Over the weekend of May 1, 2010, Nashville, Tennessee and surrounding areas experienced what is being called a 1000 year flood.
Lives were lost. Homes were damaged, businesses were shut down, precious people and habitats and dwellings were swept away.

Amidst devastation and tragedy, we held together and found the blessing of each other: neighbor helping neighbor, congregations and grassroots groups springing into action while the national news hadn't quite caught up.
We are Nashville.
Our 5th Annual Mother's Day Peace Parade was preempted by flood relief. Instead, here we have the virtual Pennies & Prayers Parade.

We are Nashville. And all who love her. You are warmly encouraged to participate in action -- a) collect pennies with our children, turn them in to soon to be designated collection spots across town, and / or donate through paypal using the button here, or by emailing penniesandparades@gmail.com. Bridge Builders, a peace and social justice club for children of all ages and their caregivers will make a lump sum donation of all funds taken in to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. b) upload your photo and INTERFAITH prayer(s) or inspirational text here on parade by emailing to paigelabab.penniesandprayers@blogger.com.

Friday, May 21, 2010

pennies and prayers

Rainbow
I Know where this rainbow's pot of gold is. It's this wonderful city, county, state, and all the amazing people who live here. Even after all the destruction, there is still beauty and hope.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Dawn's prayer: "We are part of the Universal Heart."


The rivers and streams overflowed their banks, giving our hearts opportunity to overflow with love, giving our hands opportunities to work acts of kindness and giving our spirits opportunity to send prayers and meditations throughout Tennessee.  Now that the waters have subsided, may love and its tributaries, compassion, generosity and kindness, never subside from the shores of these new found connections for we are part of the Universal heart.


from Dawn Kirk, of

"Imagine the Shift, Nashville"

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

pennies and prayers: Jojo.



Hey, I didn't have time to get a good photo for you, but this is something I made ages ago, and no matter what comes along in life, this quote is always good for the 'pick-me-up" spirit.
-Jojo

Lucy, age 4.

bug's prayer


sometimes the simplest and most honest prayer is "help."


peace,
holly

Shelley & Salley Bea, East Nashville.

me and Sally Bea

John, age 5. And a half.: "Please send flowers.... and strollers for babies."



Sunday, May 9, 2010

Mel and Gus (George was napping)

Mel


Luke and Liza

bless you.


Olen, age 4.


Dear God,

Help the people who are in trouble and are flooded out of their homes. We like them and are hopeful to find them a new home. Amen.   -- Olen, age 4 East Nashville

Holding us all in the light.


The need is great, all over. Do *something.* Canvas neighbors, take food, collect baby supplies. Don't ask, "Can I help?" Ask, "WHAT can I do." And smile. Warmth goes a long way in times like this. Keep a prayer in your heart. And go on about it, whatever the it is that you can do.