I once had a friend who attended Juilliard Music School. She was a gifted musician and composer. Technically I have never known anyone who was more musically intellectual. She knew the structure and mechanics of music inside and out. I also have had the opportunity to play and associate with other musicians who probably couldn’t even spell Juilliard. I had a friend who sang for a time with Tower of Power. She was also the lead singer of a band in Maine during the late 70’s that was on the verge of a huge record deal when they broke up over some artistic and business disagreements. The other members of the band included a bass player, lead guitarist, rhythm guitarist and a drummer. The lead guitarist was also a very talented lead vocalist in his own right. He was also a gifted writer and composer. He wrote 85% of the songs which they performed. He had no musical training and wrote and composed by ear. He would then log the notes, chords and lyrics for the songs, but he did not know how to technically compose, like the first friend that I mentioned. Later on, in California, I sat in and played drums in a band with a few friends. Another friend was their full time drummer. I was a traveling businessman and I would go to the gigs, when I could, and help out with equipment, sound, or what have you. The bass player was very talented and a very good, not great, but very good vocalist. One particular time, whilst performing at a Blues Festival, my bass player friend was approached by the headliner, which happened to be B.B. King. Having heard my friend’s performance Mr. King came to ask my friend to sit in and jam with him on his performance. Suddenly, there my friend was, cast into the onstage limelight with none other than B.B. King! He did an amazing job that night and Mr. King was full of accolades for my friend. This was no surprise to any of us who knew him and played with him.
Music is interesting that way. There is more than one approach that is valid. People coming from very different angles and perspectives can end up at the same musical spot. It is amazing that the many paths of music are all valid and that they can all result in the same measure of success and completion.
I have also encountered musical snobs who feel an air of superiority over those who approach music from a more artistic approach. From their position of a technical and highly schooled, trained and disciplined music, they look down their noses at those who have grown in music, sort of on their own, by natural gifting and a desire to apply themselves by completely submerging themselves in their love for music.
Interestingly, faith sometimes presents these same approaches. Over the years I have known several well educated and scholarly men and women who acquired much Godly wisdom and knowledge in formal training environments. I have also been fortunate to know others who have attained the same level of wisdom and knowledge through other life experiences and their willingness to submerge themselves in the knowledge and ways of God. Chances are real good if you are reading this newsletter, you are one of these people. I am grateful today for all of you and I commend all of you for your earnest desire and commitment to seek and serve the Lord our God, regardless of the approach that God has gifted you with. Blessings!

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