"Challenges are a part of life, as you know. Your mind is a powerful asset. Use it for positive thoughts and you’ll learn what I learned. I call it, getting on the plateau of positivity." I just watched the film "Keep on Keepin' On"--what a beautiful exploration of the power of music, mentorship, and the ripple effects of living the fullest, truest life one knows how. Clark Terry, born in 1920, blossomed from one of the greatest jazz trumpet players in history into a most gracious and authentic mentor/teacher, til his passing earlier this year at 94. One of his mentees, Justin Kaulfin (born in 1986 :)), exuded such humility and graceful courage in the film as he pursued his passion of unleashing his inner self through jazz piano (which he plays blind by the way), guided by the wisdom and melt-your-heart encouragement of CT. Such a gift to have a glimpse of that.



Music can just cut through sometimes, ya know? Earlier today I was sitting on the train listening to some jams by Nimo. Suddenly I thought of a little game I like to play from time to time: swamp music with the person sitting next to you. Nah, my stops coming up soon... Well, I'm a little embarrassed to say this, but I happened to glance at the phone screen of the person sitting next to me (in fairness, it was a big screen :)) and saw her thumb hover over the checkout button for a pretty pricey pair of shoes. Now or never. I tapped her shoulder, briefly explained the game, and...well, she was game. Just pick a song that you think matches the moment. I decided to play "Keep Loving" for her; she picked one for me. They just finished as I got to my stop; it was more the tone than the words in parting that spoke to the little moment of mutual blessing that was shared, through soulful music.