Art & Love
Another Wednesday, another concert. I am appreciating the concert series A Joyful Noise at Emmanuel Episcopal Church more and more. There are many extraordinary young artists to enjoy, and the diversity of the music has been equally satisfying. I really must compliment John Bowen on his ability to seek out such gifted musicians.
This week’s guest performer, Ian Richter (Saxophone), was different, and definitely not what I expected. His avant-garde style was something I don’t get the opportunity to hear very often. I must admit, I was a bit reluctant to attend, but so glad I made the choice to go.
He definitely has a passion for modern repertoire, and his electronic, multimedia pairings were more than captivating. My favorites: Steampunk! (2010) – Stephen Edwards, and The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock (2005) – Kevin Clarke. Both pieces were filled with intense emotion, and were stirring, to say the least. (Thank you, Ian! I look forward to hearing more from you. It was a real pleasure. I talked to a few members of the audience after the concert and they were just as moved and thrilled.)
There was also an opportunity to view paintings by artists’ Frank Russell, who is an advocate for the homeless. I agree with his statement, "Our society would like to ignore the homeless" – so true, and so very painfully sad. His art show is about their tragic survival in plain sight.
No one wants to be homeless, to be looked upon as subhuman. People are homeless for countless reasons. Don’t stereotype what you don’t understand or fear. Until you have walked a mile in the shoes of someone less fortunate, refrain from judging. If you care, have compassion, and then call a government agency to see how you can help. If you are God fearing, spend less time in church and more time out on the streets actually helping others. I think your God would appreciate this – don’t you?
To a kind friend, Robert, thank you for the impromptu lunch. I’m adding Kader’s Café Mocha to my list of favorite restaurants (cheap and delicious works for me, especially in today’s economy). I recommend the Black Beans and Rice (vegan and healthy).
Much to my surprise, yesterday was absolutely sublime. I was expecting a dreary day with a mixed bag of rain, freezing rain and snow. I’m happy it waited until the evening. It was nice to sit by a window to watch the snow fall while reading, writing and editing photos and videos, and I enjoyed a glass of red, too.
I can’t say it enough, make as much time as you can for you. It’s important for each of us to know ourselves, and this is achieved when we take at least 30 minutes out of our day to be with ourselves (learn to value your alone time). So many of us get wrapped up in the drama of life, or what I like to call, outer noise. I know many who can’t get away from it, thus not living a good life, a healthy life. They have realized this was not the life they expected. All should be striving for an authentic life, which reminds me of a favorite quote – "Authentic happiness isn’t something we can go out and get, buy, beg, borrow or steal, it’s only something we can be, and it’s a choice we make with every breath we take." – Dennis Meritt Jones
There are two more days until the weekend. Time flies by more quickly than I would like. I’m wishing all a beautiful day. Cheers! – paerki
Valentine’s Day
One of the best ways to share Valentine’s Day, and my favorite, is with candles, wine (I prefer champagne), a simple dinner and conversation. One must not discuss work, house repairs, etc. Talk about fond memories, favorite gifts, places traveled, etc. Make it a real date, but at home.
What I really wish people would do is take time and write a love note to their significant other. Tell that person how you feel, talk about the joy they bring to your life and affirm your relationship, vowing to be committed and true.
I know many who are celebrating this holiday under false pretenses. Sadly, there are some who will give their husbands, wives or significant others flowers and/or cards, but will attempt to spend Valentine’s Day with another (that special someone they have on the side). For others, it is a conditioned response, an expectation. Sorry, but this day is not meant for people like you. It’s for the true believers of love. Manipulating Valentine’s Day to stroke your ego is wrong. To do so, speaks of a soulless person, with a cold heart and a calculating mind.
It’s nice to receive cards, gifts and other tokens of friendship, loyalty and love. It takes on a whole different meaning when you express yourself from the deepest part of your soul. Why not be romantic, creative and unique. The best way to show someone you really care is with heartfelt words and how your actions make them feel special, this day and every day.
I’ll take your gift, and I will love it, but give me your heart, wrapped in words with a bow of love and I will be yours forever. Happy Valentine’s Day, to all! Make it a day to remember. – paerki
