By Dr. Clint Fulks
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20 Jul, 2023
I have always loved music. If you’re a patient of mine, chances are you’ve heard me hum or sing a tune as I work. Sometimes I even get the words right. I can’t help it. Perhaps I’ve always had a song in my heart. My father made the chords and let me strum as 4 year old Clint sang, “He’s got the whole world in His hands.” I can remember singing at my locker in high school, and singing to my dental school classmates during clinical exams (just doing my part to lower everyone’s stress levels). Music for me, especially live music, is a spiritual experience. Sometimes I can feel the love of God coming through in the emotions that music brings. To quote Leon Russell’s, “A Song for You”, “Listen to the melody, cause my loves in there hiding. I love you in a place where there’s no space or time.” That is a love worth embracing! Last weekend, Hannah and I celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary at the Hollywood Bowl in California. We attended a two night birthday concert, celebrating Willie Nelson’s 90th! As his song goes, “Gee, ain’t it funny, how time just slips away?”. The scope and depth of Willie’s writing is immense. We were in heaven listening to over 45 artists perform their interpretations of his work. Current artists such as Sturgill Simpson, Billy Strings, Tyler Childers joined icons such as Kris Kristofferson, Neil Young, and Keith Richards in celebrating a true American treasure. I am grateful to have been in that space and time with the love of my life. Music, it seems, is always best when shared. Willie once said, “We are the same. There is no difference anywhere in the world. People are people. They laugh, cry, feel, and love, and music seems to be the common denomination that brings us all together. Music cuts through all boundaries and goes right to the soul.” I tend to agree. Until next time, go and try to make a joyful noise. You might lift your own, as well as someone else’s, spirit. And don’t forget to floss. -Clint Fulks, D.D.S.