He’s MY hero!

I don’t have to buy Guitar Hero III, I have my very own, real life hero who just happens to play at a level that makes accomplished musicians twice his age drop their jaws in awe.  I spent some time with this young man over the weekend, and just like the last time I heard him play, I found myself shaking my head in amazement.   He’s THAT good.   He’s got a gift, for sure, and it’s a gift he’ll use his entire life.  Which leads me to my thought for today…if our schools spent as much time promoting music and the arts as they do athletic programs, maybe our kids would be better off in the long run. 

Seriously, you think David Beckham will be kicking soccer balls when he’s B.B. King’s age?  Will Eli Manning still be able to throw when he’s as old as Keith Richards?  Please, once their bodies betray them, most athletes become second rate sportscasters or worse, spokespersons for used car dealers in the Southwest.  All we can do is hope they got a good education and can contribute something to society after their ball throwing, glory days are gone.

I say hand every kid a musical instrument, let them make noise and play around.  Let them express themselves creatively, not violently, for a change.   Learning how to play an instrument requires patience, focus, determination, and drive.  Once you get it, it’s yours for life.  You can choose to try to make a living at it, or you can simply keep your talent in your back pocket and draw on it anytime you wish.  Whatever you decide, the ability to create something beautiful and meaningful will be at your beck and call,  forever.  It sure beats blowing dust off a trophy.

By the way, the name of my young hero is Rob.  He’s smart,  strong, brave, and incredibly gifted.  He’s  also my Godson and I’m so very proud of all he’s accomplished in his young life. 

Thank you to all of you for allowing me to gush and as always,

Thanks for listening:)