Early in September exploring the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN was remarkable. With my husband and oldest son we explored the sights, sounds and beauty of the Tennessee woods in early autumn. Frolicking along the trails, clambering up rocks and vines, splashing in the sparkling rivers was a highlight of this monumental trip.
What brought us there? It was an event called "The Josie Music Awards," which took place September 5th in Pigeon Forge, TN. https://www.josiemusicawards.com/ A song which I co-wrote with some amazing artists and producers from Pakistan was nominated in the "World Artist" category. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ep7w_2takFA. The submissions for this event started last February. After an extensive period of judging, (this year over 30,000 submissions were accepted from multiple categories)I was informed this song was chosen and that I would be recognized as one of the nominated artists. I was ecstatic to be chosen. After discussing with my husband we decided to plan a trip surrounding the event, despite the awkwardness and risk of travel during concerns related to Covid 19.
On the day of the event, all the artists attended in masks and in their finest attire. Some women made their dresses or specially purchased them for the event. Perhaps they had adorned in their best, in case their song was THE ONE to receive the finalist trophy and were called up to give an acceptance speech. I arrived in my favorite performing dress, earthy colors, simple and comfortable (purchased from a thrift store) with anticipation and excitement. I felt a little like a young child, waking up on Christmas morning in wonder and fascination of all the sights around me. People from all over the US and beyond had come to attend this special event. I felt honored to be there, among so many elite songwriters and producers. And thrilled to represent a very special musical collaboration between my Pakistan friends.
My husband and son took seats in the auditorium as I met with and visited a few new friends, had photos taken, and participated in a short interview. Then I joined my family and the magic of the night started. For around 3-4 hours between musical performances, several artists were called down to receive their reward under the brightly lit stage as segments of their amazing songs played. World artist category winner was called up. It WASN'T me! It was a woman who has won several awards in the past and very established in the Josie Music Awards. Yet I only felt about 5 seconds of disappointment. I thought to myself how it was such a privilege just being there! My musical world had expanded, opened to a new dimension and new paths. And to join these artists and to hear their music was marvelous!
Throughout the whole experience I made new friends which is opening up new and exciting musical collaborations. This to me is the most pleasurable part of the whole experience of the Josie Music Awards. Additionally, on the flight home to Utah I experienced an interaction with a lovely woman, which ignited the beginnings of a new song, now in the making.
Even more than being at the awards event, my favorite sights and sounds and tactile experiences happened in the forests of the Smoky Mountains. The vegetation, wildlife, peace and tranquility found within this part of the world was magnificent. And I got to share that experience with some of my family, whom I love. Memories and experiences were shared that will bring happiness as the years go by. I will continue to savor the newness of the experiences there, and the pleasure and joyful moments. To me it was a wonderful reminder to relish and love the moment and the process. Whatever process it may be that builds you up and opens yourself to new and exciting paths and ways of seeing life. Paths that bring new insights and wonder. To allow oneself to "wonder" is truly a delight and a gift.
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