I have enjoyed watching the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic events time after time. It's a great way to see the host country's culture and history on display.
I recall the Friday evening 20 years ago, February 10, 2006, when the Torino Olympics opened.
I recall two pieces of music in particular.
Having a strong interest in geography, I was very interested to hear the performance of the Italian National Anthem, "Brothers of Italy".
At the end of the ceremony, following the lighting of the Olympic cauldron in the stadium, the inestimable Italian singer Luciano Pavarotti, in his final public performance of his life, sang the famed "Nessun Dorma". He made it sound so grand and epic, a fitting piece to feature toward the conclusion of the ceremony.
Recently, Andrea Bocelli sang it at the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Abuela and I were together talking about it, and I decided to look up the lyrics and their English translation. The final word is "Vincero", translated to say, "I will be victorious", reflecting his hope for what will emerge when the night gives way to dawn.
Music has a way of powerfully expressing what is deep within us, our yearnings and our hope.
Reflecting on these memories evokes something deep within me, bringing me into the dawn-like joy of what you, dear 1036, are in your essence, a special place that has defined.
So I declare that you shall not fade into the background but remain deep in my heart as that dearly beloved place.
We shall remain ever connected:
All my relations.
God's blessings,
With deep joy,
Paul
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