Читать книгу Finding My Voice - Nita Whitaker LaFontaine - Страница 7

My life has improved through my friendship with Don LaFontaine and Nita Whitaker LaFontaine, and it means a lot to me to be included in Finding My Voice. This book is a testament to both Nita’s spirituality and to the deep love that she and Don shared.

The first time I met them was at a charity event that music mogul and producer David Foster had invited me to attend. I was nervous, insecure, and—I think safe to say, with no record deal and only change in my pocket—on the outside looking in. Earlier that day I had gone to a rehearsal for a concert that David was musically directing for attendees later that night. I stood in awe as I watched some of the world’s biggest stars going through their musical numbers.

I watched an incredibly beautiful woman walk onto the stage (she was striking). When she opened her mouth to sing I was blown away instantly. I turned to one of David’s assistants to ask who this remarkable woman was. With a smile he said her name was Nita Whitaker. Even more remarkable to me was how humble, warm, and kind Nita was when I was introduced to her moments later—she simply glowed.

She is the kind of person who walks into a room and lights it up. This woman was, well, wow . . . perfect. Mary Poppins perfect. I wondered what man might be lucky enough to call her his own. Two minutes later I found out.

Don LaFontaine walked into the room and everyone immediately felt his presence. Though his charm and charisma were off the charts and he was dressed immaculately, I was overtaken by his rich, deep voice, but also surprised by how gentle he was with it.

At the event later that evening, both Don and Nita noticed my nervousness and took it upon themselves to make me feel welcome and more at ease. I feel lucky to have met them then, and even more fortunate to have continued my relationship with them over the years as they have invited me into their home and into their lives.

When I found out Don had passed I was devastated … devastated for his children, devastated for Nita, and devastated for anyone who had the privilege to know him. He was a good man and we lost both a huge talent and an irreplaceable friend when we said goodbye to Don LaFontaine.

I can’t imagine what it would feel like to lose my voice, just as I can’t imagine the depth of sadness that Nita and the kids felt losing Don. What I really can’t imagine is having the Nita’s courage and fortitude to show us her journey through these past years. Her strength is an inspiration to all of us and her story tells us that with faith and love we will overcome any challenges that we face, even in the darkest of times.

Michael Bublé