Day 48 of Embracing the Wonders of Life !

As 2025 unfolds with its relentless pace, it's worth pausing to reflect on the moments that made 2024 special. Yesterday, while traveling, I enjoyed watching such a highlight: Handel's Il Trionfo del Tempo performed by the extraordinary Sabine Devieilhe. This masterpiece has held a special place in my heart since I first encountered it years ago on a flight to San Francisco. That initial exposure ignited a deep admiration for both Handel’s music and Sabine's remarkable talent.

2024 marked the fulfillment of a long-held dream: seeing Sabine Devieilhe live at Amsterdam’s iconic Concertgebouw. Having previously watched her mesmerize audiences in Paris as Lakmé, this experience felt profoundly personal. Meeting her afterward for a photo and autograph was a moment of pure exhilaration. To my daughter’s amusement, I—a grown man in my fifties—was as nervous as a teenager meeting his hero. That encounter was more than just a fleeting thrill; it was a reminder of the power of art and the enduring presence of our inner child.

Music, when performed by the right person, has a unique ability to touch the soul, evoking emotions we might otherwise overlook in the rush of daily life. It reminds us of the importance of creating space for inspiration and wonder, no matter our age. These moments, where art connects us to something deeper, remind us to nurture our inner child—a source of awe, creativity, and joy.

As I look ahead, I’m already counting down to Sabine’s next performance. For now, though, I carry the beauty of 2024’s highlights, cherishing the lesson to stay open to the magic that art and life offer. Find your own moments that stir the soul, and let your inner child lead the way.