Every year, at this season, so many of us enjoy “The Sound of Music”.

We marvel at the love story between Baron Von Trapp and Maria, his employed governess to the children. We also recognize the historical significance of a true tale, set during Hitler’s rise to power, of life saving escape.

But, at recent airing, having tuned in late to witness only the close of the final act I was struck by what just might be the single most powerful gesture in the entire account, and that by the true hero of the story.

Successfully absconded from the clutches of military police intent upon their capture, the Von Trapp family finds a hiding place in the graveyard of a nearby monastery. Huddling behind a monument, they hold their breath as, flashlights finally turning, the police head away from their lair. Then, Baron Von Trapp deftly motions for Maria and the children to run toward their awaiting car, leaving only two – himself, and Rolph, eldest daughter Leisel’s former flame turned Hitler’s army.

Rolph stands, alone, gun drawn. Stepping out of the shadows, Von Trapp faces him.

How many an American Western had set this scene: two men, facing off, both armed. But, in this instance, Von Trapp appears defenseless, staring into the eyes of he who holds the only loaded weapon.

With absolute, self possessed courage, Von Trapp speaks. His tone is quiet, but firm. Eyes fixed on his assailant, he begins to step toward him. Slowly, in approach, he continues to speak words of persuasive power and reason. Within seconds, the two men are inches apart.

What happens next is the stuff of legend.

Baron Von Trapp reaches for the gun and, clasping it, releases the weapon from Rolph’s grasp.

How he manages to do so is the point.

Throughout life, each of us reaches moments of psychic confrontation. Whether we both acknowledge and seize upon them determines, in many ways, our destiny. Threat is palpable, but other manifestations of force are more subtle, like subjugation, subversion, or suppression. Becoming aware that the gun is aimed at us is step number one.

The next move is critical. Do we name the daemon*, and look it squarely in the eye, or scuttle off in some form of obedient submission? What convinces us to allow our spirit to be diminished by any other, and to what purpose?

Von Trapp used reason to bend the warped mind of Rolph, even as he got closer to that which could annihilate him.

If we are to save the music, protect all love stories, and survive that which encroaches on our right to freedom, we need to nourish our power to disarm.

We must take the gun.

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* “Love And Will” – Rollo May.

Copyright 12/17/24. Ruth Ann Scanzillo. No copying, in part or whole or by translation, without sharing the source. Thank you.