Not long ago, I went to see one of my best friends, Chris, play a set or two at a local watering hole.

His parter, Benny, is the face of the duo and handles rhythm guitar and vocals. Chris prefers to stay in the background to quietly add in the riffs and runs that take a song to the next level of musicality.

His focus is amazing.

His relaxed command of the instrument is fascinating to watch. He never demands or coerces – always winning it over in some way to make sounds that are impossible in the hands of a less experienced player.

But even as he leads his guitar into new creative realms, there is a humble reverence in his expressions that bespeak the long realization that he stewards a gift – even as he hones his craft.

And he shares his talent freely, humbly and quietly, helping others win.

The sunlight of a coming Spring bathed him in warmth despite the chill in the air outside. We were tucked in for an evening of food and community as my friend provided the soundtrack.

And I took out my camera to capture it.