This morning, with my mind flitting through ideas for today's Daijams' 12 Days of Christmas post, I attended a networking breakfast, the theme of which was "turning your passion into a profession." The presenters, Jenn Krenn and Jill Felska, discussed how too many people are working jobs they hate for companies they don't respect. (Happily, this conundrum does not afflict me, though I enjoyed the encouragement to make happiness a workplace priority.) The presentation was a reminder that pursuing your passion -- and making a living at it -- is achievable, a version of the American Dream. Anyone can go to work and really, truly enjoy it! Imagine that!
I chose this song for today because it displays the joy I hope everyone feels at work. The setup here is great -- just two dudes drinking some punch and busting out some harmony -- and as professional musicians, Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby make it look easy. Obviously it's a staged set, but what is not fake is the mirth the two exhibit when singing together. They toss comments in -- "Grab the verse," Bing says, "Isn't this a lot of fun?" -- and at one point they almost descend into giggles. They may be getting paid to sing over punch, but they're clearly loving it, and that's the point of music, even a silly one-minute diddy. The love of music is the reason my friends and I still meet once a week to practice a cappella, the reason I still own a trombone even though dreams of playing for the CSO are long since squashed by the reality of (ugh) regular trombone practice. These guys were lucky enough to do what they loved for a living, and it shows. I dare you not to smile.
So get out there and do what makes you giggle. Why waste your time doing something you hate?
This is awesome, Brittany! It was wonderful to see you this morning and thanks for the kind words on our presentation. Looking forward to catching up more soon!
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