It had been a whirlwind sort of week with my everyday responsibilities, my day out with mom, my projects I am working on personally and gigs with Eric. At this point I was ready for a change of pace. I looked forward to this show with great anticipation.
We arrived early enough we were able to take a few minutes to view the art displays after Eric set up his PA system.
One room was filled with art created by those who are members of the Mobile ARC. The theme of this year’s program was “A Starry Night”. The first picture that caught our eyes was of a beautiful starry night. The variety of paintings was huge, consisting of everything from abstract to intricate detailed roses in a beautiful shade of blushing pink. Eric pointed to one that stood out for him; it was a musician with his instrument (I believe this picture was titled The Cello). Once we had examined these pictures we strolled into the next room that had a very long table (actually several tables end-to-end, making them appear as one). This table was covered with pieces of pottery and other works in tin. Each was unique. I loved a large piece that had a single bird painted in the center. By the time I got settled and remembered it, I learned it had already been sold. Most of the art was solely done by members of Mobile ARC, some were jointly done by members and a local artist.
Eric began the music at 6:00pm at Azalea Manor on Dauphin Street. People of all ages and all abilities danced to his music. One man in a wheelchair without the ability to move his arms or legs, was wheeled in circles and close up to the music in a rhythmic manner so that he could have the feel that he was dancing. I could not take my eyes off his eyes. It seemed his eyes were the only thing over which he maintained control. Those eyes danced with great joy and appreciation. In that moment a life that is immobile and deeply silenced by illness was lifted and his soul was soaring in the rafters. I nearly cried as I felt his happiness in my soul.
Many chose not to dance but to visit with one another, while listening and clapping. The food was delicious and the music was uplifting to those who were there. I watched as some would stand at their table or near the doors and begin to bounce to the music with huge smiles on their faces.
By the end of the night most of the art work was gone. It was purchased and taken to new homes to be enjoyed for years to come.
An observation I made as I visited with many there (some I have known for years, others I had never seen before)... I realized once again we are all ONE. We think different, we look different but our hearts are joined.
Years ago I noticed the people I have been privileged to meet who have compromised physical and mental abilities are the ones who are consistently happy. They smile most of the time. Their faces light up the moment they catch your eye and they greet you with a hug or a handshake instantly. These hearts are pure. They have no hidden agenda. They want nothing from you but peaceful co-existence. If we could bottle that and have everyone drink it, oh what a wonderful world this could be!
Thank you Mobile ARC and all those who worked hard last night to keep things going smoothly and for sharing the joy!
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