Fall Philadelphia Nights

The full moon crept slowly to my right from behind the towering skyscraper.  It was a beautiful fall night in the University of Pennsylvania neighborhood.  I had the opportunity to perform at a venue named Harvest Seasonal Grill.  I was set up on a beautiful outdoor patio, complete with numerous fire pits.  Delicate flowing grass plants, with the fluffy tops, created a boundary between the Walnut Street sidewalk and the patio. My songs were echoing off of the massive buildings, ringing through this small section of Philadelphia .  My job was pretty much to provide background music for the diners ... which was enjoyable ... but I experienced some unexpected interaction from people as they walked by me on the sidewalk.  A dad with his child in a stroller stopped to listen and point out to his child where the music was coming from.  Kids are always mesmerized by the instruments.  People of varying ages flashed their "thumbs up" sign to me as they passed.  Small groups of people would gather behind me on concrete steps to listen for a bit and then continue with their nightly activities.  But one contact really stood out from the rest.  A small, thin black woman stopped on the sidewalk and peered at me through the grass.  She said "Is that you singing those songs?"  I replied yes.  She said "I'm homeless and I wanted you to know how good and warm it makes me feel listening to the music."  Then she continued on her way.Wow ... that's ultimately why I perform.  The ability to connect with people through music is a gift and I am thankful for it.
 

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