Lyrical Roots

Jim Croce comes out of my speakers to share wisdom in lyrics and calm in melodies. He will soon be followed by Seals and Crofts, America, CSN&Y and many more as I digitially copy old albums. What is happening is not simply posterity, but re-positioning me on the solid ground of my growing years. I learned a lot about myself by listening to tunes in my youth--as you likely did, too--and I re-learn and am re-minded (as well as reminded) of who I am in the re-listening.

In "those" days, I would write or muse while listening, and today I write with the perspectives of time past and time remaining. No matter our age, we only have a measurable amount of time remaining, and it seems to be a good thing to spend that time with surety of who you are. The tree does not stand strongly with roots solidly in the ground wondering if it is actually crabgrass.

I am assured of that message while listening to the tunes of my formative years. Sometimes because the lyrics suggest the message, but more so because the lyrics remind me of my thoughts and passions from then...which are the same things as now, though clouded by life's circumstances at times. What I was, I am; what I am, I was. Yet, I change though I remain rooted. Lyrics remind me.

The Call to Words

I've begun reading again and reading anew "Atop the Underwood" by Jack Kerouac. I've read it before and enjoyed it greatly. This time to read is providing new perspectives. The book Jack's writings between the ages of 13 and 21. Even early on he believed that he existed to write.

The book provides great insights into the writer-in-progress, a boy-becoming-man who einjoyed stories (writing or listening), words, curiosity (his own and that of others) and expression. I remember hearing from a friend that words are my exhale (that friend hung around...she's now my wife!), and I've always appreciated that insight. I fell in love with photography at the age of six and with words not long thereafter through stories and conversation with Mom and Dad. Writing hooked me in 8th grade (Thank you Mrs. Owens). In Jack's words, I am gently reminded of my past, and therefore a better view of my future.

Let's not forget two things: 1. young people can feel strong urges about their abilities and purposes and we can play a role in encouraging them, and 2. we shouldn't forget the things that moved us strongly as young adults and adults-in-the-making...there is a rich source of energy, direction and affirmation there.