Work and Play

Our piano tuner is a rare breed who consistently loves life’s dynamics: his instruments and work, his clients and friends, and the surprises, discoveries, and challenges that weave through the hours, days, and weeks. He and his wife (who has occasionally accompanied him on his visits to our house) both seem to exude balance – like melodies rich with just the right mix of allegro and andante, passion and rest.  

Over the years we’ve shared quite a bit, and have grown to appreciate each other. Today he visited to tweak some souring piano strings, but also fine-tuned an inspiring conversation over a glass of freshly extracted green lemonade, and discounted his services in good conscience since the work did not require a full tuning.  I sent home a fresh cranberry-apple pie for him to share with his wife this evening, and he invited us to tour their new country home on 23 acres not far from our son’s property.

It’s interesting to compare this friendship to other long-standing professional relationships when the people involved stick to business - to the exclusion of each other.