I Could Build Me A Castle Of Memories Just To Have Somewhere To Go!

I don't know how many of you know the story of John Prine. He started writing music while a mailman in the early seventies. Mr. Prine had some success and was dubiously discovered by Kris Kristofferson. John wrote for Asylum Records and next founded his own label, Oh Boy Records. 

Prine was slowed down by cancer of the neck and entered treatment. While he beat the cancer, the radiation did effect his vocal cords. There was fear he would never sing again. Thankfully he did though with a new, lower voice. It served him well and gave him a Grammy for Fair & Square in 2005.  

I am constantly drawn to people who do difficult things and find success. Becoming a commercially successful musician is an almost impossible task. To become one and have the talent and stamina to do it a second time is amazing. 

I have a nephew who was the bassist for the band Passion Pit. Jeffrey and his band mates played "sold out" shows at Madison Square Garden and the Staples Center and they toured the world for years. I see him often and am so proud of him for making it. He now hangs his hat at the Berklee College of Music where he was a student last decade. 

I asked Jeff once if he got tired of playing the same songs repeatedly and his answer is one I will never forget. Went something like this:

"Uncle Chris you have no idea what it is like to stand in front of 20 thousand screaming fans and play your music in Madison Square Garden or Central Park. It never gets old."

Jeff is right, I couldn't and can't imagine what that is like. I write often about career success and failure. I have had both more than once which I feel good about. However, when I think of Mr. Prine and my nephew I quickly come back to earth and realize my accomplishments pale in comparison. It’s not about how much money you make or what your title is, it’s about the impact you have on others and the experiences you provide for them. 

That's it, life is about experiences.....the experiences you have and those you provide to others. That's rich. 

The picture that adorns this post is that of my nephew at MSG on 2/8/12. In case you don't remember there was a blizzard in the New York area that night. Note: we had a blizzard here last night, go figure. The show went on and every seat was filled. We got to go back stage...the only other time in my life being when the band played Central Park. Way cool, we had VIP passes which we still have to this day. What absolute great fun it was, I still hear it. 

For me, I feel good that I am still on my own two feet and sane enough to think about this stuff. I imagine I will be at my absolute best, totally reconciled and grounded about a minute before I get tapped on the shoulder by some guy with a staff.

 Until then, I am thankful for the experiences others have created for me. I am in awe of their ability to do just that and hope to get better at doing it for those around me at home and at work. 

I feel fortunate to have a castle in which to put my memories. Thanks Jeff! 

Peace,