Geoffrey Canada, 4 Tops, & The Temptations. That Was an Eventful Saturday, Indeed. All in the Pouring Rain.

Several months ago I picked up tickets for Leo and Pam's birthdays to see the 4 Tops & The Temptations on what I thought would be a random Saturday night at the end of the year, where friends could gather, listen to music, and have fun. It happened to also be graduation weekend, and it also just so happened to be, I was asked by the Provost's Office to introduce the commencement speaker. Well, this was the one and only Geoffrey Canada of the Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) which happened has happened to be on the radar for excellence much of my early high school teaching days and beyond

I was asked to be an early greeter and to make sure he made it through the ceremony, as well as read the words for his honorary hooding, a moment of pride, indeed.

Of course, yesterday was a total washout, too. It down-poured from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m., so moving about was a little wet (including the walk I took Karal on so she's actual go outside. We were drenched by the time we got out seats and the Uber driver almost killed some idiot who jumped out of the sidewalk in front of the car as we were entering the stadium.

It would have been a more remarkable day if we had blue sunshine and yellow sun, but you can't undercut the greatness by all the individuals. The music was great, the dancing catchy, and the singers outstanding. I can't imagine that some of these guys have been doing the show for more than 60 years, well into their 80s and even 90s, with a few younger replacements.

I also couldn't help but think about the history Canada shared that shaped him, knowing that the struggle for democracy and to "be heard" was also a part of Motown records and the triumph of the music and art. 

I am feeling blessed I experienced the day as I did, although it was much time away from home on a Saturday. I believe we all need rest today, and perhaps a really good, solid meal that isn't finger food. 

It was a privilege to have experienced both.