"Give Yourself to Love" by Kate Wolf

  "Give Yourself to Love" by Kate Wolf



In the heart of California's conservation movement, amidst the battles to preserve the state's natural wonders, I found myself entrenched in the struggle as an early member of Friends of the River. Our mission was clear: protect the rivers from the encroaching grasp of dams and development. Among our many skirmishes, one stood out—the fight against the impending New Melones Dam on the Stanislaus River.

Though the battle was lost, our spirits remained undeterred. We had won victories elsewhere, safeguarding precious rivers like the untamed Smith River in the remote north corner of California. It was in the midst of this ongoing struggle that a beacon of hope emerged—a major fundraising event, headlined by the enchanting singer and songwriter, Kate Wolf.

As the evening approached, it became apparent that the event would overflow its indoor confines, necessitating an outdoor venue. The streets filled with eager faces, united by a common cause: the preservation of California's natural splendor. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation and goodwill, a palpable energy that pulsed through the crowd.

And then, as Kate Wolf took to the stage beneath the star-studded sky, her voice soaring with the timeless melody, the night truly came alive. The lyrics of her songs, laden with meaning and emotion, resonated with each person present, weaving a tapestry of unity and purpose.

"You must give yourself to love if love is what you're after; Open up your hearts to the tears and laughter And give yourself to love, give yourself to love."

In that moment, surrounded by fellow warriors in the battle for nature's preservation, I felt a surge of optimism and determination. The spirit of the night, infused with the power of music and shared purpose, remains etched in my memory—a reminder that even in the face of adversity, love and unity can prevail. To this day, every time I hear the song I quiver.

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