Lyfting My Spirits

 

Amongst many wonderful things to say about New Orleans, the quality of conversation with the Lyft drivers is nearing the top of my list. Within 5 seconds of entering the car, there is a friendly and often hilarious rapport—especially with the women drivers—that makes me feel like I just reunited with an old friend. I don’t take Lyft a lot, but in the places I have, I’ve never found the drivers to be as consistently fun and friendly as they are here in New Orleans. I find myself happier stepping out of the car than when I stepped in—also a goal I’ve always told my music class students.

 

Tonight the driver was playing the radio fairly loud and I said, “Well, it’s a good song, but I’m not too happy about the lyrics. Are they talking about me? ” Everyone in the car looked confused, so I explained, "They're singing ‘I’m old and gone.' ” Everyone laughed and said, “No they're not! They're singing,  ‘I’m holding on!!’ Well, the fact that I heard it wrong kind of proved my point. And then I checked my hearing aids and they had gone down to zero, so I felt a little bit better.

 

I am noticing I’m referencing my age a lot. With my 75^th birthday in one month and three days, I seem to steer conversations —or comments during teaching— to legacy and the things I hope will continue. I suppose it’s natural, but maybe not the best idea. Especially when I’m at the top of my game mentally with my writing, can teach six hours a day five days straight with strong energy and am in pretty good shape after my 8-mile daily walks in England and 40-mile bike rides in the Dolomites. Yesterday, I taught some vigorous Steppin’ body percussion and today some equally aerobic Lindy Hop steps. So why obsess about numbers? 

 

I think I’ll follow Clint Eastwood’s advice. When asked what kept him so actively engaged in his 90’s, he replied, “I just don’t let the old man in.”

Good idea! And so this young man turns to sleep and eagerly awaits day six of the Jazz Course.

 

And if I need a boost to my spirits, why, Lyft awaits me!