I was watching on a television at the college this afternoon as the spire fell from atop Notre Dame Cathedral. It made me sick to my stomach. This is a loss that extends beyond any religious connotations (which in this case are enormous). The historical and cultural significance of Notre Dame is unquantifiable. Notre Dame IS Paris. No doubt “Our Lady” will rise again, but 13th century is 13th century. Such a tragedy.

I will do what I can to honor this magnificent landmark tomorrow afternoon, following the Noontime Concert, from approximately 1 to 4 p.m. EDT, on WWFM – The Classical Network and wwfm.org.