Politics & music: Not everyone agrees

I was recently visiting with a neighbor across the hall of where my mother-in-law was staying. When you spend four days at a nursing home, you have plenty of time to visit.

This elderly gentleman spends every day with his wife, who is a resident suffering with Alzheimer’s disease. He is there from morning to evening. He never leaves until he sees that they have properly prepared his wife for the night.  He says, “I don’t have to stay, but I have to stay.”  I understood completely. What a loving and caring husband! This woman is blessed.

I could tell he wanted to talk as we passed in the hall the other day. We had spoken briefly before, but not for an extended amount of time and not about anything of much substance. This time, he started talking about how he was a veteran. His time of war made him very anti-government and opinionated, which surprised me a little bit. I listened to him as he told me of his various stances on social and political issues. He and I did not agree about everything, but in the end, he thanked me for listening to him. He knew I did not agree with every issue he raised, but he appreciated that I gave him the time to talk. He said I was better than “the guys” down at McDonald’s!  I guess that was a compliment.

He asked me what I did for a living. When I told him I was in arts management and presented concerts, I’m not sure he knew how to respond. But it made me think about how people can have such differing opinions and yet still get along. I told this gentleman (Dave) that even though we don’t see things the same way, we can still be friends and appreciate the perspective we each have.

In the world of arts and music, people certainly have their own opinions of what is good. They also have their own opinions of what they do and do not enjoy. “Different strokes for different folks” is how the saying goes, and it certainly is true in politics, as well as music.

So when I say I think such and such concert will be good and enjoyable, I certainly understand that not everyone will share my opinion. However, I do so appreciate those who are willing to listen and occasionally give it a try. By listening, I think we can all learn.

I enjoy learning from older, more experienced people. I find their age to be such an asset in wisdom. Each year, I become more and more like Dave; hopefully, more wise and understanding.

Variety in music and entertainment gives everyone the opportunity to seek out new ways to grow culturally. It may also give you something to talk about with the boys at McDonald’s!

FINÉ.