Marlene Buckler, MD, FACEP

DR.B'S BLOG   MARCH 18, 2008

    I had occasion to go this morning to a meeting of the Sarasota Opera Guild (SOG). A few weeks ago I had attended the opening of the newly refurbished Sarasota Opera House for a performance of "Rigoletto".  During one of the intermissions I had the good fortune to talk with a lady, a local artist, who later invited me to today's meeting.

    Sarasota, Florida is a lovely town to visit, especially in the winter if you live in the cold white north.  I am fortunate to call Sarasota my permanent home.  Being a year-round resident I tend to take the weather and the surrounding beauty for granted.  But I was born and raised and lived most of my life in Nova Scotia, so exposure to and tolerance of winter snow and wind are part of my nature. Though I love Nova Scotia and visit there frequently I must say that I much prefer winters in Florida.

    Today was a special treat.  At the end of the Opera Guild meeting three singers, currently performing opera in Sarasota, and accompanied by a talented pianist, entertained us with a number of songs.  Their performances were stirring and they received a well-deserved standing ovation from the members of the Guild.

    As I sat there, on a Tuesday morning in March, in beautiful sunny downtown Sarasota, listening to such a magnificent display of song, I thought how lucky I was to have such an opportunity and how therapeutic music can be.  All the cares in the world dissolve in the music.  One is uplifted and transported to a place of sheer beauty and peace. 

    Good for the soul.  Good for the body.

Marlene Buckler, MD, FACEP       www.StayOutOfMyER.com