like Jaeson Ma says, "Pray like it all depends on God. Work like it all depends on you."

i have six days until the semester starts, i've already picked my classical additions to my repertoire and have been perusing music book after music book for every musical theatre character and song i could possibly sing.  i've been compiling a list of characters for my own meditation, so i'll be properly prepared for any audition which sneaks up on me.  the list includes a synopsis of the musical, each female character, the vocal range, age range, character songs, and possible audition pieces to be considered.  since i have so much time on my hands and am incapable of being involved in anything at this time other than Anything Goes and my classical voice homework, it's all prepare, prepare, prepare!  my goal is to have options... once i'm done with this list, i'll look into companies and theatres i'd like to be associated with, all while keeping up with new musicals.  i'm really amped for Les Miserables coming up in redlands, i don't know how i'll possibly be able to make it out for rehearsals, but i'm auditioning anyways... and i'll couch-surf or do whatever in order to be in that production.  playing Eponine would be a dream come true, next to Christine from Phantom of the Opera... phew, it's all in His hands.

in addition to this study of mine, i've been reading amazing books like Jane Austen's Persuasion, Scot McKnight's The Blue Parakeet, Donald Miller's Blue like Jazz, Plato's Crito and Apology dialogues and studying between the CS Lewis Bible (basically an NRSV bible with selections from Clive's works) and the ESV Study Bible.  Why the ESV?  I don't know, i had been searching for a great study bible and i know the search isn't over, but i'd like to take what i can from this piece of work.  Mamabear thinks that nothing can replace the King James Version, and i am in agreement though i would to like read every translation.  in my recent studies, i am seeking for understanding and wisdom in all and i don't intend on ending my education in this manner until the day i die.  why would anyone put a cap on their understanding of the Word, or understanding of life, human nature, etc?  Sorry, i'm all for studying psychology, sociology, philosophy, theology, etc.  this is a curiosity and gift i believe God has blessed both my mother and i (probably all my siblings), she is interested in nearly EVERYTHING as am i, which is part of the reason why it's taken me so long to figure out what i love to do, and what i want to do with my days here on earth.

if i could share with you all the things i've been doing with the past week you wouldn't believe me.  i've read more, experienced more, listened to more, watched more, and done far more than i ever have in one week.  He has ignited a flame, which i can only pray and continue to pursue so not to put it out.  when i asked if whether or not to move back to the desert, i felt the Lord calling me to two things.  He called me to prepare myself and grow strong in my ability as a vocalist and as a disciple of Him and the Word.  i'm stoked to be here, to finally breathe the air of the new year without sickness of heart or body, and to be so blessed as to have a relationship with God.

praying that His Spirit is with you, guiding you in all your days,

sooz