Hitting the Notes

I wish I were a musician
Who could speak with Authority
To the difference between
Hitting the notes
And, singing the song.

Because, I think there is one
A difference –
Between the flawless performance
Of what’s on the page
And, a faithful conversation
With the Composer –
Mystic, sweet communion
With the heart and soul
Of the Music.

If I were
A musician –
If I could
Speak with Authority –
And, should we find together
The difference between:
A note and a sound
Recital and remembrance
Sheet music and joyful noise …

Would we speak any longer
Of Love and Law
Justice and Mercy
The Word and Will of God
As though these were not all the same thing?

“It don’t mean a thing (if it ain’t got that swing).” ~Duke Ellington