Flying Firsts

You were born with potential.
You were born with goodness and trust.
You were born with ideas and dreams.
You were born with greatness.
You were born with wings.
You were not meant for crawling, so don't.
You have wings.
Learn to use them and fly.

Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, Persian Sufi mystic (1207-1273)

On Thursday, the Museum celebrated its first anniversary with a spectacular gala featuring the Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma. The atrium radiated glamour and cheer. The staff joined in to celebrate an intense and satisfying year full of amazing firsts. We are truly flying.


And I received news that little Catherine opened her birthday present. Here are the finished quilted blocks. I am told that they not only amuse her for play but also provide a soft landing for spills as she learns to walk.

I am in awe watching her make 'firsts' and at a rapid pace. She has an amazing future ahead of her. I wish her a flying spirit.

A Little Spark

A little spark of kindness can put a colossal burst of sunshine into someone's day.

Unknown

It's a busy time around the office as we celebrate our first birthday. My role is behind the scenes organizing multiple management meetings, with which I can get just a little tense worrying about the details. The last meeting of the day was underway and I needed to take in some sweets to accompany the coffee. Trying to be unnoticeable and not interrupt the conversation, I slid the tray onto the table. The gentleman in the centre jumped up thanking me, shaking my hand and kissing my cheeks. I had been kissed by Yo-Yo Ma! We spoke for probably a whole minute and I couldn't tell you what was said except that I was honoured to meet him and that he was thrilled to be at the Museum. He put a colossal burst of sunshine into my day. A colleague reports that he's that wonderfully friendly and real with everyone, so I suspect that he spreads a lot of joy wherever he goes -- through his music and his kindness.

And, no, I have yet to wash my face. :-)