Friend’s fundraiser; small ways to help through music; Parkinson’s organizations

When I was younger, I was absolutely certain that the best way to help others was through music. As a young performer, I relished every opportunity to step on stage and share the joy of classical piano music with the audience. I was creative in forming partnerships that resulted in monetary benefits for this organization or that one. We raised money for the purchase of a new grand piano for my church. I sent my CDs to Ground Zero after 9/11. I served as a kind of music evangelist for colleges around the state, as well as for those students who worked with me at my local studio. At the core of all my activities was the joy and responsibility of sharing music with the world.

It used to be easy then. People would comment with envy that it must be so nice to know from an early age what my calling in life would be. I agreed and felt honored to serve. As I aged, it became a little more difficult to perform high-profile concerts. I performed less, but the concerts I did were of a greater magnitude. Fewer performances, with higher impact. With the advent of Parkinson’s Disease, playing for more than a few minutes at a time has become a challenge. I play for myself and those closest to me. I’ve asked my wife to start recording occasional performances of slow movements that occur in our living room. I hope to put these up on my website in the future.

My journey with Parkinson’s Disease has given me the space to breathe. I no longer feel able to practice entire days at the piano, nor do I feel equipped to perform full-length solo recitals. However, by moving these activities to the back burner, I have freed up some other creative space. Over the past 100 days, I have allowed my work as a writer to blossom in the space formerly packed with piano practice and performing. I have also become more aware of small, individual opportunities to help others.

This week we read of our young friend who has fought pediatric cancer for the past two years. He is a conqueror and is choosing to turn his fight and victory into action for others. So, my wife and I will support him by eating spaghetti at a fundraiser he has organized in preparation for a half marathon he is running. There is power in the individual act of support. We support him, as he supports an organization that supports many.

I am inspired by our young friend. He has a heart to help others and is putting his ideas into action. I hope to do something similar since there are so many people with Parkinson’s (PWP) who are hurting and need support. I probably won’t help with grand events like I used to, but I plan to be on the lookout for small, quiet ways I can help. There is power in the still, small act of kindness, or in the plate of spaghetti.

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Day 92: October 30, 2023
Success!