Music to My Ears

Even with my blow-dryer on its highest setting, I can hear the voice of my youngest sister, Gail, in the other room. She is singing at the top of her lungs.

It takes me a second or two to recognize the song; it’s one from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This is one of Gail’s “best favorite” movies, as she would say. She could practically watch it every day.

Gail is developmentally disabled and functions at about the level of a five-year-old. When she sings along to Willy Wonka, she doesn’t quite get all the words or even the notes right. But that doesn’t matter. After all, she is not auditioning for “American Idol.” She’s always loved music. It’s part of her DNA. What she may lack in talent, she makes up for in her enthusiasm and joy.

“Did you hear me?” Gail asks when I come into her room.

“I sure did. Great job!” After my compliment on her singing, Gail smiles. She is happy, and so am I.