Both Sides Now

…Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say, “I love you” right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I’ve looked at life that way

(Joni Mitchell, 2022 Newport Folk Festival)

“The last time Joni performed with guitar in hand in front of a paying audience was 8,660 days ago, on her 55th birthday,” according to Mitchell’s website.

Many devoted fans never thought this day would come again after Mitchell’s brain aneurysm – an abnormal swelling in an artery in the brain – which left her unable to speak or walk, much less play the guitar.

In an interview with CBS News following the show, the iconic singer, who is now 78, talked about losing the ability to speak and walk, or even get out of a chair. She described the experience of the last few years as “a return to infancy.”

Mitchell also explained that she relearned to play guitar by watching videos of herself “to see where I put my fingers.”

(Vanessa Romo for NPR)

Season’s Greetings friends! Wishing you good health, Love, and Joy through the holidays and always. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

#StreetPhotography. Los Angeles. LAColorStory.