The Clubdate Singer Speaks: Chapter 9

Disclaimer: The following story is an actual event, as all of the vignettes in the 'Clubdate Singer Speaks' series are. For 8 years, I was a member of one of the top Orchestras in the nation. Though it was an enjoyable time, it was also at times, quite painful. I took to writing initially to assuage my distress, and this is one of those times when the pen (or keyboard) proved to be a healing tool. I have considered publishing this series, and would appreciate your thoughts...

"Oseh Shalom" -New York City Subway - November 2005

So, I was on my way to rehearsal one night, riding the L train. I took the train going in the opposite direction, and got off at 6th avenue to catch the train going my way (easier to board when you get on earlier).

As I'm standing on the platform, I see/hear musicians.
Two Elderly Jewish men playing traditional Jewish songs (on violin and accordion).

As they were finishing ‘Oseh Shalom’ (He who makes peace), I put a dollar in the violin case, and the accordion player thanked me. My train was pulling in, and I felt a little like singing so I did. I sang the last line of ‘Oseh Shalom’, and as they began ‘Shalom Aleichem’ (Peace be with you!) I went right with them.

The accordion player's eyes nearly exploded out of his head, as he jumped up, and we stood on the platform singing (loud) together :
"Havenu Shalom Aleichem, Havenu Shalom Aleichem,
Havenu Shalom Aleichem, Havenu Shalom shalom, shalom Aleichem!"

As we were coming to the close of the chorus, I stepped onto the train, we shook hands, and exchanged blessings. His smile warmed my heart.
I didn't even mind the surprised stares of my fellow passengers.

Oseh Shalom bim'romav
Hu ya'aseh shalom aleinu
V'al kol yisrael
V'imru imru amen!

"May He who makes peace in the heavens,
grant peace to us and to all our people;
and let us say amen"

.... Only in New York

Comments

Steven K. Fortt, Sr. said…
Now, *that* is a beautiful story. I look forward to learning Hebrew now with greater anticipation. I may never experience something like that, but the Lord surely has something rich in mind.
October 29, 2010 at 8:19 PM
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