Right around the time my Mom, Jean, passed on 12/28/20, I was sitting at the piano and this tune just jumped out at me.

This was before I learned of her passing.

I was telling Patty just after I finished it that it felt like there was a vaudeville spirit guiding me to actualize this song. I didn’t make any connection with it being about/from/for my Mom.

I had most of the tune in about 10 minutes but it needed the finishing touches.

In the middle of all this I heard the news that my Mom had passed, and as part of the emotional swell, I continued to tinker with the arrangement while playing, resting, sleeping, etc. it was a strong urge.

Then I made the connection with my Mom, and it took until January 2nd for the arrangement puzzle to fall into place.

The amazing thing is that when I listen to it, or play it, all worry and sadness just melt away.

Every time I listen or play it I can empirically say that, from somewhere deep inside, my Mom’s attitude about life rises up, and I can hear her say that it’s all good, and that I shouldn’t worry, and that I should celebrate her life in an upbeat way with appreciation and inspiration ... so it’s not a regret, it’s a tribute to a life, well-lived on her own terms.