Fame and celebrity are not supposed to faze ministers. At least I think that's what ministers are "supposed" to think. But...I'm happy to report that my heart sang with fan-dom last Friday night when I shook the hand of Gordon Lightfoot.
Here we were at a worship conference, listening to him being interviewed about his musical journey, which started in a United Church in Orillia, Ontario We were a rapt audience because Gordon Lightfoot is a musical legend in Canada. I've listened to his music every since I've been a child. His songs are brilliant snapshots of the Canadian landscape and culture. One of his most famous pieces, the Canadian Railroad Trilogy, was written for the 100th anniversary of Canada, in 1967.
The other seminal piece is titled The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. This song about a terrible tragedy on Lake Superior is a wrenching and emotional memorial to the men who lost their lives. All proceeds from this song go to support the widows of these men.
So, yes, I'm a BIG fan. And when I got a chance to shake his hand, I did. I was so excited I immediately texted my husband, and posted it on Facebook.
But, it got better. After the event, I went closer so I could take a photo. As I was doing this, a colleague asked me if I wanted him to take a photo of Gordon and I together. At first I demurred and then said, "Why not!" So I waited in line, and got my photo. Gordon even put his arm around my waist!!!
So, yes, I'm a fan and proud to say it. It was so refreshing to be in the midst of a group of other church workers without any debate or dissent or worry or trying to find a way where there is no way. It was refreshing to be in the midst of pure unadulterated joy at the artistry of a great musician, and joining collectively in an outpouring of admiration.
It was a Spirit-imbued moment. A son of the church who became famous talked humbly about his life and beginnings as a choir boy who makes it big. It was so refreshing to be in the middle of a church conference and see the tittering fans and feel a bit silly and be reminded of what it feels like to be truly alive.
