Yesterday, I made my way to one of my favorite parts of Central Park.  I was sitting in the tree-lined area of The Mall (no, there are no stores or shops in this area) near Bethesda Fountain.  This area of the park is almost always populated with skaters, hacky-sack players, and musicians.  Yesterday was no exception.

I sat on the long row of benches near a jazz saxophone player that I have heard many times over the years.  I noticed that he always seems unperturbed by anyone who passes his way.  He is there to play , short and simple.  His case is opened to receive tips, but I get the feeling that he'd play whether anyone tipped him or not; whether anyone was even there or not.  I admire this type of player, this type of person.  My perception is that his need to play and to express himself through music  is so pure and so strong that it is the playing itself that fulfills him.

For about ten minutes I sat in the open, sun-soaked  area allowing my eyes to fixate on any of the many people playing games, skating, snapping photos, and taking in the sights and sounds of an early Spring day.  It was relaxing and inspiring and completely 100% free.  It only cost me a bit of attention and it was worth every second.