My family and I went to see Paul Simon at the Hollywood Bowl. I grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel, my father training our young ears as he drove us to and from school each day. When I found out Paul Simon was coming to Los Angeles for his “Homeward Bound” tour, it felt like my childhood was patting my shoulder, saying hello. My husband surprised me with tickets and off we went.It seemed like we lucked out. Almost an entirely empty row in front of us, perfect viewing of Paul and the band. The sun began to set and we all settled in for what would prove to be an amazing show. But lo and behold…those people showed up. Those people. Loud, obnoxious, caring very little about the people behind or in front of them, standing the entire time—rocking out to ballads and serenades.We couldn’t help but laugh. Out of the thousands of people in the amphitheater, how did these people find us? I took a deep breath. Why let four random people ruin this moment? I closed my eyes, and as the lyrics of “Homeward Bound” crooned from Simon, I felt tears roll down my cheeks. The people had sat down, the amphitheater in a trance. Homeward bound,
I wish I was,
Homeward bound,
Home where my thought’s escaping,
Home where my music’s playing,
Home where my love lies waiting
Silently for me.It was a reminder of what is most important in this world. Home, family, memory, love, a belief in something greater than yourself. To let those people ruin the moment…how trite. Wherever we go, there will always be those people. It is up to us to focus on the good, the positive, the silver lining and gifts hidden throughout life.It is also up to us to find the good and bless the moments with our appreciation:Barukh atah Adonai Eloheinu melekh ha’olam hatov v’ha’meitiv.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who is good and causes good.Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to check something off my bucket list. What a beautiful moment that reminded me that home is where I feel centered, home is where I find my greatest loves and boundless joy.Shabbat Shalom
