FOR BRENDAN and Others Who Love Music

My son is a little like me. Its ballads and sadness and stories we like in music. One of the greatest if not THE greatest storytellers was Harry Chapin. Some may know him as the guy who wrote and sang "Cats In The Cradle", a song I think is actually one of his lesser works. I had the pleasure of being introduced to him in college by a girlfriend. I will always appreciate Pam for this introduction.
In 1978 or 79 I went to see Harry in concert (with another girlfriend) in Davenport. I think this was at the Masonic Temple. Not sure, but I was sure nervous getting there. It was a great time and midway through the concert a storm knocked out the power. I recall Harry asking for all the kids to come forward and he gave them flashlights, and he sat on the stage in front and did an acoustic till the power came on again. Outstanding. It has been 27 years since his death in a senseless car accident on the Long Island Expressway in 1981. I was watching the evening news when his death was announced. I cried some and spent the rest of the night listening to his albums.
He was a true musician, artist, activist, philanthropist and writer. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Half of his concerts were free to promote the WHO (World Hunger Organization). He also represents the guitar on my lifeline tattoo.
Funny. Through all the statges of my life Harry has been there, ready and willing to tell me that if I am lonely, its Ok, others are too. And If I'm on top and thankful then that's Ok, too.
For those who have never heard Harry, let me offer this introduction. May it last as long as mine...

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Flashback Friday

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