More Could Always Be Said....

Recently, I was given an assignment to write what I believed my retirement speech would look like. I liked this chance for creativity. To speak words of life and passion that reflect why I stand where I do now. And it was as followed:

"I have always been a big talker. Well in my older years, at least. As a small child, I couldn't hear a damn thing. Not a sound, not a melody, a story, an explanation. A severe ear infection made my hearing entirely impaired. I lived in a world of silence with no means to communicate, until my loved ones finally realized. And once they fixed my ears, well, I never shut up. I could tell the greatest stories, sing the newest tunes, and ask as many "why" questions as my mother could possibly stand (and probably more). Every sound was music to my ears. Every bit of knowledge and communication given was a sign of affection.

The gift of being able to share and grow through words and sound has always struck a powerful chord in me. Once I had it, I could never get enough of it. For me, music has always been the most perfect and pure means to send a message, paint a picture, and grow relationships. Its burned and built every bridge in my life, including, the one that brought all of you sitting here. We were brought together through our community of voices and sounds. A gift I can't express my appreciation for enough. I have found in my many years, sometimes, my mere words, in my usual sullen tone, have fallen short, misunderstood. But my music. My music has never been misunderstood. You hear me. You hear my words, my meaning, my heart, and I thank the universe everyday that I have been able to hear you, feel you, and known you in return. I thank you all for your ears, hearts, and our music. Thank you so much for coming."

I hope you can see the beauty in sound and noise. Here is to another sound shared with you and me.