I learned recently that 86 year old Mary from my creative writing class was an accomplished pianist. None of us in class knew she even played the piano. Mary has been deaf for 10 years and had stopped playing. It is not easy communicating with Mary in a class situation when she can’t hear. She read a memoir piece in class that blew us away with her honesty and courage. She does not often share her feelings I had to write something!
Her piano was orphaned
when her ears went silent
Fingers that danced the keys
had only memories
as did she, afraid to reach
too deep and weep
for what was lost
The music that once shined
for all to hear
was only in her mind
Until a daughter’s loving kindness
helped her find the courage
to play again
though ears were blind
And so it was
they all stood up and cheered
She could see it in their faces
and feel it in her heart
The music silent to her ears
once again was real
Bravo Miss Mary, Bravo!
Jean E. Taddonio
No Thing Ordinary 