Pied Piper

Last night was a farewell BBQ for Lynn Hansen, our Sales & Mdse manager at Liberty. Lynn was a Visual Merchandiser and decided he wanted to give his hand a try at regular retail. He did an incredible job, especially given the circumstances and environment in which we work. He will be missed, and mostly by the people with whom he worked.

During the festivities last night, several of our Indian and Bosnian employees were talking and sharing some of the things of how they would remember Lynn. Some were funny and some were emotional. At one point one of the Indians took the stage and played a dedication to Lynn on his wood flute. Soon all the talking and making of noise ceased and we sat mesmerized by the beautiful melody from this man and his flute. It reminded me of the story of hte Pied Piper. This gentle man playing this soothing music capturing our attention by it's simiple notes. No one had to tell us to stop the noise or to stop talking, but soon everything was quiet, except for the sound of the flute.

Music is such an important part of my life and I am in constant admiration of those who possess the gift of music, be it vocally, instrumentally or in writing music. There is certainly more than talent in music, I believe it to be a blessing, a gift and somehow a way in which to heal and soothe...as was this man and his flute. I wondered what would happen if we all simply played the flute and allowed our emotions to be soothed over. Maybe peace? Probably to big of a dream to hope for. But it is my dream and I'll continue to dream it.

R