As some of you know, I've co-authored a new book with Sonja Paris, the widow of the late and great saxman Johnny Paris of my former group, Johnny and the Hurricanes. John had many hits such as Red River Rock, Crossfire, Rockin Goose, Reville Rock, Sandstorm, Timebomb, Buckeye, Saga of the Beatles and many more, all recorded between the years of 1959-1967. The "Sopranos" TV show even used one of our tunes in episode 74! Our writing is near completion. It has been a year since he passed away, and a year of heartaches, legal, copyright, trademark, and many other issues unanticipated when we began to write. Sonja has had little time to grieve, and myself even less to breathe.It has been as amazing writing about him, as the book will be. Stolen master tapes, lies, bad business deals, American Bandstand, the Beatles, lost loves and more than a few hidden ones. And all the while, even though we know he's gone, he has been with us both in spirit and dreams. Strange occurances at odd times have given us every reason to believe that we all transcend death in some unfathomable way, unknown and unaware by most of us. Most of us except Sonja and I. Just how, you'll find interesting when you read the book, which we hope you all will.
Today's "Drivin' Sideways!" is about how life goes on. Its voices in your head, and faint sounds once familiar, in the dark of night. Its a breeze on a cheek or ear when there is no wind. Its the tingle I feel every time I would write about something significant in Johnny's life. I'm not ashamed to say Ive shed a tear or few. It's very, very hard to write about someones elses life, without living, or re-living some of it. Some made me laugh, and some as I wrote, made me incredibly sad. He was such a big influence on me when I was just a 'young-gun' guitarist in the Hurricanes who thought he knew it all, but didn't. And now 30 some years later, as his biography sits finished, I only now realize what it's like to have someone tell your story, as I've tried telling his. It's why we both felt him around us so much, even though we know he's gone.
Reknown psychic Sylvia Brown has said that change that appears suddenly out of nowhere is a sign. And hangups on telephones, can be indications of energies moving in mysterious ways. Is that really true? Can you really feel the presense of someone who passed on? Of course. We should all look for those little things that have no explanation. We haven't had to, because they have been all around us. This is my message to you this week: that life doesn't end at the end...that end is just a new beginning. For Sonja and I, the journey hasn't been without some trials, tears, laughs and tribulations, and thats all as it should be with something as powerful as telling someone's life story. She was his wife, and I his bandmate and friend, but both of us had to give and live a little more through it, to be able to tell it to the world. It hasn't been easy.
Today, as I re-edited and added pretty much the ending to a part of it, I was struck with sadness. An overwhelming feeling came over me. It's these times I know I'm not alone in my writing. It's those chills I always get when I feel my Mother and Father..and John, standing behind the veil, right behind me. I realize as much as they arent really there, that they are in sprit, and that is all we are anyway in this world and the next. A spirit that goes on, only to be reborn again and again, I feel...till we get it right. It doesn't take a strong belief in God or religion to know there is something else waiting for us to do when we get to the other side. I guess with John, it was to come back to us in spirit to help us tell his story, which is really the story of us all.
We all dream, and hope, work and pray for those things we believe will make us, and those we love, happy. Sometimes, when we aren't successful doing that in this life, we revisit those we've left behind, so that they know they aren't alone. And Johnny has done just that. At times throughout this writing adventure, I've felt aged, and my hair has gone much more grey. I felt tears when I shouldn't have, and laughed when no one knew what it was I was laughing at. I wasn't sure myself.
It hasn't been easy writing the book. Especially about someone like John, whom I called my friend. In many ways, I've had to relive it for him, and through him, to be able to tell the world all about it. And true, now we've done just that. We've told the world his story, and to a degree, ours as well. So friends, in your own lives, it may be the end of the story, but it's just the beginning of the rest. Live your lives, for life can be short, and try to make the best of your time left with those you love. You may just have to write a book about them someday!
Take care friends, and remember. "Love is All...All is Love...Always"Until next time...keep your hands on the wheel, and your foot to the floor when your'e...Drivin' Sideways! Peace All!"
*Special Thanks to: My Spirit Guides, Muck Sticky (for the laughs), The Hurricane Shelter, Team Detroit, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
Email me at:
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
hurricane.duane@atilarecords.com
visit me at: www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Sunday, June 17, 2007
"Album '1sts'" Can you guess which album....?
Hello friends! I thought I'd run down some record album (remember those?) firsts you may find amusing and interesting. Below are a few album and record 1st's you probably didn't (or don't) know! Can you guess? Winner gets a raspberry Toosie-Roll pop!
(*Answers at the bottom of article)..and NO PEEKING!! ;)
What album was...
1. First obviously LSD inspired record? First with L.S.D. initials?
2. First album cover commisioned by a fine artist?
3. First to construct an elaborate set for a cover?
4. First album with 'goodies' or surprises inside?
5. First album with Cannabis(Marijuana) on the cover?
6. First Pop album with lyrics on cover?
7. First with the artist's back turned?
8. First album where the group holds instruments they can't play?
9. First to mention 'turning on'?
10. First 'Soul-Pop' song with a fake fade out?
11. First album with 'phasing' effects used the 1st time, and on more than one cut?
12. First 'Soul-Pop' song with and orchestral 'freakout'?
13. First song with 'I get High' in the lyrics?
14. First record to combine circus music with outer space?
15. First established group pretending to be another group?
16. First to explore dead celebrities?
17. First to come with Marijuana rolling papers?
The Beatles Sgt. Pepper album was...
1. First to end/w a 43-second...?
2. First cover to risk being sued by the estate of what Bowery boy?
3. First where John let Paul...?
4. First to use a comb and tissue instead of...?
Ok kids! How did you do? Give up? The answers are listed below. And can you think of any others? Oh, and by the way...I'm keeping the Tootsie-Roll pop for myself.
*Answers 1.)1966 Blues Magoos-Love Seems Doomed 2.)1955 Jackie Gleason-The Great One/w Salvador Dali 3.)1958 Satan is real-The Louvin Brothers 4.)1962 Chubby Checkers Greatest Hits, pullouts and stickers 5.)Country Joe & The Fish & Dave Peel (Tie) 6.)1955 Sing along with Mitch(Miller) 7.)1967 Inside-Out Bobby Darrin 8.)1967 Surrealistic Pillow -Jefferson Airplane 9.)1964 The Beatles-She's a Woman 10.)1962 The Contours- Do you love me? 11.)1958 Miss Toni Fisher-The Big Hurt 12.)1960 This Magic Moment-The Drifters 13.)The Beatles-I wanna hold your hand 14.)1947 Bozo and his Rocketship 15.)1965 Franki Valli & The Four Seasons-3 singles as The Wonder Who? 16.)1957 Concert in the Sky teddy Phillips and his Orchestra/w the Jack Halloran Choir, Narrator-Ken Nordine 17.) Cheech and Chong-Big Bamboo (Thanks Tommy!)
*Answers-Sgt. Pepper1.)Piano chord 2.)Leo Gorcey 3.)...have his way for once 4.)kazoo
Until next ime...keep your hands on the wheel, your foot to the floor, and a raspberry sucker in your mouth when your'e...Drivin' Sideways! Peace All
*Special Thanks to: Serene Dominic & The Metro Times, My Spirit Guide, Muck Sticky (for the laughs), The Hurricane Shelter, Team Detroit, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, Bally's, "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
On-line at:
www.drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com
Myspace friends in your Bulletins at:
www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
'E'-me at:
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
(*Answers at the bottom of article)..and NO PEEKING!! ;)
What album was...
1. First obviously LSD inspired record? First with L.S.D. initials?
2. First album cover commisioned by a fine artist?
3. First to construct an elaborate set for a cover?
4. First album with 'goodies' or surprises inside?
5. First album with Cannabis(Marijuana) on the cover?
6. First Pop album with lyrics on cover?
7. First with the artist's back turned?
8. First album where the group holds instruments they can't play?
9. First to mention 'turning on'?
10. First 'Soul-Pop' song with a fake fade out?
11. First album with 'phasing' effects used the 1st time, and on more than one cut?
12. First 'Soul-Pop' song with and orchestral 'freakout'?
13. First song with 'I get High' in the lyrics?
14. First record to combine circus music with outer space?
15. First established group pretending to be another group?
16. First to explore dead celebrities?
17. First to come with Marijuana rolling papers?
The Beatles Sgt. Pepper album was...
1. First to end/w a 43-second...?
2. First cover to risk being sued by the estate of what Bowery boy?
3. First where John let Paul...?
4. First to use a comb and tissue instead of...?
Ok kids! How did you do? Give up? The answers are listed below. And can you think of any others? Oh, and by the way...I'm keeping the Tootsie-Roll pop for myself.
*Answers 1.)1966 Blues Magoos-Love Seems Doomed 2.)1955 Jackie Gleason-The Great One/w Salvador Dali 3.)1958 Satan is real-The Louvin Brothers 4.)1962 Chubby Checkers Greatest Hits, pullouts and stickers 5.)Country Joe & The Fish & Dave Peel (Tie) 6.)1955 Sing along with Mitch(Miller) 7.)1967 Inside-Out Bobby Darrin 8.)1967 Surrealistic Pillow -Jefferson Airplane 9.)1964 The Beatles-She's a Woman 10.)1962 The Contours- Do you love me? 11.)1958 Miss Toni Fisher-The Big Hurt 12.)1960 This Magic Moment-The Drifters 13.)The Beatles-I wanna hold your hand 14.)1947 Bozo and his Rocketship 15.)1965 Franki Valli & The Four Seasons-3 singles as The Wonder Who? 16.)1957 Concert in the Sky teddy Phillips and his Orchestra/w the Jack Halloran Choir, Narrator-Ken Nordine 17.) Cheech and Chong-Big Bamboo (Thanks Tommy!)
*Answers-Sgt. Pepper1.)Piano chord 2.)Leo Gorcey 3.)...have his way for once 4.)kazoo
Until next ime...keep your hands on the wheel, your foot to the floor, and a raspberry sucker in your mouth when your'e...Drivin' Sideways! Peace All
*Special Thanks to: Serene Dominic & The Metro Times, My Spirit Guide, Muck Sticky (for the laughs), The Hurricane Shelter, Team Detroit, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, Bally's, "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
On-line at:
www.drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com
Myspace friends in your Bulletins at:
www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
'E'-me at:
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
Sunday, June 10, 2007
"At the end of a dirt road..."
This week my friends, I found myself drivin' sideways, and right-turned onto a small dirt road on the outskirts of town in the farmlands south of Detroit. Here was a little church with a big heart. Pastor Jack and his motorcyclist Warrior Ministries flock was holding service. It was a warm Friday night, but once I went inside, it was a whole lot warmer than outside. When you got that much love in one room, the warmth just pours forth. And, I suppose thats a pretty good way to describe it. Pastor and his wife are friends of Laura and I, and last week they came to show support and pay respects to my Father-in-law Bill who passed away on us (please see last weeks "Drivin Sideways"). My visit was long overdue, as I had tried to make attempts to get there before, but was always stalled out for some reason or other. I promised I wouldnt miss this week's Friday night service. I'm glad I went. Some 13 or so years back, Pastor had wrecked his motorcycle as I understand it, and had been a typical biker with all the stuff that goes with it, good and bad. I suspect it was more bad than good for him.
Long story short was he was nearly killed in an accident, found the Lord (or the Lord found him, whichever you prefer), but the point is, they found each other, and thats all that really matters. Jack, also a fair guitarist and songwriter, began a ministry with members of the CMA, the Christian Motorcycle Association and came to call it Warrior Ministries, with a battle-cry of "Jesus Rocks!" Pastor's flock was and is small, but big on faith. He had spent almost 12 years preaching from his garage out in the farthest reaches of farmland. And now, his faith and works had paid off by gaining a real church building he could use for his ministry. I guess it's true all good things come to those who wait. I'll admit I used to kid my wife about going out in the boonies to meet with the "Children of the Corn" like in that horror movie of the same name. Now, don't send me nasty mail, I was always just kidding with her. You know? Preachin' out of a garage...down a lonley stretch of road with some guy ministering the "WORD". You have to admit, it's the garage preaching that throws things. But, its also what makes his Warrior Ministries and Jesus Rocks! work so well. Even if it was Jehovah or Krishna or Mohammed Rocks! It would have been ok. It's like life. We all have a dream. We all should be warriors, and fight for the human spirit.
Having advanced from a garage to a real brick and motar church building, was a blessing from God for him and his congregation. And a sign too. I guess when you work hard and believe in something, and spent like 12 YEARS working towards it, it has to eventually pay off, like it has for Pastor Jack. But, he still has a long way to go in the modern world of churches and 'big-business'. Video cassettes of sermons, and DVD's of services, just like on the big evangelist television shows, would have to be sold to get the word out. Sell a bunch, get more money for the church. He had been dabbling with a few devoted followers in recording his services and putting them onto CD's and then DVD'. Most, if not all of them truth be known, were pretty poor quality. They just needed someone who knew a little about recording music and audio, and filming some sermons and live music. Uh-oh. Can't you feel what's coming next? Enter "Hurricane" Duane. Somehow, I think my wife had this planned all along.
She knew that I'll always help anyone any-way I can. So, she began to video tape each service and bring them home to edit. Hey, it was ok. She was learning, and with my Television and recording filming background, she probably knew I'd give her hand when she brought them home. (Actually, more than that sometimes....but she had a plan!). So, of course the audio was raw and fuzzy, and the video generally not much better, but it was a start. I began to critique and analize the tapes. And I definitely had a few ideas, but I'd have to go there and check out the facilities and see what she was up against in trying to get Pastor Jack and his message out to the people. Are you seeing now where this is heading?! I even had a few ideas how to get him onto some of the larger Religious stations and on cable. The only unknown was raising the funds for airtime. But, hey! What's a few dollars when you got God on your side? The previous week Pastor and more than a few leather clad people from his CMA/WARRIOR MINISTRIES showed up at the wake, and I thank them for coming and vow to attend the next opportune time I can get away.
The very next week, I find myself spraying gravel in all directions as I hit the brakes and wail on down this dirt road to our friends in the countryside and that little church. Well now, they welcome me with open arms, and I jump onto the P.A. sustem in the back of the church looking for plugs and adapters so I can help them plan out how the best way to video, record and otherwise document Pastor's weekly messages. I find the plugs, study the sound board, and otherwise listen and watch intently from the back trying to figure the best way to catch the dynamics of the service, which I had to admit were pretty impressive for a biker Pastor with a small flock of kids, older folks, and some biker friends..oh..and my darling wife. Blowing Ram's-horn call to prayer, kids barefoot, Leather-vested hard core bikers, and a few older folks with tamborines and multi-colored streamers, it looked kind of like a festival. In many ways, I suppose it was for them. Getting 'the word' out was like a festival. Joyous, celebratory, and family affair with little restrictions and a whole lotta love. Maybe this is what Led Zepplin was singin' about?!
Afterwords, I spoke with Pastor and his wife and a few followers about how I thought we could do his CD's and DVD"s like a rock concert: smoke and mirrors. Hey! Big Church requires big business. But, once I mentioned some things for the Internet and podcasting, they all looked at me as though I was from another world. At least, not from their's. My wife tugged at my sleeve and reminded me that none of them, except maybe one, even HAD a computer! Uh-oh. I could feel their thoughts just blowin' in on the breeze from the green fields outside the church where the rabbits were standing on their hind legs during the service listening. Now they were all looking at me like they never heard of, or had seen a computer. As I glanced around the room at their smiling faces, they were all looking at me like I had the answer to their prayers for getting the Pastor's message out to the cyber-world at large. Uh-oh, again. Pastor had the 2nd biggest grin in the whole room..the other belonged to Laura. I told you she had something up her sleeve!
So, there I was, and here I am. While Pastor Jack smiled and shook my hand, he smiled widely. Somehow, I think he had prayed for this to happen. I find myself committed to Friday night services for as long as it takes to get a decent format for recording and duplicating his services so he would have a quality product to both sell and air and give away. It's ok, I really don't mind helping a former biker, singer songwriter truned preacher in getting the WORD out. It's just like filming and recording a band, and he does perform up on the altar sometimes too, so? Why not? Uh-oh...I think he had moved God to move my wife to move me, and now I was...moved, only to find myself stuck to the floor with only one way out. I'm gonna get Pastor's message out there the best way I can get it looking and sounding, and do everything I can to get him some airtime.I do find myself laughing at how I got here, or I should say, how Laura got me here. I'm not sure even she realizes how it happened. All I know is now Im developing and producing some videos and taped sermons. And, all kidding aside, it really ought to be fun. If I can help him in anyway achieve his goals, fine. It's a pure reason and he has a pure message, so it's all good.
Leaving the church down that dirt road that night, I realized something in that parking lot. The only two cars left in that dirt lot were Pastor Jacks and mine. Ironic, I thought. His flock had gone, and just our 2 vehicles were left. I think theres a message about life, and music, Rock and Roll and God and answers to prayers in your and my lives in that. We are never alone really. Theres always one other car left in our lot with us to share the burden of our lives. We should always share our knowledge and talents with others. If we do, it will come back to us 10-fold. We shouldn't do it for that reason alone, but it's nice to know. I've helped many entertainers with their recordings and television performances and videos since 1975, and feel better knowing that even if they didnt make it, I helped them, even just a little, to try and realize their dreams. So, for the next few Friday nights, down a long dark dirt road in the country, I'm gonna try and help someone...help others. Whether its bands and their music, or preachers and their sermons. It all the same when you try and help somebody, right?. Isn't that my friends, what life's all about?
Till next time friends...Always keep your hands on the wheel, and your foot to the floor when you're..."Drivin' Sideways!"
Take care all, and God Bless. Peace 'n Light always!
Special Thanks: Pastor Jack Yaeger and His Jesus Rocks Warrior Ministires, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Team Detroit, the Hurricane Shelter, Ralph Teranna and Soulful Detroit, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, and "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
Long story short was he was nearly killed in an accident, found the Lord (or the Lord found him, whichever you prefer), but the point is, they found each other, and thats all that really matters. Jack, also a fair guitarist and songwriter, began a ministry with members of the CMA, the Christian Motorcycle Association and came to call it Warrior Ministries, with a battle-cry of "Jesus Rocks!" Pastor's flock was and is small, but big on faith. He had spent almost 12 years preaching from his garage out in the farthest reaches of farmland. And now, his faith and works had paid off by gaining a real church building he could use for his ministry. I guess it's true all good things come to those who wait. I'll admit I used to kid my wife about going out in the boonies to meet with the "Children of the Corn" like in that horror movie of the same name. Now, don't send me nasty mail, I was always just kidding with her. You know? Preachin' out of a garage...down a lonley stretch of road with some guy ministering the "WORD". You have to admit, it's the garage preaching that throws things. But, its also what makes his Warrior Ministries and Jesus Rocks! work so well. Even if it was Jehovah or Krishna or Mohammed Rocks! It would have been ok. It's like life. We all have a dream. We all should be warriors, and fight for the human spirit.
Having advanced from a garage to a real brick and motar church building, was a blessing from God for him and his congregation. And a sign too. I guess when you work hard and believe in something, and spent like 12 YEARS working towards it, it has to eventually pay off, like it has for Pastor Jack. But, he still has a long way to go in the modern world of churches and 'big-business'. Video cassettes of sermons, and DVD's of services, just like on the big evangelist television shows, would have to be sold to get the word out. Sell a bunch, get more money for the church. He had been dabbling with a few devoted followers in recording his services and putting them onto CD's and then DVD'. Most, if not all of them truth be known, were pretty poor quality. They just needed someone who knew a little about recording music and audio, and filming some sermons and live music. Uh-oh. Can't you feel what's coming next? Enter "Hurricane" Duane. Somehow, I think my wife had this planned all along.
She knew that I'll always help anyone any-way I can. So, she began to video tape each service and bring them home to edit. Hey, it was ok. She was learning, and with my Television and recording filming background, she probably knew I'd give her hand when she brought them home. (Actually, more than that sometimes....but she had a plan!). So, of course the audio was raw and fuzzy, and the video generally not much better, but it was a start. I began to critique and analize the tapes. And I definitely had a few ideas, but I'd have to go there and check out the facilities and see what she was up against in trying to get Pastor Jack and his message out to the people. Are you seeing now where this is heading?! I even had a few ideas how to get him onto some of the larger Religious stations and on cable. The only unknown was raising the funds for airtime. But, hey! What's a few dollars when you got God on your side? The previous week Pastor and more than a few leather clad people from his CMA/WARRIOR MINISTRIES showed up at the wake, and I thank them for coming and vow to attend the next opportune time I can get away.
The very next week, I find myself spraying gravel in all directions as I hit the brakes and wail on down this dirt road to our friends in the countryside and that little church. Well now, they welcome me with open arms, and I jump onto the P.A. sustem in the back of the church looking for plugs and adapters so I can help them plan out how the best way to video, record and otherwise document Pastor's weekly messages. I find the plugs, study the sound board, and otherwise listen and watch intently from the back trying to figure the best way to catch the dynamics of the service, which I had to admit were pretty impressive for a biker Pastor with a small flock of kids, older folks, and some biker friends..oh..and my darling wife. Blowing Ram's-horn call to prayer, kids barefoot, Leather-vested hard core bikers, and a few older folks with tamborines and multi-colored streamers, it looked kind of like a festival. In many ways, I suppose it was for them. Getting 'the word' out was like a festival. Joyous, celebratory, and family affair with little restrictions and a whole lotta love. Maybe this is what Led Zepplin was singin' about?!
Afterwords, I spoke with Pastor and his wife and a few followers about how I thought we could do his CD's and DVD"s like a rock concert: smoke and mirrors. Hey! Big Church requires big business. But, once I mentioned some things for the Internet and podcasting, they all looked at me as though I was from another world. At least, not from their's. My wife tugged at my sleeve and reminded me that none of them, except maybe one, even HAD a computer! Uh-oh. I could feel their thoughts just blowin' in on the breeze from the green fields outside the church where the rabbits were standing on their hind legs during the service listening. Now they were all looking at me like they never heard of, or had seen a computer. As I glanced around the room at their smiling faces, they were all looking at me like I had the answer to their prayers for getting the Pastor's message out to the cyber-world at large. Uh-oh, again. Pastor had the 2nd biggest grin in the whole room..the other belonged to Laura. I told you she had something up her sleeve!
So, there I was, and here I am. While Pastor Jack smiled and shook my hand, he smiled widely. Somehow, I think he had prayed for this to happen. I find myself committed to Friday night services for as long as it takes to get a decent format for recording and duplicating his services so he would have a quality product to both sell and air and give away. It's ok, I really don't mind helping a former biker, singer songwriter truned preacher in getting the WORD out. It's just like filming and recording a band, and he does perform up on the altar sometimes too, so? Why not? Uh-oh...I think he had moved God to move my wife to move me, and now I was...moved, only to find myself stuck to the floor with only one way out. I'm gonna get Pastor's message out there the best way I can get it looking and sounding, and do everything I can to get him some airtime.I do find myself laughing at how I got here, or I should say, how Laura got me here. I'm not sure even she realizes how it happened. All I know is now Im developing and producing some videos and taped sermons. And, all kidding aside, it really ought to be fun. If I can help him in anyway achieve his goals, fine. It's a pure reason and he has a pure message, so it's all good.
Leaving the church down that dirt road that night, I realized something in that parking lot. The only two cars left in that dirt lot were Pastor Jacks and mine. Ironic, I thought. His flock had gone, and just our 2 vehicles were left. I think theres a message about life, and music, Rock and Roll and God and answers to prayers in your and my lives in that. We are never alone really. Theres always one other car left in our lot with us to share the burden of our lives. We should always share our knowledge and talents with others. If we do, it will come back to us 10-fold. We shouldn't do it for that reason alone, but it's nice to know. I've helped many entertainers with their recordings and television performances and videos since 1975, and feel better knowing that even if they didnt make it, I helped them, even just a little, to try and realize their dreams. So, for the next few Friday nights, down a long dark dirt road in the country, I'm gonna try and help someone...help others. Whether its bands and their music, or preachers and their sermons. It all the same when you try and help somebody, right?. Isn't that my friends, what life's all about?
Till next time friends...Always keep your hands on the wheel, and your foot to the floor when you're..."Drivin' Sideways!"
Take care all, and God Bless. Peace 'n Light always!
Special Thanks: Pastor Jack Yaeger and His Jesus Rocks Warrior Ministires, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Team Detroit, the Hurricane Shelter, Ralph Teranna and Soulful Detroit, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, and "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
Saturday, June 2, 2007
"This is not Goodbye"
"Drivin' Sideways...(SLOWLY in a Funeral) in Detroit!"
Ah, life and death my brothers and sisters. We can't have one without the other.
William Higdon, my father-in-law, City of Dearborn Michigan Civil Engineer (retired), card player, American Legion Post Chaplain, phenomenal gardener-landscaper, fantastic husband and father and father in law...and just all-around great guy, passed away last week after a brief illness. It hit all of us very hard. I figured this week I'd take time and talk about the awesome funeral we had for him in celebration of his life. We had the Spirit of Detroit all female accapella chorus sing, had a black Reverend, his senior citizens friends and card playing buddies, and a slew of leather-clad bikers from Warrior Ministries "Jesus Rocks!" group, Pastor-friends of my wife and I, who ride Harleys for Jesus. When they walked into the funeral home, you could see all the seniors reaching for their wallets and heart medicines! It was a sight for sure.
There should always be some happiness with the end of a loved one, to help balance out the sadness we all feel. We laughed, we cried, and we shared happy memories of Dad's life. Like when I first met him, the father of the girl I was living with (in sin). It was over 20 years ago, and he wasnt happy with my wife, then girlfriend, spending nights at my house. After his bowling nights, and bolstered by a few beers, he would call my house and demand she 'come home right now". My darlin' was over 21 so of course she never did go home, and we've been husband and wife for many years now. But that 1st meeting was one for the history books. She introduced us in his garage and he said "Hi...sorry I can't shake your hand, but I got cement on mine". When I asked him what he was doing, he responded with "Im making rocks!" Confused, I looked at my wife and whispered "I think theres something wrong with your Dad". Making rocks? But, thats exactly what he was doing.
Dad had gotten the idea of nailing pieces of wood together with some chicken wire and paper mache, and with some grey spray paint, was actually MAKING ROCKS for the garden! Adding a fish tank pump, he created a waterfall as well. I was amazed at his creativity. One of the rocks he made later was too big to get out the the garage! Dad was original with a capitol "O". He also made stained glass for each of the basement windows, and bricked the walls down there by sliding real bricks through the window to my wife and her brother when they were little. He also would gather Petosky stones from Torch Lake in Upper Michigan and polish them to make things with.
In the later years of his life , I thought he was slipping again when I asked him one afternoon what he was up to now. He was in the garage again (uh-oh!) cutting a bowling ball into 2 halfs....BY HAND. 72 years old, and the man is sawing bowling balls! Each half he would later paint red and black with eyes to look like a Lady-Bug for the gardens of each of us in the family and a few friends. I said a capitol "O" for originality, didnt I?! I made sure I snuck 2 of the "lady-bugs' into the funeral home, and place one on each side of him there so people could see how creative he really was. They brought a smile and tear to all, as no one expected me to get them in there. I know it helped the grieving a little. Along with his beautiful yard with little bridges and ponds, landscaping and those lady-bugs...I guess Ive got a lot of upkeep ahead of me to maintain for him. I'll try, but it'll never be as good a job as he did. Yep, my father-in-law was a one-of-kind alright.
When I knew he was terminally ill, I was inspired to write some lyrics (or poem, whichever you prefer) for my wife, as though from him, through me, to try an make her feel just a little bit better. It is called "This is not Goodbye" and the transcript follows below.
"This is not Goodbye"
Just want to write some lines, before I have to go,
I know that you'll be fine, so I have to let you know,
all things have a time, and life must run it's course,
like rivers and the tides, flows in and out in force,
dont shed too many tears, I don't want you to cry,
for it's you who remains, to take my place in line,
as my candle darkens, hold on to it's faint light,
I'll never flicker out, for this is not goodbye
Seasons have an ending, that begins anew again,
they melt into a another, that's come and gone and went,
and in them find new meanings, for why we live and die,
turn pages of my story, ours' not to reason why
try and find some meaning, in all Ive helped you through,
and think of all the good times, thats between me n you,
don't worry where I'm going, where it is I'll be just fine,
Ill see you on the other side, for this is not goodbye
This is not goodbye, and you don't have to cry,
we all must pass away, onto the other side,
see love is never ending, but grows more over time,
though we may be apart, just across the line
Ill be here always, look in your heart to find,
I've never really left you, you'll see the reason why,
its like that change of seasons, a tear within your eye,
I'll be gone just a moment, for this is not goodbye,
...this is not goodbye!
(Duane Thomas 5-19-07)
He will be sadly missed. But, like the note my own mother left me I found after she passed away said..."Dont think of me as gone...just away for now....we'll be together again, I promise" And my mother never lied.
Have a great week my friends...and tell those that you love, that you do. Peace all....
*Special Thanks to: William B. Higdon, The Hurricane Shelter, Team Detroit, Pator Jack Yaeger and Warrior Ministries, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, "Jake' and "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
Ah, life and death my brothers and sisters. We can't have one without the other.
William Higdon, my father-in-law, City of Dearborn Michigan Civil Engineer (retired), card player, American Legion Post Chaplain, phenomenal gardener-landscaper, fantastic husband and father and father in law...and just all-around great guy, passed away last week after a brief illness. It hit all of us very hard. I figured this week I'd take time and talk about the awesome funeral we had for him in celebration of his life. We had the Spirit of Detroit all female accapella chorus sing, had a black Reverend, his senior citizens friends and card playing buddies, and a slew of leather-clad bikers from Warrior Ministries "Jesus Rocks!" group, Pastor-friends of my wife and I, who ride Harleys for Jesus. When they walked into the funeral home, you could see all the seniors reaching for their wallets and heart medicines! It was a sight for sure.
There should always be some happiness with the end of a loved one, to help balance out the sadness we all feel. We laughed, we cried, and we shared happy memories of Dad's life. Like when I first met him, the father of the girl I was living with (in sin). It was over 20 years ago, and he wasnt happy with my wife, then girlfriend, spending nights at my house. After his bowling nights, and bolstered by a few beers, he would call my house and demand she 'come home right now". My darlin' was over 21 so of course she never did go home, and we've been husband and wife for many years now. But that 1st meeting was one for the history books. She introduced us in his garage and he said "Hi...sorry I can't shake your hand, but I got cement on mine". When I asked him what he was doing, he responded with "Im making rocks!" Confused, I looked at my wife and whispered "I think theres something wrong with your Dad". Making rocks? But, thats exactly what he was doing.
Dad had gotten the idea of nailing pieces of wood together with some chicken wire and paper mache, and with some grey spray paint, was actually MAKING ROCKS for the garden! Adding a fish tank pump, he created a waterfall as well. I was amazed at his creativity. One of the rocks he made later was too big to get out the the garage! Dad was original with a capitol "O". He also made stained glass for each of the basement windows, and bricked the walls down there by sliding real bricks through the window to my wife and her brother when they were little. He also would gather Petosky stones from Torch Lake in Upper Michigan and polish them to make things with.
In the later years of his life , I thought he was slipping again when I asked him one afternoon what he was up to now. He was in the garage again (uh-oh!) cutting a bowling ball into 2 halfs....BY HAND. 72 years old, and the man is sawing bowling balls! Each half he would later paint red and black with eyes to look like a Lady-Bug for the gardens of each of us in the family and a few friends. I said a capitol "O" for originality, didnt I?! I made sure I snuck 2 of the "lady-bugs' into the funeral home, and place one on each side of him there so people could see how creative he really was. They brought a smile and tear to all, as no one expected me to get them in there. I know it helped the grieving a little. Along with his beautiful yard with little bridges and ponds, landscaping and those lady-bugs...I guess Ive got a lot of upkeep ahead of me to maintain for him. I'll try, but it'll never be as good a job as he did. Yep, my father-in-law was a one-of-kind alright.
When I knew he was terminally ill, I was inspired to write some lyrics (or poem, whichever you prefer) for my wife, as though from him, through me, to try an make her feel just a little bit better. It is called "This is not Goodbye" and the transcript follows below.
"This is not Goodbye"
Just want to write some lines, before I have to go,
I know that you'll be fine, so I have to let you know,
all things have a time, and life must run it's course,
like rivers and the tides, flows in and out in force,
dont shed too many tears, I don't want you to cry,
for it's you who remains, to take my place in line,
as my candle darkens, hold on to it's faint light,
I'll never flicker out, for this is not goodbye
Seasons have an ending, that begins anew again,
they melt into a another, that's come and gone and went,
and in them find new meanings, for why we live and die,
turn pages of my story, ours' not to reason why
try and find some meaning, in all Ive helped you through,
and think of all the good times, thats between me n you,
don't worry where I'm going, where it is I'll be just fine,
Ill see you on the other side, for this is not goodbye
This is not goodbye, and you don't have to cry,
we all must pass away, onto the other side,
see love is never ending, but grows more over time,
though we may be apart, just across the line
Ill be here always, look in your heart to find,
I've never really left you, you'll see the reason why,
its like that change of seasons, a tear within your eye,
I'll be gone just a moment, for this is not goodbye,
...this is not goodbye!
(Duane Thomas 5-19-07)
He will be sadly missed. But, like the note my own mother left me I found after she passed away said..."Dont think of me as gone...just away for now....we'll be together again, I promise" And my mother never lied.
Have a great week my friends...and tell those that you love, that you do. Peace all....
*Special Thanks to: William B. Higdon, The Hurricane Shelter, Team Detroit, Pator Jack Yaeger and Warrior Ministries, La Grizzy, Sonja Paris, Larry Patterson and Treasure Island Gold, "Jake' and "Lucky" the Wonder Dog!
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