Name that Tune

The Art of Stillness

What's in a name? Christened Amanda and known by family as Mandy - Auntie Mandy to the most talented, gorgeous, phenomenal eight nieces and nephews plus one precious great-niece. Aunt Amanda to five adorable nieces and nephews this side of the pond.

The conception of my name birthed as my father watched the British retelling of the Helen Keller tragedy to triumph epic with lead child star actor Mandy Miller. Now, four decades later, I teach the dramatic interpretation of the young child born healthy... sights and sounds stolen before the age of two.

And I think about my name...the middle child between "Scrib" and "The Boy." The affectionate "AJ" or best friend "Manda."I think about the name I chose in 1987 when I made a solemn vow. For better. For Worse. In sickness. In health.

My life has known tragedy and triumph.

And I realize something true.

The chaos of the world steals our sights and sounds.

I am learning to pause, to reflect, to see the patterns and colors of my life, to tune out the static and find life's musical melodies and harmonies. I am learning to honor and respect the healing powers that exist in the art of stillness. I see and I hear... I recollect the most important memories in my life...shared moments...smiles, tears, laughter, and weeping. This patchwork quilt of many shapes and fabrics has been my prayer shawl and my comforter.

And in this stillness I realize that my favorite calling is not my name at all.

It's a being "Jon's wife,""Amy's mom", "Chloe's mom," and "Jordan's mom."

I found my calling...and in this sacred silent truth...I am at peace.