me away.</p>
<p>There should be A LOT of very proud parents out there…your kids DID this!</p>
<p><a href="http://youtu.be/GlhVOoAGWuw" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://youtu.be/GlhVOoAGWuw</a></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758482014-05-14T07:58:19-04:002020-01-27T07:39:31-05:00Grief, Loss and Hope
<p> </p>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">As today unfolds, what began as a typical Wednesday has turned dark and confusing and heavy. The passing of a friend is always a sobering thing. But when one takes their own life, it comes with an explosion of emotion.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">What ifs run rampant. Hind sight consumes me. Guilt, regret, sorrow. And the resurfacing of my own family's experiences as my grandparents took their lives. It never goes away.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We worry about the spouse left behind. The parents who see a child untimely taken. And the kids who will now have to cope and live with the unthinkable.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">All the logical arguments seem to be wasted thought. The encouragements all seem hollow. And even prayers seem almost trivial, at this point.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">I've read that "grief is a multifaceted response". And so it is. And although we may all refract the light in different ways, we are all commonly bound by our humanness. And in that, our need for some resolution to reveal itself on the other side of the coin.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">I am convinced that we can trust a well-placed Faith in God to bring some sanity to what seems like a time of insanity. To reveal a hope that we can cling to when life becomes uncertain.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">For me, I'm immediately reminded of Romans 8:38-39.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The love of God is our constant certainty. Greater far, than any tongue can ever tell. Beyond the highest star, and reaching to the lowest hell.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"></div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The hope and resolution we long for will always be found in Him, when our grief gives way to the realization to reach out to Him.</div>
<p>As today unfolds, what began as a typical Wednesday has turned dark and confusing and heavy. The passing of a friend is always a sobering thing. But when one takes their own life, it comes with an explosion of emotion.</p>
<p><br>What ifs run rampant. Hind sight consumes me. Guilt, regret, sorrow. And the resurfacing of my own family's experiences as my grandparents previously also took their lives. It never goes away.</p>
<p><br>We worry about the spouse left behind. The parents who see a child untimely taken. And the kids who will now have to cope and live with the unthinkable.</p>
<p><br>All the logical arguments seem to be wasted thought. The encouragements all seem hollow. And even prayers seem almost trivial, at this point.</p>
<p><br>I've read that "grief is a multifaceted response". And so it is. And although we may all refract the light in different ways, we are all commonly bound by our humanness. And in that, our need for some resolution to reveal itself on the other side of the coin.</p>
<p><br>I am convinced that we can trust a well-placed Faith in God to bring some sanity to what seems like a time of insanity. To reveal a hope that we can cling to when life becomes uncertain.<br>For me, I'm immediately reminded of Romans 8:38-39.</p>
<p><br>"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”</p>
<p><br>The love of God is our constant certainty. Greater far, than any tongue can ever tell. Beyond the highest star, and reaching to the lowest hell.</p>
<p><br>The hope and resolution we long for will always be found in Him, when our grief gives way to the realization to reach out to Him.</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758472013-05-21T09:10:31-04:002020-01-27T07:39:30-05:00Old Time Religion Excerpt
<p><strong>Thyatira (Thyatira-Olney) Presbyterian Church</strong><br> <br><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/969857_534874303237049_132943003_n.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Old Time Religion book cover" height="353" style=" margin: 10px;" width="275" />Just up the road from our house in Apple Valley, lies the Thyatira community. In spite of being another equally rural and tiny establishment, Thyatira has offered a great deal of history to the North GA and Jackson County areas. One piece of that being the Thyatira Olney Presbyterian Church.<br> <br>As you top the hill, passing the Harrisburg VFD, then go back down, bottom out and pass Roger and Ruth Moore’s home on the left, you’ll see a timeless looking, plain, white church, standing there on the left of GA Hwy 15. The building sits a ways back off the road and has a beautiful air about it.<br> <br>When Jude and I made our stop at TPC to take a few pictures, we found ourselves gravitating to the cemetery, actually. Not very large, you wouldn’t expect to find a lot of drama there. But the markers are varied and some are quite old. A few rare, remaining “above ground” structures stand out. These are all but lost…weather, animals, vandals, lawnmowers…all have taken their toll on so many of the fieldstone grave structures that used to be so much more common.<br> <br>You might think the bodies of the deceased are sitting on top of the ground, just inside the enclosures, but they aren’t. It’s purely decorative. But it makes for a good spooky story on just the right evening.<br> <br>Thyatira Presbyterian Church (we don’t include the “Olney” part, frankly, when talking about the church) is one of the oldest churches in Jackson County. I believe it may be the third oldest, behind Oconee Baptist and Cabin Creek. It’s also one of a small handful of the oldest churches in the entire state of GA.<br> <br>The church was actually begun at the Hurricane Shoals settlement “around” 1795, a product of the Scotch-Irish Presbyterian tradition. It was later moved to its current location, reportedly in the early 1830’s. Somewhere in between, it had a home on Jett Roberts Road…as fate would have it, right where I grew up. Our neighbors included the JT Wilkes family, the Herman Buffington family, Buddy and Dot Hunt, Don and Norma Anderson, Mr. & Mrs. Benny Love and various other widely scattered homesteads, on down the, then largely wooded road. Back then, we probably played in the woods on the old church site, and never knew it.<br> <br>The current building is actually comprised of three different sections. The original front was built in the 1830’s, upon arrival in Thyatira. Although an excerpt from the church minutes note “The meeting house called Olney was solemnly dedicated by the Rev John S. Wilson” on Nov 15, 1829. A sanctuary addition came sometime between 1890 and 1950, and a Sunday School annex followed in 1950. Since that time, the church has gone relatively unchanged.<br> <br>Church minutes are always a source of both boring data and curious information. I see on March 7, 1830, Charles Hamphill “appeared and confessed his offense of drunkenness”. A reminder of the seriousness the congregations of the day held in so many of the things we dismiss “in love” today. Sin was serious business, brother.<br> <br>By the way, on July 4 of the same year, Brother Hamphill was “restored to the privileges of the church”. Not sure what formalities transpired during his four months of shame.<br> <br>In 1831, the Rev John Wilson preached his farewell sermon to the church, after having pastored there for the preceding three years. No reason for the change of heart, but I could guess that it may have been a simple changing of station.<br> <br>Even in the early to mid 19th century, roving circuit pastors would lead the flock at multiple congregations. Thyatira was one of the congregations that employed the use of such services, sharing a pastor with as many as a half dozen other congregations in the area.<br> <br>The following week however, the Rev Robert McAlpin took on the pastoral duties, on part time…or as it was stated on “half time”.<br> <br>On March 13 of that year, I noticed that the struggling Brother Hamphill, along this time with an accomplice, Robert Smithwick was tried yet again, for the offense of drunkenness. He was again restored. Brother Smithwick was “suspended indefinitely”. (Even though, a few months later, he was forgiven and “restored to fellowship”.)<br> <br>Nearly a year later, Charles Hamphill, and this time, John Story were “tried for drinking” yet again. I’m starting to think the errant Brother Hamphill not only had a problem with the bottle, but might’ve been a bit of a bad influence on his fellow parishoners.<br> <br>Not long thereafter, Harvey Wilson confessed to “striking a drunken man”. Maybe Mr. Hamphill was attempting to lead him into temptation.<br> <br>Around about 1835-36, a rash of dismissals was noted, allowing embers to join the Presbyterian church at Sandy Creek. Although at first I feared dissention in the ranks, it was quite common for a block of existing members to be dismissed to help seed the work of a “sister” congregation that was just getting started.<br> <br>On Jan 24, 1837, two sisters, Miss Rhoda and Miss Elizabeth Handcock, both passed away. No details were found regarding their fate, but the curious fact came in the report that they were both buried at the same time in one grave.<br> <br>Not sure how to theologically discuss that one.<br> <br>Their shared grave still remains in the Thyatira Presbyterian cemetery, with an unassuming marker.<br> <br>Another curiosity, and one that I’ve noticed in other church minutes of the day, was the fact that periodically, a person or family would be accepted or admitted into the church body “along with their slave(s)”. While offensive, at first, I’m sure the slave owners of the time looked upon this as an honorable act, exposing their slaves to the Word of the Lord. Amazing how times and people have changed, even in the midst of an unchanging God.<br> <br>In February 1908, The Jackson Herald printed a thank you letter from the pastor and members of the church regarding the installation of a new roof on the church building. Apparently, the contractor and the Cortright Roofing Company also contributed both materials and labor to the cause. A specific reference was made to assistance in “repairing” the church building and the ready response to their “call for help”. So I would assume some weather-related damage had ensued.<br> <br>Perhaps coincidentally, this was connected to the infamous “Louisiana to Georgia Outbreak of 1908”, which was one of America’s deadliest tornado outbreaks, killing 324 individuals and spawning the seventh deadliest tornado on record, at the time. It’s quite possible that this was related to the damage sustained by the church.<br> <br> <br> <br> <br>Sources:<br><em> <br>http://www.victorianmaysville.com/history/jchistory/jcchurches.htm<br>The Jackson Herald; Jana Mitcham, Old Country Churches pub Oct. 13, 2010<br>The Jackson Herald, February 6, 1908, excerpt.</em><br> <br> </p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758462012-12-24T01:45:31-05:002020-01-27T07:39:29-05:00A Merry Christmas Wish
<p> </p>
<p>I don't post nearly as often as I should here. But I couldn't let this Christmas go by, without wishing everyone a merry and blessed one. It has been a remarkable year!</p>
<p>I could not have imagined the wonderful things that would happen this year. And hand-in-hand with God's kindness and grace, it's very much so, because of the love and support of my friends, near and far, old and new. I am truly blessed! Thank you all for an amazing 2012, and here's looking ahead to great and wonderful things in 2013!!! :)</p>
<p>From me, Cretia and all the kids, we wish you a year of hope and Grace, and a very Merry Christmas!</p>
<p>FIC...Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758452012-06-07T01:46:19-04:002020-01-27T07:39:29-05:00Fifty Shades of GRAY: The Sin Rationale
<p><img src="http://static.ibnlive.in.com/ibnlive/pix/sitepix/03_2012/fiftyshadesofgrey.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Fifty Shades of Grey cover" height="233" style=" margin: 10px;" width="350" />Lately, I keep hearing about this book series <em>Fifty Shades of… whatever</em>. There are three titles in the “Fifty” series.</p>
<p>I know there has been some controversy over the content. I’ve heard that it’s everything from “adult in nature” to outright “softcore porn” (<em>is there really such a thing?</em>). Regardless, I get the idea that it’s quite graphic and quite mature in nature and it’s definitely not appropriate reading for minors, in particular.</p>
<p>Well…for <em>any</em> of us, for that matter.</p>
<p>But despite the hoopla, the books are soaring in popularity. There are a LOT of people buying these books. Like, <em>millions</em>. And that’s a whole different blog entry…:)</p>
<p>In light of all this, it makes me wonder…<em>where is the line?</em> Not just in the material we read, but beyond that. Where is the line for our <em>lives</em>? For our desires? For our intent? Do we exist in our own fifty shades of gray?</p>
<p>Where is the line between a sin and a “not sin”? Or in our culture, today, IS there even a line at all? Or is it more of a zone? Our own “gray zone”. An area that fades evenly and gradually from the total blackness of sin to the complete white of holiness.</p>
<p>And if so, is God OK with that?</p>
<p>Well, let’s just get right to that last one. How does God feel about the <strong>“sin rationale”</strong>? About “relative sin”…sin that varies in severity depending on the circumstance?</p>
<p>Sorry to be harsh, but the truth is, sin, from God’s POV, is an <strong>absolute</strong>. It either <em>is</em> or it <em>isn’t</em>. There is no in-between. Something is either a sin or it isn’t.</p>
<p>But sin doesn’t want to be limited by that. Sin wants to have room to breathe and evolve. And we (people in general) are cool with that, because when we sin, we like to have a little room to try to justify it.</p>
<p>No? Look at Adam and Eve.</p>
<p><img src="http://static.flickr.com/3214/2918580867_70f37eb041.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Garden of Eden apple" height="300" style="margin: 10px; " width="300" />There they are. Garden of Eden. God says don’t touch this tree. They do it anyway. Bam. Major turning in the story. Now…at this point, we can define Adam and Eve’s actions as “a sin”. Wouldn’t you say? They disobeyed God, right? But what happens next is indicative of our nature as a sinful people. We can sum it up in one word. “<em>But</em>”.</p>
<p>“But God, the woman did it.”</p>
<p>“But God, we were hungry.”</p>
<p>“But God, You made the tree.” (<em>Careful, now</em>.)</p>
<p>“But God. But God. But God…”</p>
<p>The <strong>sin rationale</strong> is something we struggle with, daily. We live under the curse of wanting to explain our sins. To justify them. We think we have just cause for our actions. Reasons for our behavior. We have our own fifty shades of gray that say “But God, <em>this</em> is why I did it. Doesn’t that matter? Doesn’t that change things?”</p>
<p>So what <em>is</em> God’s perspective on shades of gray and the sin rationale?</p>
<p>Well, throughout the Bible, we see that God (or Jesus) is very clear about His intent and purpose. He is very defined in His vision. You never read about God saying to Moses <em>“I know I told you I’d lead you, but there was this thing, at this place, with a guy…”</em> He never needs to explain why He didn’t do something He previously said He would do. You never read of Him having to justify changing his mind.</p>
<p>For me, the most telling passage of scripture comes in The Revelation (<em>Rev 3:15-16</em>), when Jesus says to the church at Laodicea, <em>“I know your deeds, and you are neither hot nor cold. I wish you were one or the other! But because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth.”</em></p>
<p>Ouch.</p>
<p>God doesn’t deal in lukewarm, does He? Or shades of gray, fifty or otherwise.</p>
<p>So in closing, my question comes, “So now what?”</p>
<p><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QH0wHHcQ60g/TwtOLGNcDoI/AAAAAAAAT-Q/uJzANxMW9DE/s320/helping-hand_02.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Helping Hand" height="213" style=" margin: 10px;" width="320" />If the sin rationale is in our nature, and if that’s the nature of Sin, <em>and</em> if Satan realizes this and knows how to use it against us…<em>how can we possibly defeat it?</em> How can we resist the urge to deal in shades of gray? Are we doomed to fail?</p>
<p>Yes. We are. In and of ourselves, at least.</p>
<p>But thank God, in His infinite wisdom, He gave us the Holy Spirit who can work in and through us to break the curse of the sin rationale and move beyond the illusion of sin that is gray. In the infinitely complex world of shades of gray, we spend all of our time looking for the right shade for the right moment for the right reason. Make it easy on yourself…</p>
<p>Life is so much more colorful, in black and white.</p>
<p>---------------------------------------------</p>
<p><em>PRAYER: Lord, I realize that I’ve been dealing in shades of gray when it comes to not only my sin, but in my relationship with You. Help me. Take away the gray. Bring me, through the power of Your Holy Spirit, into a life where You are my God, absolutely, no in-between, no rationales, no shades of gray. Amen. <br></em></p>
<p><em>SCRIPTURES: Revelation 3:15-16, Matthew 5:37, James 5:12, James 1:17</em></p>
<p>(Reposted from the Beside Me All Along blog at <a title="Beside Me All Along devotional blog" href="http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/" data-imported="1">http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/</a>.)</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758442012-01-31T03:01:23-05:002020-01-27T07:39:28-05:00The Indirect Effect of Joel Osteen
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://blackchristiannews.com/news/nw_osteen-joel_042310.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Joel Osteen" height="375" style="margin: 10px; " width="250" />A few weeks ago, Cretia and I recorded the <a title="Oprah Next Chapter Joel Osteen interview" href="http://www.oprah.com/own-oprahs-next-chapter/Oprahs-Next-Chapter-Joel-Osteen" data-imported="1">Oprah Next Chapter interview with Pastor Joel Osteen</a>. Something we really wanted to see, but with the kids and all, sometimes we have to “watch it later”. :-) So we recorded the show and tonight, a good three weeks later, I sat down to watch it, finally.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It was wonderful.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">You know how you gravitate to a certain person and how they act, how they are, their demeanor and persona? I guess we all have someone or “someones” we admire. Well, Joel has long-been one of those people for me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I remember, before my mom died, she used to talk about him and how wonderful he was and what a great thing he was doing and how he should be an inspiration to me, as a “younger” man. And he was. (Although not quite to the enamored extent my mother saw it.)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But he’s always seemed to be “above reproach”, you know. Some one to look up to, as a person and of course, as a Christian. And that’s both inspiring and un-nerving, at the same time. But…I’m rambling, aren’t I…?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, while watching Oprah and Joel, I was struck by something he said. Oprah asked about <a title="Lakewood Church website" href="http://www.lakewood.cc/pages/home.aspx" data-imported="1">Lakewood<img src="http://houston.culturemap.com/site_media/uploads/photos/2009-08-19/Lakewood-Church-1.350w_263h.jpg" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="Lakewood Church" height="225" style="margin: 10px; " width="300" /> Church</a> and talked about how it’s in many ways a business. A big business. An organization with a very complex process. And it is. And Pastor Osteen agreed.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Then the kicker, for me. He said something to the effect of “We wanted to have the best people available, to make sure we gave things every opportunity to happen the way they should.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And that struck me. It convicted me, actually. Hard.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For almost exactly two years now, I’ve been leading worship at our home church of <a title="Corner-Stone Church website" href="http://www.corner-stone.org/" data-imported="1">Corner-Stone Church</a>. And it goes well some weeks. Others, it doesn’t. Sometimes it “flows” and sometimes it’s honestly, somewhat of a train wreck. And I take full responsibility for those fluctuations. But it’s always bothered me that our music time, our worship time, is inconsistent.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And tonight, I realized…it’s me. I’m not just <em>responsible</em> for the less than stellar outcome, but I’m the <em>cause</em>, many times. More specifically, my <em>lack of preparation</em> is the cause. My lack of <em>focused purpose</em> is the cause.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I believe, with all humility, that God has been very gracious to me, with the gift and love of music. He has not only given me the desire to sing but in many ways, the talent to do it, usually, with relative ease. (Not always, but in a lot of ways.) He’s spoiled me with His blessing, and the gift of learning quickly and jumping without a parachute. It always just kind of “came to me”. And most of the time, it works.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And I’ve let it make me lazy and…lackadaisical, to sum it up in a word.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSdrRVfQA0qAk29pd-doideyY4gHhj0AD5zioYsJJzz0CSArm8x" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Ricky Fitzpatrick 40Watt" height="183" style="margin: 10px; " width="275" />For a lot of years, I know I squandered that gift away in bars and clubs, writing and performing music that were anything but an honor to Him. But those years also encouraged me to adapt and change quickly. To learn to wing it, to change up…on the fly, if needed. To book a gig in a moment’s notice and learn the set after I got there. And improvising, I believed, was just a part of being a musician. Most of the time, I was perfectly content to just do the set on my own and just go with it. And if you were a part of the band and couldn’t follow me, then that was your lack of ability to roll with it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And I’ve been letting, for two years, that mindset become the way I’ve conducted our music at church. Wing it, go with it, figure it out and play off any unexpected problems to the old adage of “Well, God doesn’t need a flawless performance to speak to someone in a song”.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">How…<em>foolish</em> of me. How <em>clueless</em> could I possibly be?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/423851_301427366581745_100001434520331_829870_1725071786_n.jpg" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="No Compromise" height="191" style="margin: 10px; " width="350" />Pastor Osteen drove home a point to me tonight. And that point being, that God expects…no, <em>demands</em> our very best. He wants us to put the best people in place, in order to give His earthly plans every opportunity to succeed. And how careless of me, to think that it was OK to disrespect Him by coming in, unprepared, to worship with our Church family, and shuffle the blame off on Him when it bombed.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Granted, does God <em>need</em> me to deliver a seamless rendition of our worship songs? Of course not. But does He <em>expect</em> and fully <em>deserve</em> my very best efforts to give that? Absolutely.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I just want to say to Pastor Joel, “thank you”. For not pulling the punch. And thank you God for using a recorded interview from a man whom I may never meet, making a comment that had nothing directly, to do with me, to spur me on to a deeper commitment to serve You. And to my church family at Corner-Stone, my heartfelt apologies for taking you and God’s time of worship, so lightly.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Never again. No more “playing church”. Starting today, I recommit myself to a more mature and purposed position in my duties and in my place as a grateful and graciously delivered child of our Father. God forgive us…<em>forgive</em> <em>me</em>…for leaving You so far out of the picture.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I think I’m looking forward to this Sunday!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">---</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline">Prayer</span></strong>: God, help me to realize what a great importance You have placed in my actions and my contributions, in Your grand plans. Not that You can’t accomplish Your purpose without me, but that You have chosen me and placed me in a position of honor within the Body of Christ. You have called me, not just to labor, but to show myself as a good laborer, so that I might bring honor to You in the work that I put my hands to. May I never dishonor You with a lackluster effort in the things You have called me to do! Amen.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">---</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline">Scripture</span></strong>:</em> <em>Colossians 3:23 – For whatsoever you do, do it with your <strong>whole heart</strong>, as unto God, and not for men.</em></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758432011-12-21T04:03:52-05:002020-01-27T07:39:27-05:00Think, Think, Think
<p> </p>
<p><img src="http://sunetos.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/winnieThePooh_thinkThinkThink.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Winnie the Pooh, Think Think Think" height="211" style="margin: 10px; " width="350" />Oh, bother.</p>
<p>It’s hard to put my finger on the exact reason for it…but in a nutshell, I know that I...well, let’s say…I think slow on my feet.</p>
<p>I'm not the smartest bear in the woods, I admit it. I’m a salesman’s dream. I can be talked into all kinds of things, and of course when I am, I later regret my decision. It’s not that I’m dumb or careless or foolish. I just need a minute to process my thoughts, before acting. I’m a little slow on the draw, as they say. But when I have time to think, I can come across as fairly intelligent. Unfortunately, in real life, pondering isn’t always possible.</p>
<p>Last night, I was invited to be the musical guest on the <img src="http://www.thecreatorinyou.com/wp-content/upLoads/2010/06/WATC-TV.png" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="WATC Channel 57" height="200" style="margin: 10px; " width="200" />Atlanta Live show, a talk show formatted program on the Christian WATC Network. I’ve been on there several times now and always love the people and the atmosphere there. Great bunch of folks, and one of my favorite places to appear.</p>
<p>This time, I worked with a host whom I’d never met before. Robert Moore. Nice guy, passionate, well spoken, musically knowledgeable. We just didn’t know one another. And consequently, I had no idea how we’d interact during a chat. So when we took a few minutes to talk, of course he didn’t ask me the standard “So what’s up with you lately” questions. Threw me completely off.</p>
<p>And so I felt compelled to write this blog, partly to make sure I’m not misunderstood on this. This one particular subject came up during our chat, and I wanted to be clear on my thoughts…now that I’ve had a minute to let my thoughts mellow.</p>
<p>Rob asked me how I felt about Christian artists who were also writing and performing secular music. The implication was that there’s a negative view of these artists, by some Christians, and Rob, assuming that I subscribed to that position as well, wanted me to weigh in. And of course, I felt the pressure to give an answer and agree with the accepted view.</p>
<p>Looking back, I stumbled around, looking for what I thought was the “right answer”…a practice that always leads me to regret, and embarrasses me as I dishonor Christ with my fumbling. Because when I try to come up with the answer that I’m “supposed to give”, it rarely matches up with what I truly think. And I don’t know if you can tell…but I can.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.andykazie.com/Portfolio/Stock-Photos/TwoPaths/1184655394_prcWF-L.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Two Paths" height="263" style="margin: 10px; " width="350" />To begin with, my answer is my answer. Ricky’s answer. It’s my opinion, reasoned out and rationalized through what I personally believe and know and THINK I know. Some of the things I do NOT know are another person’s heart, their feelings, their thoughts, God’s plan for them, and God’s plan for others who may encounter them. And with all that lack of knowledge, I accept the fact that my opinions may be pretty flawed at times.</p>
<p>Part of my answer last night had to do with not following two paths and that I felt the need to commit to one or the other. And in some ways, I really do feel that way. As a matter of fact, I know that I have a tendency to lose my own focus when I try to concentrate on more than one thing. It’s just the way I ‘m built. And for that reason, in a lot of areas, I’m encouraged to stick to one thing.</p>
<p>However, I should’ve added that, as most of you already know, I AM an artist that dabbles in genres, outside of just Gospel or Worship music. And I’m comfortable doing that. I’m not tempted or distracted by it. No, I’m not Boot Scootin’ at the local bar, but I write and record all kinds of stuff…children’s, new age, instrumental, classical, folk & country, pop and a host of material for TV & film use. And, I also lead worship at our church, write and record Christian and Worship songs and appear periodically on the occasional Christian TV program.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.kareo.com/gettingpaid/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/measure11.jpg" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="Measuring Tape" height="225" style="margin: 10px; " width="300" />Does my “multi-faceted-ness” make me a less-respected Christian? I don’t know…I hope not. How do I measure up now? Does that make me less “real” in God’s eyes? I don’t think so. Does it make it appear that I’m just in the Christian side of things, for the added publicity or money? Again, I don’t know, but I hope not.</p>
<p>I guess I should’ve made sure to make these points during the broadcast, and to remind everyone that a secular song isn’t inherently bad, just because it’s secular. Just like a Gospel song isn’t “good”, just because it’s Gospel. A Martin D1 isn’t a fantastic guitar because of the music it plays. Your Bible is no less truthful when it comes from Walmart. And a singer isn’t “right” or “wrong” just because of the style of music they perform.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.info.insitesoft.com/Portals/53472/images/Pondering-an-Open-Source-Ecommerce-Platform-Read-This.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Pondering" height="167" style="margin: 10px; " width="250" />At the end of the day, in my eyes, it comes down to “fruits”. Jesus said that we would know a tree by the fruit it bears. And so it is with doctors, preachers, politicians, plumbers, brick layers, grandparents, circus clowns, truck drivers, professional athletes, and yes…musicians.</p>
<p>I just wanted to clarify my thoughts on that, because I believe I was grappling with my words and honestly, flubbing up what I really wished I had said.</p>
<p>So with that…if you tuned in to the broadcast, thank you! And I hope you were blessed by what you heard. And I hope you felt like Christ was represented in that hour! I’ll be spending a little more time think, think, thinking BEFORE we go on air, the next time! :-)</p>
<p>Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758422011-12-12T07:44:07-05:002020-01-27T07:39:27-05:00Me, Myself and my iPhone
<p>---------------------------------------</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQIa4Aukm0VP1-1PsVQ-37PR3BlipSd7mFBe8Vy-lCXkKDFzBP-sg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Baby Crying" height="187" style="margin: 3px 10px; " width="270" />Until a few months ago, I was languishing in the miry clay of outdated technology…still using my old flip phone…wasting away in a sea of disconnectedness…chained like a prisoner to my limitations of communication that only included (sigh) voice calls and text messaging.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But lo, one glorious day the clouds departed and my social quotient was restored, when my cellular contract allowed me to upgrade from my old inexcusable, dinosaur of a phone, for just pennies on the dollar. Into my life came a full and wonderful blessing that must surely have been sent directly from heaven above…my iPhone.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>(Angels singing…ahhhhhh!)</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Seriously, I don’t get new techie stuff very often. I tend to keep things for a very, very, VERY long time. So a smart phone of some sort was long overdue in the Fitzpatrick house. And I’ll tell you, we have really loved having the coolness and connectedness that has come with one.<img src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQoaV-k2j3l2Q_ZttZD7ytNpO6B_PZ9aA8uiYI_2_YWWGfz0prW2Q" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="iPhone" height="153" style="margin: 3px; " width="300" /> The iPhone really has allowed us to do some wonderful things…things that we didn’t even know had made it into the real world yet. But mainly, I use mine for musical contact and networking and getting word to the Praise Team at church, and that’s like, every single day. And at this point, I already almost can’t imagine how I ever did anything without it!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">One of the most useful things for me, has been the availability of the App Store. And one of the first apps I downloaded was the Olive Tree Bible Reader. Since grabbing this free app, I do all my reading, study, referencing…all from the comfort of my phone. I don’t even take my actual leather-bound bible to church anymore. I mean, why should I? What’s the use, when I can do all that I need (and then some), easier, faster and more conveniently, from my phone?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Well now…therein lies the problem…doesn’t it?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing <em>sinful</em> about an iPhone. There’s nothing <em>wrong</em> with me reading scripture on my Bible app. I don’t think God has a <em>problem</em> with folks leaving their bibles at home and bringing their tablet or smart phone to church for reading.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But for me, personally…it was becoming a problem. OK, not a “problem” per se, but it was slowly turning into something that was causing a self-conflict inside of me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT7mM1362eRgfzwO2onnHtnAPEIbSgCNvE-tzWtSbVztbl7Hf3lGQ" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Nelson NAS Study Bible" height="225" style="margin: 3px 10px; " width="300" />The other Sunday, it just kind of hit me…for me, for Ricky…my Bible is something that moves me to reverence. It’s my touchstone, in a way. There’s just something about folding it open and flipping through those worn, noisy, thin pages and seeing my years of scribbles and highlights and margin notes…it brings me to a place that I just don’t get from my phone.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">I got my current Bible as a graduation gift in 1987 from my then-church family at Galilee Christian. So just the simple act of holding of it, surrounds me with the always-present memories and lessons that have shaped and followed me, since I was a teenager. There’s a LOT of personal history attached to that book.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Again, there’s nothing wrong with the iPhone. But I have to tell you…speaking for myself, I’m just compelled to start back bringing my actual bible to church with me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Why? Because for one, I think it’s something that helps me focus. It helps me focus my attention and my study, strictly and more succinctly on God. It reminds me that I’m entering into an activity that is different from my other routine, run-of-the-mill stuff. This book is unlike <em>any other book</em> I own. And diving into it, even for one lone verse, is something that goes beyond me.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Also, let’s say a new family is visiting at our church. And they glance over at me and during the sermon, they notice I’m browsing on my phone. They don’t know that I’m using my Bible app (and it really isn’t and shouldn’t be their concern). But my Ricky-personality wants to say “Mind your own beeswax”. But the Holy Spirit whispers to me “But how do the effects of your perceived actions, honor God?” In that light, it becomes clear to me that I need to be conscious of what I do, especially in public. Because not only WE, but GOD, is being evaluated by those around us, by OUR actions. And those evaluations are not only aimed at us and God, but they are paving (or destroying) the path that a person might be about to take that will lead them to repentance.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Heavy stuff.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">So that’s me. I feel the renewed need to bring my Bible to church. Not that I won’t continue to supplement my Bible studies with the Olive Tree app, but for Church, I just feel convicted about not having my Bible in-hand. I think I need it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">You may not…and that’s cool. There’s no verse (that I know of) that commands us to bring the leather-bound, printed Word with us when we gather. But the next time you use your mobile device to communicate, investigate or connect with someone or something about your church, faith, belief or relationship with Christ…stop and think about it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Let Him always lead you, concerning how you can serve and seek Him, most effectively.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Ricky</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">--------------------------------------- </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Scripture: </em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it…”</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Psalm 40:8 – “I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Take-Away:</em></strong><em> Don’t forget that we do not serve an informal and disrespected God. We serve the awesome and glorious creator of all things and the omnipotent master of the universe. Don’t take your relationship with Him, disrespectfully…give Him the honor and reverence He rightfully deserves, even if that means forgoing some of our daily conveniences.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Prayer: </em></strong><em>Father, convict me. If there are things that I do that might hinder those around me, please help me to know them. And if I’m in the habit of doing things in a way that lessens my awe of you, please help me to be aware of them and to do whatever it takes to show You how much I revere and love You!</em><em></em></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758412011-07-27T05:33:44-04:002022-05-29T14:20:05-04:00I Have Been Redeemed!
<p>What could be sweeter than suffering defeat, exiting graciously, then returning to the same battlefield, only this time, to emerge victorious? Redemption, right?</p>
<p>Redemption was the theme of this past week’s <strong>Chopped</strong> episode on the <strong>Food Network</strong> (<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/chopped/index.html" data-imported="1">http://www.foodnetwork.com/chopped/index.html</a>). Four previously chopped chefs, back to duke it out again? And who should be in the lineup but our favorite Christian chef<strong>, Lance Nitahara</strong>!</p>
<p>In case you don’t know or remember, chef Lance is one of the executive chefs at a Christian resort called, <strong>Camp of the Woods</strong> (<a href="http://www.camp-of-the-woods.org/" data-imported="1">www.camp-of-the-woods.org</a>), tucked back in the Adirondacks of Speculator, NY.</p>
<p>But I don’t know if this turned out exactly like the Food Network execs thought it would. There was no grandstanding. No gloating. No Rocky-style rabbit punches or condescending or cocky attitudes. No backstabbing or heated debates in the kitchen. None of the high drama that we’ve all become so accustomed to seeing in our reality shows.</p>
<p>Actually, it was exactly the opposite.</p>
<p>Friendly competition. Graceful interaction. Cool, controlled, talented cooking. And a big twist at the end that I don’t think anyone saw coming.</p>
<p>I have to say, it was so cool, seeing Lance back in the ring, tackling his mystery baskets, whipping up amazing dishes. Seriously, he really is amazing to watch. But even moreso (and what captured our attention in the beginning), <em>his openness and candor about his faith</em>. He was the same dude this time too…talking about God, faith, being blessed, showing compassion and interest in his fellow competitors.</p>
<p>You know, stuff that you NEVER see in reality competitions.</p>
<p>I’m ashamed to say that I don’t know if I’ve grown very much as a Christian since Lance’s last appearance on Chopped (back in Sept 2010), when he surprised me at his declaration of faith and his surprising, consistent humility and graceful attitude. Then, I was half expecting him to blow it and say a four letter word or go for the jugular in his competitiveness. That’s partly why I watched…to see the train wreck.</p>
<p>But he didn’t.</p>
<p>And then, even when chopped, he exited with grace and thankfulness. What? Totally unexpected. And totally humbling for me, as a Christian.</p>
<p>(My blog about that episode is here: <a title="Ricky Fitzpatrick blog You've Been Chopped" href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/blog.html/youve_been_chopped/" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/blog.html/youve_been_chopped/</a>)</p>
<p>Last night, I found myself now saying “So I wonder if he’s still as staunch a Christian as he was a year ago. I wonder if this time, he’s going to be some kind of jerk, or have an attitude.”</p>
<p>I’m ashamed. What a pitiful view for me to have. It’s embarrassing, but I admit that yes, I was (at least subconsciously) thinking it. So I watched again, expecting to be able to smugly say “I knew it”.</p>
<p>But as before, I was thankfully proven wrong. And never was I so glad to have egg on my face.</p>
<p>Not only was Chef Lance’s demeanor as humble and gracious as always…and not only did he actually <em>win</em> this time…but even in winning, he used part of his prize to give something to his opponent and help her fly home to see her grandmother (I think it was her grandmother).</p>
<p>And then he said something to the effect of “It was a pleasure to be able to be here and use this experience to serve people”.</p>
<p>Come on! Seriously? Are you kidding me? Lance, what are you doing, man? Are you TRYING to make me feel like a loser, bro? :)</p>
<p>It had an effect on me. I’m watching this unfold and I’m feeling like, super-heavy convicted to go pray for forgiveness for my selfishness and insensitivity to the people around me.</p>
<p>I have no doubt that God used Lance Nitahara and is Chopped experience as a platform to speak to me, and probably a lot of other lukewarm Christians out there, just like me. Who would’ve thought that God was in the business of exercising conviction in His people, through a Food Network show!?</p>
<p>So today, I wanted to re-blog about Lance and say to him “Congratulations on your win!” and “Thank you for allowing God to use you as an example of His grace in action”.</p>
<p>And here’s a link to the Food Network Promo, in case anyone wants to give it a look: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/chopped/sweet-second-chance/index.html" data-imported="1">http://www.foodnetwork.com/chopped/sweet-second-chance/index.html</a></p>
<p>OK, now what’s next…Lance Nitahara on<a title="Food Network Extreme Chef" href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/extreme-chef/index.html" data-imported="1"> <strong>Extreme Chef</strong></a> or <strong><a title="Food Network Iron Chef America" href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/iron-chef-america/index.html" data-imported="1">Iron Chef America</a></strong>…?</p>
<p>- Ricky</p>
<p>By the way, I think it behooves us to acknowledge chef Lance for…well, for being who he is. I’ve already emailed the folks at Camp Of the Woods and told them what a gift I think Lance is to their organization and what an inspiration he is to me. I would encourage you to do the same, and to bring honor to a Christian guy who has not tried to honor himself, but to use his time in the public eye to honor God. And example for all of us.</p>
<p>Shoot an email to Steve Tann, VP of Operations and Marketing at COTW at <a href="mailto:stevet@camp-of-the-woods.org" data-imported="1">stevet@camp-of-the-woods.org</a> and let him know. You might want to even cc Lance on it (<a href="mailto:lancen@camp-of-the-woods.org" data-imported="1">lancen@camp-of-the-woods.org</a>). </p>
<p>*** This blog post is also over at the Beside Me All Along blog at: <a href="http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-have-been-redeemed.html" data-imported="1">http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-have-been-redeemed.html</a> if you have a preference.***</p>
<p> </p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758402011-06-22T01:46:37-04:002020-01-27T07:39:26-05:00Summertime, Summertime!
<p>Just thought I'd post a little something, since it's been...oh...what...3 or 4 <em>months</em> since my last post. :)</p>
<p>This Spring and Summer has been <strong>incredibly</strong> busy. Lots of irons in the fire (as usual). I've been recording a lot of different music lately. Lots of varying styles and concepts. A good number of things for our P&W services at church. Several guitar instrumental pieces in all kinds of different styles (folk, bluegrass, new age, pop and rock). And a TON of "<em>production music</em>", which is music that can be used in 5, 10, 20, 30 second spots in film, TV, commercial, documentary, websites, etc. That has been fun and a brand new experience for me.</p>
<p>The <strong>production music</strong> is something I've always wanted to get into, so that's exciting. And a couple of things are already being placed in some PBS programming. Very cool.</p>
<p>I'm also working (still) on <strong>a new CD of hymns</strong>. I wanted to do them simply. Just me and guitar. But I also want to do a corporate kind of recording. You know, do it live and capture the whole church singing along. Maybe a little piano and bass. Some percussion. I don't know. In the end, I may incorporate some of both.</p>
<p>I just started talking with an label that handles "<strong>relaxing music</strong>", mainly for meditation, massage, spas, etc. I have enough of that kind of instrumental music to put together a CD for them. And I 'm hopeful that that's exactly what we'll be doing. Again, something I'm really enjoying.</p>
<p>Friend and fellow Corner-stone Church member <strong>Christin Haynie</strong> knocked out some really nice shots at our informal "photo shoot", last month. I'm always self-conscious about having pix made of myself, but I know it must be done. Anyway, Christin was easy to work with, took my suggestions and in the end, used her God-given talent to work up some seriously nice pictures. You can check 'em out over on <a title="Ricky's Facebook page" href="http://www.facebook.com/rickyfitzfbpage" data-imported="1">my Facebook page</a>. Thank you, Christin!</p>
<p>Also, an EP-length project of more Folk Fusion-related guitar instrumentals is just around the bend. Think <em>"a mix between <strong>James Taylor</strong>, <strong>Lionel Richie</strong> and <strong>John Mayer</strong>...without singing"</em> and that's a pretty close idea of the songs. A limited quantity of physical CDs will be available, but mainly, this will be a digital release and should be on all the major download sites (Amazon, iTunes, Napster, CD Baby, etc). Some very cool pricing stuff, coming up on those songs.</p>
<p>And finally, I'll be joining the <strong>Australian Figure Skating team</strong> as a single men's skater in the upcoming <strong>2014 Olympic Games</strong>...</p>
<p><em>Not really. Just making sure everyone's awake.</em></p>
<p>The most pressing project going right now is the creation of the <strong>relaxing music CD</strong>. Cover art selection is going well...everyone has been a huge help in that. The layout is close. The marketing plan is coming together. Recording and mastering is nearly complete. And my network of press and outlets for that part of the music biz is pretty much in place. Now I just need everyone to start spreadin' the news...</p>
<p>Of course, lots of samples of much of the new music is spread around on <a title="Ricky Fitzpatrick music page" href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/music.html" data-imported="1">the Music Page</a>. So please head on over and check it all out. And be a friend...tell a friend. :)</p>
<p>I'll be passing along updates on all of this as things fall into place. So <em>hold on, tiger</em>...I'll be sending out some details about all of these and asking for lots of favors (as always)!</p>
<p>Til I see you, take care. Peace, love and great music. FIC,</p>
<p>RF</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758392011-02-04T03:56:06-05:002020-01-27T07:39:25-05:00I need your pictures!
<p>Be a part of something cool with me.</p>
<p>We’ll be creating a video to go with a new upcoming song and I need you guys to email me (ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com) pictures of anything that might relate to compassion, caring, brotherhood, togetherness, reaching out, giving, brotherly love…you get the idea.</p>
<p>Details to come, and I promise…it will be very cool. :)</p>
<p>Thank You!!!</p>
<p>RF</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758382010-12-13T05:01:43-05:002020-01-27T07:39:25-05:00Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Kenny, Reba, George...and Ricky?
<p>Hey Guys…FYI, the <strong>Country Love With Ilona</strong> radio program has included “Angels We Have Heard on High” on the Christmas episode…very cool to be in there with some of my all-time favorite Country and Christian artists like <strong>Brad Paisley, Reba, Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, Steve Wariner, Lady A, George Strait, Point of Grace, </strong>even <strong>Burl Ives</strong>!…awesome!</p>
<p>Give it a listen or download the entire show at <a href="http://www.rock4rookies.com/countryfull.html" data-imported="1">http://www.rock4rookies.com/countryfull.html</a>.</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758372010-11-12T00:28:41-05:002020-01-27T07:39:25-05:00$2.49 Black Friday Christmas Album Sale - Press Release
<address>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</address>
<address> </address>
<address>November 11, 2010</address>
<address> </address>
<h3>Ricky Fitzpatrick and the $2.49 Black Friday Christmas Album Sale</h3>
<address> </address>
<address>F2 Records and award-winning singer-songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick announce an upcoming Black Friday Music Sale on the brand-new Holiday release, “Acoustically Christmas”.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>In connection with CD Baby, the world’s largest online distributor of independent music, Fitzpatrick will be making digital Holiday albums available for only $2.49. Sale prices will actually become available Thanksgiving Day, Thursday November 25 and will run through the end of the day Friday the 26th (Black Friday), then prices will revert back to standard retail levels.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>To download your Christmas music at Black Friday prices either go to www.rickyfitzpatrick.com and click on the Black Friday Banner or go directly to www.cdbaby.com/cd/fitzpatrickricky.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>Interested parties can also sign up to receive Tweets, Facebook posts or Email reminders about the sale as the date draws nearer. Go to www.rickyfitzpatrick.com to learn how.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>“Acoustically Christmas” is Fitzpatrick’s fifth and newest full-length release, a genuinely acoustic collection of faith-based Holiday classics that critics say “are sure to warm you as the December temperatures start to drop”. Selections from it are already being played by radio across the US, Canada, Australia and Ireland, by stations on land, online and via XM/Sirius. The physical CD is also available at exclusive retailers throughout the Southeast.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>Ricky Fitzpatrick is a multiple award-winning Christian and Folk singer and songwriter. He has been long-hailed by fans and critics as a Southernized Bob Dylan and the next James Taylor, with a voice as smooth as moonshine, crafting simple but unforgettable songs that coolly straddle the fence between Folk & Country.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>He lives, records and occasionally gardens, in the tiny community of Apple Valley (unincorporated), GA with his wife, children and one remaining goldfish, Vince Gills.</address>
<address> </address>
<address># # #</address>
<address> </address>
<address>ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com</address>
<address>www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</address>
<address>www.facebook.com/rickyfitzfbpage</address>
<address>www.twitter.com/rickyfitz</address>
<address>706-372-0406</address>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758362010-11-10T03:23:23-05:002020-01-27T07:39:23-05:00FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Space Shuttle Wake-Up Song
<address>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</address>
<address> </address>
<address>November 10, 2010</address>
<address> </address>
<address>*Taking His Music to New Heights*</address>
<address> </address>
<address>Award-winning Christian and Folk singer-songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick has been creating “unforgettable songs that coolly straddle the fence between Folk & Country” in and around the Southeast for over two decades. Critics and fans have called him “the next James Taylor” and “a Southernized Bob Dylan” with a voice “as smooth as moonshine”.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>His musical career spans pop, rock, country, folk and Christian genres, with performances everywhere from “Live at the Apollo” to The Bluebird Café. And fans of Fitzpatrick are no strangers to his broad reach when it comes to crossing genre, style and culture barriers. Although known mostly for his acoustic stylings, he’s constantly seeking out new and unexpected opportunities to compose or perform.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>That may include anything from traditional choral arrangements, Gregorian chants, Gospel standards, driving rock, quirky jingles or Grammy-winning New Age instrumentals.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>But his latest adventure is really out of this world. No, really…it’s literally “out of this world”.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>As NASA winds down the Space Shuttle program, we look ahead to the final launch of the final shuttle (Endeavour), in late February 2011. And as part of the final hoopla, NASA is selecting wake-up songs for the astronauts from public submissions.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>Fitzpatrick has composed an instrumental Pop Fusion song entitled “Morning Endeavour” which will be considered for use during that final mission.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>NASA Officials will narrow their possible choices to a small field and allow public voting to determine the final song selections, early February 2011.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>To listen to and even download a free version of “Morning Endeavour” go to <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a> and click on the NASA/Space Shuttle banner.</address>
<address> </address>
<address>Ricky Fitzpatrick lives, records and occasionally gardens, in the tiny community of Apple Valley (unincorporated), GA with his wife, children and one remaining goldfish, Vince Gills.</address>
<address> </address>
<address># # #</address>
<address> </address>
<address>ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com</address>
<address><a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a></address>
<address><a href="http://www.facebook.com/rickyfitzfbpage" data-imported="1">www.facebook.com/rickyfitzfbpage</a></address>
<address><a href="http://www.twitter.com/rickyfitz" data-imported="1">www.twitter.com/rickyfitz</a></address>
<address>706-372-0406</address>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758352010-10-14T09:10:53-04:002020-01-27T07:39:23-05:00Autographed John Grisham contest
<p>I want to make someone’s day and give you a chance to win an early and VERY special Christmas gift.</p>
<p>I will be drawing ONE NAME, to receive a copy of John Grisham’s “Ford County”…boxed, limited edition, numbered and autographed. Seriously…autographed by Grisham, himself.</p>
<p>“What crazy, Herculean task must I perform, to win such a thing?” you may be wondering.</p>
<p>Well, any number of things. Take your pick:</p>
<p>ONE</p>
<p>Go to <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/acoustically_christmas_cd.html" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/acoustically_christmas_cd.html</a>, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the SHARE button, then share it on your Facebook wall.</p>
<p>Be sure to put something in the comment field like, “If you like music like James Taylor or John Denver, then check out this great new Christmas CD from a friend of mine, Ricky Fitzpatrick.”</p>
<p>And you MUST let me know when you do it, otherwise I’ll never know.</p>
<p>TWO</p>
<p>Email your friends (and cc me) one of these messages:</p>
<ul>
<li>* If you like music like James Taylor or John Denver, then check out this great new Christmas CD from a friend of mine, Ricky Fitzpatrick. Go to <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a>.</li>
<li>* Ricky Fitzpatrick's brand new Christmas CD "Acoustically Christmas" comes out Nov ! Go to <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a> to read all about it and get an autographed copy for yourself.</li>
<li>* If you're looking for a new Christmas CD for this year, and you like artists like James Taylor, John Denver or Amy Grant, you should check out Ricky Fitzpatrick's new CD "Acoustically Christmas". Read about it at <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>On November 1, I’ll put everybody’s name in a hat (really, a real hat) and pick a winner. And yes, if you post to your wall or email more than once (and let me know), I will add your name for every time you do it.</p>
<p>So get ready to start spreadin’ the news, and someone will indeed win the autographed copy of “Ford County”.</p>
<p>Ready, set, go!</p>
<p>Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758342010-09-27T04:00:28-04:002020-01-27T07:39:22-05:00GHAM - Fall 2010 Vol 1
<h2>Gimme Half a Minute update - Fall 2010 Vol 1</h2>
<p><strong>Acoustically Christmas CD, 5 weeks from release date</strong>. If you haven’t pre-ordered your autographed CD yet, there is still time. Plus all pre-orders get additional free bonus MP3s. <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a> to learn more.</p>
<p><strong>Acoustically Christmas cover art getting some big strings.</strong> The final version of the Christmas CD cover art has been held tightly under wraps. It will feature a picture of a one-of-a-kind wreath from stringed instrument artists from all over the map! Livingston Taylor (James’ bro), Pete Mulvey, Shawn Mullins, Kerry Livgren (former lead guitarist for Kansas), Michael Card (songwriter, “El Shaddai”), Cosy Sheridan, Will Taylor…it’s a list. Go to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=155701244441843" data-imported="1">http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=155701244441843</a> to stay in the know and possibly win a string-wreath ornament made from my own strings.</p>
<p><strong>What Child Is This, playing on Divine Authority radio</strong>. Northern Ireland's Christian Internet <em>Radio</em> Station, Divine Authority, has the first single from the Christmas CD already in regular rotation. Go to <a href="http://www.divineauthority.com/" data-imported="1">www.divineauthority.com</a> to learn more, to send a request or to listen. Facebook - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Divine-Authority-Northern-Irelands-Christian-Internet-Radio-Station/208302744048" data-imported="1">www.facebook.com/pages/Divine-Authority-Northern-Irelands-Christian-Internet-Radio-Station/208302744048</a></p>
<p><strong>The Devotional Blog gets Food Network connection!</strong> Mentioned chef Lance Nitahara in the “You’ve Been Chopped” devotion in the Beside Me All Along devo-blog. Little did I know he would discover, read and comment. Very cool. Check it out at <a href="http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/2010/09/when-you-get-chopped.html" data-imported="1">http://besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/2010/09/when-you-get-chopped.html</a>. </p>
<p><strong>John Elefante in 2011? </strong>John and Dino Elefante are icons as songwriters, artists and producers in Contemporary Christian music. John has always been one of my favorite vocalists and has produced some of the greatest artists today. He’s actually fronting Kansas as their vocalist right now. Cool. Earlier, John gave me the chance to forward some demos to him for review. We are hoping to get in the studio in 2011 with John in the producer’s chair. Stay tuned. <a href="http://www.johnelefante.com/" data-imported="1">www.johnelefante.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Down By the Water’s Edge is nearly complete!</strong> The “Official Song of the Hurricane Shoals park” project has been underway for several months now. We are almost done! T Graham Brown will be adding his vocals as the last piece of this remarkable puzzle. Go to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge/139021779472951" data-imported="1">www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge/139021779472951</a> to stay in the loop. Hurricane Shoals site - <a href="http://www.hurricaneshoalspark.org/" data-imported="1">http://www.hurricaneshoalspark.org</a></p>
<p>Have a blessed day!!!</p>
<p>Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758332010-09-13T09:37:27-04:002020-01-27T07:39:22-05:00You've Been Chopped!
<p>Let me ask you a question: “How will you act when you get chopped?”</p>
<p>“What?” you may be asking yourself.</p>
<p>How will you act…what will you do…who will you honor, when you get chopped, cut, slammed, tackled, hit, slandered, beaten, knocked down, humiliated?</p>
<p>I was talking Sunday with Phoelicia, one of the members of our praise team, about the following story. And the more I think about it, well, the more I think about it. Let me share this with you…</p>
<p>My wife and I absolutely love <strong>The Food Network</strong>. My personal favorite was the old Japanese <strong>Iron Chef</strong>! (Classic!) We like <strong>Bobby Flay</strong> or <strong>Guy Fieri</strong> and <strong>Duff Goldman</strong> or <strong>Alton Brown</strong>. We also like the new <strong>Food Network Star</strong> winner, <strong>Aarti</strong>, and <strong>Aarti Party</strong>. (I just like the way Aarti says it. J)</p>
<p>But we also watch a lot of the show, <strong>Chopped</strong>, where four chefs compete in these surprise ingredient lightening round type settings, with one chef being “chopped”, or eliminated, with every challenge, until only one remains. Brutal.</p>
<p>The other night, one of the chefs on Chopped was a Christian named <strong>Lance Nitahara</strong>. A really humble guy who is the head chef for a Christian organization, <strong>Camp of the Woods</strong> (<a href="http://www.camp-of-the-woods.org/" data-imported="1">www.camp-of-the-woods.org</a>) in the Adirondacks of Speculator, NY.</p>
<p>When he introduced himself, I was struck by his openness about his faith (why would that strike me???). And he talked about his love for God and how he prayed for God to grant him things like creativity and strength in the contest, and to help him compete in a way that would honor Him.</p>
<p>Wow.</p>
<p>Now, how many of us would pray THAT prayer?</p>
<p>Anyway, to make a long story short, he competed very, very well and advanced to the final one-on-one round before finally being chopped. But the judges raved about both competitors’ dishes, saying that was some of the best food they had ever tasted in any <strong>Chopped</strong> contest.</p>
<p>And when Lance left the judges, he was smiling and polite and still thanking God for the opportunity to have competed. Even as he left, having been defeated, he didn’t allow the situation to defeat HIM. He didn’t let the pain of losing, overshadow his true purpose…which was to honor God with his actions, words, talents, demeanor, looks, motions, comments.</p>
<p>He maintained the heart and attitude of Christ, <em>even as he was chopped</em>.</p>
<p>It was very inspiring. And personally, I think we should all acknowledge Lance for his skill and talent and for his Christ-like demeanor throughout the entire process. He certainly doesn’t appear to be up for honoring himself, so maybe his Christian brothers and sisters should do it on his behalf.</p>
<p><em>(As a matter of fact, if you actually want to do that, email your thank-yous and comments to Camp Of the Woods at </em><a href="mailto:info@camp-of-the-woods.org" data-imported="1"><em>info@camp-of-the-woods.org</em></a><em>.)</em></p>
<p>So what does all this have to do with me or you or God or being a Christian or anything remotely important?</p>
<p>Well, a lot, actually. Look…</p>
<p>When it comes to how Christians should act, Paul gives us a down-n-dirty schooling in the first two verses of Romans.</p>
<p><em>“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” - Romans 12: 1-2</em></p>
<p>A “living sacrifice”? “Acceptable to God”? “Transformed by the renewing of your mind”? That’s pretty heavy stuff. Very, very deep. Surely this passage was designed to be inspiring through its poetry than to be taken literally in application. Right?</p>
<p>I don’t think so.</p>
<p>I challenge you to admit, that while these verses tell of a state of being that is probably a world apart from where most of us are (myself included), it’s also one that we can (and should) aspire to.</p>
<p><strong>Lance Nitahara</strong> exemplified this passage, perfectly, for me. Let’s get real…I was honestly watching the show, waiting for the guy to say a foul word. Or do something sneaky against one of the other chefs. Or even glare at someone in anger or jealously. Probably so I could shout “I knew it. I KNEW it!” at the TV.</p>
<p>But, nothing.</p>
<p>I mean nothing. He was true to his profession…that is, his “profession” of faith.</p>
<p>He was presenting his body as a living sacrifice, or to be of good use, to God. He was IN the competition, but did not conform to the typical mannerisms of the normal competitor. And I believe he displayed qualities that showed the will of God.</p>
<p>Can we do the same? Can we hold ourselves to a higher standard? Can we conduct ourselves, even in times of stress and discomfort and duress and public view, in a way that is not only acceptable to God, but that “proves” His will?</p>
<p>Will your actions, regardless of your situation, prove that God’s will is being accomplished in that place or in that time? <strong>Proving</strong> God’s will…that’s mega-heavy.</p>
<p>Let's face it, there’s more here than I can cover in one blog entry. So let’s stop here and let that sink in. I know I could stand to let this whole idea absorb more, into my own life.</p>
<p>And for more detail on exactly what kinds of behavior God expects from His people, you could go to any one of dozens of biblical passages. But since we’re already in Romans, take a minute and read the entire twelfth and thirteenth chapters. And get your pencil out.</p>
<p>And be prepared to ask yourself “How will I act when I get chopped?”</p>
<p>______________________________________________</p>
<p><em>Prayer: Lord, please help me to be aware of the fact that my life is not my own. But that while I am subject only to your judgment, I am bound by my love for You, to conduct myself in a way that is honorable to You, in all the moments of my life. Please help me to desire to live, constantly, in that way. Please help me to lead others to look to You, as they see the shadow of Christ in my actions and in my heart. </em></p>
<p><em>Take away: Think and pray about the question: “How would I act if no one is watching?” Put yourself in a hypothetical, tempting situation and then imagine that you are truly alone. How do you react? Don’t just cop-out with some religiously correct answer. Be emotionally honest with what you would desire to do and why you would do it or not do it. Give yourself details to make your picture as life-like as possible. Then apply it!</em></p>
<p>______________________________________________</p>
<p>This blog entry is also available via the Beside Me All Along online devotional blog at <a href="http://www.besidemeallalong.blogspot.com/" data-imported="1">www.besidemeallalong.blogspot.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758322010-09-08T05:53:47-04:002020-01-27T07:39:20-05:00Acoustically Christmas - Pre-order Press Release
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</p>
<p>September 8, 2010</p>
<p>While the weather outside isn’t exactly frightful…those recent cool pre-Fall nights are a sure sign that Summer is about to wave good-bye and the sights and sounds and chilly air of the 2010 Christmas Season will soon be swirling around us.</p>
<p>And if your Holiday heart is already yearning for the songs of the Season…maybe accented by the unplugged sounds of the acoustic guitar, and mellow solo and ensemble vocals that sing about our faith and joy of the time…unencumbered by the distractions of synthesizers, electric guitars and full-blown orchestral arrangements…then your pre-Christmas wish may already be coming true.</p>
<p>Pre-ordering now, “Acoustically Christmas” is a CD of genuinely acoustic, classic Christmas selections of faith, tastefully arranged and recorded to give you and yours, year after year of timeless Seasonal soundtracking.</p>
<p>A collection of faith-based Holiday music from award-winning singer-songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick, “Acoustically Christmas” is a fresh take on the old-familiar. With preview samples already captivating fans around town and around the country, his relaxing guitar and mellow baritone are sure to warm you when the December temperatures begin to drop.</p>
<p>Fresh and uncluttered arrangements of songs like “Angels We Have Heard On High” are so catchy, they’re just begging to be sung-along with. A haunting acapella rendition of “O’ Come Emmanuel” is chilling in its cathedral-like majesty. And visions of James Taylor arise like an old friend, in selections like “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” and “Silent Night”.</p>
<p>Also, a lifetime in and around music and musicians has blessed Ricky with a vast wealth of musical friends. And many of those friends will be contributing “in one way or another” to the CD. Artists like Michael Card (songwriter, “El Shaddai”), Shawn Mullins (Grammy Award winning artist), Livingston Taylor (the brother of James Taylor), Peter Mulvey (award winning Boston-based singer/songwriter), Cosy Sheridan (70’s Folk Music icon). As well as a host of well-known local artists like Will Taylor Smith, Nathan Sheppard and the members of Bluebilly Grit.</p>
<p>He comments, “It’s been truly pleasing to be able to record these songs in the way that we’re doing it…sans all the fluff. And I hope people will hear music that they can share and play for friends and family around the Holidays…music that will make us smile, bring us together and most importantly, remind us of the true purpose for the Season and draw us to reflect on Christ and His gift.”</p>
<p>You can click on the banner at <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/</a> to listen to a preview of the CD’s first single, “What Child Is This”, which is making its way to Christian and Seasonal radio programs now. And learn how to order “Acoustically Christmas” now, with no payment until the CD ships (free) on November 5.</p>
<p>Ricky Fitzpatrick is a multi award-winning artist and songwriter. He also leads Praise & Worship at Corner-stone Baptist Church (Jefferson, GA), and lives, records and pursues the vision of Christ, in the tiny community of Apple Valley (unincorporated), GA with his wife, children and one remaining goldfish, Vince Gills.</p>
<p>For more on the music and ministry of Ricky Fitzpatrick, and on the “Acoustically Christmas” CD, please visit him at www.rickyfitzpatrick.com.</p>
<p># # #</p>
<p>Ricky Fitzpatrick</p>
<p>ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a></p>
<p>706-372-0406</p>
<p> </p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758312010-08-27T02:38:59-04:002020-01-27T07:39:20-05:00Acoustically Christmas CD
<p> </p>
<p>***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ***</p>
<p>What the world needs is yet another “acoustic” Christmas CD. Right?</p>
<p>But if your Holiday heart is yearning for the unplugged sounds of the acoustic guitar, plucked harmonics, lush fingerpicking, and mellow solo and ensemble vocals…unencumbered by the distractions of synthesizers, electric guitars and full-blown orchestral arrangements…then your wait may be over.</p>
<p>“Acoustically Christmas” is a genuinely acoustic collection of classic Christmas selections of faith, tastefully arranged and recorded to give you and yours, year after year of timeless Seasonal soundtracking.</p>
<p>A collection of music from award-winning, Folk & Country singer-songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick, “Acoustically Christmas” marks the high point in his career, captivating fans around the world with his relaxing guitar and a mellow baritone that’s sure to warm you when the December temperatures begin to drop.</p>
<p>"It’s my prayer that God won't see me in these recordings. But that He'll look at me and my choices and my offering, through the blood of Christ, and find me worthy to stand and sing these songs, having Him and His purpose in mind", says Fitzpatrick. "And that my foolish shortcomings of the past year won’t hinder the awesome power of His great mercy and enduring love, as people hear me singing of Him in this music."</p>
<p>Fresh arrangements of songs like “Little Drummer Boy” will wow you as Fitzpatrick coaxes perfectly played drum & percussion sounds from nothing less than, his guitar. The haunting acapella “O’ Come Emmanuel” is chilling in its majesty as you hear layer upon layer of voice upon voice. And visions of James Taylor arise like an old friend, in renditions of “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” and “The First Noel”.</p>
<p>Please go to <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/music-67.html" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/music-67.html</a> to listen to a sample of “What Child Is This”, and learn how to order “Acoustically Christmas” online today, with no payment until the official street date of November 5.</p>
<p>Hear for yourself and bring home “Acoustically Christmas” for you, or as a gift for someone special. And have a very Merry Christmas!</p>
<p>###</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758302010-08-25T08:59:25-04:002020-01-27T07:39:20-05:00Down By the Water's Edge - Pre Sale
<p> </p>
<p><img src="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/hs178.ash2/41815_139021779472951_1303_n.jpg" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="Down By the Water's Edge cover art" height="200" style=" margin: 1px;" width="200" />If you’re a fan of area musicians like <strong>John Berry, T. Graham Brown, Nathan Sheppard, Wayne Baird, Ricky Fitzpatrick, Tom Ryan, Lee Davis, Bluebilly Grit</strong>, (whew)…then you’re going to love all of them together on the brand-new Official Song of the <strong>Hurricane Shoals Park</strong>, <em>Down By the Water’s Edge</em>!</p>
<p>All the musicians involved with the creation of <em>Down By the Water’s Edge</em> have freely donated their time and talents and presented the completed recording as a gift to the park. So every penny from every sale of the song goes directly back into keeping <strong>Hurricane Shoals</strong> a beautiful, safe and fun place for the entire family!</p>
<p>Please help support the work of the <strong>Tumbling Waters Society</strong> and <strong>Hurricane Shoals Park</strong> by purchasing a download of the song today (only digital downloads are currently available).</p>
<p>After your purchase, your MP3 download will be emailed to you when all the studio work is complete (probably by early Oct). <strong>PLUS</strong>, all pre-orders will also receive:</p>
<ul>
<li>A free download of “What Child Is This” from the upcoming Christmas CD by Ricky Fitzpatrick.</li>
<li>A free download of “Enough Love” from Nathan Sheppard.</li>
<li>A free download of "Millgrinder's Blues” from Bluebilly Grit.</li>
<li>Exclusive “behind the scenes” photos and stories from the DBTWE project.</li>
<li>Ongoing updates and information as DBTWE sales impact Hurricane Shoals Park.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>All music downloads are only 99 cents!</strong> </p>
<form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post" enctype="application/x-www-form-urlencoded" accept-charset="UNKNOWN">
<input name="cmd" type="hidden" value="_s-xclick"> <input name="hosted_button_id" type="hidden" value="TLYYWGB7ECY2U"> <input name="submit" type="image" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/btn/btn_buynowCC_LG.gif"> <img src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/scr/pixel.gif" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" /> </form>
<p>or go directly to</p>
<p>
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=TLYYWGB7ECY2U" data-imported="1">https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=TLYYWGB7ECY2U</a></p>
<p>Thank you!!!</p>
<p>And don't forget...for all the latest updates, news, pictures and clips, be sure to "like" our <strong>Facebook Page</strong> for <em>Down By the Water's Edge</em> at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge/139021779472951?v=wall" data-imported="1">http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge/139021779472951?v=wall</a></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758292010-08-20T01:34:52-04:002020-01-27T07:39:19-05:00Tis the Season
<p>Just wanted to let everyone know that plans are working for the new, upcoming Christmas CD, probably to be titled "Acoustically Christmas". This project is destined to be a collection of acoustically treated Christmas classics...song that we all know and love and have heard and sung a billion times! "Christmas standards".</p>
<p>My hope is that these will be great additions to families' Holiday activities, either around the house, at church, in the car or wherever you have Christmas stuff happening.</p>
<p>"What Child Is This", one of the cuts is already up on the music page (<a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/music-67.html" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/music-67.html</a>). I hope everyone is able to go check it out and give me a pre-release report. :)</p>
<p>I'll be recording the CD in The Junk Room studio at our home in Apple Valley and stretching my legs as I wade a little deeper into the mastering process. For the most part, it will continue to be me on all the vocals and instrumentation. But there will be a few special guests here and there (that's all I have to say about that).</p>
<p>And we'll be releasing it around mid to late October. Digitally, it will be in all the big spots...CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon, Napster, eMusic, Rhapsody and so on. Physical CD sales, which are becoming more and more overshadowed by MP3s, will be handled directly through me. More on that, coming up though.</p>
<p>Not much else to report yet, but stay tuned and I'll be sure to pass along all new developments as they happen.</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758282010-08-04T08:02:50-04:002020-01-27T07:39:19-05:00Guitar Meditations Vol 3 is a Top Ten!
<p><strong>Great news!</strong></p>
<p><strong>Not much has been said recently about the Soulfood Music CD that I’ve been so privileged to have songs on. But I just saw that "Guitar Meditations Vol. 3" is in the TOP TEN on Echoes…a nationally syndicated radio program! Now THAT is awesome! </strong></p>
<p><strong>For a list of one of the 130 stations, nationwide, that play Echoes in your area, go to <a href="http://www.echoes.org/stattime.html" data-imported="1">http://www.echoes.org/stattime.html</a>. </strong></p>
<p><strong>And check out GM3 if you haven’t yet at <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/guitar-meditations-vol-3/id370454599" data-imported="1">http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/guitar-meditations-vol-3/id370454599</a> (I’m tracks 4 and 10). </strong></p>
<p><strong>Thanks!- RF</strong></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758272010-08-03T04:36:51-04:002020-01-27T07:39:19-05:00Chevrolet - Press Release
<p>CHEVROLET SONG HAS OVER 2 MILLION ENGINES REVVING</p>
<p>For Immediate Release - August 2010</p>
<p>North Georgia singer-songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick’s latest song, “Chevrolet”, is becoming an international Country Music phenomenon.</p>
<p>The nostalgic song is “sung” by an aging 1957 Chevrolet, remembering the glory days of dual exhaust, quarter-miles and candy-apple red. And it has the ground rumbling among Country Music, racing and classic car lovers.</p>
<p>Just two short months ago, Fitzpatrick, an “unsigned” Country and Christian singer and songwriter, began a small, one-man campaign to get his song playing on local radio. Almost immediately, it began to grow beyond anything he could have expected.</p>
<p>“I decided to let a few area car clubs know about the song and see if the club officers would tell their members”, he said. “Just to try and build some momentum for it. The response was so overwhelming, I just kept going. And about a week and a half later, I’d contacted about 250 clubs and they had spread the word to over 20,000 members!”</p>
<p>Comments from club members began to flood in, calling the song “Inspired”, “The perfect cruising song”, and one of the nation’s most prominent classic car organizations, The Dallas Area Classic Chevy Club, said “It belongs in every serious Chevy lover’s music collection”.</p>
<p>Reaching out to even more car clubs, NASCAR and racing fans, Chevrolet dealerships, and fans of artists like Alan Jackson, James Taylor and Shawn Mullins, the numbers continued to climb. And yes, first small then larger radio stations across the U.S, Canada, Australia and the UK started to play “Chevrolet”.</p>
<p>Now excitement about the song has grown so much that to-date, it has reached over two million fans…and growing. Sales through online sites like Amazon, Napster and iTunes are surpassing all of Fitzpatrick’s other releases, combined. Even GM’s own Chevrolet division weighed in by emailing:</p>
<p>“It warms our heart to know that you’ve written this song for Chevrolet. Thank you for your incredible talent!”</p>
<p>So what waits down the road (no pun intended) now for “Chevrolet”?</p>
<p>“In light of everything,” says Fitzpatrick, “I’d like to see someone like Alan Jackson record it and really see where else it could go. But beyond that, I’m still just in awe of what has already happened.”</p>
<p>To learn more about “Chevrolet” or the music of Ricky Fitzpatrick, please go to www.rickyfitzpatrick.com.</p>
<p># # #</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758262010-04-28T08:09:51-04:002020-01-27T07:39:18-05:00Down By the Water's Edge - Press Release
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</p>
<p>May 15, 2010</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Georgia Supergroup of Country, Bluegrass and Christian Artists to Record Hurricane Shoals Song</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Jefferson</strong><strong>, GA</strong> – Hurricane Shoals Park is a North Georgia landmark for the people in and around Jackson, Banks and Madison Counties and beyond. For decades, parents and children alike have trekked to the unique spot where the cold waters of the North Oconee River run fast and shallow over vast expanses of exposed granite.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The park is also home to the historic Heritage Village, a working grist mill, one of the few remaining covered bridges in the state, the annual Art in the Park festival, an outdoor amphitheatre and a variety of picnic and play areas available for play, relaxation and special events like weddings, parties and family reunions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s no secret to the music loving public and industry, that North Georgia has always been a hotbed of musical talent. Countless award-winning artists have emerged from the foothills of the North GA mountains area, dozens continuing on the become staples and even legends in popular music.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It is that well-known and respected, collective pool of musical talent that is responsible for the Down By the Waters Edge fund raising project, aimed at raising funds for the park’s never-ending laundry list of additions, upkeep, maintenance, repairs and day to day activities.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In true small-town, Southern fashion, a veritable Supergroup of successful musicians from the Country, Bluegrass and Christian genres, and all who hail from the North Georgia area, are joining artistic forces this Summer, to record a song that they will donate to the Hurricane Shoals Park.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Down By the Water’s Edge”, a song written specifically for the project by Christian Folk artist and songwriter <strong>Ricky Fitzpatrick</strong>, will be recorded this Spring and made available for sale to the public, this Fall.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The song will feature guest vocals and instrumental work from an All-Star artist roster that is slated to include <strong>Fitzpatrick, Mark Garrison </strong>& the members of<strong> Bluebilly Grit, Wayne Baird, Dustin Wilkes, T. Graham Brown </strong>and<strong> John Berry</strong>. And according to Fitzpatrick, who is also organizing the entire project, “We have other artists on the list who just haven’t thrown-in yet, so I expect a couple more surprise additions before it’s all said and done.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The recording expertise and studio time is also being donated by producer and studio owner <strong>Lee Davis </strong>at<strong> Lee Davis Studios</strong> in Maysville, GA. Davis who has produced more than 50 independent albums and worked with everyone from <strong>Corey Smith</strong> and <strong>John Berry</strong> to <strong>Joe Diffie</strong> and <strong>Billy Dean</strong>, will be recording and producing the project.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The song will be debuted <strong>September 17</strong> at the annual <strong>Art in the Park</strong> festival, held in the Hurricane Shoals Park. At that time, Fitzpatrick will officially present the members of the <strong>Tumbling Waters Society</strong> (the non-profit fund raising arm for the park) with the song, and with 100% of its publishing rights, so they may collect royalties on its sale and use “in perpetuity”, he says. “We want every penny of the money raised by this song to go directly to the park and its activities.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Down By the Water’s Edge” will be available <strong>September 10, 2010</strong> as a digital download via <strong>iTunes, Amazon.com </strong>and other reputable digital retailers. Information on the song or on other means of purchasing the song, can be found on the Down By the Water’s Edge Facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge-A-Song-for-Hurricane-Shoals/120342641310994" data-imported="1">http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-By-the-Waters-Edge-A-Song-for-Hurricane-Shoals/120342641310994</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p># # #</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758252010-02-10T00:11:35-05:002020-10-10T01:52:57-04:00FREE MUSIC DOWNLOADS!
<p>That's right. All Ricky Fitz music downloads are now absolutely free.</p>
<p>We’re shifting gears into the exciting world of free music distribution…something that I’ve wanted to do for a very, very long time. And there are two reasons why:</p>
<p>ONE: Simply, the music business is changing and the days of selling music “stuff” is just becoming old-hat. This is the direction the industry MUST go in. Which brings me to the second and much more important reason…</p>
<p>TWO: I believe music is a gift that God has freely given to me (and any artist). And I think it's wrong for me to charge my friends and fans a mandatory amount for the chance to be moved by the fruits of that gift. To me, that’s like charging people to go to church.</p>
<p>Sorry, but I don’t think music (or God) is a commodity that you buy and sell. There are plenty of other ways for musicians to generate income and still share their gifts with the world, freely.</p>
<p>So beginning immediately, all Ricky Fitzpatrick music downloads will be free, along with the chance for you to make a VOLUNTARY contribution, of any amount you wish or have the ability to make. I think that’s how it should be.</p>
<p>Physical CDs that cost me to produce, will still carry a charge, of course. But CD sales at concerts, will fall to the “pay what you can” philosophy. Curious? Come to a show and I’ll explain.</p>
<p>For now (and for downloads), go to either the MUSIC or the INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC pages and click on the SONG NAME to see the download links and the Paypal voluntary contribution buttons.</p>
<p>And thank you for your support! Peace, love and great music!!! Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758242010-01-29T01:32:05-05:002020-01-27T07:39:18-05:00Reality Check: Thoughts on Dying, Living and the stuff in the middle
<p>I discovered today that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._D._Salinger" data-imported="1">J. D. Salinger</a> passed away. Very sad. Not that we were buddies or close or even knew one another. But when an artist or author or public figure dies, it’s hard for us not to feel some attachment. <br><br>We associate with the works of people. Be it a building (think: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Lloyd_Wright" data-imported="1">Frank Lloyd Wright</a>) or a car (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Ford" data-imported="1">Henry Ford</a>) or a painting (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norman_Rockwell" data-imported="1">Norman Rockwell</a>) or a song (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jackson" data-imported="1">Michael Jackson</a>). Or in this case, a book. We transfer our own life into that thing, whatever it is, and because we become a part of it, we feel close, even connected in some way, to its creator.<br><br><em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Catcher_in_the_Rye" data-imported="1">Catcher In the Rye</a></em> was one of those timeless works (and actually one of my own favorites) that spoke personally to generations of people, young and old. Of course, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Harvey_Oswald" data-imported="1">Lee Harvey Oswald</a> owning a copy and the ensuing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_F._Kennedy_assassination" data-imported="1">assassination</a> of President <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_F._Kennedy" data-imported="1">John F. Kennedy</a>, did no harm to the book’s popularity. <br><br>But we identified with Salinger, maybe only in some tiny part. And we wonder what makes his work so influential, so powerful, so compelling. We think on him. We read him. We feel like we must have similarities. And we mourn him now. It’s a poignant loss, even though he was in his nineties. <br><br>I remember very well when my mother passed away. Not too very long ago. Funny how certain memories can be crystal clear, but at the same time, almost foggy. We were “expecting” her passing at some point, but nothing really prepares you fully for that.<br><br>I remember standing alone in the funeral parlor, looking at my mother lying there in her casket, and thinking about all the things I didn’t say. All the presents I forgot to give. All the visits I put off til later. All the conversations I should’ve lingered in. All the hugs I thought were trivial. <br><br>There’s nothing like death to make you think about life. There’s nothing like the sudden void that death leaves, to remind the living of how trivial this life can be at times.<br><br>But in her death, I also found a new focus. A new outlook. A different point of view and a fresh beginning. In some way, her death was part of God’s gift of continuing life. Even though we mourn the loss of someone, in their passing, God reminds us of our own mortality. <br><br>He shows us our past and reminds us of our once-optimistic gaze into our future. We feel a new start. A new foothold on things. And we tuck our old thoughts and memories and associations away into our pockets, dry our eyes and take a deep breath, and look out to the horizon, thinking about how much better things are going to be.<br><br><strong><em>Today’s Scripture:</em></strong><em> Psalm 27:4 - One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.</em><br><em><br></em><br><strong><em>Today’s Prayer:</em></strong><em> Father, as I go through this day and as I think on the subjects of death and loss, please help me to remember the greatest gift I have is the life that You’ve given me. And please help me to seek You and Your beauty, everyday.</em></p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758232010-01-28T01:51:36-05:002020-01-27T07:39:17-05:00A new instrumental Number One?
<p>MOST recently, <strong>IntoMusic</strong>, my main UK music host, has expanded its service and added some additional features AND…a new “instrumental” page for me.</p>
<p>FYI, IntoMusic was responsible for landing me my first Number One download in the UK with an earlier instrumental, “Emma’s Song” (you may remember). And now with this new music page, one of the newest songs, <strong>“Mud Puddles”</strong> is already heading to what looks like even greater success!</p>
<p>The new instrumental page is at <em><a href="http://www.intomusic.co.uk/rickyfitzpatrick" data-imported="1">www.intomusic.co.uk/rickyfitzpatrick</a></em>.</p>
<p>I hope you can go check it out and browse through some of the tracks. Just click <strong>Load Preview</strong> to listen. And no, you don’t have to be in the UK to use the site!</p>
<p>It’s so exciting…“Mud Puddles” is on its way to becoming a <strong>new Number One</strong>…and you can help make it a reality by playing it, downloading it (Click FREE DOWNLOAD!) and passing the word on to all your friends. I know you will…<strong>so thank you!!!</strong></p>
<p>Ricky</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758222010-01-26T06:21:24-05:002020-01-27T07:39:17-05:00New Instrumental Music - Mud Puddles
<p>Don’t forget to check out the latest of additions to the INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC page. “Mud Puddles” (along with a little of its story) is over at <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/instrumental_music-46.html" data-imported="1">http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/instrumental_music-46.html</a>.</p>
<p>See you soon and often! Til then, peace…</p>
<p>RF</p>
Ricky Fitzpatricktag:rickyfitzpatrick.com,2005:Post/61758212009-12-30T03:24:55-05:002021-03-31T03:47:31-04:00Ricky signs a deal with Eos Music!
<p>Check out the latest press release about Ricky's recent signing with Eos Music! And if this article isn't appearing in YOUR local paper or favorite music mag, then please pass it along! Need help with that? Give us a yell at <a href="mailto:ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com" data-imported="1">ricky@rickyfitzpatrick.com</a>.</p>
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<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, (Jefferson, GA) – Local Songwriter’s Music is Going Down…And Up.</p>
<p>Award-winning Folk and Christian singer/songwriter Ricky Fitzpatrick inks a licensing deal this week with the music placement leader and pioneer, Eos Music.</p>
<p>Eos Music is one of several divisions of Applied Media Technologies Corporation and has been an innovator in the use of technology to distribute music to businesses for nearly twenty years. Today, Eos Music makes ground-breaking use of online broadcasting to distribute music, around the world.</p>
<p>Fitzpatrick joins an elite and highly respected roster of songwriters, composers and artists, including Darius Rucker, John Fogerty, Joe Satriani, Bebe Winans to name a few. All artists' songs are cataloged then made available for placement or "licensing" to businesses for use in-store, phone messaging, advertisements, mall music, background music, video-mercials and more.</p>
<p>“It’s elevator music” laughs Fitzpatrick. “Or the music you hear when you’re in say, Ingles or Macy’s or The Olive Garden…and amazingly, all this music is being written, recorded, performed and licensed by someone, somewhere. It’s an enormous part of the music industry and I’m unbelievably fortunate to have been selected to be a part of it by a company like Eos.”</p>
<p>“Ten years ago…heck, two years ago, I’d have made fun of someone who was having their music played in the local shopping mall” he comments. “But today, I realize there’s a whole new world of opportunity to get my music out into thousands of new locations and into the ears of millions of new listeners. Yes, I said “millions”. Who knows where my songs may turn up next.”</p>
<p>“These Eos songs will be very different from what I’m currently known for doing” he adds. “Most folks don’t know that I’ve experimented with various instrumental pieces for many years, and in a wide range of genres. I’m not “becoming” an instrumental artist now, but it’s another facet of what I do. And it’s amazing to think that Eos is interested in picking up my previously private collection of jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass and classical pieces and distributing it. It’s fantastic!”</p>
<p>Fitzpatrick has already enjoyed a long-running musical career, spanning over 20 years in the Folk and recently, Christian genres, as an award-winning performer, songwriter and vocalist, industry mentor, label administrator and founder of the charitable group The Healing Power of Music. But he’s best known for his original and personal songs about life, people and places, in and around Jackson and Madison Counties, Georgia. Songs like “Highway 98”, “Pocataligo” and “Jot ‘Em Down” have become an integral part of the local culture and music collections of the residents.</p>
<p>Ricky Fitzpatrick writes, records, lives and occasionally grows tomatoes with his wife, children and goldfish in Apple Valley. For current updates on his music, please visit him at <a href="http://www.rickyfitzpatrick.com/" data-imported="1">www.rickyfitzpatrick.com</a>.</p>
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Ricky Fitzpatrick