Every once in a while, something arrives that just stops you in your tracks—in the best way. Recently, that something came in the form of a handwritten copy of “Mercy Now” from the extraordinary Mary Gauthier. Yes, that Mary Gauthier—Grammy-nominated folk singer-songwriter, acclaimed author, and absolute beacon of truth-telling through music.

Mary’s songs have been recorded by everyone from Tim McGraw and Blake Shelton to Kathy Mattea, Jimmy Buffett, and even Boy George (yes, seriously!). But it’s her own voice—raw, real, and profoundly human—that made me fall in love with her work.

I was so moved when I read her book, Saved by a Song. It’s part memoir, part songwriting masterclass, and all heart. Honest, vulnerable, and wise, it’s a book I recommend to anyone who cares about the craft of songwriting—or about finding meaning through art and struggle. I came away from it feeling like I’d sat with a teacher, a friend, and a fellow traveler on the road toward something true.

So imagine my joy to find out she’s every bit as generous in real life as I had come to hope. So much respect. This handwritten gift will soon hang in our Storyteller Room at Parkside Acoustic, where her music—and spirit—will be right at home.

Thank you, Mary. Your words mean the world to us. ❤️