The Recital
I went to the recital of a friend’s granddaughter last night. It wasn’t planned, and part of a longer story, but that’s alright. The family has played a key role in my life since the death of my wife and the grandchildren know me as Mister John. We get along well. And getting to see one of them play at a recital reminded me of how much I missed my little grandkids in Virginia and their recitals. So, it was a fun thing to do.
The granddaughter sparkled, and the rest of the music was what you would expect, tentative in cases, bouncy in others and full of the energy kids get when they do something hard, get through it, and find hugs from friends, siblings, parents, and grandparents waiting for them at the end. Lots of relief and lots of smiles. It was a lovely evening, and I got a hug at the end, too.
As I watched, I thought how good it was for the children to learn the art of performing because it will stand them in good stead later in life. It will build their confidence. And it will let them know there are people who support them in their endeavors, whatever they are, because that’s what friends and family do for one another. Lots of lessons. And at the end of those lessons, the grandfather and I went out to eat. Two friends sharing a meal, feeling blessed we have such fine children and grandchildren in our lives.