If we could write one for her,
we might reach for a bouncy
beat, a major chord progression,

though in a slightly sultry tone,
because hers is the key signature
of joy. We could say that we

have gathered to listen, to put
our hands together in a rhythmic
prayer of gratitude, our palms

meeting as sound slips through
our fingers. We might add that
her voice twines around notes

arranged just so, breathing life
into the simplest do re mi
that she has taught so many.

So, do, la, fa, mi, do, re.*
(Sing it with me!)
So, do, la, ti, do, re, do.

Do, mi, mi.
Mi, so, so
Re, fa, fa.
La, ti, ti.

What a miracle, indeed:
When you know the notes to sing,
you can sing most anything.

And she does.
She so blessedly,
beautifully does.

Happy birthday, Shelley.

•••

In honor of my friend Shelley Burns—amazing jazz singer and exercise goddess—
for her birthday, Jan. 24, 2025.

*Bonus points if you recognize this series of notes from the song
“Do-Re-Mi” from “The Sound of Music.”