Solstice.
We always acknowledged and quietly celebrated this day. It was the Celt in us. Winter was hard on me, and the mid-point of Solstice gave me hope that we were on the other side of it. I welcomed this day.
We’d always play Jethro Tull’s “Solstice Bells” and then continue playing Tull music the rest of the day. He was one of Dwight’s favorite musicians.
This morning I played “Solstice Bells” and then moved on to “Songs from the Wood”, a favorite album of Dwight’s. A few songs in, I recognized a specific guitar percussive technique and it was like hearing Dwight play. He was known for, and took pride in, being able to play a piece exactly as the original artist. He nailed this one, for sure.
And then I remembered that this was the same album I chose to be played at the funeral home. When I planned the service, they asked for 5 CDs to play in the background during calling hours. I chose Jethro Tull, YES, Silly Wizard, Full Gael (our Irish Band) and XL (a local classic rock band Dwight played Bass for). I played exactly what he’d want played at a get together. It wasn’t traditional in the slightest, but it was perfect for him.
My heart has been caught in my throat most of this day. But I’ve got some sweet memories woven in and out of the pain, so it’s a struggle that’s bearable.
Here’s a link to “Solstice Bells”