Linda has many gifts; intelligence, compassion, empathy, beauty, charm, humility, and so many more. 

One of her gifts (but little known) is writing; be it a letter or a story or a term paper (for a Masters of Psychology).  When she had her private practice she was writing reflection pages weekly and posting them on her website. They were easy to read, well-chosen metaphors, with smooth transitions between thoughts, a gentle flow, and most times humor. 

I was on the receiving end of many letters and one in particular that inspired, Above All…Honesty. It reads as a poem written in prose and the subject was what she saw (sees??) in me a variety of characteristics.   If you’ve ever been complimented our socially learned response is, “no, that’s not really me”.  Most of us recoil from a compliment or positive assessment of our character, appearance, gifts, etc.; instead of  receiving the words, valuing them, and responding with a sincere “Thank you.”  (More on this; click on The Broken Candle Page.”

That rebuking response is how I initially felt when I first read the letter.  However, the more I read it the more I realized that all of the wonderful qualities she sees in me are true.  However, it’s only true because what she is seeing is me being loved by her.

I read the letter a few more times and gradually began hearing a melody associated with the words.  I added a few phrases to fill out the melodic movements and once done; went into the studio to record.  It’s one of my favorite songs simply because of its creative collaboration between Linda and me.

On August 7, 2003, Linda and I were married with family and friends in attendance.  We used the lyrics of Above All…Honesty as our wedding vows between us.

Thanks: I want to thank Cherise da Cunha for composing and performing the piano arrangement for the song.  Cherise is an extraordinary pianist, teacher and friend.