The tragic murder of Charlie Kirk a few days ago has swept across our nation like a wave. Some celebrate his death; others mourn it. Some reject all he was and stood for; others proclaim it with pride and promise to continue his legacy. I rather think that his assassination might turn into one of the pivotal moments in US political history, on a level with the murder of JFK. I, for one, will honor his memory, and do what little I can to make America all that he believed we could be.
To mark his passing, I wanted a piece of music that would speak to all Americans, whether men and women of faith or not. Yes, I know Mr. Kirk was a man of strong, intense faith (as am I), and he should be remembered as such: but his message is one that reached beyond sectarian divides, and I wanted music that reflects that universal appeal. I found it in Samuel Barber's well-known Adagio for Strings. Here's Leonard Slatkin conducting the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 2016. Turn up your volume, because the recording is relatively soft.
May Charlie Kirk rest in God's peace. May his widow and children be comforted in their loss. May their witness continue to spread his message; and may we who remember him do likewise.
Peter
1 comment:
A good, classical choice, but forever linked in my mind to Vietnam by movie.... On the more modern, Rap side of the house, allow me to suggest Tom McDonald's song, "Charlie"...it puts Mr. Kirk in the true light I see him as, as a "happy warrior" of Faith...
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