I enjoy taking first timers to the symphony. There's a certain kind of excitement in their eyes, a skip to their step and a gleeful smile. I like to observe their reactions to their surroundings as they take it all in. It can be a bit overwhelming at first. Davies Symphony is pretty big and my seats are on the very top tier, center, and oversees the whole concert hall. The first 10-15 minutes is a period of adjustment but by the end of the first or second piece, I notice that who ever I'm with at the time finally gets into their comfort zone and takes off to their own private nirvana, wherever that may be.
The entertainment for the evening was provided by none other than the symphony's own Concert Master, Alexander Barantschik. He played Vivaldi's Four Seasons. What a treat!!! Its rare to hear popular pieces be played at the symphony. I've been going for several years now and I can still count with one hand the number of concerts I've gone to that I'm actually familiar with or really know the music. Last night's play list was perfect.
Even though I've heard Four Seasons a million times, hearing it live still left me breathless. My favorite recording was done by Joshua Bell. Okay, I'm a little bit biased because I actually met the guy, took a picture with him, and nearly sat on his lap while he autographed the CD I bought of his recording. But the point is, Tanya and I had an awesome time. We giggled, took pictures, commented on the little old man in front of us rocking out to Summer Season. I think that's his favorite.
As for me, I definitely have the affinity with Winter. It always has been my favorite and I think it's safe to say, that it always will be.
Have a listen...
- this recording was done by Julia Fischer who I will be seeing next month as my last concert for the season...
Here's the sonnet that goes along with it...
Trembling with cold amidst the freezing snow, while a frightful wind harshly blows, running and stamping one's feet every minute, and feeling one's teeth chatter from the extreme cold;
Spending quiet contented days by the fire while the rain outside drenches people by the hundreds;
Walking on ice, and moving cautiously, with slow steps, for fear of falling, spinning around, slipping, falling down, again walking on ice and running fast until the ice cracks and splits;
hearing Sirocco, Boreas, and all the winds at war burst forth from the bolted doors - this is winter, but it also brings joy!
Second Tier, Row E, Seat 105-106 = Nosebleeds :)
B Bar
So I've been feeling a bit down lately. Part of it is feeling really burnt out at work. The other night, I had the most wretched, fitful night's sleep. I dreamt about work and I distinctly remember telling myself to just stop working and go to sleep. The problem was that I was already asleep! I woke up the next day and felt like I ran a marathon and was still trying to catch my breath! It's been this way for several nights now and I'm starting to feel it take a toll in my spirit.
I feel lethargic and unmotivated during the day while my nights are spent dreading another day of work that is to come in less than 12 hours. My tears are shallow, the mood - dark. The meditation is not working, breathing exercises only agitates me more and not even the Spiritual Center can bring forth the calm I seek.
Then God/Universe/Source heard my gentle plead and intervened via my dear friend Marge.
In 15 days, I will be half-naked, half-baked and half-drunk in the Island of Boracay.
In 15 days, I will be half-naked, half-baked and half-drunk in the Island of Boracay.
Yes bloggies, this tired little blogger will be flying half way across the world to the little known archipelago called the Philippines :)
Am I Excited?
Absolutely, but relieved more than anything. I am going to release a lot of pent up energy and have as much fun as I can in the given time I have. I am planning to reconnect with families, recharge, reset and re-center so I can truly be present for my beloveds. You cannot give what you don't have.
Time and time again I ask of you to be good to yourself and others.
I am taking off to take care of myself so I can take care of you :)
Namaste,
Peaceful night to us,
No comments:
Post a Comment