with gratitude for Dennis McNeil
Every night now as I make dinner in Colorado,
I listen to a tenor sing live from his back porch
in California near the coast.
While I chop onions and chard
and sip on sauvignon blanc,
he belts tunes from Oklahoma
and Phantom of the Opera,
patriotic songs and Frank Sinatra,
and I sing along, my small soprano lifted
by his generous voice that baptizes the room.
This is the world I believe in—
a world ringing with beauty.
A world where people share their gifts
with strangers, knowing our lives
depend on this.
Between songs, he toasts us with gin,
and smiles. I return his toast with wine.
This is the way we carry each other
through difficulties, one song at a time.
I too, enjoy his songs and beautiful smile. What a blessing to know there are those who choose joy through music.
Yes! Thanks, Dianne, the joy is so palpable!
You said it eloquently! I think this is the way we all feel about your concerts from the porch but she really said it the right way.
Thank you, Allison–these porch concerts are sooooo special!
Beautifully said! I have never cried as much as when Dennis sang at my daughter’s wedding. That voice – his personality – salt of the earth.
that voice!!! Thanks, Mimi–his singing is such a gift.