The Mother Lode

Call me an old hippie….I love Bluegrass music. And this past weekend was one of our favorite annual events, Bluegrass Along the Harpeth.

Enjoying the music; living the life

Having grown up in the 60’s/70’s I guess I come by it naturally. One of my warmest memories growing up was listening to my sister, Mary, sing and play her 12-string guitar. (And I played guitar for many years though I prefer playing piano these days.)

Our lives were shattered when Mary died of cancer at the age of 26 in the early 80’s. I think part of my fondest of acoustic instruments is in part because it reminds me of my precious sister. (“C’mon people now, smile on your brother, everybody get together try to loooooove one another right now…..”) Okay, so the Youngbloods aren’t quite Bluegrass, but you know…

My appreciation for bluegrass has grown over the years as I’ve seen its appeal across the ages. You’ll find old and young alike playing and picking together. Like for instance, this elderly grandpa who met Daniel’s best friend, Daniel Rothwell, and taught him some of the Old Time tunes.

Or watching Daniel R. play banjo while his granddaddy, Thomas Maupin buck dances.
Or maybe it’s a gaggle of kids in a pick up session of Rocky Top.
I love watching the dancing. And I especially loved watching a vision impaired Down syndrome little girl whirl and dance in time. Mama picked her up at one time so she could feel the vibrations on the speaker too. My eyes got leaky watching that one.

Music is powerful stuff! It often reminds me of how we were all born to dance…to celebrate….to be free.

This was contrasted to me the next day when we attended a celebration for a young woman who had gotten off parole and overcome some serious obstacles. She was quite literally, celebrating her freedom (sans banjo).

This gal has been either in prison or on parole for 10 of her 28 years. Through the efforts of Vicki Harvey and Leaving the Cocoon, and her mentor, Joanne, this young lady is a testament to the changing power of love and grace.

Looking into her eyes and the loved ones that surrounded her yesterday as we rejoiced together in her victories….I could hear that sweet music again. And watch a different dance, of grace, unfold.

It was a very good weekend.

Filed under: church life, Personal notes, Spirituality Tagged: | Bluegrass on the Harpeth, freedom, Grace, Leaving the Cocoon