"Universe Soul Energy"
Singer, Songwriter and Musician, Bilal has a vocal range that amplifies far beyond the planet we call Earth. It brims with all the highs and lows of gentle ocean tides, on a beautiful summer evening. The best way I can describe his sound is to acknowledge him as the male version of our "Late-Great," Sarah Vaughn. How this guy effortlessly duplicates the sound of a musical instrument, truly astounds me.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending one of his concerts here in Chicago at "The City Winery." To say the concert was amazing, is indeed an understatement. By the conclusion of his performance, there were many of us who remained seated in "awe" as we floated back down to earth. Honestly, as I walked away... I still felt as though I was levitating.
After the event, I was Blessed to continue a heart-to-heart conversation we embarked on prior to the show. Although he was all set to participate in my interview, our opportunity to video quickly dissipated due to a sudden crowd increase backstage. In spite of that, we were able to move off to the side and enjoy some great conversation pertaining to music. I was also Blessed to engage in some very profound discussion regarding to Autism. Aside from having great admiration for Bilal’s skills as an artist, I also felt connected to the fact he also has a child with Autism. For some reason, it seems more males are diagnosed with Autism than females.
Although my son is several years older than Bilal's, they both possess similar characteristics and strengths. Hearing him enlighten me on how amazing his son is, along with victories and accomplishments was so heartwarming. The greatest question I was dying to ask Bilal, was how he manages to ‘BALANCE” his rewarding career with fatherhood. His response was infused with so much emotion and compassion as he emphasized the importance of a strong support system, and many loving sacrifices necessary. I applauded him for being such a dedicated father, because within scenarios like this many Dad's have fallen by the wayside.
As I gave Bilal some incite regarding my challenges as a single, divorced mother, he listened very intently. At the end of my overview his response was, "You're really an amazing mom!" He then went on to reiterate the importance of having a strong support system, and how I must also find some slice of time for myself. We chopped it up a little bit longer, and every word of encouragement he provided was greatly appreciated. Being the sap I am, they darned near moved me to tears but thank God... I held it together-LOL. It was my true intention to discuss his journey and resilience as an Autism Dad, but this dude literally flipped the script. I didn't see that one coming, but it was very kindhearted of him.
Hats off and praise God for every engaged autism mother, father and other family member. Being of dedication, infinite strength and determination is invaluable to our children as we travel this journey. My son is Jonathan is now 18 years old and I must say he has evolved into an very talented, intelligent and exceptional young man. For this I am truly Grateful, and our heart-felt journey is indeed a beautiful one. I would not have it any other way! If you really want to know the truth... HE IS THE AMAZING ONE and I thank God for chosing me to be his mom :-)
