A Nod to the "Jones"

But all I've ever wanted to do is sing!

I heard these words today from the lips of a very impassioned young lady, and I see echoes of a much younger me. Explaining to an audience of young hopefuls, what is there to say about the "jones" that takes hold deep within the fiber of who you are and requires that you "dance to the beat of a different drum".

I laughingly acknowledged the difference between those who sing, even craft a melody here and there, and those of us who can't help but sing....we are, you see, an interesting bunch.

When others were doing the practical thing, making a backup plan, and developing a backup for the backup plan -- I was totally convinced that the musical mistress of my heart would care for me.

When I loved and lost ... I turned into her arms and she comforted me.

When I heard practical voices urging me to seek safer ground ... I tossed my hair, and looked over my shoulder and winked at her.

You see, we two had something special! And, as funny as it sounds, we still do.

When my energy gives out, and my plans lay wasted...she comes to me.

A banker looks me smuggly in the eye and kindly informs me that my credit score does not indicate I would be a suitable risk for this or that investment ... I hear her whimsical melody and am comforted. "Not a suitable risk", she whispers..."in what galaxy?"

What does this man know of breathing life into an idea, wrenching your very guts for the courage to take one more step?

What can he possibly know of the "fake it 'til you make it" mantra of the self-help gurus? "This is the stuff we feed on! Can you imagine him staring himself down in the mirror and making faces as the fear vies to take control? I think not." She turns and purchases herself on the lip of the tub, a favorite seat for these kind of pep-talk sessions.

I've been party to more than a few of these kind of sessions ... and we recognize the battle-worn look in the eyes of one who has lived to defend the creative angst for one more go-round.

So hears to one more moment...out there being real, being vulnerable, being alive.

Today...I wouldn't trade it. Talk to me tomorrow.