LIFE AS WE KNOW IT ✍️

 

Flashback weeks

Lonesome streaks

Reflection time

Memories sublime

Restless hearts

Broken parts

Repetitive scenes

Silent screams

Aimlessly afloat

Rudderless boat

Unfinished tales

Forgotten trails

Wandering minds

Unexpected finds

Derailed tracks

Fractured cracks

Strangely confused

Hopelessly bemused

Human Life

Joyful Strife ✍️

A SIBLING WORTH REMEMBERING✨️❤️

One of my favourite 'brother-sister' musician partnerships, was Karen and Richard Carpenter. This sibling duo, known as 'The Carpenters', gave us so many, many beautiful songs, way back in the 70's. I love quite a few of their songs; and the whole world, still joyfully listens to and enjoys, their very popular melodies, even five and six decades later.😊

Karen Carpenter sadly left this world, at a very young age. Somehow, that makes me think of my own brother. He would have been celebrating his Birthday, in a couple of days. There are many different things that I dream of and imagine, about what my life would be like, if Nathan was still around. Among other things, I often wonder what it might have been like, if the two of us, had been able to make music together, like they did...🤔

...Just Wishful Thinking!🤷🏻‍♀️

Whenever something is on my mind for a while, I usually like to write about it. So, I thought I would post two of my favourite songs, by 'The Carpenters' today. I love a lot of their songs; but these two, have such beautiful words.✍️

I HAVE YOU 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- The Carpenters

I have always been a Dreamer,
Followed visions of my own;
I was Born to Belong, to the Lines of a Song,
And make them my Home.

I believe in Happy Endings,
Though I've only known a few;
For as rare as they are, like a bright falling Star,
I found one in You.

Sometimes,
All the world can seem so friendless,
And the road ahead so endless,
And the Dream so far away.

Sometimes,
When I'm almost to surrender,
Then I stop and I remember,
I have You, to save my day.

Often my Imagination,
Has me reaching out too far;
When I fell, you were there, with your hand in the air,
You knew from the start.

Sometimes,
After all, you've done to save me,
Through the Love you freely gave me,
Every step along the way.

Sometimes,
People ask what keeps me going;
And in truth, it comes from knowing,
I have You, to save my day.

Sometimes,
Feeling helpless, when I held You,
Wishing Words would come, to tell You,
I have You, to save my day.✨️❤️

YOU 🎶 (Song Lyrics)
- The Carpenters

You are the one, who makes me Happy,
When everything else, turns to grey;
Yours is the Voice, that wakes me mornings,
And sends me out, into the day.

You are the crowd, that sits quiet,
Listening to me,
And all the mad sense, that I make,
You are one of the few things, Worth Remembering...

And since it's All True,
How could anyone, mean more to me than You.

Sorry if sometimes, I look past you,
There's no one, beyond your eyes.
Inside my head, the wheels are turning,
Hey, sometimes I'm not so wise.

You are my Heart and my Soul,
My Inspiration,
Just like the old Love Song goes.
You are one of the few things, Worth Remembering...

And since it's All True,
How could anyone, mean more to me than You.✨️❤️

Yes, both these Songs are very meaningful. But, another thing that I enjoy doing, besides listening to lovely songs, is to hear the 'Stories behind the Songs and the Singers'. So, it was great to discover this video of an interview today, with Richard Carpenter, from a 'Morning Talk Show'. 

It would have been so amazing, if Karen Carpenter had lived longer, and had sung a lot more songs; but she sure has lived on, in so many of our minds and memories, for a long, long time, through her Voice and her Songs.😊🎤🎶

(The videos posted, have been uploaded by various people on YT.)

I REALLY DON'T KNOW LIFE AT ALL 🤔

 

I think everyone has played that game, at some time or the other, where you look up at the clouds, and try to imagine or guess, what each one 'almost looks like or resembles'.🤔

The interesting part about that game, is that the 'Clouds' keep changing their shape, constantly, as they keep moving, and are blown in different directions, by the breeze. Wherever the wind blows, they go; and as a result, they never stay the same.

I listened to this song today, that kind of draws a comparison between 'Clouds, Love and Life'. I have heard other versions of this song before, by other singers; but today, I found this nice duet version. I also read the lyrics a few times today, more closely.✍️ 

Like any poem, the words of this song, can be interpreted in a number of different ways. In fact every line, can be understood differently, depending on one's state of mind, at the time.

But I guess, the one thought that seems very clear, is that no matter how much experience one may have, 'Love and Life' will always be like 'Illusions', that we can't really figure out - As Complex, Complicated, Ever-Changing and Difficult to Interpret and Understand, as the 'Clouds' in the sky.

...and just like the songwriter, I guess every single one of us, can only say, 'I really don't know Clouds, Love or Life at all.' 🤷🏻‍♀️

BOTH SIDES NOW 🎶 (Song Lyrics)

- Josh Groban and Sara Bareilles

Bows and flows of angel hair,

And ice cream castles in the air,

And feather canyons everywhere,

I've looked at Clouds that way.

But now they only block the sun,

They rain and snow on everyone;

So many things I would have done,

But Clouds got in my way.

I've looked at Clouds from Both Sides Now,

From up and down and still somehow,

It's Cloud's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Clouds at all.

Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels,

The dizzy dancing way you feel,

When every fairy tale comes real,

I've looked at Love that way.

But now it's just another show,

You leave 'em laughin' when you go;

And if you care, don't let them know,

Don't give yourself away.

I've looked at Love from Both Sides Now,

From win and lose, and still somehow;

It's Love's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Love at all.

Tears and fears, and feeling proud,

To say, 'I Love you' right out loud,

Dreams and schemes and circus crowds,

I've looked at Life that way.

But now old friends are acting strange,

They shake their heads, they say I've changed,

Well something's lost, but something's gained,

In living every day.

I've looked at Life from Both Sides Now,

From win and lose, and still somehow;

It's Life's Illusions, I recall;

I really don't know Life at all. ✍️

PEOPLE WHO NEED PEOPLE ✍️

 

One day, you're given a 'Special Gift',

And you presume, it will 'Always Be There';

Like a 'Lifeline', that you firmly hold onto,

You carry it in your Heart, everywhere.

Like 'Life Support', that keeps you alive,

Like a 'Crutch', you can't walk without,

Constantly reaching out, for that 'Helping Hand',

It will 'Always reach right back', you have no doubt.

The People who 'Have People', are truly Blessed,

From their Happy point of view, every moment is just great, right now;

The People who 'Need People', still struggle everyday,

Hopelessly wishing, their 'Lifelines' stay around somehow.

If Life was a Story, more simple than complex,

We'd already know, what every new chapter holds in store;

But the 'Uncertainty', that each unknown Tomorrow brings,

Makes us cling on to Yesterday, even when 'The Past is a Closed Door'. ✍️

RECESS-TIME 😄✍️

 

The 'Summer Holiday Break' is the only one month in the entire year, when teachers can actually 'breathe in peace'. The only time in the whole year, when there are no back-breaking deadlines and corrections, no endless late nights working, no countless lesson-planning, and no alarms to wake you up, at unearthly hours. The vocal chords, neck, back and feet of every teacher, get a much-needed break. The ears actually hear the 'sound of silence'.😊

Since I haven't been in school, for a couple of years now; this is also the month, when I get a chance to catch up, with a few of my close 'Teacher Friends', who were my colleagues, for two long decades. 

Even though, we do try to meet a few times, during the academic year; their hectic work schedules, make those meetings extremely rare...and if they do happen, they're kind of 'rushed'; and most of the time, the conversations on those days, only revolve around 'everything happening in school', because that's how a Teacher's Life is - 'School, literally becomes our Life'.🤷🏻‍♀️

When teachers catch up during the month of May though, the mind is completely relaxed and at ease. Yes, 'School' still does come up in the conversations (because that's just how it always is, with Teachers everywhere); but when we meet during this one month, we actually 'get a chance to unwind and talk about, so many other little everyday things, happening in all our lives', as well. 

As teachers have 'the luxury of free time', during the month of May, (which is unheard of, during the rest of the year), these 'crazy multi-taskers', can really 'chill', and do 'absolutely nothing', without feeling guilty or wondering about, how many hundred more jobs are still incomplete, and still have to be done.😊

Over the 18 years, that I worked as a 'Secondary School Teacher', there were numerous occasions, when people would say to me, 'How lucky you Teachers are! You get a whole month off every year, and to add to that, it's Paid Leave.'🤦‍♀️

When I was a fairly new teacher, I used to actually defend everyone in the Teaching Profession, and try to explain, that it was an extremely well-deserved, and very justified, much-needed 'Break'.

With experience though, I learned to just ignore, that 'obviously ignorant and misinformed statement'. I would only reply with a rather 'sarcastic, knowing Smile'...And, if I did respond; my answer would be, 'You have to actually live in the same house as a Teacher, to understand how 'Lucky', they really are'.🙄

That was something, I once said to a 'Journalist Friend', whose wife also happens to be a Teacher. As a Journalist and News Editor in several of the best Media channels and websites, over the years; there is no doubt, that his work is quite demanding, and an extremely high-pressure job too...But he still felt, that the job of a Teacher, came with its own set of issues and problems, which those on the outside, would hardly ever see or realise.

He also did share, that he had stopped saying a lot of things, that others tend to grudge those in the teaching profession for, (probably things like this 'one month May vacation', and for all the other 'public holidays' they got, all year round), a long time ago. He added, that he realised a lot of things, about the actual situation of a Teacher, after being married to one, for so many years.😄

I do miss a lot of things about being in school, especially how I got so many opportunities, to use my 'Creativity' and my many 'God-given Talents', in multiple ways every single day.

But, after two years of being away from it all; my 'Stress-levels' have decreased tremendously, a number of my 'chronic health issues' have improved, my voice (which used to be hoarse all year round) can now actually be heard, I don't have to yell and scream my lungs out, (almost at the risk of getting a heart-attack) all day long, I can eat proper meals and on time, I can sleep peacefully for longer hours, I don't have to set an alarm every morning and rush through my entire life, day in and day out. I am also thankfully far, far away from over-involved parents, arrogant millennials with rather disruptive habits, and peacefully at a distance, from all the regular unwanted craziness, that happens in any organisation.🤪

But I do think of the kids often; and more than that, I miss my close Friends, who were really my 'Family', for two long decades.

That's why, I'm glad I got a few opportunities, to spend two or three 'almost entire days', with a couple of them, over the last two weeks. I guess, my mind has been at ease, for quite a while now; but there's nothing more calming and relaxing, than spending time 'catching up with old friends'. It's just 'Extra-Special'.🤗❤️

...and to still be able to spend these moments together, during this 'Free Month', definitely makes me feel really 'Lucky', to have been a Teacher.✨️✍️

WINDOW IN THE WALL 🎶✍️

 

I love Olivia Newton-John. Her voice and the innumerable songs she has sung. But even more than that, I admire her for how she bravely struggled with Cancer for many, many years, and 'kept singing through it all'. The fact that she also helped countless people, through her Cancer Foundation, is so special too.✨️❤️

I especially like a lot of the songs, that she recorded in the last few years of her life. So many of them, are very 'Inspirational' and have beautiful messages. This is one of those songs, with lyrics that speak about how 'a little Love and Hope, could change the world'.🎶

A lovely duet, that ONJ sang with her daughter Chloe Lattanzi, which was released, just a little over a year, before she passed away.💕

If I was still in DB, I would have probably found a way to use this song, at some time or the other, together with a skit or a play, because it has a really nice message.😊

WINDOW IN THE WALL 🎶 (Song Lyrics)

- Olivia Newton-John and Chloe Lattanzi

Has this world forgotten how to Love?
Are we blinded by the hate we let inside?
No one's givin' in or givin' up
The lines are drawn and there's no compromise.

This isn't who we are
It's time for us to start...

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side;
And find we're not so different after all
Looking for a window in the wall.

Sometimes hearts can grow as cold as stone,
Then become the borders we can't cross;
The fertile fields of Trust, where Love had grown,
Slowly start to die when Hope is lost.

That's where we are right now
But we can turn it all around by...

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side;
And find we're not so different after all
Looking for a window in the wall.

We're waging war, we've died enough
Fighting for everything but Love.
It's time to Heal
To Turn the Page
Too much to lose, so much to save
We have to Change.

Looking for a window in the wall
Maybe we can see the other side
And find we're not so different after all;
Looking for a window in the wall
Looking for a window in the wall.✨️❤️

(I had shared this song on FB, last year on the 19th of May' 2023. Read that post again today. So, am sharing this song here, because I really like it.) 

THERE IS LOVE ✨️❤️

 

'The Wedding Song' by Noel Paul Stookey (1971) - I didn't know, that was the name of the song, till I heard it on the 'Golden Girls' show on Jukebox Jammies, three years ago. Carlton Braganza had done a whole bunch of songs from the year 1971, in that online session; and this was one of them.🎶

I had sung this song numerous times before that, with my choir, but I always knew the name of the song as 'There is Love'.💕

Someone had once picked it, for a Wedding Mass that we had sung for; and since that time, we all loved the song so much, that it became a common choice, for many, many Wedding Masses, over the years.😊

This is a lovely instrumental version of the song; but am posting the words of the song below. It's such a beautiful song. Was a really good surprise, to hear it on JJ, back in 2021.❤

A couple of days later, Carlton recorded the song, by adding some harmonies, and posted this video. It was great to hear the song, with two Carltons on one screen, which everyone really liked.😊

FB Memories has been reminding me of these posts, for the last couple of days. So, I thought it was a good song, to add to my 'Jukebox Jammies Memories', here.🎶 As compared to the large number of favourite songs and happy memories that I have, from four years of listening to JJ, I still haven't posted a lot of songs from the show, on my blog. I guess, I need to slowly start adding a few more JJ songs, to this section.✍️

WEDDING SONG - THERE IS LOVE 🎶 

-Noel Paul Stookey

(Song Lyrics)

He is now to be among you at the calling of your hearts

Rest assured this Troubadour is acting on His part.

The union of your spirits, here, has caused Him to remain;

For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name

There is Love, there is Love.

For a man shall leave his mother and a woman leave her home

And they shall travel on to where, the two shall be as one.

As it was in the beginning, is now and till the end;

Woman draws her life from man and gives it back again.

And there is Love, there is Love.

Well then what's to be the reason for becoming man and wife?

Is it love that brings you here or love that brings you life?

And if loving is the answer, then who's the giving for?

Do you believe in something that you've never seen before?

Oh there is Love, there is Love.

Oh the marriage of your spirits here, has caused Him to remain

For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name

There is Love, there is Love.✨️❤️

THE CAREGIVER'S TEARS ✍️

 

When you see that same pain,

That left you feeling so empty and lost,

Rolling down from another person's distraught eyes;

You want to say, 'I really know that pain' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same anguish,

That tore your heart and mind apart,

In those helplessly confused, almost garbled words;

You want to say, 'I've felt that anguish too' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same strain,

That squeezed out every ounce of strength from you,

In her almost mechanical 'auto mode', highly skilled actions;

You want to say, 'I know, cause I'm often still right there' 

But then, you don't.

When you see that same stress,

That made you lose your sense of balance,

Not knowing if you're coming or going, every single day;

You want to say, 'That stress is Real, Ask me!'

But then, you don't.

In moments, that unexpectedly bring you face to face,

With a kind of replay of your own story, in another's strife;

Every wound is re-opened, Every memory refreshed,

Your own arduous journey, is just suddenly brought back to life.

And although you know that you've literally,

'Been there, done that, got the T-shirt', so to say.

You are still left completely silent and speechless,

Because you also know, 'Each one finds their own way.'

There's nothing I could say to help, but 'Listen',

As those 'Healing Hands' wiped away her own tears;

And I sadly pondered over how, even a 'Health Care Professional',

Struggles with those same, very human 'Caregiver's Fears'.😢

(I wrote this after an experience that I had, on this day last year, on the 1st of June' 2023. 

I have always had the deepest respect for all doctors, nurses and those who work in hospitals and clinics. Maybe because, I have spent lots of time in hospitals, over the last decade or two, and observed how they work. Despite their own struggles and trials, they still continue to work and give selflessly everyday.👩‍⚕️🧑‍⚕️

However that day, was the first time, when I saw a Doctor shed a tear or two, while she was attending to me. I guess, the fact that she was a friend, and because she knew 'My Story' also, is probably what made her feel a 'Connection', or just made her feel comfortable enough, to let out some 'unexpressed emotions'.

I didn't say or do anything, other that 'Listen', as the tears overwhelmed her. I was 'Just There', in that moment. I don't know if that helped her to unburden, just a tiny bit of the anguish and stress, which she was going through or not. 

But, I know what she was feeling. I know what led to that unexpected outburst; because I've been there too.😔

Looking back on this incident, a year later, I really hope, that my presence in her clinic that day, comforted and helped her, at least for those few brief moments.)✨️❤️

NOTHING'S GONNA CHANGE MY LOVE FOR YOU 🎶

 

If I had to live my life, without You near me

The days would all be empty

The nights would seem so long...😍

If the road ahead is not so easy

Our Love will lead the way for us

Like a Guiding Star...🌟

I'll be there for You, if you should need Me

You don't have to change a thing

I Love You, Just the way you are.💕

Just a few of those lovely words of this song. One that has been popular for years and years, and is still loved. The moment you listen to it anywhere, it just makes yous 'Smile'.😊

NOTHING'S GONNA CHANGE MY LOVE FOR YOU 🎶

- George Benson

Special songs always bring back memories. This is one of those Nostalgic Songs.✨️❤️

(I had shared this as a post on FB, a few years ago, on 15th May' 21. Saw that post again today. So, decided to re-post it here, since I love this song.)🎶

I'M GONNA LOVE YOU THROUGH IT 💞

Every little sharing, interspersed with this lovely song, from those who have experienced how Cancer invades the lives of not just the person, but their entire family; makes this song so much more meaningful.🎶

Very special to hear different people, speaking about their 'Support System' and the 'Care-Givers', who were always there and loved them through it all.✨️❤️

NEARLY ALIKE ✨️🎶

 

Posting these three songs together, just because I often like listening to songs, that have a similar theme or thought process. It's something I used to do constantly, back at DB, when I had to look for 'Theme Based Songs', for every Assembly, Annual Day or other events. 

I guess, looking for songs that share a 'Common Theme', has gradually become a habit, over the years. Now, it just happens automatically, and I sometimes don't even realise, how I pick out songs, that have kind of similar lyrics or thoughts, almost all the time.✨️✍️

...and of course, I also do love these three Songs and Singers. All Favourites of mine.❤️

THE NEARNESS OF YOU 🎶

- Norah Jones

I'M IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE 🎶

- Rod Stewart

CLOSE TO YOU

- The Carpenters

(The videos have been uploaded by different people on YT.)

TOO DIFFERENT, AND YET...✍️

Friends we meet along life's path,

Are never quite alike, in every way;

Our common interests, draw us close,

Their presence in our lives - a sunlit ray.

They suddenly appear, out of thin air,

And slowly creep into everything we do;

There, to bring a smile, when we've lost it,

There, to cheer us up, when we're blue.

On a thousand things, we may disagree,

Each one's thoughts, follows a path of its own;

But there is a very strange connection still,

Don't understand it - Unlike any we've known.

It defies all logic and practical thinking,

Because parallel lines can really never meet;

Though common sense, keeps us far apart,

Every moment without, is empty and incomplete. ✍️

MAY MAGIC ✨️🌳

 

'I see trees of Green (and Red)

Clouds of White,

And I think to myself'...🎶

...I used to really love these trees full of 'May Flowers', as a child.🌳

We're all patiently waiting for those rain clouds, to bring us that long awaited respite, from the intense heat. The humidity, is definitely draining out a lot of energy from most of us; and making us quite grumpy and irritable, isn't it?🌤

Earlier today, this is one thing that made me 'Smile'. It's something that I used to really like about the month of May, when I was younger.😊

I spotted this tree, full of 'May Flowers', from the window of a friend's home; and because it was so close by, I spent a large part of the time, that I was there, just looking out at the tree and those bright red flowers. It made me think of the years when I was in school; and when there used to be a lot of these trees around, in my building compound, on my school campus, and everywhere really.

Over the years, I sadly don't see as many of these Gulmohar trees, as there used to be before.🤔 

But it's wonderful, how something as simple as a tree full of 'May Flowers', can be linked to 'Happy Childhood Memories'.✨️ I'm so glad I could spend some quiet moments, just gazing at those colours of 'Red and Green', before the month of May draws to a close.️❤️

LOVE OF MY LIFE ✨️❤️

 

'Because you don't know, what it means to me'.🎶

Those words from the well-known 'Queen' song, often play in my head, automatically. I guess, like most unforgettable songs, a few lines just stay with you; and you're reminded of them, just 'out of the blue', at different moments in life.✨️

I heard another song yesterday, which had almost the same title; but this one is an 'Original', by that wonderful musician and Choir Conductor, Mimosa Almeida Pinto. Sung by 'The Sassy Songbirds', with a lovely video too; it's such a sweet song. I guess the photographs in the video, make it even more 'Special'.💞 And the saxophone accompaniment by Jarryd Rodrigues, also adds so much to the song.🎷

I have heard 'The Sassy Songbirds' singing, on a number of occasions. All accomplished performers individually, they came together and formed this lovely little quartet, just a little before the pandemic. So, at that time, we got to hear them sing as a group, mostly through all their online songs and shows that they posted, together with other performers.

Once the pandemic was over, we got quite a few opportunities to hear them singing 'Live', at various venues around Mumbai...And just a few days ago, I got a chance to be there, for their very first performance, at the 'Prithvi Theatre'.

It was an awesome show, where the wonderful Ella Atai, Marie Paul and Mimosa Pinto, (accompanied by Mimosa on Piano, Leander Pinto on drums, and by the legend Louiz Banks too, for a couple of songs) sang so many 'All-Time Jazz and Swing Favourites'. 

The wonderful harmonies, were arranged by Mimosa. Their selection included many, many 'much-loved Jazz tunes; and by adding 'harmony' to them, they just made those everlasting songs, sound even better. Everyone who was there, enjoyed every minute of the performance. It was a 'Full House', even though it was a Sunday morning show.😄

They sang a few of their Original songs too, that day, which I also enjoyed. This one was my favourite. I loved the lyrics of the song; and so, looked for it online, when I got home. 

How true this is for so many or us; and not just during the pandemic, when this song was composed, but every single day, even now.

Music is like the 'Love of Our Life'.😊 It's 'Something Special', that 'keeps us company' when we're 'All Alone, On Our Own'; and it's the one thing, that we would never want anyone, to take away from our lives, because 'people would really never know, how much it means to us'.🎶

Truly, 'Music Fills My Soul, In Solitude.'✨️❤️

LET ME BE LIGHT ✨️❤️

 

I've always loved the words of the 'Prayer by St.Francis of Assisi' called 'Make me an Instrument of your Peace'.🙏

So, when I found this song earlier today, I thought it would be the same song.

This one though, is a completely different song, even though it does have some of the original lyrics. 

I liked the music related lyrics, added to the original words, and so I decided to post this song today.😊

MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT (Song Lyrics) 🎶

- Gaither Vocal Band

Make me an Instrument

Of Your Grace and Mercy

Make me an Instrument

Of Peace.🕊

Where there is hatred

Where there is strife

Where there is injustice

Let me be Light.✨️

Master Conductor

Matchless Composer

Maker of Music

Play over and over,

And stretch every string

To this Song in my Soul

Hold me to Your Heart

And Never Let Go.❤️

Make me an Instrument

Of Your Grace and Mercy

Make me an Instrument

Of Peace.🕊

Where there is hatred

Where there is strife

Where there is injustice

Let me be Light.✨️

Let me be the Joy that shines, 

When morning breaks through

Make me the Hope

That is anchored in You

A Voice of Love

A Song in the night

Make me the Music You Write.🎶✍️

WHAT'S IN HER NAME? ✨️❤️

 

A singer, whose songs used to be popular among the soldiers, during World War II, because she did many music concerts for them, just happens to have the names, of one of my oldest friends and me, in her name.😄 

Since my friend celebrates her birthday today, it made me think, that it's a good day, to post a couple of Vera Lynn songs.💕

I heard a song called 'Far Away Places' today, that Vera Lynn has also recorded; but since the Bing Crosby version is better, I will share a couple of other lovely songs, that she has sung.

THERE'LL BE BLUEBIRDS OVER THE WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER 🎶

Though she was born in 1917, Vera Lynn died very recently in 2020, at the age of 103. It's so amazing that she lived such a long life, and shared so many beautiful songs with the world, during her lifetime.

WE'LL MEET AGAIN 🎶

I love the Stories behind the Songs. So, am also sharing this video, about how her memory is being kept alive, by re-recording and enhancing some of her songs, with additional orchestration.

KEEP SMILING THROUGH 😊🎶

(The videos are from different pages, uploaded by others on YT.)

WHERE DO I BEGIN? 🤔

 

Seeing an overdose of wedding posts, always takes me back in time, to when I was in my 20's. 

Back then, like every other girl, I hoped to find 'The One', who was made 'Just for Me'. I had 'Dreams' too, and the 'Eternal Romantic' in me, enjoyed the beautiful 'Love Songs', whenever I heard them on the Music Channels, on the Radio, or at Wedding Receptions.💕🎶 

But I also ran away from the dreaded 'Marriage' topic, like it was the plague.😄 I would often lash out at my parents, whenever they brought it up; and would get really irritated at relatives, whenever they asked, 'So when are you getting Married?'🙄

My mum of course, didn't give up. I was never really a 'Social Butterfly', even though I had lots of friends. Going out and Partying (where you get a chance to meet new people), wasn't really my favourite thing.

I guess, my mother knew that I was quite 'Hopeless', when it came to finding someone, on my own.😂 So, she put up these ads in random places, (sometimes without even letting me know); and even when I was extremely reluctant, she made me meet 'prospective husbands', that I didn't really want to.🤪 

The very 'forced' nature of this entire 'Arranged Marriage' process, used to irritate me terribly. Match-maker aunties, thought I was being 'Too Choosey', because I found some fault or the other, with all their recommendations.🤦‍♀️

It wasn't really because I thought, that these guys weren't good enough for me. Most of them, probably were 'Nice Boys', like those aunties claimed, (as if they had lived with them, and knew everything about them). Oh how much I detested that phrase 'He is a Nice Boy', back then.🙄😂 

But to me, this whole system was so 'flawed'. I could just never understand the concept, of making a decision to spend a lifetime, with some random person, after only meeting them a few times.🤷🏻‍♀️

In the next decade of my life though, when I was in my 30's, life took a drastic turn. My Dad passed away very unexpectedly, when I was just 30 (after being sick and in hospital, for only six days), during the Christmas week in 2009. 

Seven months later, my mum was diagnosed with her first Cancer. The nine years that followed, turned me into a very stressed out 'Caregiver', who was always scared and anxious, that one morning I would wake up, and my Mum would be gone too.😢

So, in those nine years, through her two Cancers and other illnesses, life was all about Doctors, Hospitals, Operations, Medicines, Chemotherapy Sessions, Overnight Hospital stays, Hospital Cafeteria Food; and of course, trying to magically juggle, an extremely tedious and demanding job as well. 'Sleepless nights' became a routine for me. If it wasn't to finish my school work; it was staying up, because of the side effects of the chemotherapy, night after night.

Towards the last year and a half of that journey, (because her second Cancer was too invasive and spread more rapidly), I was literally functioning on 'auto-pilot', not just at my work-place; but through 'Life' in general. I was kind of 'Sleep-Walking' through every day and night, by the time the doctors said, that nothing more could be done, and it was now only 'Palliative Care'.😔

So, in the midst of all of that, the dreaded topic called 'Marriage', just flew out of the window, and was completely forgotten, during those years. There was just no space or time, to even think about it. 

Both my parents died so young, that I didn't even get a chance to ask them, what their 'Wedding Special' was. Each time I hear people talking, about the song played during the 'First Dance' at their wedding, I wish my parents were still around, for me to ask them questions like these. I tried asking my Aunts recently, if any of them remembered. Sadly, no one does.😔

But, since a friend talked about 'Wedding Specials' today, I thought of three beautiful songs that I love. And since this post, ended up being quite a sad and reflective one; I thought I would share some wonderfully meaningful songs, to change and lighten the mood. 

Not everybody is lucky or blessed enough to find their 'Soulmate'; but everyone can enjoy the melodious 'Love Songs', born out of someone else's 'Love Story'.✨️❤️

WHERE DO I BEGIN (LOVE STORY) 🎶

- Andy Williams

(A Lyric Video that I found online, of an all-time favourite Song.)

I DO 🎶

- Mark Wills

This was the Wedding Special, at a cousin's wedding. I loved it from the first moment, that I heard the words of the song. 

I remember them practising the steps at their home, for quite a few days before the wedding. Those were happy times, when the whole family was in Mysore (where they used to stay), for a couple of weeks. 

This song was their 'Wedding Song'; but for me, it also brings back, those unforgettable memories, of everyone being together.😊💞

I WANNA GROW OLD WITH YOU 🎶

- Westlife

(I think this animated Lyric Video uploaded by someone, is so sweet.)😊

'Happy Ever After' only happens in 'Movies and Fairy Tales'; but even if that is not a part of my reality, I still do love the beautiful songs, written about other people's 'Happy Ever After'.💕

SPIRIT-FILLED 🔥🕊

 

'Pentecost Sunday' is a good day to listen to some beautiful songs about the 'Holy Spirit'.🔥🕊

HOLY SPIRIT, RAIN DOWN 🎶

- Heritage Singers

One of the many genres of music that I enjoy listening to, is 'Gospel Music'.😊

SWEET SWEET SPIRIT 🎶

- Gaither Vocal Band and Friends

Having sung in various Choirs for many, many years of my life, I really enjoy hearing and singing 'Choral Arrangements and Harmonies'. 

A lot of singers and groups that sing 'Gospel Songs', are really, really good. Most of them are just as passionate about Music, as any other musicians, who sing the more popular Music...and quite a large number of them, are almost as well known and loved, across the world, as performers who sing other genres of Music.🎶  

Gospel Music is listened to, by numerous people everywhere; because it is always very 'Uplifting and Comforting'.💞 

I guess, that could also be a reason why, a lot of 'non-Gospel' artists and performers, have also turned to singing religious and spiritual songs, at some point of time or the other, during their musical journey.

I'm glad they did, because it gave us, so many more great songs to listen to.

I listen to lots of different kinds of Music; and 'Gospel Music' is definitely one of my favourite genres.😊

I also think, that 'Church Music' has been the 'Starting Point' for many, many singers and musicians; because quite a few performers, first started out, singing in their local Church Choirs, and then later on in life, explored and pursued other genres of Music, when they decided to take up singing professionally.🎤🎶

I've seen that among my countless musician friends too. I guess, those Choirs that so many of us have sung in, as children and youth, have almost been like an informal 'training ground', to discover what our vocal chords can do.✨️❤️

WHISPER A COMFORTING WORD ✨️🎶

 

Most Songwriters, Singers and Musicians, don't even know, what a 'Special Gift' they have been blessed with. Through the songs they write, sing or play, they 'Reach Out and Touch' thousands and thousands of people, across the world, 'One Song at a Time'.🎶

The best part, is that they don't even realise, the 'Effect' they have on people everywhere, or the 'Impact' they make on individuals, most of whom, they don't really know, or who they haven't ever met before.😊

Music 'Uplifts' those who've almost given up in Life, and are just existing, from one moment to the next, because they have to. 

A Song can 'Comfort' the lonely and those who feel orphaned, left out or abandoned. 

Like a beautiful sunflower, Music can 'Brighten the Day', for those whose hearts and lives, are full of sadness and gloom.🌼 

It appears like a 'Ray of Light', at the end of a dark tunnel, for people who are completely lost. 

The words of a very Meaningful Song, can almost be like a 'Colourful Rainbow of Hope', to someone who is hopelessly weary, exhausted and absolutely drained out, emotionally.🌈

Even for people, who 'live in a world of their own', disconnected from the world, due to grief, emotional issues or degenerative age-related illnesses; Music can 'Make Connections' in their mind and heart, like nothing else can.💞

There is something extremely 'Magical' about Music. It can 'Achieve the Impossible' and do things, that even modern 'Medicine', with all its advancements, can't really do for people.

There is no Drug better than 'Music', when it comes to improving 'Emotional and Mental Health'. I know this, because I've been a 'Confirmed Addict', ever since I was a child; and because Music has 'Kept me Company', through some of life's toughest struggles and loneliest days, and continues to 'Hold My Hand', even today.✨️❤️

Medicines and Doctors are sometimes necessary, to help cure people from sicknesses and illnesses. However, those can only take care of the physical symptoms, of any disease. 

The Unseen, Unspoken, Unexpressed 'Emotional Wounds and Hurt Feelings', that life's many complex and complicated experiences, inflict on a person's Mind, Heart and Soul; can only be reached and soothed, by 'Melody, Harmony and Rhythm', by Music and Lyrics.🎶✍️

I was reminded of this song yesterday. It is another song, that I learnt during my 'Singing Classes' in school. I remember hearing the Jim Reeves version of the song, played at home too, when I was younger.

But, I heard another beautiful duet, sung by Daniel O'Donnell and Mary Duff, last night. I loved the harmony; and so, I thought I would post this version of the song today.😊💕

WHISPERING HOPE (Song Lyrics) 🎶

- Daniel O'Donnell and Mary Duff

Soft as the voice of an Angel ✨️

Breathing a lesson unheard;

Hope with a gentle persuasion

Whispers her Comforting word.

Wait, till the darkness is over

Wait, till the tempest is done;

Hope, for the Sunshine tomorrow

After the shower is gone.🌤

Whispering Hope,

Oh how welcome, Thy voice

Making my Heart

In it's sorrow, Rejoice.

If in the dusk of the twilight

Dimmed be the region afar;

Will not the deepening darkness

Brighten the Glimmering Star.🌟

Then when the night is upon us

Why should the heart sink away;

When the dark midnight is over

Watch for the breaking of day.

Whispering Hope,

Oh how welcome, Thy voice

Making my Heart

In it's sorrow, Rejoice.✨️❤️

NOBODY'S CHILD 😔

 

I wonder why 'Singing Teachers' teach this very sad song, to little children in school.🤔

I remember learning this song way back in my 'School Singing Classes'. As I listened to this version of the song today, I heard the singer Daniel O'Donnell mention, that he also learnt this song, as a child.

So, I guess in many parts of the world, this very melancholic song, about a 'Blind Orphan Child', is strangely taught to little kids. Probably because, it has a simple and easy to learn melody; or maybe, the message that the song conveys, has a very valuable lesson, that young children could be taught, through a song.🎶

This song, somehow means more to me now, in recent years, than it did before...and often, during this month of May, when my parents celebrated their 'Wedding Anniversary', or just whenever I think of them and miss them, a little more than other days actually; this song starts playing in my mind, almost on its own. I guess it's because, I  'Feel their Absence', at certain times and in some situations, even more. 

A couple of months ago, someone said to me, "But you have lots of friends, don't you? I'm sure you 'Talk to them', and 'Share how you Feel' with them, often."

In response to that, I only smiled.🙂

I guess, that's the main problem.🤷🏻‍♀️ 

When over a period of years, you consciously choose to 'push the whole world away', and live in the safety of your 'own cocoon', away from the 'ceaseless questioning' and (maybe genuine) but often inquisitive 'concern' of others. 

When you only make 'occasional brief appearances', at places and times, that you choose to.

...Everyone conveniently presumes, that 'You Have Someone Else', who is 'Always Around'.

Family thinks you have Friends,

Friends think you have Family.

Cousins think you have Colleagues, 

Colleagues think you have Cousins.

Parishioners think you have Neighbours,

Neighbours think you have Parishioners.

...Everybody constantly assures you that 'We're always there'; but everyone also just concludes, that 'someone else must be there'.😔

Of course, a few occasionally check in, to see if you're doing alright; but because you've chosen to be 'distant and keep to yourself' for a long time, the frequency at which everyone asks, gradually reduces.

I'm not complaining; because I also always stay away, since I prefer not to intrude on, or to be a 'dampner' on other people's joyful moments, by going for an occasion, and then not participating in all the 'Fun'.

And I also know, that in this world, where almost everyone lives a very stressful, constantly busy life; the primary focus of every person is always, 'Their Own'. 

Sadly, what I've realised, is that the only people who are truly 'Your Own', or who 'You Truly Belong To', are your 'Own Immediate Family'.✨️ 

Everyone else, has their own children, their own parents, their own husband or wife, their own siblings, their own somebody; and even if you are 'Close Friends or even Extended Family', you still always come 'After Them' to everyone, no matter how close you may be.

...and that is the 'Harsh Reality of Life', which you only realise, when you lose your 'Own Family'.

Just like the song, in a sense, you do feel completely 'Orphaned', and a lot like 'Nobody's Child', when the only people who were really 'Your Own', and the ones that you truly 'Belonged To', journey on to the next life.😢

...and even if your loved ones, often make attempts to 'Re-connect', or to 'Include You', in the things they do together; you still choose to stay away. They often, don't understand your reasons, and probably think that you're being unreasonably aloof, for way too long.

I guess, most people (even family and friends), only realise how you really feel, when they experience emotions like 'Loss, Emptiness and Loneliness', themselves. 

Every person finds 'their own way', to deal and cope with 'Grief'. What works for one person, may not work for someone else; because each of us is created differently, and we are all unique. So, no method or technique is right or wrong. 

Some people, choose to get over how they feel and to 'Drown Out the Sorrow', by mixing and mingling constantly, or by burying themselves in their work. Others, prefer to become more 'Reclusive'; and stay in their own 'quiet corner'.

To the more reclusive ones, even happy things like picnics, parties and holidays, are constant harsh and painful 'Reminders', of the way 'Life used to be', when your 'Happy Family Portrait' was Complete. So, they choose to remain in their lonely, yet safe shell; because seeing others in their family, with each of their own parents or kids, just painfully reminds them, of what is 'missing', in their own life.😔

An old school friend, who is a Psychologist and a Counsellor, used to read some of my posts; and she once asked me, if I would speak about the things I write in my posts, at a session for people dealing with 'Grief'. She felt, that my sharings, might help so many others, to try and make sense, of the feelings of 'Loss and Emptiness', that they were dealing with.

Of course, I refused; because 'Talking about what I feel' with actual people, even close Friends and Family; has never been something that comes easily to me. I could probably 'Write a Book', or maybe even 'Ten Volumes', filled with my deepest feelings and emotions; but those same 'Words', would just lie buried within, if I had to actually talk to someone, face to face.

That's probably the reason why, I'll forever feel like 'Nobody's Child', even though I have many, many Friends and Family members, who are 'Genuinely Concerned' and who 'Care'.❤️

...That 'Emptiness and that Vacant Space', will still remain; because the 'Words', that flow like an overflowing river, when I write it all down; refuse to make an appearance, and prefer to hide in the dark shadows of my heart, whenever there is a living, breathing human being, in front of me, with whom to 'Share'.🤐✍️

DIFFERENTLY ALIKE 🎶

 

I thought of this song yesterday, because it was an appropriate title for my previous post.

In my mind though, I could hear the Jim Reeves version of the song; because that's the song I remember, from my childhood days.🎶

Today, I discovered another version by Alan Jackson, which has very different lyrics. 

One song, sung by two different artists; but because the lyrics are not identical, they almost sound like two different songs. ✍️

PRECIOUS MEMORIES (Song Lyrics) 🎶

- Alan Jackson

Precious memories, unseen angels
Sent from somewhere to my soul,
How they linger, ever near me
And the sacred past unfolds.

Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul,
In the stillness, of the midnight
Precious sacred scenes unfold.

Precious Father, Loving Mother✨️
Fly across the lonely years,
And old home scenes, of my childhood
In fond memory appears.

Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul,
In the stillness, of the midnight
Precious sacred scenes unfold.

I remember, Mother prayin'
Father too, on bended knee,
The sun is sinkin', shadows fallin'
But their prayers still follow me.

Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul,
In the stillness, of the midnight
Precious sacred scenes unfold.

'Precious Memories' fill my soul.❤️

PRECIOUS MEMORIES...HOW THEY LINGER ✨️🎶

 

One of many, many songs, that I used to hear my Dad singing at family parties, when I was growing up (Although I remember him singing this song, at a much faster pace, than this slow rhythm.) 

He used to sing a lot of these old songs so often, that I think I unconsciously picked them up over the years, without anyone ever teaching me these songs.

PRETEND 🎶

- Nat King Cole

Some of the countless songs, that I remember him singing, just off the top of my head - Pretend, Invisible Tears, Blueberry Hill, Paper Roses, Diana, Help me make it through the night, and the list could go on and on...

INVISIBLE TEARS 🎶

- Dean Martin

I literally still have this drawer full of his audio cassettes, with so many of these old songs. So, I'm guessing these songs must've been played a lot at home, constantly; in addition to him singing them, at every family party.

BLUEBERRY HILL 🎶

- Fats Domino

Like I often do, I was thinking today, of the many, many sing-song sessions, at family get-togethers and parties.😍 I think, without really trying to, I learnt lots and lots of old songs, on occasions such as these, when I was growing up.😊 

PAPER ROSES 🎶

- Marie Osmond

Between my Grandfather (mum's dad), my Dad, my Godfather (The three awesome singers in the family), and all the other Uncles and Aunts who enjoyed music too; and thanks to those Pop-Hits books, we were never short of songs to sing. So, long before YouTube and the Internet came along, my 'Music Education' had already begun.🎶💕

Later of course, these sing-along traditions have carried on, at our many choir parties and picnics; where we enjoyed singing together, with everyone adding some harmony here and there and making it more enjoyable. We've kept lots of people's neighbours awake and entertained, at some of these gatherings too. Good memories!😄

All these happy memories, are probably why, over the years, these tunes have just stuck in my memory, and why they make me feel so nostalgic, anytime I hear anyone else singing them anywhere. No doubt, the singers who sing these old songs today, all sing them really well; but when I hear these songs, I can actually hear my Dad's voice in my head, as they transport me back in time.✨️❤️

IN THIS 'MOM'ENT ✨️❤️

 

The children we teach in school, change a lot (especially in the way they look), from the time they are teenagers, to when they are grown young men. That's why, very often, it is difficult for us teachers to recognise them, when we suddenly meet them, after a gap of more than a decade or two.

Just yesterday, I bumped into a student who passed out of DB, way back in 2012. So, that's twelve years ago. I look exactly the same, except for the grey hair. So, he recognised me instantly; and his first question was, 'Miss, do you remember me?'🤔

Now, while the children we teach grow up, as the years go by; we teachers, kind of stay exactly the same. So, it's much easier for them to identify us, than it is for us, to place them. I didn't recognise him for a little while, because he is now 'all grown up', and looks very different; but of course, once he told me his name and which Batch he was in, it was easier for me, to remember who he was.

The most unbelievable thing, is that even though we initially struggle to place the 'now grown up' boy; once we identify the child, we can immediately remember lots of other little things about them too, including which 'House' they were in as well. 

Since we've taught innumerable students over the years, it's sometimes difficult for us, to remember instantly. But, as soon as that connection is made in our memory, we can almost see the image of that child, in his school uniform, complete with the colour of his 'House Tie', flashing in our mind's eye.😄

What made me feel really 'Special' during this brief encounter though, was the way in which he introduced me to his elder sister, with so much joy and pride saying, "This was my English Teacher in school."💕

What he said next, absolutely made my day. He said, "Miss, I took your advice, and didn't follow the path that everyone takes, in college. I chose a different subject, that I enjoyed; and today, I have a great job abroad, because of that."😊

An unexpected chance encounter, with an ex-student that I haven't seen, ever since he passed out of Class 10, twelve long years ago; lifted the spirits of his old teacher, with just that one sentence. To know that children, 'valued my words of advice', enough to make important 'career choices and decisions', based on something I once said, in the classroom; just made me feel on 'Top of the world'. I walked out from there, feeling 'So Grateful'.✨️

Every once in a while, a child that I had taught years ago, walks back into my life, just like that; probably to remind me once again, that I 'Made a Difference' to his life, in some small way. Nothing could make a Teacher feel better, than unexpected experiences like these. A tiny moment like this one, brings that 'Smile' right back, at least for a little while.❤️

(The song I've shared with this post, 'In this Moment', is one of my favourite songs about Teachers'; because it is so meaningful. The 'Moments', that we teachers spend with the kids in school, may not last forever. But the 'Impact' we make on their lives, most definitely does 'STAY' with them, as long as they live.🎶

It's so awesome, when one day, completely 'out of the blue'; they come back, and tell you that.

Also, now that I think about it, this reminder came to me on 'Mother's Day'. Probably just a coincidence, but a happy coincidence; since I consider my Mother, to be the 'Best Teacher' I ever had.🌟 

There's no one in the world, that I miss more than her, every single minute of every day. I guess, Mom's somehow always know, exactly the right 'MOM'ent, when we need a 'Pick-Me-Up'.)🤗

YOU BRING THE SUN OUT ✨️❤️

YOU BRING THE SUN OUT 🎶🌼

- Randy Crawford

(Song Lyrics)✍️

You bring the sun out

To warm my life up

To make my love grow every day.

You bring the stars out

To light the night up

To make the darkness go away.

I reach to you, you reach to me

No matter where I go, I know you'll always be.

Never too far, far from my heart

I'll always have you here

I'll always know you're near.

To bring the sun out

To warm my life up

To make my love grow every day.

You bring the stars out

To light the night up

To make the darkness go away

To make the darkness go away. ✨️❤️

(A friend shared her version of this song earlier today; and I thought the words were so beautiful. I went and looked for the song, so that I could listen to the original; just like I always do, whenever I like a song that anyone sings.

This video of the song is one of the many, uploaded by somebody on YT.)

I'M LOVING ANGELS INSTEAD ✨️❤️

 

There are a few songs, that are just closer to my heart than others...and even though, many of them are picturised as 'Love Songs', to me they are songs that remind me, of my own loved ones, who are 'Somewhere up there, in those Blue Skies'.❤️

Like the sky meeting the sea at the horizon, is only an illusion; these songs help me live in my own little bubble, where I like to believe that maybe, 'My Angels' are looking down on me and watching over me everyday.🤍

TO WHERE YOU ARE ✨️

- Josh Groban

'You're still an Inspiration,

Can it be, 

That you are my Forever Love

And you are watching over me

From up above.🎶✍️

HEAVEN KNOWS ✨️

- Rick Price

'Even now she's gone,

I'm still holding on...

So, tell me where do I start

Cause it's breaking my heart,

Don't want to let her go.'🎶✍️

ANGELS ✨️

- Robbie Williams

'And through it all

She offers me protection,

A lot of Love and Affection

Whether I'm right or wrong;

Down the waterfall

Wherever it may take me,

I know that life won't break me...

She won't forsake me

I'm loving Angels instead.' 🎶✍️

EVERYDAY LESSONS ✍️

TO LIVE IS TO LEARN 👩‍🏫

Exploring

Discovering

Learning

Growing

Almost as constant and as important,

As the rhythm of a beating heart;

Till the tick-tocking within, doesn't finally stop,

The lessons continue...

Exactly like they did, at the start.

Books

Media

People

Life

They come to us, from just about anywhere,

Through countless 'Educators', along the way.

Formal Education, is only the beginning;👩‍🎓

But we imbibe, a whole lot more...

From 'Our Experiences' everyday.🤷‍♀️

A little while back, I was thinking about, how we constantly keep learning something new, at almost every single moment of our lives. From the day, we come into being, even when we're still a tiny collection of developing cells in the womb, we're probably listening, feeling, sensing and learning. When we do eventually make our presence felt on this planet, with a very grand entrance, screaming and yelling at the top of our lungs; our journey of constantly absorbing everything around us, just like a sponge, continues.

...and even though our life, may take us in several different directions along the way; that limitless memory bank in our brain, just keeps soaking it all in and keeping it there forever, in that extremely intelligent storehouse, that we call 'the human mind'. 

With the amount of information it collects during a single lifetime, one would imagine, that our minds would have to be quite a disorganised and chaotic mess, with innumerable flashes of experiences and memories piled on, one on top of the other in a heap.🤔 

Somehow though, that ever expanding database, always seems to function with clockwork precision; and it often leaves us in awe, at the way in which it suddenly makes connections and brings to mind little things, even from way back when, that we wouldn't even believe, it would still remember.

Paperwork in any work-place or even in a home, requires to be alphabetically arranged, well-labelled and filed away, either physically or digitally; for us to go back and find it again, when required. 

Strangely, that filing system in our brain is so efficient, that it knows exactly where each pocket of information is stored; and it takes us back to just the right page, at exactly the right time, whenever we need it, almost in a flash. The human mind is probably one of the most fascinating things in the world and its capacity to assimilate and comprehend, is absolutely unbelievable.✨️ 

Till a couple of years ago, I didn't really step out of an educational institution, right from the time I was admitted into the nursery section, as a child. From school, to college, to University, to B.Ed. College, and then full circle, back to school, I've spent four decades of my life, in an atmosphere of 'Formal Education'. 

So, I've constantly been learning, every single day; whether it was as a student, in the first two decades - sitting in a classroom, listening to my own teachers, and then, studying to do well in an exam; or as a teacher myself, during the next two decades - reading up tons of new content everyday, to try and appear, just a little more knowledgeable than the over-smart millennials, who always seemed to know everything.😊 

But the relatively crazier 'Adventure of Life' has taught me far more, than what I could ever learn from books, or even through the know-it-all, internet search engines. I learn something new every minute of every day, on this journey.

I guess for all of us, till the day, that heart of ours gets too tired to tick-tock anymore, our constantly evolving mind will keep teaching us lessons, because the 'Learning Truly Never Stops'.️✍️

(Wrote this on FB last year on this day, 11th May'23. These 'FB Memories' sure do remind me of lots of nice things, that I've written and then forgotten about.)😊

THE GIFT OF A MOTHER'S LOVE ✨️❤️

 

I was blessed with the 'Gift of a Mother's Love', for just 38 years of my life...and I find myself longing for it every single day, since she went away. 

Those warm hugs, that shoulder to cry on, her words of advice about anything and everything, those knowing looks (because she always knew something was off, even before I could tell her), that unforgettable taste of her cooking and baking, and most of all, that 'Hand to Hold', which constantly assured me, 'I'm There'. I could list out an endless number of things, that I miss about my mother.😢

She was the only 'Best Friend' I ever had...and no one, would ever be able to replace her.✨️❤️

Since 'Mother's Day' is celebrated across the world during this week, I thought I would post three lovely and very meaningful songs, with beautiful words, that I like. They're simple songs, but I love them; because they are 'very real' and express feelings that come 'straight from the heart'.✍️

HAND TO HOLD 🎶

- JJ Heller

A MOTHER'S LOVE 🎶

- Jim Brickman

(Sung by the children of the 'One Voice Children's Choir.)

A MOTHER LIKE YOU 🎶

- JJ Heller

ALWAYS LOVED! FOREVER MISSED!✨️❤️✨️❤️✨️❤️

PAIN CONNECTS PEOPLE ✍️

 

It's so wonderful how we connect with different people, for different reasons.😀 

Nalini Sorensen is a writer that I have followed for a few years, who writes books for children. We share a love for writing, creativity, music and have a lot of common friends too...But, the one thing that has connected us, more than all those reasons, is a shared feeling of loss and emptiness, when you lose people who are very dear to you.😢

How beautifully Nalini has expressed her sense of loss in this little piece, which she wrote in response to the word-prompt 'password'. As I read this, I thought about how every person, who has loved and lost someone dear to them, would be able to identify with this so much.

How just about anything and everything, becomes a new and ever-changing 'password' to take you back in time, and re-live moments and memories; and yet, unlike other passwords, it cannot really unlock all the pain and anguish. 

Writing can be extremely therapeutic. I'm glad to have friends with shared life experiences like these, that show us how so many people, have similar struggles; and how we all find our own little ways to try and cope with grief.✨️❤

(Had shared this post on FB, 2 years ago, on this day, 9th May' 2022. I had asked Nalini Sorensen, if I could share her poem that day, and she agreed.

This came up as a FB memory today, and so, I just thought I should save it here as well; as a beautiful reminder, of how losing a loved one or two, makes all of us feel exactly the same.)

IN OTHER WORDS ✨️❤️

 

Just happened to stumble upon this medley of songs today. I haven't heard this singer or these musicians from Thailand before; but all the five songs in this medley, are 'Long Time Favourites' of mine. So I thought, that I would save this video here, which will enable me to listen to it again later, whenever I want to.😊🎶

Friends who like these songs, will enjoy listening to this video too, especially because of the great music and the instruments, played by all the musicians, accompanying the singer.✨️❤️

(FLY ME TO THE MOON / AUTUMN LEAVES / MISTY / JUST THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT / L.O.V.E.) 🎶

- Mild Nawin 

I WALK WITH MUSIC 🎶✨️❤️

 

I discovered the joy of 'acapella singing', during my years at St.Xavier's College. There were a couple of groups in college, that participated in many of the Inter-College events back then. One or two of those groups were much Senior to us, and one of the groups was made up of my own friends. They were all pretty amazing.❤️

When I was in the Junior College, I even took part in one of those 'Inter-College Group Singing' events; and then, in the next few years, I enjoyed cheering my friends on from the audience, instead. Those are truly some unforgettable 'Musical Memories', that will stay with me forever.🎶

I loved spending most of the time (when I was not in the classroom), at their practice sessions. They practiced in some very unexpected, quiet nooks and corners of the college; and I would enjoy being around, just listening to them. In fact, I found some really unknown spaces in college (that I didn't even know existed), under those 'Harry Potter like old staircases', where they used to practice sometimes, because of the great acoustics there.😊

My love for 'acapella singing' has remained unchanged, to this day; (and even close to three decades later), I still listen to a number of groups that post videos online. Last night, I discovered this really awesome group called 'Highline Vocal Jazz'. Their harmonies are just something else. I normally share two or three videos in one post; but this time, I'm going to share four. Just because, I can't decide which songs I like more and which ones to leave out.😄

HOW HIGH THE MOON 🎶

ALL OF ME 🎶

THE NEARNESS OF YOU 🎶

I WALK WITH MUSIC 🎶

This one isn't acapella; but I liked the song. So, I had to share it too.😊

All of these arrangements are pretty spectacular. Not sure if they arrange these themselves, or if they sing the arrangements written by other musicians; but either way, they sound really fabulous. I'm sure friends who enjoy Choral Singing, and listening to songs sung in harmony, will love these videos.💕

(P.S. A few hours after posting this, I just checked the description written for each of these videos on YT, because I was curious to know who writes their harmonies; and I discovered, that one of the five singers, Jared Graveley has written all these four arrangements, which is really great.👍)

PAINTING MIRACLES WITH COLOURS ✨️🌈

Those of us who were born at a time, when 'Black and White' movies were still around, know what a difference 'Colour Televisions' made to our viewing experience. 

Although, there is a very 'old-world, classic and nostalgic charm', to Black and White photographs and films; 'Colour' just changed everything. It made us see the world, in all its wonderful and varied shades and hues.

Music also always adds 'Colour and Brightness' to our World. So, am sharing two of my favourite songs about 'Colours', that I thought of earlier today.🎶

'Paint with all the Colours of the Wind' is a beautiful song, from the Disney film 'Pocahontas', sung by Vanessa Williams. It's a song with a thought-provoking message as well, and I have used it a couple of times, when I was back at DB, to highlight 'Nature and Environmental Conservation' based themes. 💚💙

COLOURS OF THE WIND 

- Vanessa Williams (Pocahontas - Disney)

'Counting Colours in the Rainbow' is also a very sweet song, which I learnt when I was a child, probably in one of my 'Singing Classes' at school. The simplicity of the words and the melody, have stayed with me, over the years. Each time I hear it, the song just makes me 'Smile', maybe because it takes me back to my childhood days.✨️🌈

COUNTING COLOURS IN THE RAINBOW

- Nina and Frederik

(Found these videos of the songs, uploaded by different people on YT.)

I'D WANT IT TO BE YOU 😊🎶

 

Discovered this lovely duet by Barbra Streisand and Willie Nelson, a couple of years ago; and I loved it. They have changed a few of the lyrics in the original song, to incorporate some of the titles of their songs; which I thought was really sweet.😊

I love the way they've made this Lyric Video too. It's such a meaningful song about 'Friendship and Love'; and even if you're not lucky enough to have anyone to sing it for (because the only one 'Best Friend' you ever had, is somewhere up there, in those Blue Skies), it's still a great song to listen to.🎶

I'D WANT IT TO BE YOU (Song Lyrics)

- Barbra Streisand and Willie Nelson

Time has a way of changing everything

That goes for almost anything but us;

Always have and I always will remain

Words from a heart that you can trust.

While others come and go

You can always know I'm here for you

Whenever you might need me.

Sometimes, if you're lucky

You find that certain someone

You can always count on to be true;

If I had the choice of only one friend in this world

You know that I'd want it to be you.

You're still kind of crazy

After all these years,

You'll always be that funny girl to me;

Season to season we'll always have a reason

To be the best of friends that we can be.

Someone you can turn to, every minute of the day

Warm memories to hold on to, that will never fade away.

Sometimes, if you're lucky

You find that certain someone

You can always count on to be true;

If I had the choice of only one friend in this world

You know that I'd want it to be you.

You're like the sweet familiar song,

A good book when I'm alone,

A cup of coffee when I'm cold,

A country road that leads me home.

Sometimes, if you're lucky

You find that certain someone

You can always count on to be true;

If I had the choice of only one friend in this world

You know that I'd want it to be you.

When I get on the road again

You'll be always on my mind;

We'll stay the way we were forever true,

There's no one in this world that's been a better friend to me,

Than You.✨️❤️

WE THANK THEE ✨️❤️

If there is one Singer, whose songs were like the 'Background Score' to so many of our lives, during our childhood, it has to be Jim Reeves. Almost every home has his 'audio cassettes' and they were just played repeatedly, over and over again, all the time; so often, that those Songs and that amazing 'low voice', just stayed with many, many of us.

The moment I hear a Jim Reeves song anywhere, it automatically transports me back in time; and countless 'Memories' come flooding back, instantly. It makes me think of my 'Parents and Grandparents', who probably introduced me to these songs, right at the time when I was a baby in the cradle. Sometimes I think, that I was probably listening to these old songs, even when I was still inside my mother's womb; since they were just playing at home, 'constantly'. That may be the reason why, I'm so fond of them. They remind me of 'Special People', who aren't with me anymore.✨️

MOONLIGHT AND ROSES (Song Lyrics)

'Moonlight and Roses bring wonderful Memories of you

My heart reposes in beautiful thoughts so true

June light discloses Love's golden dreams sparkling anew

Moonlight and Roses bring Memories of you'.🎶😊

Carlton Braganza has sung many, many lovely Jim Reeves tunes on Jukebox Jammies, over a span of four years; and each time he sings one of those special melodies, it is absolutely 'Nostalgic'.  Carlton's voice sounds great singing any song; but I think, the Jim Reeves songs, just sound really good, when he sings them. I Love a lot of his songs, and it is extremely difficult to  pick, which ones I like more than others; but since I can't post all the songs at once, I'm sharing just three of my favourites today. 

YOU'LL NEVER KNOW (Song Lyrics)

You'll never know just how much I love you

You'll never know just how much I care

And if I tried, I still couldn't hide my love for you

You ought to know, for haven't I told you so

A million or more times.

You went away and my heart went with you

I speak your name in my every prayer

If there is some other way to prove that I love you

I swear I don't know how

You'll never know if you don't know now. 🎶

The magic of any Jim Reeves song, is in those 'low notes'. They sound quite 'magical' when Carlton sings them too.

We'll never get to hear the real Jim Reeves sing for us; but I'm glad we have Carlton Braganza to remind us of his songs, every time he sings one of them on JJ.😊

WE THANK THEE (Song Lyrics)

We thank Thee each morning for a newborn day
Where we may work the fields of new mown hay
We thank Thee for the sunshine
And the air that we breathe
Oh Lord, We Thank Thee.

We thank Thee for the rivers that run all day
We thank Thee for the little birds that sing away
We thank Thee for the trees
And the deep blue sea
Oh Lord, We Thank Thee.

Oh yes we thank Thee Lord
For every flower that blooms
Birds that sing, fish that swim
And the light of the moon

We thank Thee every day
As we kneel and pray
That we were born with eyes
To see these things.

We thank Thee for the fields
Where the clovers grow
We thank Thee for the pastures
Where the cattle may roam
We thank Thee for Thy love so pure and free
Oh Lord, We Thank Thee.❤️

THE STORY CONTINUES...✍️

 

1st May' 1978 ❤️ 

46 years today,

If their story 

Had a happier ending.😢

That's my reality, I guess,

Cherish the Memories,

Look for little reasons to 'Smile',

And just try to 'Keep on Living' everyday.🤷‍♀️

Some days, I wonder 'Why',

Because there really seems no point;

But maybe, that's what I'm supposed to do,

Since 'My Story', still goes on.✨️✍️

Like I always do, I went to look through 'Old Photographs', a few days ago. My parent's Wedding Album is one of those very old 'musical albums', which has a tiny key that you can wind up, on the inside of the front cover. Once you wind it up, it plays a simple little tune, while you look through the photographs.

I had gone back to look at this album, after a really long time. So, I wasn't sure if it still worked. But I wound it a few times; and 46 years later, it magically, still works perfectly.😊

The first thought that came to my mind, as I listened to it play that melody, is how it had strangely 'outlived the couple', whose 'Cherished Memories', of the beginning of their life together, it held on every page.

That's the 'Story of Life'! It may not always end in 'Happily Ever After' for everyone; but it goes on and continues anyway, with or without all the people in it.🤷

WHAT IF? 🤔

I've lived practically my entire life, with a whole bunch of 'Whys?' and 'What Ifs?', constantly doing the Samba and the Tango, in my mind.🤔

I was brought up in a Family, that always had a strong Faith, 'no matter what' trials and difficulties may come our way.

I may not be as 'Prayerful' or as sincere and dedicated to 'Serving the Community and Reaching out with my Time and Presence', all the time, as both my parents used to be; but I did learn to 'Trust and Thank God' for his numerous 'Blessings' everyday, from them.

So, 

Even though there are many, many times when I really cannot understand 'God's Plan' for my Life, 

Even when I have absolutely 'No Clue' why I was the only one left behind,

Even when I have no idea, what the next chapter in 'My Story' is going to be,

I like to 'Believe', that maybe there is a 'Blessing' in all of these uncertainties. 

Who knows?🤷

 BLESSINGS

- Laura Story

(Song Lyrics)

We pray for blessings

We pray for peace

Comfort for family, protection while we sleep

We pray for healing, for prosperity

We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering

And all the while, You hear each spoken need

Yet Love us way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?

What if Your healing comes through tears?

What if a thousand sleepless nights

Are what it takes to know You're near?

And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?

We pray for wisdom

Your voice to hear

And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near

We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love

As if every promise from Your Word is not enough

And all the while, You hear each desperate plea

And long that we'd have Faith to Believe

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?

What if Your healing comes through tears?

And what if the thousand sleepless nights

Are what it takes to know You're near?

And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?

When friends betray us

And when darkness seems to win

We know that pain reminds this heart

That this is not, this is not our home

It's not our home

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?

What if Your healing comes through tears?

And what if the thousand sleepless nights

Are what it takes to know You're near?

What if my greatest disappointments

Or the aching of this life

Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy

And what if trials of this life

The rain, the storms, the hardest nights

Are Your mercies in disguise?🤔

(Also sharing another Lyric Video of the same song, uploaded by someone on YT.)