Happy 90th Birthday to Julie Andrews

 Many years ago in the small town of Walton-on-Thames, a baby girl arrived to loving parents, who named her Julia Elizabeth – one name for each grandmother.

Little did these parents, or the baby girl for that matter, know that in a few years the world would have changed, for England soon would be at war, and that little girl would be asked to listen for German bombs and warn her family and neighbors of their coming.

Nor could these parents have imagined that not long after, their child would be singing on stage for the King of England. From there, she would go on to great fame, becoming one of the most loved performers of all time.

Today, seeing the glorious opening of The Sound of Music again on the big screen, we are reminded that something grand, a never-to-be-forgotten beauty was created by this much loved artist. It is a splendor that lifts our spirits.

I was eleven, when I first saw The Sound of Music in a movie theater. Dazzled by Julie Andrews, I had no idea that in seven years I would have the honor of spending nearly a hundred hours watching her at work as she taped her television series The Julie Andrews Hour.

I came from a theatrical family, but though I had experience on stage, I was so shy, I had trouble speaking to strangers. Because of this, few believed I could have a stage career. My high school acting teacher may have been the only one to see the possibility in me.

But being around Julie, I felt like a golden girl. I got to learn and be inspired by the best, someone who loved the same music I did. Yet, it is only recently that I have come to realize to full effect of those hours.

 Seeing how hard she worked, I began to think that maybe, just maybe, if I worked hard I might really be able to do something. Because of her example right there before me, I began to have faith in myself. Within a month I was taking singing lessons.

Dear Julie, the only gift I can give you on this, your ninetieth birthday (unbelievable as that is) is to say thank you! Your work ethic and beauty as an artist were a catalyst in my life when I so needed one. When few believe in me, you helped me move forward and believe that with hard work the artist I felt in my heart could come to be.

Today, I join millions of people in wishing you a Happy Birthday for the laughter, joy, and uplifting beauty you have given us these many years. Congratulations!