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Greetings!
I recently returned from a visit to Florida to see my terminally ill sister in her new nursing home. While she has lost her precious independence as well as the ability to walk, read, write and dress herself, she has many happy moments. What brings her the most joy is music. At the top of her lungs, she sings old songs from the Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof and West Side Story. She listens to Beethoven and positively beams, as she waves her arms to the music. She remembers every theme tune of every TV show she watched as a girl and belts them out. (She is even on key some of the time, unlike her sister!)
I am reminded to pause and listen to the songs of the soul. I am honored to do this work, with all its glorious highs and absurd lows. I feel inspired and hopeful as the new year begins.
"Music is what life sounds like." -Eric Olson
Warm wishes for a hopeful 2012 to you!
Rhyena Halpern, Executive Director Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission P.S. Please note: the Arts Commission office will be closed Monday, Jan. 16, for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Please look for our e-newsletter on Tuesday, Jan. 17. |
