We left Franklin, TN on Saturday, August 2nd, and headed straight for the Bar-B-Q Shop in Memphis. Scott said that it was the best food he’s ever put in his mouth. Dan got ribs ½ wet and ½ dry. Melody ordered a pork BBQ sandwich “southern style” with slaw on top. It sure was delicious! Our server, Heather, gave us some good tips on how to get to Beale Street, where to park, and suggested online tickets for Graceland since it was nearing Elvis Week and the town was crowded. We met the couple seated next to us, LaToya and Jermaine, "Just like the Jacksons", they said. It turns out that Jermaine’s cousin owns the place. We told them about our trip and inquired about a church in the area. They invited us to theirs and gave us directions and service times.
After friendly goodbyes, Gladys (our GPS) got us right to Beale Street. It was jumping, with music pouring out of every open door and ally. Street performers and acrobats provided entertainment, and crowds of people gathered in groups to laugh and dance as the sights and sounds swirled together in the sweltering southern heat. It truly has a pulse of its own. Curiosity shops offered refreshing air conditioning while we browsed aisles, including but not limited to, Elvis memorabilia, drug paraphernalia (“It’s dope, Virgil”), samurai swords, jester hats and voodoo accessories (CREEPY).
We retired to our hotel room-- one of only a few vacancies in the entire Memphis area-- for a very long night, trying to figure out how to use the Google blog on the internet machine. The problem wasn’t so much the site itself as it was the limitations it provided to our own artistic design ideas for the blog, and the newness of the travel blogging experience. There was a bit of a technological breakdown. However, as we’ve learned from any survival situation, we eventually accepted what was given to us and we adapted.
On Sunday, we went to Saint Andrews African Episcopal Church where we were warmly greeted and blessed by the vibrant worship and energetic preaching. The sermon was a very encouraging pep talk. “Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13. During the sermon, we spotted LaToya in the choir and exchanged a quick, friendly wave. We also saw Jermaine’s youth dance troop all dressed in red. We caught up with LaToya and Jermaine immediately after the service and they introduced us to many friends and their pastor. Come to find out, we had been sitting next to the mayor’s son and his family during church. It was powerful to observe the strong sense of community and be welcomed into the fold. That is the beauty of God’s family. Regardless of where you worship, or your race, color, culture or language, you are worshipping the same Creator and Savior.
6 comments:
I wish I had known that you were going to be in my other 'home town'. I could have given you some more great tips, but it sounds like you did just fine with what you had. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I always do!
Is the rolling eggroll coming through the Rockies? If so you might want to rest before tackling the real mountains. We would love to take part in your adventure. If not we will be watching your blog closely.
I love memphis! I've only been there once before, but I loved every minute. I'm so glad you're meeting some exciting new people..take some portraits (says the photographer) of the people you meet. I love that. You look like you are having so much fun. Can't wait to see more. :)
The video was impressive! Even though it could have used a little more light, Melody did a great job capturing you flipping through the air. Who was your friend?
Randy and Pam
Please bring me back some Voodoo accessories. Please.
I want a chicken foot to shake at people.
I wish I had had more information, Catherine and Ethan were in Memphis at the same time. I think they are still there on a family reunion. You guys look like you're having a blast!
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