Me and Bobby McFerrin!
So I just wanted to take some webspace to note that the great Bobby McFerrin actually came to FSU today (2004-02-27) and worked with our Vocal Jazz group! (I have some posters and T-Shirt designs posted in the Drawings section from that.) I was so excited to meet him – I think we all were. He came dressed in jeans and a T-Shirt and worked his vocal magic for about 50 minutes and we all soaked it up like sponges.
What struck me, however, was not what he said about music; while it was certainly inspiring. Elizabeth Camancho spoke up at then end of class and asked him what his inspiration was. To my surprise and really jaw-dropping utter disbelief and joy all rolled into one, he proceeded to relate his morning: "Every day, after I wake up, I spend at least two hours in the Bible." He talked about how he wrestles with scriptures, asking God to help him understand and apply them to his life, seeking guidance for his day. He opened a window for us into his life and showed us his faith in God and his devotion. That was his inspiration. I was floored.
Those of you who know me could tell by now that I am not visibly moved by much. I'm a very stoic personality most of the time – I feel things, but usually keep them inside and think about them and meditate on them at length before coming to any outward conclusion or reaction. This broke that boundary down entirely. My surprise was not simply that he was a Christian, which I thank God for immensely, but that he was not afraid. He chose to come and speak to us honestly. He was asked a question and he replied truthfully as he should have. He told us without fear that we should each believe in God and thank Him daily for our gifts, our lives, our heartbeats, and our next breaths. He was not simply honest, he was direct and imposing. He had no reservations about telling people there was an absolute truth and he knew it. Thank God for him.
I really wish more Christians could live like that. Bobby McFerrin is no longer an artist to me. He is a brother in Christ. I feel now like I can really relate to him and his music. This experience was by no means mundane for me. I was excited before, but now I am simply blissful. Thank you, Lord, for sending him to us. He has inspired me with Your endless inspiration.
When class was over I went over personally to thank him for coming and for being so open with us. I did ask him to sign my Circlesongs CD and take a picture with me (below). I will be giving him a letter tomorrow thanking him again for coming and asking if he would like to speak at the BCM or TCO at some point in the future.