The day started as any other, bright and early with a trip on a train. It ended with thoughts of inspiration and feelings of admiration. I was invited to attend the 2nd Annual, Future Electronics Holiday Concert.
It was a fantastic night at the Bell Centre listening to Bernie Higgins, a man who sings a lot of very famous songs; the kind of famous songs that you take for granted, never asking, “Who sings that song?”
Bernie Higgins was followed by 12 year old songstress, Sara Diamond- the little girl with the big voice; watch out world, Sara is on the way. You can find her MySpace page here
Roberta Flack, are there any worthy adjectives to describe Roberta Flack? Incomparable, exceptional, silky smooth voice, artistry…does any of these words do the woman justice? At the age of …let’s just say north of 60, Roberta Flack held the audience spellbound with her crystalline voice and fluid sounds. Her band and the orchestra were sharp as they helped her deliver memorable performances of such classics as "Killing Me Softly With His Song," "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," and "Tonight I Celebrate My Love.”
Now, you would think that would be enough, however there would be one more performance that evening by none other than Bonnie Tyler, who delivered powerful performances of her classics including "It's a Heartache" and “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” She also threw out a few new songs recently written/co-written by her that more than a few contemporary rock and country artists will want to record.
The musical bombardment was impressively fun but it was not the highlight of the evening. The real highlight was Future Electronics along with its enigmatic founder and leader, Robert G. Miller. Vibrant, electric, and alive, Mr. Miller did two things which will forever be etched in our minds:
He laid out a vision of an extraordinary company that takes care of its community, its people, partners, suppliers and customers. He talked of a forward looking company; a strong, vital organization whose only interest is not just the bottom line, but also the world as it is today and the way it ought to be in the future- involved, caring, and compassionate.
The second thing he did was to discuss a man. This was an extremely powerful moment when he discussed this man. A man who came from modest means: who worked hard, who believed in himself- who had a vision, goals, drive and ambition. He talked about a man who is filled with passion, with love for family, friends, and colleagues. A man who has come to an understanding, that he truly can make a difference. That man he discussed was himself, Robert G. Miller.
What was remarkable about this was the delivery. He was self-deprecating, and came across with emotion and heartfelt anecdotes about his early years with quite a bit of humour strewn throughout. The humour was most evident when he commented on the continuously falling curtain.
With the final words of this, I extend my gratitude and earnest appreciation for having been invited to witness the night’s festivities. Along with that, Robert G. Miller, I salute you. I salute your energy. I salute your wisdom. I salute your courage. I salute your accomplishments. I salute a life well lived and hope to see you at many more of these annual events.
