Music often takes me to a place I did not imagine. I am always surprised. It is as if Hope rides in on the sounds to guide and direct me to somewhere it knowingly needs to be. When I arrive, I cannot imagine being anywhere else. I leave refreshed and reminded of the best Life offers; beauty, wonder, and best of all, possibilities.
There is a favorite singer of mine that calls Singapore home. Richard grew up in Ohio, spending much of his life travelling, entertaining, and discovering things new. He is in a good place. Each time I hear him I discover the joy that comes from someone sharing how much s/he loves life. The joy of taking the old and making it new comes naturally. Improvisation appears as a vehicle to sing in the present.
As I take in the sound of Richard’s voice, especially when it comes with Alemay’s, a special person in his life, I am renewed. I rediscover the joy of living, the wonder of community, and the possibilities the can be found in every situation. If there was an invitation buried between the lines it would be this; join me, “invent your own new song to him [Hope]; give him a trumpet fanfare.” (Psalm 33.3)
I can feel a tropical storm hiding in the gentle morning breeze. I am not sure when it will come but I am certain that it will. The raindrop will be large, intense, and overwhelming. If one is unprotected when the storm arrives, you will be soaked! I realize in the reflecting echo of the music that I am not afraid. I am determined, resolute in the belief that the Spirit that came will remain with you and me. I will need to be flexible and agile, moving in ways I cannot anticipate. It is not just a storm. It is much more than that. The music reminds me that it is an invitation to engage in the heart of being alive. We will dance. We will clap and sing. We will celebrate being alive.
