There comes a time in life when all musicians will face the sort of emotional obstacle that I am about to describe. It presents a much more severe challenge than acquiring gigs or playing well. Performing on a show while dealing with the harsh reality that I’d lost my beautiful mother to multiple strokes was excruciating. I felt lost and disoriented, raw with grief, yet I had to persevere. Now I want to share with you a different kind of lesson in this issue.
So this is how life really is. July 2, 1996, at Harrah’s Casino in Lake Tahoe. I am the featured percussionist for the tropical dance review "Lacumba." My mom was just laid to rest yesterday and I can’t believe that I am here in the middle of this happy theatrical revelry. It’s too soon, but I have no choice in the matter, as the show must go on. Here comes another cue for the mambo section. God, I hope no one notices the tears streaming down my face. Here we go, smile big for the Latin funk finale as we are introduced to the audience. Dancers take their bows, curtain closes, run to the bathroom and cry harder than I’ve cried since I was a young boy.
Mom, you sang to me since I was in the womb and shared the gift of music with me that will last a lifetime. I was so lucky to be your son. You brought six kids to the U.S. and left Nicaragua behind in search of a better life. Mission accomplished, mom, your grandchildren and their children will be eternally grateful for your courage. You will live in our hearts forever. Adios, Mamita linda, adios!
1939
