Connection Is Crucial – Stories of Community

I am about to tell you two very brief stories. They are very different but with at least one powerful similarity.

Local Connection

The first story is about rehearsing and performing with the choral octet, 8th Amendment. The songs we’re singing have strong intentions about being in relationship with each other and seeking peace. We also care about creating beautiful music that people will respond to.

These all combine to make our rehearsals a sometimes intense and frequently vulnerable experience. I’ve found myself close to tears more than once as we prepare to deliver these songs in performance. A big part of my response is because of the connection we feel with each other as we sing.

Remote Connection

The second story is just as touching, but in a very different way. Someone contacted me through my website. To protect their identity, let’s call them Mel. Well, Mel had read and listened to a post about one of my pipe organ pieces. I don’t know if it was Modal Toccata, Fugue and Fantasy, or Shine Inward (from Outward and Inward).

And in many ways it doesn’t matter. Mel was inspired by the piece of music. So much so that they researched the origins of the pipe organ. And Mel’s inspiration inspired me.

Many times, when someone reaches out through my website, I only hear from them once. However, Mel has corresponded with me again via email. And that is the beauty of connection.

Humanity

Especially in these times of fascism and inhumanity, I cherish these stories of connection. We express our humanness most when we are vulnerable and seek to inspire each other.

I’m deeply grateful for the relationships I am part of. Whether by intention or “accident”, connecting with other people is where it’s at.

Thanks for keeping these connections strong.

The main photo of the rusty chain is by analogicus.