Embracing the moment

Some beautiful music to inspire us

“Michel” designed by me

“Bésame mucho” is a Spanish phrase that translates to “kiss me a lot” or “kiss me passionately”. It is the title of a famous 1940 bolero song by Mexican songwriter Consuelo Velázquez. The song expresses a desire for intimate affection due to the fear of losing a loved one, often interpreted as “kiss me as if it were the last time”. AI

Here, the jazz pianist Michel Petrucciani gives this song a lovely, introspective reading. I hear sadness and longing, and deep tenderness. Besame Mucho

Michel Petrucciani (1962-1999) was a French jazz pianist. From birth he had osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disease that causes brittle bones and, in his case, short stature. Despite his health condition and relatively short life, he became one of the most accomplished and beloved jazz pianists of his generation. Wikipedia

I was so fortunate to see Michel perform in Calgary. He captured the hearts of everyone in the room with his music and personality. It was a memorable experience.

Life is short. Moments of beauty and love are fleeting. Let’s embrace them as they come, savor them, and then let them go as we prepare for whatever may come next.

“He who binds to himself a joy

Does the winged life destroy

He who kisses the joy as it flies

Lives in eternity’s sunrise.” William Blake 1757-1827.

“One today is worth two tomorrows.” — Benjamin Franklin, in his 1758 essay The Way to Wealth. That essay was originally written as a preface to the 1758 edition of Poor Richard’s Almanack.

“When you make the present moment, instead of past and future, the focal point of your life, your ability to enjoy what you do and with it the quality of your life increases dramatically.” – Eckhart Tolle. Tolle is influenced by Buddhist thought.

Here’s another lovely song. Today

“Today” is a popular 1964 folk song written by Randy Sparks and performed by The New Christy Minstrels. Known for its wistful lyrics about seizing the moment (”while the blossoms still cling to the vine”), it was a major hit. The song was covered by John Denver. AI

Like Petrucciani, Denver was a beloved musician who was gone too soon. But his sensitive rendition lives on.