A few months ago, I had the good fortune to participate in a storytelling show called Spark Off Rose. It was a great night, I wrote about it here and then here. Six months later, I remembered my story as me at my very best. Funny, sweet, humble, seeking, tender. In the past six months, I’ve thought about that night, and I kid you not, EVERY TIME, I thought, dang, Ray, you were pure magic.
Well, guess what? My friend and producer Janet sent me the link to the audio recording from the night, that night that seemed perfect in the misty watercolor corners of my mind. I listened and well, it wasn’t quite the Carnegie Hall debut I remembered. If I could go back and relive the evening, there are things I would change, tweak. But of course, that night has come and passed. This audio is a record of what transpired, proof. But, even hearing the flaws that I had not previously pondered, I still appreciate this particular offering as something honest, confessional, distinctively me and yes, a little bit funny too.
So, here it is. The theme was You Don’t Know Me. Obviously, if you’ve been reading this blog, you do know me, at least a bit. I’d love for you to have a listen and in doing so, get to know me, just a little more.
http://www.sparkoffrose.com/audio_performers_18.php#ray-barnhart
easilycrestfallen 
I liked it a lot. And I loved hearing you. That audio piece and your voice seemed to pull all the bits of Ray I’ve come to know together, and who you are rings loud and clear. I am giving you a solo standing ‘O’ this very minute. Great job.
P.S. I love your tears. The Irish call it having “the gift of tears” and I share it too.
Matthew, thanks for listening. I will confess, that you were one of my blogger friends that I did hope would check it out. Have you done any storytelling yourself? I think you’d be very good at it!
Don’t underestimate the impact of what you consider imperfections. I have always been envious of your vulnerability, your openness, your Vanya. Thank you for sharing that. I’m always jealous of whoever gets to watch you perform. Love you Ray.
Thank you, Amy! I think the idea of giving value to other people’s imperfections is easier than giving value to our own, but hey, we’re all works in progress. Love you, too!