I'm not normally a 'woo-woo'-type person, but I think part of what makes this such gathering such a magical thing, is that for many people this is an opportunity to be brave enough to be their best and truest selves, unencumbered by the layers that life puts on them at home. Maybe for a minute, for one song, maybe for every minute from door to door.

That's why we fall in love at every turn. We understand that we are TRULY seeing, and appreciating, and being seen and appreciated for the gifts we have (or wish we had and so we give it a shot anyway).

And the energy created lifts up anyone who sees.

As we know from the old fables, if we did it for more than a few days, we couldn't go home again ; )

A few examples I saw:

JimmyT playing the bass in the Saturday night Dining Hall session. His face shone with joy and love as he was swept away with the music.

Tammy's solo Sunday, beautifully done and SO brave.

Barry and Ken, two of my favorite singers, together, dragging up first Theresa, then later Theresa AND Jeri to sing one of my favorite pieces of music ever. Twice.

Linda standing tall and being a lively, joyful spirit wherever I saw her.

Madeline and Holly with their violin and clarinet, chatting and playing in the cabin.

Kendall and Jacqui ANYTIME they were together, their rare, true and comfy love shining through.

Dani