Should i sell my mandolin...?

[Mark Walker]

Okay, here's the dilemma: # #I have a custom Silver Angel F5 crafted by Ken Ratcliff and it's both an extremely beautiful looking and sounding instrument (http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=15;t=28422;hl=silver+angel+ 231).

While I once believed there was some truth to 'playing up to the quality of an instrument' (and this is a quality mandolin both in looks and sound) I'm not really that good, and probably never will be. #(Certainly not worthy of this kind of mandolin!) #The only gig I've ever really had was at my church, and those of you who've followed some of my posts know I've kind of been excommunicated by the current pastor there.

The music just isn't in my heart any longer, and I can't explain why. #And - like many other Cafe' members - I'm a very average Joe with a modest income, two kids in college (one graduating in April) and my share of tuition bills, a mortgage and the like.

I'm thinking of selling my Silver Angel and - with whatever I can get out of it - getting a nice college graduation gift for our daughter. #(She wants to visit Ireland with her mother - my wife of 26 years!) #The mandolin just sits in the corner except when I loan it out to people who play it (and CAN play it well.)

It really DOES and SHOULD be played...

What do you in the Cafe' family think? #Should I sell it? #

Thanks in advance for all your comments. # - Mark

[mandolooter]

either that or loan it to me...haha! Then i can sell all mine and make billions!!!Yeehaa!!!

Well, thats a question and a half....
I would be loath to encourage anyone to be without a mandolin, especialy one who has been interested enough to invest a quite considerable amount of money into his interests.
You obviously had intentions to progress on the mando to buy such a fine example in the first place and I detect that you dont really want to give up the 'faith' totaly but you feel that you dont deserve this instrument.
Well my friend , I should think that some folks have chronicaly valued instruments that never see the light of day.........ever. (and they certainly would not lend them out).
Perhaps you would be happier to sell up and but a nice mando for far less money, i dont know, a nice cheap Eastman or a Furch or something?
You would have cash to spare I suppose for the trip to Ireland.
As for the pastor, I hear about 'the church' a lot on the Cafe. it's a double edged sword I think personally.
I muast admit I dont buy into the religion thing at all,it seems sometimes that it can do more harm than good!
Anyway, dont let people influence and depress you whatever position they hold.
You CAN play the mandolin, apply yourself dude and take faith in the church of bluegrass (or whatever)

[Yellowmandolin]

I would agree with the deputy dawg that you could sell this one, but get another halfway decent mando just in case. #I would hate to be without one later... #I don't know how much a Silver Angel would go for, but I would guess that it could cover a trip to Ireland without too much trouble. #A lower end Eastman would be a decent one to keep around I think, but its up to you!

[Walter Newton]

Well FWIW...over the years I have learned that my own interest in mandolin, guitar, and other hobbies tends to wax and wane...I might put it down for quite a long time, and then one day pick it up and get back into playing for hours every night. #I now know not to "force" it, and if I'm feeling like pursuing some other interest (there are only so many hours in the day after all) I just go with what I'm feeling, knowing that I'll likely be back into it again someday down the road. #

Having said that the question of having a lot of money tied up in a fine instrument you seem to be feeling is "too much" for you is only something you can answer...I think the idea of selling it, buying something more modest (but still quite nice), providing a wonderful trip for your family, and picking up your new mando as the mood strikes - without the "pressure" - is a reasonable one, no?

[John Flynn]

I would ask myself the following questions:

1. Is it just possible your attitude that you are just an average joe with a modest income and not sufficiently good on the instrument is causing you to deny yourself sufficient time and mental license to do something just for yourself?

2. Is there any possibility at all that the love for playing might return at some time?

3. Is there any glimmer that owning a work of art like a Silver Angel gives you some pleasure even without playing it?

If you answer "yes" to any of those questions, you should keep it. Personally, I have regretted selling every good instrument I have ever sold. You bought that thing because it moved something in you. That thing in you that moved is still there. I think the fact that you asked this question to a message board full of chronic MAS sufferers shows that at some level you realize that.

It's like being in a bar and asking out loud, "Do you guys think I should quit drinking? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

It's like being in a bar and asking out loud, "Do you guys think I should quit drinking? QUOTE

Good point, mines a Gin (and then another)

I tell you man were all in the same boat to some extent,
I have a humble Eastman 505.
Its great and gets better and this encourages me no end but sometimes i feel like putting it in its box and never looking at it again (after listening to the freakish Thile monster usually).
But...we all need to just try our best with our modest talents and take heart in the fact that we can only get more proficient.(probably)

[JEStanek]

Mark,
I'm with Mando Johnny on this one. And I also think I know you can answer yes to at least one of those questions. I'm a very beginner level player, it's a hobby that gives me pleasure. I don't judge my playing against anyone but me. I'm inspired but the greats and am comfortable with what I get out of what I put into my picking. I have two very nice mandos. I wouldn't dream of giving them up because I'm not worthy (and maybe I'm not). I might trade the Weber for another oval hole... but I wouldn't get rid of them altogether because I'm going through a musical downtime.

Things change. Your parish life may change and you may be in a position to play and be fulfilled in a church setting again. When you find your spirit fed your music will feed your spirit. When that happens you should have that Silver Angel to play. Work with your wife to figure another way to pay for the Ireland trip but try and keep your mando! If you sold it, that may be a bigger regret than some downtime. Unless you have to sell it, don't. Loan it - but keep it.

You asked for them- there they are.

Jamie

[Mark Walker]

Thanks everyone for the input so far. I welcome any further comments.

I DO have a decent enough 'beater' mandolin that plays and sounds well enough for me - a PacRim Lotus A-style. So I COULD play one once in a while if the urge ever struck me! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Thanks again.

[Bill Snyder]

If you feel that the best thing for you and your family is to sell it then sell it. You can get another mandolin later or even a less expensive one now.

[jasona]

Doesn't your spouse really like your Silverangel? Perhaps just playing for her would take the sting out of the congregational situation (which might be the depressor in your situation).

[Larry Simonson]

It seems to me that this is not a question of is it for sale but a question of how much. Surely you'd let it go if you were offered a outrageous wad of cash, say $15K, and surely you'd keep it if just the opposite was offered, say $200. So why not decide what you'd take and if its offered let it go, if no buyer appears you'd have a mighty fine instrument that will for sure come calling on you somewhere along the line. And if you let it go, there are lots of mighty fine instruments that will sooner or later come calling.

[Caleb]

Sounds like a tough place to be in.

First and foremost, I'm sorry about your church situation. I've been involved in many aspects of the church over the years and know firsthand how things can be. There's another place for you, just don't stop looking.

About the mandolin, I'm not sure what to tell you. If you ever play, then you should have an instrument. Does it have to be this one? Not exactly. You could sell it, and get yourself a decent mandolin and do something great for someone else with the rest of the money.

If you have any ability to play music at all, there are people in this world who need to hear it.

[catmandu2]

I'm ready to offer my bloviatory on the matter: Unless you want to hang onto it as an investment, sell it.

I've sold many instruments--from which I experience much remorse--and applied the funds toward other instruments that get played.

[Keith Miller]

strange, but I've bought and sold many instruments, (still regret selling my Selmer saxophones) but I still have ALL the mandolins, just can't bring myself to part with them.

[mandroid]

The folks at the tavern enjoy the weekly #Jam session there , even if the church has only wanted one tune heard out of me in 4 years, so I play in the bar, beer is better there than in church anyhow.. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

last thing played, 2 summers ago, was the chord changes to Pachibel's Canon, on Mandola.

[Uncle Choppy]

As someone who owns a number of nice instruments (electric guitars mainly) that rarely see the light of day, I can identify with some of your pain Mark.

Having said that, I find that this concept of being "worthy" of an instrument can be quite destructive.

I often get embarassed about owning a Lebeda F5 when my modest abilities do not do it justice. By way of comparison, my good friend "DeputyDawg" owns a more modest Eastman A-style yet is a far better player than me and (shock horror) he actually gets out and plays with various bands or jams. This sometimes makes me feel quite shabby but I try and balance it out by reminding myself that, as vices go, owning a nice mandolin isn't too terrible.

As others have said, you obviously felt strongly enough about the mandolin at some point that you bought a nice one. It might be worth remembering that, compared to high-tech gear these traditional instruments seem to retain #their value relatively well and never really become obsolete. (I've spent thousands on synth and midi gear that is now basically worthless.)

I'd say try and sit on it (your decision, not the mando!) for a few weeks and see if you still feel the same way. It isn't going to devalue in that time and you might just feel differently after a "cooling off" period. If you still feel unhappy about having cash tied up that could be put to better use then it might be worth selling and trading down to a cheaper mandolin (DeputyDawg sounds fine to me on his Eastman). Certainly don't leave yourself without a mandolin. It might even be that something cheaper will have less guilt attached and, ironically, #result in you playing a bit more (I used to turn up to a local jam with my Eastman but haven't been since I bought the Lebeda!).

From reading your post you seem to be quite a humble and modest fellow. This is great BUT please don't beat yourself up about owning an instrument that is "too good" for you. #

Whatever your decision - good luck.

Regards
Brendan

Your too kind Uncle Chopster.
Its the influence of dark and sinister aspects of remote vilage life that affect the sound of the 505.
Long nights spent practicing beneath the unflinching gaze of the looming mountains..

[JGWoods]

Sell it. The money is parked in the mandolin. Right now you have other uses for the money so send the mando on its way to a new owner without any regrets.
You say you have a beater, so you can still pick if you want to.
As for not being "worthy"- rubbish. You paid for it, you own it and can do with it as you please. The idea sounds like you really regret parking your money in an expensive mandolin, so let it go.
Later you can always buy another mandolin.

[Kentuckyken]

Hey Mark, I don't know what to say. There's a voice inside, a still quiet voice that doesn't lie. You know in your heart what is right. I consider you a friend, but I don't know the situation with your church. Personally, I don't believe playing the mandolin could possibly be a wrong thing to do, and if a Pastor or any other church member thinks otherwise, they are the wrong ones. Look elsewhere. Something that gives you joy can't be wrong. Man is that he might have joy. I have heard you play, and you can. You shouldn't feel any guilt about playing. If you need to sell to finance something, that's fine, then do it. I'll build you a mandolin now that will be better than what you have. Don't worry about it, you know what to do...........

[fatt-dad]

I don't play the mandolin because I'm happy, I'm happy because I play the mandolin. I'd never let a preacher knock the wind out of my sails. Daily noodling is important to me and if it was once coursing through your veins, don't deny yourself. Get over the uglyness and enjoy the music!

On the matter of being worthy - ha. I'm unworthy too, but I have a dream. . . .

f-d

[Brad Weiss]

Read O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi." # Your wife and daughter will probably return from Ireland filled with a love for Irish music that would sound so nice on that lovely Silver Angel. #

Your devotion to your wife and daughter are honestly moving, and your conflict seems heartfelt. #I know nothing, really, about your financial situation, but my (callous) assumption is that if at one point you were able to afford that Silver Angel, you'll figure out some way to get your daughter a wonderful graduation trip. #Just try not to see it as "either/or" (my mando, or my daughter! What mando could EVER survive!) #

It really sounds like you're bummed about not playing as much or as well as you'd like (always happens when you have a mandolin nicer than you can play- as MOST players do!), but that is a separate question from your parental love, or even from financial concerns. At some point, you felt you needed to play #the mandolin, and learned enough about what makes them wonderful to get yourself a wonderful one #That is an enriching process, which you will undermine if you just think of your Silver Angel as an unused tool worth a few thousand dollars. #

Given the concerns you've expressed, my guess is you can find a way to show your family you care without future regrets. #Good luck!

[Ken Sager]

This is one of the most thought provoking threads on this board, and this reply by Ken is one of the most amazing posts I've seen yet.


Hey Mark, I don't know what to say. There's a voice inside, a still quiet voice that doesn't lie. You know in your heart what is right. I consider you a friend, but I don't know the situation with your church. Personally, I don't believe playing the mandolin could possibly be a wrong thing to do, and if a Pastor or any other church member thinks otherwise, they are the wrong ones. Look elsewhere. Something that gives you joy can't be wrong. Man is that he might have joy. I have heard you play, and you can. You shouldn't feel any guilt about playing. If you need to sell to finance something, that's fine, then do it. I'll build you a mandolin now that will be better than what you have. Don't worry about it, you know what to do...........
Ken Ratcliff, I like your style.

Mark, only you can know whether selling it is the right thing to do. Others have been in similar situations and sold their instruments. Not all return to playing. Some regret losing an instrument they felt was part of themselves. Others recognize the music is within them, not the instrument, and can find the music in another instrument.

Whatever happens is meant to be (no reason not to think so) and once it happens it can't be otherwise. Be happy in your decision, and know you have friends who will always give their opinion...

Good luck, and best wishes for a happy outcome.

Ken Sager

[FlawLaw]

Wow, excommunicated from your church. #Some of my parishioners want me excommunicated, but we have never done that before. #

I also play for fun and enjoyment. #I do go out an jam now and again and find this enjoyable and a way to meet fun and interesting friends. In the summer there are lots of opportunities to play and I have heard some very humble players who just love to play. I also see playing as a meditative and spiritual exercise, like prayer. I try to wake up early every morning and play for about an hour or forty-five minutes at my church and just feel it makes my day better, less tension.

As far as selling your mandolin...If you haven't played the mandolin for years and just don't feel it anymore than by all means, sell it. #But if selling is related to your sadness about being excommunicated from your church or your sadness about not being able to play well or unrelated to the mandolin, then perhaps hold on to it for a while. #Further, it seems that by holding on to this mandolin, you are giving others who borrow it great joy.

[Tim]

I was in a similar situation a year or so ago (at least with the frustration about progress). #I put both of my mandolins in a case and put them in a closet. #I told myself that if I didn't miss it enough to start playing them again in two months I would sell them. #I actually did leave them put away for about six weeks. #That is a cheaper alternative than selling and then trying to buy an equivalent replacement.

[Jkf_Alone]

could you post a link where you discussed your church situation? i did a search for your name and didnt come up with it.

[first string]

I would just echo what a number of others have said but will also add my own experience...If you aren't playing because you discovered that you actually don't like playing, that's one thing, and you should probably go ahead and sell it. But if you're just frustrated (which is what it sounds like to me), then you should definitely hang on to it. My question to you would be: did it ever really make you happy? If it did, then that happiness will probably return if you stop expecting too much from yourself.

I think many of us focus too much on progression. Of course it’s nice to get better, and it’s nice to be able to play well. But for most of us this is never going to be a living. So why stress out over it? I’m probably a pretty lazy player on the whole. I tend to learn about a tune a month, and while I do work on my scales and other exercises occasionally, I spend a lot more time playing the same numbers over and over again. I also have a very nice instrument that my skill as a player doesn’t justify. But I don’t feel guilty about it in the least. In fact I’m saving to purchase another nice instrument. I don’t make a lot, but I managed to acquire my mando without neglecting any other responsibilities so being that it is my main hobby (not to be confused with a passion, which for me is writing—thankfully a free pursuit) why shouldn’t I put what funds I scrape together towards something that make me happy and makes my playing somewhat less offensive to my girlfriend and neighbors?

…Luckily for us the mando makes nice sounds even in the hands of someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. As opposed to say the fiddle, or any woodwind.

The other nice thing about investing in nice instruments is that they tend to at the very least hold their value (especially if you buy used or from a good luthier), and often become more valuable. The same can’t be said of electronics, cars, and all the other commodities that people lust after.

Here’s a litmus test for you. Have you tried taking it out and strumming a few two finger chords? I heartily recommend it. If it doesn’t give you any pleasure than it’s time to sell. But I doubt that will be the case.

It seems I had a lot to say on the matter.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Jason Kessler]

My Mama taught me to never discuss religion, so "that leaves only me to blame 'cause Mama tried."

It would seem to me that a religous leader's role is to inspire, not deflate; to spark a sense of inclusion and community rather than to divide with his own personal and arbitrary caprices. You've come up against an insecure and power-hungry dud. It'd be a shame, perhaps even a sin, to let this dweeb rob you of something so spriritual as your love of music-making and the devotional aspects you associate with it.

As far as feeling that you have insufficient talent for such a fine instrument, we all feel that way to varying extents, as some here have already pointed out. I frequently feel guilty, at my current talent level, owning such a fine instrument as an Eastman 614. And, as my musical muse sways towards some of the other instruments I play, my mando can sit in the closet for an uncomfortably long time. Both of these facts make me uneasy, and I sometimes think about selling the Eastman to someone who can appreciate it more and do it justice. However, life has shown me that:

-I'm a pretty decent musician

-I love the sound of mandolin and the musics associated with it

-When my muse swings back that way, I'll have a great lil' axe that won't hamper my progress in any way

Finally, my Mama also taught me not to talk money with strangers, and I'll honor THAT lesson. But I would like to say that she also put me through college, after which no gift was forthcoming or expected. Really, any would've been anticlimactic after the enduring gift of the education which has been the foundation of my successes in life. If I knew that she was planning on selling something special to her so as to buy me something further, I'd have been angry and insulted. The greatest gift she could've given me was to be as happy as she can be, replete with whatever tools were needed to do the trick. Of course, all family dynamics are different, but I would remind you that your girl is an adult now; your financial responsibilities to her are, perhaps, drawing towards a close.

So, that's my pocketful of 2 cents's. It's my hope that you hold onto your Silver Angel, and find a venue or genre that rekindles your love of making music.

[dj coffey]

Really complicated question. I located your post re: church situation. There seem to be a lot of personal factors involved.

I'd agree with those that say "don't move in haste." The situation may change, or you may find yourself "called" to a different congregation or find other opportunities to make and share music you enjoy.

I expect my instruments are more expensive than I "deserve" at my level of ability. I did struggle with that some when I was making the purchase decision - would I seem pretentious to other players, especially those of greater skills whom I might aspire to emulate? Would I alienate them as a result?

I see such good will on the Cafe that I would truly be shocked to run into a mandolinist in the real world who'd look at me and my instrument and think (or say) "that <name your brand/builder> is wasted on her." They might think - oh, nice mandolin - I bet it makes even your mistakes sound good! Or be glad that there are people out there supporting Weber, Gibson and all the independent builders.

FWIW

[Doug Edwards]

Mark,

Do what your heart tells you on both situations. If you need cash OK fine sell it. You don't know what's around the corner. Maybe someone's looking for a mandolin player at your new church. Call or email me.

BTW, Martin Luther was ex-communicated once.

[harleymando]

sell it and buy ya a harley!

[Mark Walker]

Weighing in again...

First off, thanks again to everyone who's replied. #I truly appreciate this "family's" concern for another Cafe' member such as myself. #It's truly inspiring! #(But not surprising at all.)

Just a few points to clarify:

I don't 'need' to sell my Silver Angel to send my wife and daughter to Ireland. #It would certainly offset the cost of doing so, but not a 'necessary reason' to sell her. I'm not in dire straights monetarily or anything like that.#

I'm not truly 'excommunicated' from my church. #I grew disenchanted with the condescending and arrogant attitude of our pastor, and simply could not bring the proper 'spiritual' frame of mind one SHOULD have to attend Mass while he is presiding. #(So it's primarily a personality conflict with the pastor, and I'm not alone with those conflicts.)
As such, I left that particular PARISH - hopefully only until such time as this pastor is re-assigned. #You can read more about it HERE (http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=12;t=39110;st=0). #(It's toward the bottom of the first page in that thread; not as much about it on the Cafe' as I thought - most of it was via PM's from other members...)

My biggest concern is that this beautiful instrument needs to be played and I'm not doing so.... #http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[chopaholic]

sell it and buy ya a harley!
Hey harleymando,
I'm thinking about doing the opposite. I've got a beautiful Road King Classic that doesn't get the attention that it deserves because I'm always playing the mandolin in my spare time. Also, with two kids in college, I could use the cash. But no way will I sell one of my Collings. I'm sure I'll regret it, but that's the way it goes. Live to pick, pick to live!

[pickinNgrinnin]

If you are not playing this Mando and don't feel motivated to play, I'd sell. Not a life and death type decision obviously. It's a business decision - if you feel the money you have tied up in this Mando could be better used elsewhere, then that's the way to go. When you get to the point of thinking about selling, you are practically there. The good things about Mandos is there is always another one around the corner.

[fatt-dad]

I've had several instruments spend a few years out of service. They spring back to life when needed and I have a feeling the need will surface - all in good time. . .

f-d

[mythicfish]

For the life of me, I can't imagine why you would ask anyone (let alone a bunch of total strangers) what you should do
with your mandolin. Ultimately, people do what they want to do and the rest is just a rationalization, excuses or plain old BS.

Curt

[pathfinder]

Quote: "My biggest concern is that this beautiful instrument needs to be played and I'm not doing so...."

You haven't been picking it lately, Mark. #But you've been lending it out, so it's getting some work and being appreciated.

Reading "between the lines" on the thread about your dispute with the new parish priest, it occurred to me that you took this incident kinda hard. #But maybe I read it wrong. #

Anyway, there may be an easier way to solve your problem. #Have you asked your wife what you should do? #Surely she has the "best seat in the house" on what this mando means to you and whether you're likely to pick it up again when you've put the parish politics behind you.

[Mark Walker]

For the life of me, I can't imagine why you would ask anyone (let alone a bunch of total strangers) what you should do with your mandolin. Ultimately, people do what they want to do and the rest is just a rationalization, excuses or plain old BS.

Curt
Curt - I was pretty surprised by your comment... #
I've seen more than a few posts by you on the Cafe', so I have to believe you realize while there are the occasional jerks posting, we've ALL gotten some very sound advice from any number of 'total strangers' on wide-ranging subjects - mandolin related and not.

The fact of the matter is that beyond the obvious 'sell it' or 'keep it' comments by my own family and closer 'personal' friends, the Cafe' 'family members' have offered me a plethora of ideas, support, prayers, and observations above and beyond what anyone I interact with in my daily life has. #(I probably receieved just as many PM messages as what has been posted on this thread.)

Of course your opinion is noted and welcome, but I was just surprised you seemed to think there's no merit to what our Cafe' family members have to offer or that what they've conveyed to me might positively impact my decision.

JMHO, YMMV. # http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Mark

[mandocrucian]

Should you sell it?

Not before recording a medley of "Highway To Hell" and "Sam Hall" and sending it to your local Rev. Jim Jones. If it wasn't a decent instrument, instead of a $100 Hondo or Rover, I'd opt for smashing it over the guys head. El-Kabong!

Joe Pesci

[hungry mountain boy]

My initial response is, are you crazy, but different
strokes for different folks.

My official vote is no.

You may regret it and then resent the people that you did if for when they are not that appreciative.

Of course (as usual) I'm talking more about me than you, but that would be my concern. Glenn Hurley

[EdSherry]

I'm in the same boat. #I have a lovely English concertina that comes out of the box once in a blue moon. #I "should" sell it to someone who would play it more often, and who can play better than I can (of which there are many!).

But I like the sound and playability so much that I am very reluctant to sell it and buy an inferior instrument.

Maybe that's why I end up with WAY too many instruments; I love to buy them, and hate to sell them. #(Gee, don't they have a term for that? ...)

[JEStanek]

Isn't the adage with instruments is they are ours for just a while and we pass them on... The terms aren't firm. If you love it, even if you're not so great with it, and you don't need the money back out of it, hold onto it. If it gives you 5 minutes of joy every blue moon then you have 5 more minutes of joy in your life.

If there isn't some connection and it's just another instrument sell it off but if there's a bond don't cut it... you can't hurt your mando's feelings! Why take a loss on something that has given you such joy. Even when I don't play mine enough I'm happy to see them on display.

Jamie

[cooper4205]

and there is no rule that say you have to be good to by a good mandolin, trust me i know first hand http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif . as long as you like it and are satisfied with it, that is all that counts no matter how much or how little the instrument costs.

[Greg H.]

Mark,

If I'm misreading this forgive me but you were playing with others at your church were you not? And they, also string musicians, were similarly given the boot? Why not try and get together with some of the folks you used to play with? You don't need a church to pray, and similarly you don't need a church to play devotional music (though this approach could also allow the introduction of some secular music as well). I may be entirely misinterpreting this but it sounds as though a great deal of the joy you got out of playing came from playing with and for others. My thought says invite people over, some to play some to listen (just exclude the pastor http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif ), and have a good time with it.

[Mark Walker]

Greg - that's a good suggestion. #Out of five of us, only one has chosen to remain in the music ministry (I give him a lot of credit for doing so, though from what he says, the pastor has pretty much left him alone since everyone else quit. I guess it dawned on the pastor that volunteers can't be fired, and if they leave he'd have to PAY someone to do music.)

We did get together for a funeral service the week before Christmas - which was like old times.

[luckylarue]

If y'all are my virtual "family", why don't ya send me presents for x-mas?

[JEStanek]

I sent you virtual well wishes....

Jamie http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[texaspaul]

Mark,
I am a United methodist Pastor, I play for retreats, in Church at Festivals and just for my own enjoyment. I also play to epress my thanks to God for those who can takecommon things likke wood and make a beautiful thing that comes alive. My playing is not even average, but is som much a vital part of me. I own several wonderful instrucments, 2 Bulldog's, a Roy Marsh 2 point, one made by Bill Northcutt a localfiddle player who died in 1993 They all have a special place for me and Yes I worry about so much invested in these instruments,I will pray for your decision that it is right for you and your family

Paul

[cutbait2]

i would just sell the thing and not worry about. i've bought and sold a good number, there's always one available if you decide to come back to it.

[kestrel]

What would Jesus do? Quit the church? Sell his mandolin? Complain about the preacher?

Yeah, right!

I'm sorry, but have you people actually considered yourselves?

[monroerules]

I would give it time. #Find another church, wait six months. #At that point, if you still feel the same it maybe be time to sell.

Mike

[MandoSquirrel]

"luckylarue":
"If y'all are my virtual "family", why don't ya send me presents for x-mas?"

You mean that virtual Loar still hasn't gotten there yet?!

[Patrick Sylvest]

Keep the mandolin, find a new parish and play the fog out of it for the glory of GOD!

[James P]

That's an awfully nice mandolin... #
I'd say you should play it more or move it on to someone who will.

And btw, there is no god.

[JEStanek]

Wow. James P. whether or not you believe in g(G)od or not is fine and your right. You even have a right to express yourself. But in the context of this thread, where a man is struggling because his faith and his inspiration to play are being hurt, I don't think your final comment is helpful at all.

Jamie

[Steve Cantrell]

Ditto, Jamie.

[kestrel]

"I would give it time. Find another church..."

Like I said - "Have you people ever considered yourselves? "Another Church?" Gee, I thought there was only 'One' Church!

Just keep in mind - I didn't bring the subject up! - and - can't understand why Scott hasn't shut it down, already - but - since we're into it, and, since I tend to say it likeI sees it - you people are pathetic!

*Oh gee, I am a good Christian. I love everybody - but - I now have a pastor whom I don't like. He won't let me play my mondolin in Church. Boo-freakin'-hoo! Should I get rid of it? Yes! - if that's all the better your mind works!

Oh, do! Then start your own Church. Everybody else does when they don't agree with something. Call it "The Rap/Mandolin Church"! Rap and Mandolins. Has anybody done it before, really well?

I would suggest maybe corn bread for the Host and, perhaps 'shine - or maybe Gatorade for you young moderns -
for the Blood. Get a freakin' life! Sell yer mandolin, and go to Ireland, yo'seff.

Now, back to mandolins?

[James P]

Sorry folks, just my opinion and I've been known to be wrong. But taken the right way, my comment could be VERY inspirational.

[fatt-dad]

Like I said - "Have you people ever considered yourselves? "Another Church?" Gee, I thought there was only 'One' Church!
Justifying your point on the basis of sematics is pathetic. I think we all recognize that we are using "church" in the context of congregation.

Lighten up and read all the other threads.

f-d

[Jim Broyles]

Uh, I really don't know what brought that on, phantom4, but there is no one forcing you to read this thread at gunpoint. If it bothers you that much, just skip it. For what it's worth, if the issue of music is getting in the way of true worship, he should find another church. Yes, in the end there is only one true body of Christ, but there are many local churches under many names. Some of them are believing, some aren't, but that is not the issue here. The issue is that the man is calling out for the opinions of people with whom he has a common bond and in whose opinons he therefore has a measure of confidence. You are entitled to your opinion, but your sense of empathy is highly suspect.

[tater71]

Buddah is my Jesus.

(just kidding, I don't know anything about Buddhism)

[mythicfish]

I think that the former is like the latter ... but without the guilt.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif # #(I don't know what that little face is supposed to mean ... but I'll apologize in advance ... just in case.)

Curt

[FlawLaw]

It don't think the original poster meant this thread to be a discussion about religion or a thread full of belittling and juvenile comments. I think he was agonizing about whether to sell his mandolin in the midst of a community of other mandolin players who may have some positive comments. I think nasty comments are really uncalled for and really not in the spirit of discussing a legitimate mandolin related issue. There are lots of threads about MAS, why not a thread about the opposite? I have found many of the comments helpful in relationship to my own mandolin playing journey. Geez, can people lighten up.

[luckylarue]

I say take the zen/non-attachment approach and sell. There are many mandolins in the sea - why not try another?

[Steve-o]

It don't think the original poster meant this thread to be a discussion about religion or a thread full of belittling and juvenile comments...I think nasty comments are really uncalled for and really not in the spirit of discussing a legitimate mandolin related issue... Geez, can people lighten up.
I couldn't agree more FlawLaw. Let's try to have some comraderie and be a supportive music community on this site.

[Scott Tichenor]

This discussion now focuses on awkward insults/flaming and religious themes. These are clearly not the purpose of this forum and have no place here. Our posting guidelines are clearly spelled out and linked from the top of every page.