I was born very early in life. As a result, I was ill equipped to handle the trials of life on my own. The doctors told my parents that without their care, I would most likely die in a matter of months. My mom and dad took pity on me and raised me as their own. At the time of my blessed arrival, my father was serving in the Navy and our family was based in Long Beach, Califorina. The bliss of my infancy was soon to be shattered by the news that I had an older brother, 18 months older to be exact. How were my parents going to be able to have their entire world revolve around me, when there was another sibling competeing for their affection as well. Somehow they made it work. I do not remember much of my early years. Much of my time was devoted to bettering myself. I realized quickly that life was tough and I needed to be prepared. I focused on developing my physical and cognitive abilities. Within five years I was ready to start a new challenge, Kindergarten. By this time my dad had completed his service in the Navy and we now lived in Arkansas. My father was now a nuclear chemist. Life was good. We had a home high on a hill three miles form the nuclear plant where my father worked. He said it was for convenience but I always suspected that he was testing the effects of living three miles from a nuclear reactor on his children. I grew in knowledge and wisdom during my adolescences. Three events in my young life set me on a path to the man I am today. First was the dedication of my life to Christ. Even though at times I have struggled in my walk, my faith influences all areas of my life. Next was a gift received on Christmas when I was sixteen. It was a guitar. Third I started playing bass for the church I was attending when I was nineteen. Over the next few years I spent some time in college but eventually ended up in Springfield Missouri. After moving to Missouri, I ended up in a band with one of my greatnesses musical influences, Mike Schmitz. Mike is a song writer whose music made a great impression on me while I was in my teens. Under his tutelage, I became a better musician and I count those years as the greatest musical experiences of my life to date. Our band One Old Man was destined for greatness but due to the complications of the human condition the band broke up before we had a chance make it big. I have been in several bands since mostly playing covers. Recently I played with What’s Next. This band was a great group of guys. Paul was the lead guitarist of One Old Man. Chris was the drummer and one heck of a nice guy. Jeff played rhythm guitar and always entertained the audience. Cham was not only a great singer I am lucky to count him as a friend. Of course I couldn’t indulge my love of music without the support of my family. Jill is the love of my life and along my children I am reminded that a crowd of screaming fans does not even come close to the love of my family.
What's Next v.1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioIhIFdRPdA
What's Next v.2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG-S3Jvh-7s
ACLU Commercial from the 1/2 Hour News Hour
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cv-HNakadIw
