While on a recent holiday – some of the most precious moments were centred around music.

They were actually the times of the greatest joy and laughter – drawing us closer together as memories surfaced – and allowed us to revive great times shared – as we approached our 58th wedding anniversary.

One of the special times was while dining in a restaurant – there was a live band playing – and the joy it brought – as songs we knew were played – and – I have to add – mimed to as well – it was fun and quite special.

The other time – that really stands out – was when visiting friends – playing some of the old records – and singing along – amidst much jollity and laughter – music is indeed special.

As I thought back on this – I was reminded of a song – by Abba – ‘Thank you for the music’ – and actually love the first verse – as it almost describes my husband – and I know he would happily share these words with everyone.

“I’m nothing special – in fact I’m a bit of a bore – if I tell a joke – you’ve probably heard it before – but I have a talent – a wonderful thing – ’cause everyone listens when I start to sing – I’m so grateful and proud – all I want is to sing it out loud – so I say thank you for the music – the songs I’m singing – thanks for all the joy they’re bringing – who can live without it I ask in all honesty – what would life be – without a song or a dance what are we – so I say thank you for the music – for giving it to me”

He always has – and still loves – to sing – and still has a great voice. I admit that I have always envied those who can sing – for music can covey feelings – touching the heart and soul – and bring joy and laughter with it too – like nothing else can.

Music also keeps hold of so many memories – as someone put it here – “Music is the way our memories sing to us across time” – and I love that – for a song carries with it the music we made – reminding us of so many people – places and events in our lives.

I truly am grateful for all the music in my life – I recall songs around the piano in our family – when I was quite young – the old vinyl records that we played – hymns – which formed a foundation on which to build a life of faith – and the changing ways in which we even listened to music

And – even though much has changed – as I myself have changed – I still have to say – “Without a song or a dance – what are we – so I say – thank you for the music – for giving it to me”.

Blessings – Lois