A Blast of the Past

I recently went to a concert. Honestly, I don't remember the last time I went to one, so therefore, I've come to the conclusion it's been a loooong time.

We saw Stevie Nicks, and what a treat!

I never saw Fleetwood Mac or Stevie Nicks (solo) in concert before, even though there was a time when I played the Rumors album to death. So many of the songs she sang were very familiar and took me back to days long past. Those days seem like yesterday, but times have changed. My pre-concert ritual was quite different this go round. Brian and I went out to dinner, enjoyed a lighter meal and one glass of wine. Suffice to say, in earlier days, the preparation for concert enjoyment included altered states. I must note, I don't think I had more fun at any other concert regardless of the manner in which I got ready.

The demographic of the concert goers was also different than I remember but then...I am too! I realize the demographic all depends on the performer, his or her genre and age. Time has steadily marched on from when I used to attend concerts even though part of me is in denial of that fact. But some things haven't changed. I still saw someone being forcibly carried out by security, a woman dancing up front (in red) seeking attention and the beer was flowing. One particular modification I noticed evoked laughter. I remember during classic, softer, ballad type songs the Bic lighters would come out and the arena literally lit up. Well, at this concert, I saw one Bic lighter on display but others just activated their cell phones and held them up. :-) Quite a sight! I did laugh and saw a new way in which technology has made it's mark on us all.

Our time spent listening to Stevie struck me in another way, as well. What talent! Some people might not approve of her background or choices. Of course a lot of people would not condone mine either. Does any of that really matter? Stevie's talent is a gift and should be honored as such. I realize we all have our individual taste in music, art, cuisine, entertainment activities, etc. nevertheless, an appreciation for special talent seems compelling. Let's face it, some people are extremely gifted. No matter the area of life, I'm not one of those people! I'm OK with that and marvel at others who are! I am of the mind, however, to downplay, shun, or even attack someone's ability because of political affiliation, spirituality, or questionable personal choices partially robs us of joy and beauty.

I'm not saying we all have to agree! It's a foregone conclusion that we won't. I just think appreciation and honor should be given when due. An untainted perspective regarding giftings is a challenge, one I'll always be working on. But I don't want to miss inspiring creativity.


Photo from Wikipedia.org (Stevie Nicks)