Earlier this evening, I was over at my friend Sam’s house. He was hosting a house show, where he and a couple other artists were performing some original music each of them had written. Now Sam is a talented musician, but it was only recently that he started writing songs, and this was the first time he was performing his music for a group.
As he played and sang, I couldn’t help but recognize how special that moment was. Here was something that he had put an extraordinary amount of time and energy into. Furthermore, it was art that had been birthed out of some tough times and tough places. And here he was, not only creating it, but having the courage and generosity to share it with all of us.
Which is what an artist does. He gives himself to his craft, putting his very soul into it, and then turns around and shares it with the world. And when he does, not only does the artist reap the reward of the work itself, but those around also benefit from the costly gift that he shares.
And that’s what happened tonight. Sam wasn’t the only one, but I know it was a significant moment for him to go public with what he’s been working so hard on. Thanks for your hard work Sam. And thanks for sharing with all of us.
*Sam’s music is available for free at noisetrade.com/samlima if you want to take a listen.