So, I have a new quip during this season of my life. Mention anything to me, and I got a song for you. It’s like I just can’t help it. Mention being happy, I regurgitate You Bring Me Joy, by Anita Baker. I know my friends are like, really? Please, shut up. But I can’t help it; the songs just come up and out. What?!
Here’s an example. Recently, I have been discussing the happenings in Colbert County, AL. I live just across the river in Lauderdale County, Florence, AL, about 10 – 20 minutes away. I got to thinking about the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, the Ritz Theatre, all the restaurants like Rhoda P’s, old and new, The CORE Center, with Dr. Deb, Greyhouse Gallery, Counts Brothers, and I was like, “I got a lover way over there on the mountainside,” lyrics by Smokey Robinson. See? I just can’t stop! However……
…music or not, I gotta say we moan too much about crossing the river “way over there.” Those of us from big cities are amazed by people’s disdain about crossing the river. Yes, Florence is the largest of the four tiny cities that comprise the Shoals. Also the University of North Alabama is housed in Florence, as well as more theatres and shopping. But when something is brewing on the other side of the river, 10 – 20 LONG MINUTES AWAY. I gotta go. I’m like, “Come to me, baby, I’m on my way!!“ more Smokey lyrics.
Notice, I didn’t mention Soul’s Wingery (I’m a Soul Man, Sam & Dave), Odette, the Symphony, and other Florence eateries and sites. After all, we got Sam’s, TJ Maxx, and the mall. Folks will make their way over to our side of the water. However, I do believe Florencians would be amazed to see the exhibits and events at the art museum in Tuscumbia, and I will be checking out Southern Grocery on Second Street in Sheffield this week. (“I’ll try something new,” Smokey again).
I know what it is; I have the Singing River flowing through me, Muscle Shoals magic. ‘Thing is, that river flows on both sides of the Shoals. (“It’s flowing.” Temptations. ) Yes, you have to cross one of the bridges to get there, which may be daunting to some, but I’m encouraging y’all to (...just put your hand in mine) and flow with the river to check out the happenings. What?!
Image: Millicent Garland Photography
Joy Juice
I’m not going to lie; I try not to drive at night, so even a short drive is challenging. But when Mr. K. or any driver is here, I’m ready to go to either side of the river in my home area. So, “Take me to the river,” Al Green. We deserve to enjoy our lives and music without limitations.
“As the music changes, so does the dance” – African Proverb
“I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.” – Corinthians 14:15
“It’s all good/love/God” – Victorine
© 2024 Vicki Goldston, All rights reserved.
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Author of Be S.A.F.E., StillAware, Faithful, Excellent, now available on Kindle Amazon as an e-book.
“…the book title and its content are intended to be a whisper, reminding us that by connecting with our spiritual self, we can center through anything and that we are forever within the bubble of God’s protection.”
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