Natalie has devoted her life to music. She learned to play the violin at a very young age and developed a life long love for the instrument. When it became time for her to select a profession she knew that performing and teaching the violin would be her life's work. She excelled. She has performed with famous orchestras and symphonies. She has played for literally hundreds of studio recordings that became CD's. She is in constant demand not only for her musical ability but because she is pleasant to work with and very dependable. As far as teaching, she taught in a variety of public school systems and later privately having as many as 50 students at a time. Her students have gone on to study at Juliard and other extraordinary institutions.
Recently the unthinkable happened. Natalie was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. Natalie, in keeping with her nature and spirit, has chosen to be upbeat and strong - an inspiration to us all. But being a fighter, she desires to do all she can to try to beat this aggressive disease. Upon hearing this news, a couple of Natalie's students decided to help and came up with the idea of putting together a benefit concert with 100% of the proceeds going to help pay for Natalie's medical expenses. A miracle happened. Within a matter of days, dozens of the most famous musicians in Utah rallied together and volunteered to perform and in less than three weeks of the original idea, a concert was held at a beautiful performance hall on the University of Utah campus. The event received significant coverage in the print and television media. Over 1100 people came to offer support and be a part of this once in a lifetime performance each donating $20, $50 or much much more.
The response from the musicians all of whom had played with Natalie at one time or another and from the public was overwhelming. How could one person have touched so many lives? Why is she so loved? I believe the answer is service. Natalie has spent her entire life serving others. She has served much more than she has been compensated for. She has given willingly, often without being asked. She is revered.
So here is a TIP FROM A MAN... let each of us be more like Natalie. Let us be giving. Let us serve. Let us teach. Let us love. Let us do the right thing. If the goodness that was evident in that concert hall that night was found throughout the world, most of the problems facing society would simply fade away. There was no selfishness. There was no anger. There was no hate. Instead there was love, devotion, appreciation and kindness in abundance. May we all be a little bit better for witnessing or having heard about this experience. We are praying for you Natalie. God be with you.
Enjoy life!
