Carl for Congress

On the eve of a government shutdown here in the United States--one of the world's great democracies--what is it, I ponder, that will heal the rift between Right and Left, Progressive and Conservative--between us all--so that we can move forward? 

Yesterday, at the Berkshire Community Church, where I'll be playing music, the man sitting behind me introduced himself after the service. His name is Carl Sciortino. His wife and he were on their way to Boston where their son, also named Carl, is running for Congress. "Check out his video," they said, "It's gone viral." 

So I did. Now, I understand why far more viewers than live here in Massachusetts or who would be potential voters for Carl, or for his opponent, are watching. It's brilliant!

I've had the privilege of playing for great and powerful people on 'both sides of the aisle' - the Governor of Massachusetts, Deval Patrick - a progressive, forward-thinking Democrat - and the chairman of the Republican finance committee. They were equally and truly moved.  At the place where the music touched each man, there was no difference between them. By extension, I realized, that same place is inside us all! 

So, whatever political side we stand on, whatever views we hold, if we can call upon that which we hold in common - that place touched by music, by humor and by the deeper bonds between us, we'll forge a new and wonderful future.  Carl for Congress!



A duet performance for Governor Deval Patrick, featuring a wonderfully gifted woman, Tanny Labshere, whom I taught at Riverbook Residence in Stockbridge, MA.

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