The 2024 presidential election motivated me to have a birthday do-over

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At the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Pointe in Time Emerald Gala Today marks a week since my birthday.  Its occurrence is a tremendous blessing. Because all around us are reminders about the fragility of life. To that end, my brother, who always makes a point to celebrate me, took me to the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater's Pointe in Time Emerald Gala on November 2d. That was the beginning of my birthday celebrations. And then, on my birthday itself, I got a bit of a surprise... My actual birthday was tough. It was Election Day. And, I spent the day working polls as a part of an election protection effort. My efforts were designed to protect all voters. However, deep in my heart I love my AKA sister, Kamala Harris and I hoped for her historic victory. Then, much to my chagrin and despite my efforts—and those of thousands more—she lost. In my estimation, that loss was one of the greatest setbacks in human dignity in my lifetime.  The country elected a felon and self-proclaimed, racist, ableis
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A Working Mom Behind Motown, the Musical

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What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.
Or does it explode?

~Langston Hughes

 The second part of our evening on New Year's Eve, after the kids were safely with Andre's mother, involved seeing Motown, the musical" at Heinz Hall. 


It was AWESOME!!!
We attended the show because we enjoy musicals, Motown music, and a night out without the kids. Motown, the musical is the story about how Berry Gordy made his dream a reality. So few people get to do that. So, it was inspiring to see his story portrayed on the grand stage.

My sister at Heinz Hall

I was also really excited to see my friend's son, Reed Shannon, perform in the show. Reed is fourteen years old and truly talented. He played Michael Jackson and it was like he was channeling him! Granted, I am slightly biased because I know his parents. However, the boy can sing and dance as well as the King of Pop eve did. If you closed your eyes it was as if little Michael Jackson was on stage. I am not exaggerating in the least.

The kids in Motown, the musical

The night before the show I was able to catch up with Reed's mother who is now, "A Motown Mom". We discussed our careers, childrearing, and choices. It was inspiring to hear how she was able to foster his passions through educational enrichment.  She and her husband saw a spark in him as a child and enrolled him in singing, dancing and acting classes. When he had the chance to audition for the show, they made sure he got his chance. 

They recognized his gift and helped him develop it instead of trying to squelch it and encourage him to foster something "more practical". That said, they are committed to traditional education as well and Reed is also a good student. He is also one of the nicest kids you'll ever meet.

Seeing Reed on stage, and knowing the history of how his dream came true, made the experience even sweeter for me. It was truly inspiring. I hope that my husband and I are as sensitive to my children's interests and passions as Reed's parents. Because of the faith and works of his parents, Reed is living his dream. He never has to wonder about what happens to a dream deferred because he is living his dream. And that has made all of the difference.

For more information about Motown, The Musical (including upcoming shows), click here.  



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