A Daddy Busker

Some people see busking as begging or panhandling. I don’t. I see it as heroic, especially if done for others.    

Busking, for me, is an honorable and a dignified profession. It is one of the oldest forms of human expression on sidewalks, streets, and today, in malls. It has been practiced by musicians from medieval troubadours to modern icons who started on the street (Ed Sheeran, Robin Williams, and B.B. King, etc.)

Many musicians today use busking as an honest living to practice their craft, build an audience, and earn for a noble pursuit.  

Sincee the mall has ceased to be a shopping place for me, I am content occasionally visiting a deli or a coffee shop. But recently, I am delighted to see a space for buskers (one at a time). An entertainer shares his music for a worthy cause. Beside him is a box that receives voluntary donations or tips.

I’ve stopped to listen and enjoy their music, but one particular busker struck a chord with me. Perhaps because he is a father; I was moved by his poignant act, singing nostalgic songs. They brought me back to days when my late husband put up,, against all ods, his own ad company to provide what was best for our three sons, whose needs in academics (med school, law school, engineering school) were enormous, growing exponentially every year.

By grace, all three had crossed the finish line, and are now practicing their chosen career.

But this dad busker in the mall isn't done yet. He is at crossroads, busking for his daughter’s dream

If you chance upon a busker, please stop, read what or for whom he is performing, enjoy his music, then GIVE. Throw some cash (pocket change is never too small) into his box. Every centavo counts. 

("Busking" comes from the Spanish word buscar [to seek] because performers seek tips, donation, or fame in public spaces. The term originated in 1860s in Britain, describing street or sidewalk performers.)