Working Together + Mutual Respect+ Quality Singing+ An Important Cause+Humour= A Beautiful Gift Received

Tears rolled down my cheeks as I listened to and contemplated the beautiful 

sounds being emitted from two very special people, husband and wife team 

October 2012
Regent Theatre
Oshawa, ON
Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida

Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida.  They performed in my hometown for a special cause sponsored by Ontario Shores Imagine Arts Festival, "Breaking the Stigma of Mental Illness."  I believe these musicians have an incredible gift, not only in their ability to write songs that reach the deepest part of our souls, but also in their cohesiveness as a husband and wife team. 

     I heard Chantal speak before about her experience with a loved one living through a mental illness at the Imagine Arts Festival a couple of years ago.  She was/is trying to help break the stigma associated with mental illness. Her interview was incredible. She was articulate, funny and honest. I was grateful for her candor as I have a loved one who struggles with a mental illness and was encouraged to know that I am not alone in this battle. 

     But what struck me the most at this October 2012 concert was Chantal's and Raine's interaction with each other. I LOVED how they worked together. They bantered back and forth in such a humourous, natural way. They had the utmost respect for one another as artists and spouses.  They were humble, honest, vulnerable, transparent and funny. And let's not forget both are incredible singer/songwriters!

      In addition, I LOVE their passion for justice. I remember reading an article or watching a TV show a while back( Oops, I forget the details!) about Chantal and Raine taking their children on a humanitarian trip to Africa I believe. (It could have been Central America! You'll have to excuse my memory loss! I'll blame it on my age!) I do remember the image of one of the natives holding the Maida's young child. You could clearly see the joy and love for this child on the face of this precious African.  I LOVED that the Maidas allowed their children to experience the love from this African community and they were not afraid to let these people hold and love on their children! 

    We received a beautiful gift this night from two beautiful human beings living out their passions. Thank you Chantal and Raine for allowing us the privilege of experiencing you in this incredible venue. I pray you continue to keep your marriage alive! Thank you for your transparency and thank you for sharing your talent. My life is richer!