The Winner

“Winner! Winner! We have a winner!”

The ebullient sound of victory could be heard above the constant drone of the casino. In fact, the level of noise tempered slightly as gamers paused to take in the sight of a bald man at the roulette table with both arms raised in victory. His jaw dropped as he surveyed the enormity of the winnings before him – knowing this event completely changed his future. With tears in his eyes, he watched as stack after stack of chips were raked toward him by a portly croupier who seemed a sour fellow.

Several employees were summoned to help the bald man collect his good fortune so he could cash out. Each was tipped handily by the generous winner, none so much as the hand that had spun the wheel. The croupier’s attitude improved as his pockets bulged under the weight of the gift.

When the tally was exchanged for legal tender, the winner searched out a quiet place to rejoice and contemplate his haul. Beyond the rows of gaming tables sat an open bar that looked somewhat removed from the madness. The buzz of the casino resumed and seemed to have forgotten the interruption that had occurred just moments before. Aside from a few congratulations on his way to the bar, most of the gamers had already moved on from his win as they gave their concentration wholly over to chips, dice, and cards. Read More

Of Beauty, Yardwork, and Dr. Dre

Music has a power unique unto itself. It is truly an amazing phenomenon. It can lift us up, incite us to action, bring us to worship, and awe us with its stunning beauty. A few simple notes can change a mood by reminding us of bygone days or lost love. It can create melancholy, joy, excitement… the reach of music is endless.

I enjoyed one of the most beautiful musical experiences of my life a little over a year ago and it caught me by complete surprise. I know that my ability to feel things at a new level stems from the emotions that have poured into my being since the loss of Kylie, but this music came into my soul and plucked my heartstrings like I was seated third oboe in the orchestra.

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