Greetings from Tucson!
I have listened to the Osterholm Update since the beginning of the pandemic and consider the podcast itself to be one of the most impactful “Acts of Kindness” in my own life. This past year, you all have helped me to stay safe, be informed and have hope. I am truly grateful. Another “Act of Kindness” that has sustained me this year is the weekly "Concert for Healing” from Gabriel Ayala. A member of the Yaqui people of Southern Arizona, Gabe is an accomplished classical guitarist and artist who has recorded and toured extensively around the country and the world. I could go on and on about Gabe’s talents as a musician, a visual artist and designer, but it is his kindness and care for humanity that I’ve grown to treasure. When the pandemic hit, all of Gabe’s concerts and gigs vanished. In an amazing act of kindness, Gabe started offering a free Concert for Healing every Monday night on Facebook live. His 50th consecutive concert took place a couple of weeks ago. During the concerts, Gabe shares his music, shares his journey and shares his prayers. Even though I don’t know the other listeners personally (yet!), a community has developed among those who drop in and share encouragement and healing with one another. Gabe says that he needed the concerts to sustain himself as much as anything, but what an amazing gift he has given to me and others in these trying times. All of the concerts of on Gabe’s Facebook of course, but here is a link to a beautiful original piece that he offered in gratitude and remembrance to those who have passed. https://www.facebook.com/GabrielAyalaOfficial/videos/488335779240742/ Thank you for this opportunity to acknowledge kindness and care!
Mary