Simple Gifts

My grandmother had the most beautiful high soprano voice and as a small child I loved to hear her sing, usually old Baptist hymns like, “The Old Rugged Cross.”  My mother was a good musician who played both saxophone and piano, although I really only heard her on the piano by the time I came along.  Her signature piece was “Elmer’s Tune.” 

By twelve I would go out to the convent and Sister Eunice would play guitar and sing folk songs for us.   My second cousin was a mad drummer and DJ on the school PA system.  I was in love with both of them.

I love music.  If you will play for me I am in heaven.  If by some chance you will both play and sing for me I may be reduced to tears. 

While I have played several instruments during my life I have never been comfortable performing.  Even playing my lessons for my teachers was a terrible trial.  I don’t know why this is.  I wasn’t born self-conscious, but it grew in me like a weed and it overshadows my gifts.

So when you simply pick up a guitar and sing?  I am in awe.  I am in heaven.  I am in love!