Brother, Can You Spare an Autoharp?

Looking for an autoharp--

Anybody got one?

An autoharp is a stringed musical instrument which uses chord bars (wooden bars lined with felt) to block off certain strings, leaving a certain combination of strings open. When these strings are strummed or picked, they then form a chord--the chord printed on the bar you just pressed!

There are many very skilled autoharp players (the older folks might remember Mrs. Carter's autoharp, and others may recall June Carter Cash's proficiency at the 'harp), but it can also be useful for folks like me, who love the music making but have trouble making chords on traditional stringed instruments.

So, I'm looking for an autoharp. I want to use it for storytelling, accompanying small groups in singing hymns, and personal use. Let me know if you have one, and if you'd be willing to part with it for a reasonable price.

Strumming the strings of my heart,

David

We had a good vacation last week--so good that I didn't even get a chance to post to the blog! I am back now, and feel pretty refreshed and ready to move forward on a lot of the important work that lies ahead for the church and for me personally.

I am reading a fascinating book right now called Introduction to Internal Family Systems, which applies the principles of Family Systems thinking to internal/personal struggles. The author, Dr. Richard C. Schwartz, created this approach, which helps people to recognize the "parts" that we create within our psyches in order to protect us from hurt or fear. These parts essentially obscure our true "Self," which in theological terms I would describe as the "imago dei" (image of God) that is within all of us.

I will write more as I read more, but for now, I find it engaging and powerful reading.

Peace on Earth,
Goodwill to All,

David