Lineage of Love

I was a young child when I fell in love with the work of Tchaikovsky in the Dance of the Swans (from Swan Lake Op.20). He was a Russian composer who also was responsible for the famous Waltz Of The Snowflakes (from The Nutcracker Op.71). His work is wonderful. I didn't know that my great grandmother was born in Ukraine at that time, only that my grandfather came here from Warsaw, Poland. My aunt Irene was responsible for that information, having produced for her side of the family, that is my mother's side, a family tree.

People say that I look very "Russian" even though I am a mixture of three nationalities that I know of. Tchaikovsky was my favorite for many years, then I came across a new composer named Sergei Rachmaninoff. He ranks up there highly on my list having produced his unaccompanied Vespers (All night Vigil) Op. 37.

As they say, it took me from earth to heaven. I was fortunate enough last night to attend a concert in Worcester, MA. where a Worcester Chorus sang the capella masterpiece (Vespers "All night Vigil"), in one of the most beautiful churches in Worcester, St. Spyridon Cathedral. "Outstanding." The church was at full capacity.

What kind of talent and beauty of soul must one possess to be able to create such a work as Sergei Rachmaninoff. Even though I do not speak Russian, I had the time to review the words in English. I feel you have to understand what is being said to appreciate the vespers, although the work places you in a peaceful state at just hearing.

The last song is quite joyful, Vzbrannoy Voyevode "Thanksgiving to The Mother Of God."
Today is Mother's Day, let us remember that it begins with the Theotokos love, and her decision to say "yes."

God bless all mother's decision to say "yes" and in that decision live the calling that is ours. Motherhood is our gift, it requires all the talent and beauty of soul that you possess. Motherhood is a gift from God. Honoring the Mother of God, and my mother, let us remember that we come from a lineage of love.