The Great Itzhak Pearlman

These wonderful words of wisdom from the great Itzhak Pearlman, the incomparable violinist of our generation, inspire us to dedicate our life to our original purpose. This story illustrates his lifelong dedication to music.

Itzhak Pearlman

Itzhak Pearlman by Akira Kinoshita from itzhakpearlman.com

“Itzhak Perlman is one of the finest violinists alive today. Several years ago, Perlman agreed to attend a charity reception after one of his concerts in Vienna. Tickets for the champagne reception were sold for the equivalent of five hundred American dollars per guest.

At the reception, while the guests mingled, Izhak Perlman stood in a roped-off area flanked by security guards. One by one the guests were led into the roped-off area and introduced to Perlman. As one man entered the roped-off area, he stretched out his hand, shook hands with the violinist, and said, “Mr. Perlman, you were phenomenal tonight. Absolutely amazing.” Perlman smiled and thanked the man graciously for the compliment. The man continued, “All my life I have had a great love of the violin, and I have heard every great living violinist, but I have never heard anyone play the violin as brilliantly as you did tonight.” Perlman smiled again but said nothing, and the man continued, “You know, Mr. Perlman, I would give my whole life to be able to play the violin like you did tonight.”

Perlman smiled once more and said, “I have.””
~ Matthew Kelly from The Rhythm of Life: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose

I was so amused by this wonderful story that I wanted to share it with you.

What did you learn from this wonderful story? Can you make a lifelong commitment to something? How about mindfulness practices?


Books by Matthew Kelly

The Rhythm of Life: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose

by
Matthew Kelly

In this classic bestseller, acclaimed author and speaker Matthew Kelly offers inspiring, take-charge strategies to help you discover your deepest desires, identify your unique talents, and lead a life filled with passion and purpose.

Do you ever feel that if you weren’t so busy you would be… [Read More

Connect with Meditation Practices

Connect with

Or enter your name and email address below.