Comfort Road Sessions,

Thom O’Connor

In my early 20's I studied for the Roman Catholic Priesthood.   While I did not complete my studies, nor become a priest, those desires that inspired my interest in that vocation have remained with me; bringing people together, sharing stories, and coming away in some manner transformed.

In 2021 my marriage ended.  One afternoon that  summer, while relaxing in a rocking chair on the front porch of an old 19th century yellow house on Governors Island, (a place my husband and I had enjoyed spending time on), I started thinking about what makes a true home. To me, a home is a respite from the world, usually occupied by people you love, be it family or friends.

Living in New York, I find my social times are mostly out and about with friends.  I recalled those times I knew in Colorado hanging out in the backyards of friends as we ate and they had impromptu music sessions.

My internal thoughts were interrupted by the sound of two woman singing and playing on a park bench on the sidewalk in front of the house where I was seated.  As i admired their harmony and kinship I thought how lovely it would be to enjoy this front porch with someone who plays an instrument or sings.  We could sing and talk about matters of the heart.  

And that's how the idea for Comfort Road Sessions came about.  I'd love to see this grow into an annual summer festival.