Last night at 11:15 PM, I exited Schuster Center, ending my two weeks in the musical Serengeti of Disney’s THE LION KING. I am thrilled that it has come to an end, but I cannot deny how much I loved listening to this musical, catching a few glimpses of the production, now and then, but most of all, basking in the atmosphere of eager energy. I stepped inside to catch the final few moments of the very powerful finale of “The Circle of Life” and could see why I was always hearing thunderous applause and stadium season cheering. For me, it wasn’t about cheering for the product on stage, it was a testament to the power of the performing arts.

Today is Mother’s Day, and I am fondly remembering both those beloved mother figures living, and those who are no longer with us, particularly Mother, Grandma Donna, and Aunt Joyce.

The weather is expected to return to the seventies today and stay with us for a while. As much as I would like to enjoy the weather, or better yet, rest the remainder of the day, that is not an option. I shall be away until almost 3 PM, returning in time to teach until 11:30 PM. Tomorrow will be a repeat. Tuesday will be more of the same except my early afternoon and evening will find me at Schuster for a private event.

I am ready to rest but it will not be possible until Wednesday, at which time I will need to also catch up on emails, text messages, and items around the house. I will also need rest. Much, much rest.

“The Circle of Life” from THE LION KING

By Elton John, Tim Rice, and Hans Zimmer

“From the day we arrive on the planet,
And, blinking, step into the sun,
There’s more to see than can ever be seen,
More to do than can ever be done.
There’s far too much to take in here,
More to find than can ever be found.
But the sun rolling high
Through the sapphire sky,
Keeps great and small on the endless round.

It’s the circle of life,
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope,
Through faith and love.
‘Til we find our place
On the path unwinding,
In the circle
The circle of life.”

Happy Mother’s Day!

Make it a great day!