I remember the book by Harold Robbins very well, but it was when I was reading this book that I was introduced to country music and a life that I'll never forget - notwithstanding my career in technology.
Long before I was a coder I was a countruction worker by day and guitar player at night. Mostly I favored the folk songs of the '60's and '70's - but about the time I entered technology - I also ran into a group of guys that will forever be family.
In my early to mid 20's I was picked to play in a band that was then a fill-in in the CMA - basically union players that traveled the circuit in the SE United States (or wherever they were called to) - and I remember my first gig with Gary Morris. I was humbled to be called and facinated with the opportunity to be able to open and play behind a great musician. I had no idea that the next several years of my life would bring me close to legends like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, the Ole Possum - and many more 'old' folks (as I called them) that I had a blast listening to and playing behind.
Recently I had the opportunity to go and visit much of the old band - what's left of the crew anyway. They're well retired, in their 70's, and I had not picked with any of them in over 14 years. My trip down memory lane - and 3 hours of picking in northern Alabama 2 weeks ago - made me take the pause to reflect on memories of another day - perhaps not a long time forgotten just yet.
I had to make the trip south for personal reasons and simply made it a point to visit the ol' boys - and my time with them really made me take pause and reflect on what I have today.
My mentor in the CMA - Pappy to those close to him - RBJ otherwise, served our country in the Army Security Agency - after doing a term in the US Navy. He was stationed in the Aleutians - on Shemya - for the better part of 18 months. You would have to researh this island and our history from WWII to really appreciate where Pappy has been. My brief visit with my old friend was a time of reflection for me because of personal tragedy in my life - and a time of reflection for Pappy too. I had no idea really where he'd been or what he'd done outside of our music career together. And it was facinating to hear some of this history.
I came away from this trip with a resounding reminder that no matter how tough things seem in my life - they're a lot tougher for others - I guess it just depends on which way the pendulum is swinging :)
As a picker in the 70's/80's - there was no Internet to distract me, or perhaps remind me - of history. Life was 9-5 during the day and a blast at night.
In today's technologically driven as well as challenged life style - there is a whisper of history to be found at your finger tips - on the Net - and a recounting of days, years, and lives past that is simply incredible - if only I take the journey.
Nope... this was not intended to be a Geek post that would provide you with some really enlightening step-by-step that you are fervently searching to find. It is simply a tribute to a friend - Pappy - that needed to be paid. Thank you my friend, and God bless...