A friend texted me a couple of days ago and said there was a duo we had previously enjoyed playing at a local coffee house that Friday night and we should go.
It's been four years since we did this. Four years of isolation - more difficult and challenging for elderly seniors than you young 'uns would believe.
When you're running out of life-time, each day is precious but losing around 1,500 days of "normal" seems like a punishment, a theft, never to be refunded.
The gig was incredible, they played Everly Brothers, Elton John, John Prine, etc. in perfect harmony, and my friend and I chatted. She mentioned (she is 78) two of her only remaining friends are now down for the count, one with dementia, the other had tumbled down the stairs of a cruise ship and broken her previously broken hip and was completely immobilized and comatose in bed and had her daughter text my friend and tell her she had lost the will to live and not to visit as she wouldn't see her.
The duo sat down to chat with us on breaks and I mentioned I had done some folk singing in my time and they invited me on stage to perform a number but I declined as my singing voice got lost a few years back when I had a bad infection. But it was darling of them to invite me.
I can't begin to express how absolutely thrilled we both were to be out like real humans in a real coffee house with real live music.
Grateful tears. Though I have to admit I am paying for it today with pain.
But hell, it was truly worth it.
I am BEYOND happy for you. I hear you on the pain but it most definitely is worth it some times.
ReplyDeleteYes, worth it for sure EC but my body sure ain't happy today.
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So happy that you were able to go and "kick up your heels." Yes, time is fleeting. Do the things that give you joy. Terry and I just had this conversation as we drove across town, having picked up 75 bears for me to give to first graders in two weeks. I am being very selective with how I use those fleeting hours.
ReplyDeleteOh that is so sweet Delaine, the kids will be thrilled and yes, each moment is precious as I know you suffer from these pains and aches too.
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We have live entertainment every Friday, and yesterday it was a real favorite, who sings in tune and chats up the audience. As he was circulating and singing he stopped and asked Phil for a couple of notes. Phil sings in a chorus and has a fine voice. He went into the entire chorus, to the delight of the audience. I was so pleased that the entertainer just let him go to the end instead of taking his mic back. It was good for all of us.
ReplyDeletePS: tell the truth: it wasn't your voice you were worried about, it was getting the old limbs up on stage!
Well Joanne, there were two challenges: you are absolutely right, and a third - I'd have to choose an older crowd too, these were far too young and discerning. But as you know it is moments like you had and I had that give us a little more spring in our steps.
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I am so glad you went and had a great time. I hope you get to do it again.
ReplyDeleteI hope so too River, it was a treasure of a night.
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Two very old friends have been diagnosed with dementia recently - one I think will be ok - family nearby - a tiny house and good close neighbours. The other one worries me more; a large house in the middle of nowhere and a volatile relationship with her daughter!
ReplyDeleteNot quite relevant to your post but in a way all our ageing issues are intertwined aren't they?
DeleteYS, of course they are! In being with my friend for our lovely night out I thought (always thinking) I should start a discussion group here in my building on the issues that are important as we age. In my apartment rather than the community rooms as there are too many spectators usually in such eclectic discussions who refuse to participate and have a deadening effect on those eager to learn. Dementia in our loved ones is painful as they slowly slip away. I am noticing it more and more and it needs talking about. Grieving the living.
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I hope you can make that happen, Mary.
DeleteIt sounds like a really good idea. x
I am glad you had a good time and now, good memories!
ReplyDeleteThanks e! And I am so happy for you and wee Mercy!
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Yes, at our ages, people are dropping like flies with one medical problem after another. Glad you were able to enjoy your little outing.
ReplyDeleteThanks Nick, we honestly felt like teenagers let our for the first time.
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Seenagers at a spree. So glad to hear of this. We need more joy in our life!
ReplyDeleteI've missed the sprees in the last 4 years, Charlotte as do so many seniors wondering if life is over.
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I can't imagine. Sounds divine. I have done three concerts this week! Online, You tube. But hey... . What is it you've 'got'? Have the doctors said? Emma
ReplyDeleteDear lord, does that sound like a wonderful night out. ♥
ReplyDeleteDid you see any of Shane MacGowan's funeral? I thought it was absolutely lovely. Sad and beautiful all at the same time. And dancing! My Uncle Francis (a priest) was probably spinning in his grave at the sight of it all but I thought it was a grand sendoff.
I've never understood the adoration for this man: he was a drunk, a druggie and caused a lot of pain to those around him. Why do the Irish glamorize such a person/life? I grew up with people who had both of these 'problems' and I can tell you there was nothing to celebrate, even in spite of talent. Emma
DeleteI can only speak from the point of view of this Irish American. Because he had an incredibly brilliant mind. Because he was a phenomenal songwriter. Because he was upfront and honest about his troubles and struggles. Because he spoke up for a united Ireland when many other famous Irishmen (born there or not) left and kept their mouths shut b/c it benefited their tax status. I think he was so, so much more than just a drunk. I think we appreciated him; didn’t excuse him or his behavior. Out of great pain can come wonderfully beautiful music. And I think that’s what he ultimately gave us.
DeleteBut let a female artist step out of line one teeny weeny bit from what is carefully outlined as "Female" and wham down comes the guillotine. Sinead.
DeleteI sent my comment incorrectly: again, in case it didn't go. Again and succinct. Male artist: anything goes and lifelong destruction: Aint he grand. Female? Sinead.
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