Finding Inspiration at Carole King-James Taylor Concert

“My life has been a tapestry of rich and royal hue …”

I’ve got the iTunes cranked in the background as I write this, still on a high from last night’s amazing Carole King-James Taylor concert. Two of my favorite performers of all time. Lines from their songs weave together so many memories that make up the rich tapestry of my life.

“You’ve got a friend …”

I couldn’t possibly count the number of times I sang this song — with all the “significance” only an angst-ridden teen can muster — around campfires and in friendship circles. And I couldn’t have had a better friend sitting next to me at last night concert. Laura, my friend through the thick and thin of the the past 14 years. We’ve been witness to each other’s greatest joys and greatest disappointments. (Watery eye alert!) I don’t think this song ever meant as much as it did to me last night. I’m so grateful to have a friend like Laura in my life.

“I feel the earth move …”

I’d always loved this song, but it took on new and greater significance in September 2005. My second son entered this world with a roomful of people — including the doctor — singing this very song. With gusto. Really. Three years earlier, the aforementioned Laura, a master of mixed-tape making, had compiled tunes for me to take into the labor & delivery room. On both trips to L&D, it was an instant hit with the nursing staff, who said not enough people brought music with them. Keep that in mind if delivering a baby is in your future.

“I’m no longer doubtful of what I’m living for …”

My wonderful husband, my two boys, my parents, my dear friends. All so important. They’re so clearly part of my purpose. And there’s more. Coaching, teaching, encouraging. Writing. This blog is somehow part of my purpose. I feel it. Stay tuned.

“You’ve got to get up every morning with a smile on your face and show the world all the love in your heart …”

What a great reminder this was last night. Could I do this every day? I don’t know about you, but I find it kinda hard to get up in the morning with a smile on my face when the kids have woken me up reeeeeeeally early. And when there’s deep grief affecting your life, it may seem next to impossible to get up any morning with a smile on your face. Sometimes the best we can do is to strive for part two of that line: “Show the world all the love in your heart.”

Well, I’m gonna try to do both. I’ll let you know how it goes. Will you try with me?

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