Hardly Strictly Truth: A Plea for Passion

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is a music festival in San Francisco each year, and 2010, being the banner year in my life that it is, happened to be my lucky year to finally experience it. Why I was out of town or busy on this date in each of the previous seven years, I’m not sure. But here I was so there I went.

I’m not a huge fan of bluegrass – just have not spent enough time with it – but as the name implies, it is hardly strictly just bluegrass music. MC Hammer performed – sorry I missed that. But I did get to see some really talented performers on Day 2.

One of those great performers was Bonnie “Prince” Billy, self-described as alternative/folk/rock. I had heard of him before, but thoroughly enjoyed his set, the ballads and the rock, the slide and the harmonies. He chatted it up with the audience and he seemed genuinely pleased to be there, singing in the mist.

One song away from retiring from stage, he addressed the audience. His plea was for each of us to take this musical experience, the idea of this festival, the enjoyment of this music, and bring it to the corners of the nation. Spread the word about what you felt right here, right today, and try to make it happen for others. Share the depth.

So was he saying that you should go out and start a bluegrass festival in your hometown? Well, yes, actually, he was saying that. It sounds a bit huge, I know, but break it down into steps, the first being: spread the passion. If you did go back home to your roommates or coworkers and talked about your amazing musical experience, the passion is contagious. A few more fans converted, a bit more excitement around the subject. Soon, it’s a movement, and soon after that, people are demanding a bluegrass festival in town. But the key, the main starting point, is to start spreading the passion.

You have a passion – I know you do. It can be anything: antiques, music, belly-dancing, your business, your kids, food, spirits (liquid or ghoulish), teapots, gaming, biking, sleeping, whatever. How are you pursuing it, if you’re pursuing it at all? Why not start? And why not share your love with others because you know what? There are plenty of others out there who share your passion or at least appreciate it. And that makes it even more fun, a richer experience. So let it out, talk it up, and make some passionate connections.

Reunited and it feels so good ♫

It’s official – we are now in business. We finally sent out an introduction of our company to all our friends and family. Most of them had a vague idea what we were doing over here, but now, everyone is well-informed and ready to call on us in a writing emergency.

While we were starting up our business, we heard over and over that we should be spreading the word to everyone we know. We admit, we were shy about it. We didn’t want to be pushy or sales-y. But we learned you don’t have to be.

Our communication of choice was an email newsletter. It slipped into email boxes around the world during the night. It greeted our friends first thing in the morning as they checked email. Their choice to read it or delete it. It was not a forceful introduction – it was a friendly one.

Our intentions were pure. We really just wanted to share our news with all the great people in our lives, to keep the relationships going. My litmus test was, “how would I feel if I received the same kind of email from them?” If it brought a smile quicker than a shrug, that person made the list.

The response has been overwhelming. Such positive thoughts, such supportive words. It’s really a confidence booster. That’s a good enough reason to put yourself out there. We all need compliments and love to keep us going. And these great people in your life are happy to give it.

So if you’re shying away from of the “tell everyone you know” theory, please don’t. Sharing that piece of yourself, something that personal, will have a hugely positive impact on your relationships. It’s scary, but worth it.


~ Of course, a special thank you to all our friends and family for your support and goodness. We could not have done it without you!