It was an April evening, the year was 1975, and the venue was the Coliseum in Portland Oregon. The orchestra that evening was conducted by Don Costa. I was present, 3rd row from the stage, by myself with a perfect view. The star of the main event was the man himself, Frank Sinatra. An online charity of a complete ticket stub triggered a buried memory of the lingering impact that still remains from that Saturday evening.
As I research to rediscover the set list for the evening’s performance, there are so many more songs I wish I could have heard live. As it is, the memories from that evening includes the following.
When one connects with the exceptional, one will be touched and influenced in ways that cannot be anticipated or imagined. Even when the source is not as full as it once was, one can still be lifted in ways that infuse hope, awe, and a sense of wonder. In the presence of this singer, I realized that my heart had been touched while I was still coming to terms with what I was hearing, seeing, and experiencing.
Sharing anything, especially with others who appreciate what is being shared, does not reduce one’s experience in any way. In fact, in sharing one enhances the experience! This evening took me to places I did not anticipate, in part because of the individuals around me who were enjoying the time together.
When one has experienced a gift from the other, especially one that touches every part of one’s soul in good ways, one discovers that others who have experienced the same want to join you in a flash celebration along the lines of the Psalm; “Bravo, God, bravo! Everyone join in the great shout: Encore! In awe before the beauty, in awe before the might.” (Psalm 96.7)
Even though it was a long time ago, I am reminded that moments of beauty, wonder, and awe can be found today. Each is a gift that reminds us of love, forgiveness, and relationship. From my heart, thank-you.
