The founder of the order, Fr Paul, was a protestant who
converted to Catholicism, but what his lifework embodied was to create an
environment where “all may be one”. I’ve
been drawn to this philosophy for much of my life, have created and directed
musical performances to express this message and this weekend was one that
brought both apprehension and excitement, for we were visiting him in a new
environment – a retirement home.
In preparation for the 12 hour round trip day that we had
ahead of us, I made sure to have my tunes ready for Dad – his favorite being
the music from the Swinging Steaks. I
will come back to the Steaks and the song a little later. I also purchased a book on Audible, asking my
Dad if wanted a history book or one on spirituality (my addiction!). He said that the Course in Miracles sounded
interesting, so there it was, ready for the trip.
Packed up and ready to go, accompanied by Tammie (my
shih-poo) and Cookie (my Dad’s tiny little bundle of energy), we set off at
7am. The ride along the shore of Lynn
and Swampscott was beautiful – this is where my folks grew up – and we
reminisced about the “good ole days”.
About an hour or so in, I asked Dad if he wanted to listen
to music or the book – he chose music – and was he surprised to hear it coming
from my iphone! My Dad was amazing with
technology back in the day, but fast forward into present, and it just doesn’t
click. I think I inherited those brain
cells because I constantly defer to Lindsay and Ashley for my tech questions!
The playlist that I created had many of Jamie Walker’s songs
on it. Jamie is a long-time friend,
fellow musician and is lead of the Swinging Steaks band. Over these past few years, Jamie has been
exploring sound healing and some newer albums have lyrics that truly call us to
go deeper, look within, finding our purpose in this mortal life.
As “We’re All In This Together” began to play, of course I
started to sing along, but what was truly music to my ears was hearing my Dad
sing along. Not only did it feel so
connecting to sing together, but my Dad who fostered my learning to play guitar
and has always attended my performances and church services over the years,
would never sing himself. Mom did
that. This was new and it felt great!
I tend to look for these moments of connection because for
me, they strengthen the common bond, reminding us that we truly are “All In
This Together”.
Next time you are googling, check out www.swingingsteaks.com - a truly gifted musical group and
spirit-filled people as well!
Namaste,
Julie
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