Rags to riches, coal to diamonds, humble man to superstar.  All phrases that could be used to describe the humble man, once known only to a few now a gift to the world.  If you have not heard of him yet, you will.  And, you will be glad. 

This morning I watched in amazement as Paul Potts,  2007 winner of Britain's Got Talent perform live on the Today Show.  There was the typical Today Show hype and tease throughtout the show to get you to the finale when Paul actually sang.  There was a brief interview with Meredith Vieira that was most intriguing.  The shy, unassuming cell phone salesman has a touching story. 

As a child, Paul Potts was bullied.  He took refuge in song.  He said that no matter how low he felt, he always had a friend in his voice.  When he stepped out on the stage on Britain's Got Talent, he seemed quite average.  The kind of person you'd brush by on the street without giving a second thought.  The moment before he began to sing, his countenance changed.  You can actually see the emotion moving from his heart, to his mind, to his lips and then flowing out to the world through his voice.  Oh my, that voice.  It is impossible for me to listen without stopping what I'm doing, focusing on the sound and being swept away in the fullness of it and then to feel the need to wipe away tears.

What an incredible story this is.  As a child, this man was bullied.  Instead of being bitter and hardened by it, he turned to music.  He now embarks on his new career as opera star---without one minute of professional training When asked what he'd say to those who bullied him he replied, "In part, I'd like to say thank you. And, I hope that my music will encourage those who are bullied."  Oh my, more tears.  I know this all sounds quite soppy, but when Paul says it, it isn't a bit lame.  He is a gentle, shy, and humble man with a great talent.  Three qualities rarely foound anywhere.

This Saturday, Paul will be recording his first CD.  It should be released in about a month.  The X-cell phone salesman soon to become one of the greatest stars of the operatic world will leave obscurity and be transported into superstardom.  May his dream of encouraging those who are being or have been bullied be realized through his music and testimony.  May he continue to remain humble as he grows in success and may he live his dream of encouraging others.

Even if you are not an opera fan, listen for just a bit.  I believe you'll be moved.