Are you a winter holiday kinda person? If so, you’ve probably already checked out “Colonial Holiday,” Jane Monheit, the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, the Vienna Choir Boys and/or “The Nutcracker” & “Holiday POPS!” You might even have tickets in hand for The Philadelphia Orchestra’s upcoming “The Glorious Sound of Christmas” or PHILADANCO’s “Xmas Philes” (if not, stop reading this posting RIGHT NOW and go to www.kimmelcenter.org to order tix).
I’ve always been into the winter holiday season, not for the reason most people are, though, but because my birthday falls rights smack dab between Christmas and New Years (yes, it’s official, you can take December 28th off from work!). Birthdays have always been a cause for celebration in my family and as I’ve gotten older, they’ve also provided a time for reflection, for taking time out to see where I am on this crazy, soulful life-journey. Like most people, my life has taken unpredictable twists and turns. Faith, love and art have been my saving grace. Music, in particular, has inspired me to get up when I’ve fallen, to meditate through confusion, and to create my way back to the light.
So what gets you through the craziness of life on earth? How do you deal with the reality of man’s inhumanity to man -- poverty, war, homelessness and disregard for the planet? Do you have family and friends to turn to? A spiritual practice or religious faith? Do you practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty? Do music/dance/theater or visual art give you hope?
Let us know.
Meanwhile, my wish for each and every one of you is that you live your life “like it’s golden, golden”: full of love, light and music!
Peace & love, today and always.
(And farewell to Richard Pryor, one of the saddest and funniest artists ever.)
I've enjoyed reading your post and like you, faith and love has helped me get through this life. Family is awesome especially around the holidays. It's great to show them all the love you can while they are still here. I hope that you and your family have a happy holiday and a special happy birthday to you.