It's funny how the mind works . . .

Last night I went and saw Wynton Marsalis. He was playing with 4 other very talented jazz musicians. Amazingly, at least to me, the pianist - who was incredible - is 24 years old . . ..

One song they played was "On a Clear Day, You Can See Forever" (which is also a very good Streisand movie from back in the days when she was a talented comedic actress - you know, before Yentl). The song reminded me of the holiday special - A Charlie Brown Christmas, which is known for being an innovative animated show, in part, because of its use of a jazz soundtrack, and jazz versions of many holiday classics. At the time it was first made - in 1964 - the tv execs objected to not only the music, the use of children to voice the characters, and the lack of a laugh track, but the speech by Linus on the true meaning of Christmas, which quotes from the book of Luke:

"And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them! And they were afraid ... And the angel said unto them, "Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings o great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord."

"And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men."

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." - Linus Van Pelt

With Halloween next week, the holiday season is upon us. And with elections the week after, Linus' wise words should guide us - Peace on Earth, and good will toward men.