The Guitarist

I was up early, eager to reach my destination at opening time: Parc Guell. I heard the destination is popular among tourists; busy, often. I ventured, from subway to subway, to get there early. I got on the wrong subway on my way there which sent me back two stops, if I remember correctly. Upon approaching back to ground level, I saw a church in the distance atop a hill. The building felt magical. Far away, beautiful. Above the city. I looked down at my map and figured out where I would need to walk to get to Parc Guell.

There were many construction workers on the road I followed, the shortest road between the subway station and Parc Guell. The road was steep. I was reminded of San Francisco. My knees started to become more tense as I approached the top of the hill. I was immersed in the moment, excited to see all of the small streets as I ascended the hill. I was a few minutes early, giving me time to catch my breath before entering the park.

My first destination in Park Guell was the top of the hill, which I found gave panoramic views of the city and an excellent view of the aforementioned churchatop another hill. The city was beautiful. The morning was a bit dull. The sun shone through the clouds on the sea water. I looked for landmarks I could identify. La Sagrada Familia was easy to spot; the distinctive, Gaudi-designed spires high above most other buildings.

A man sat down and started playing the guitar. Shortly after, green birds flew onto his guitar. As if they were attracted by the music. He fed the birds while he played. I was astounded. For him to be able to play engaging music while also being attentive to the birds around him was mindbending. Delightful. Others were intrigued by the guitarist, too. Some people took videos.

I remember a bird landed on the top of the guitar strings. The guitarist, with a deftful touch, guided the bird away from the strings. The birds continued to orbit. To land on his guitar. It was almost like the birds were friends with the guitarist. The moment was wonderful, in the traditional sense of the word.

I wonder if that guitarist is out there playing now, as I write. Making music atop a beautiful city thousands of miles away.