79-year-old man publicly sings Barry Manilow’s ‘Mandy’ to his dental hygienist and nails it
In an age where fear often stifles joy, Colin, a 79-year-old from Barnsley, UK, defies the odds by stepping up to the microphone and singing 'Mandy' by Barry Manilow in public. His performance, though imperfect, resonates with warmth and authenticity, capturing the hearts of thousands worldwide. The event, orchestrated by street performer Ruth Lisgo, highlights the power of community and the simple joy of doing what one loves, regardless of age or skill.
Colin's act of bravery and genuine expression not only brought joy to his dental hygienist, who inspired the song choice, but also to a global audience that responded with overwhelming support. Comments poured in from around the world, celebrating Colin's courage and the shared human experience of music. This story underscores the importance of embracing vulnerability and the beautiful connections that can arise from it.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- Many people are held back by fear of failure or embarrassment, preventing them from pursuing their passions.
- The actions
- Ruth Lisgo creates opportunities for people to sing publicly, providing encouragement and a supportive environment.
- Evidence of progress
- Colin's viral performance and the positive global response demonstrate the impact of such supportive spaces.
- What we can learn
- Creating inclusive and supportive environments can encourage individuals to overcome personal fears and build community connections.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 9
- Engagement
- 8
- Relationships
- 9
- Meaning
- 7
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Courage
Colin overcame his fear of forgetting lyrics and performed in front of strangers, doing something he loves.
Kindness
Ruth Lisgo supported Colin by helping him with the lyrics and encouraging his performance.
Gratitude
Colin dedicated his performance to his dental hygienist, acknowledging her influence and support.
Try this today
Take a moment to think about a hobby or passion you've been hesitant to pursue. This week, find a small way to engage with it, whether it's singing a song to a friend or sharing your artwork online. Embrace the vulnerability and notice how it feels to express yourself.