The streets of Detroit, Michigan were filled with jubilation as we came from all walks of life to celebrate the life of Aretha Franklin. I was so glad to have been able to attend some of the events. The atmosphere was surrounded by people expressing how Aretha and her music impacted lives.
The feeling of joy, praise and reflections permeated the crowds as we seemed to be on one accord from the church events where she grew up, New Bethel, pastured by her renowned father, The Rev. C. L. Franklin. I remember him introducing her on one of her albums, by just saying, “Retha can sing”, this was referenced on an occasion when she visited their home in Detroit, and she and the late Rev. James Cleveland would sit on the piano stool and just sing and play”.
The Queen of Soul, often referred to those around her as, “Re-Re”, was extraordinary, down to earth; humble, willing to give of herself, her talent and her soul. Her gift made room for her. She could sing all genres of music, and she did. She was true to her roots, “Gospel Music”. This was evidenced in her going-home ceremonies. She was able to teach the world lessons through her songs, her struggles. R-E-S-P-E-C-T was the order of the day as we will continue to sing and reminisce about her songs. Her songs touched everyone in different ways.
Returning to Syracuse, being glued to the televised funeral services and celebrations, we should be motivated to carry on the works of the Queen, Aretha, by giving thanks for such a servant of music. She has gone on to rest with many of our great leaders in all fields who have made an indelible mark in society. They should never be forgotten and left out of the pages of history.
What can we do then? Glad you asked! My suggestions are that we tell the young people who our trailblazers were, and even who they are. We also must let their dreams live on to motivate us in reaching higher heights, emulating love and respect, serving humanity, and most of all helping to make this world a better place. Stamp out jealousy, hatred, conceit and immoral values by putting more love in our heart. Don’t let Aretha’s life just be another celebration, then forgotten.
While traveling, reminiscing on how she was laid out the first day in red, gold open casket, and other days, as choirs sang, people spoke, and many of us participating in random interviews on how Aretha’s music touched our lives, and much more. “ I could not help but shed a tear”, as many did. I wrote:
A – Thanks for always being Available to help ordinary people
R– You taught us well, RESPECT, how to spell it, now we will live it
by respecting all people.
E – We will Emulate your energy as a great humanitarian in Civil Rights,
and giving-back, via financial support and love.
T – Thanks for reminding us what family is all about, instilling hopes, dreams
and values in them. You were the example.
H – Help! You helped so many get through the day by singing a song, giving expressions through music across the world, showing that music is a universal language that can bring us together.
A – Always in your heart and soul, you never forgot your “roots”, Gospel Music. We could hear it in the “Soul of all your music”.
Rest in Peace, Queen of Soul!
