The World According to Glissando

Tag: life

  • The Digital World Con

    You know, the powers behind cell phones, apps, AI, social media et al…everything digital tell you they make your life better and easier. I don’t believe the con much anymore. Saving time? It’s our culture, our society, our financial and organizational systems that keep us running in multiple directions at the same time. And everything has to be now they tell us!

    Some things are truly urgent, like getting an ambulance to take you to the hospital. But many things are not although we’ve been constantly told otherwise. We’re always in a hurry it seems. That’s because there’s big money in urgency. The less time we have to think about something, the more likely we will make poor decisions including economic ones.

    The people behind our digital world know this, so they make or create lots of junk and gadgets and tell us it will save us time and it’s easy. Sure, you will need to spend money to get it, often a lot, but it will be wonderful. Not necessarily. Digital companies always pitch their technology to other companies by saying it will save them time and money ergo staffing, and the conversion to our system is painless for you and your customers. From my experience, that’s just not true, regardless of the industry. Look how often air travel systems go down.

    One other thing to consider: all of this is designed to reduce our capacity to think critically, so that the powers behind our digital world can do whatever they want while distracting us and eroding this vital ability. Making it easy for us, they say. No, making it easy for them. Let’s talk AI. The average person really has no big need for it in their day to day life. And what do we do with it? We use it to write scholastic term papers or business presentations. Sure, this is easier but, you are not having to think about it. It’s all done for you. Do you have any idea how much ChatGTP is used for these purposes. Hey, you can use AI to create things you really don’t create, a machine does. What a wonderful distraction animating old photos, but really, how many times can you keep doing it. Or make videos you don’t have to. Again, you’re really not making it either, but you think you have created something amazing, just like two billion other users. This is how the digital powers want you to think.

    Finally, I am actually starting to resent and even rebelling against (oh yes…shhh) the big digital machine. I don’t know why I have to tell anyone everything about me to pay for downtown parking or tickets to a show or a myriad of other non-life threatening situations.   But, to use any app, you have to tell them, and that means everyone. I really never had a problem having change in my car for a parking meter. It’s pretty simple and easy too with no special technological requirements. And I didn’t have to pay hundreds and hundreds of dollars for me to be able to do this.

    By the way, I’ve never been against technology, only against the way humans try to abusively monetize it, especially to the extreme extent seen today.

    It really is a con. Don’t buy into it totally. Leave some thinking capacity in your cranium. Lose this, and you lose your freedom and are at the mercy of the tech gods, which should leave you feeling squeamish and wary. You know, that ambulance ride, which is vital, does not require you to have an app. I think that’s reassuring.

  • Social media: don’t put up with tepid content anymore

    A short while ago elsewhere, I wrote that audio podcasts are nothing more than talk show radio; a new high tech name for something that’s been around a long time. It has occurred to me that social media is much like the television broadcasting networks of yesterday. Today there are maybe 10 major social media platforms dominated by maybe 5 mega-sized owners. So, let’s say I have 10 “channels” to choose from.

    Here’s the point. I only watched the offerings I liked on broadcast television and if there was nothing on I liked, I wouldn’t settle for the least objectionable show, I would simply turn the television off and find something else better to do. Well, I’ve come to the same conclusion regarding social media. If there are 2 social media “channels” of the 10 I like, that’s what I will “watch”. However, if none of them are offering anything I like, I will not settle anymore for the least objectionable social media platform, I will simply shut them off.

    Facebook, for example, used to be about connecting with friends and sharing thoughts as the primary focus. Well, that’s long gone. To get a few, very few, posts by friends, I get an avalanche of unrequested and mostly unwanted posts from the manipulated digital abyss and endless advertising, often by lousy companies.   

    There is much more to all of this. All I am saying for now is, if you don’t like what you see, turn it off. Not forever, but until you get something you like. If enough people do it, the people controlling the “channels” with change the content on their platforms, just like broadcast networks a long time ago. Why? Because it hurts their almighty bottom line.

    The inspiration to write this post came from another friend’s recent post. It doesn’t matter who it was, what matters is that they were trying to create something of interest for their friends to participate in because they were bloody tired of the endless tsunami of advertising.  

  • Crap

    Crap. The internet is crap. Throughout history humankind has constantly made discoveries and advancements in virtually every area of endeavour in life, led by science and technology. There have been and are many remarkable men and women leading the charge. We owe a sincere thank you to all of these people. The majority of them, as chronicled in history, had a fairly altruistic character.

    There have always been many good people in the world, today included, but, there have always been a few too many not so good people. For some of the not so good people, their appetite to monetize and profit from anything and everything is all consuming. Nothing else matters, including other people.

    The internet. What a wondrous and amazing work of inventiveness. The goal was to improve communication between scientists and within the American military as I understand it. When it was first accessible to the general public, everyone utilized it because of its ability to connect people and share information quickly, even if they’re thousands of miles apart.  Enter the money people.

    As they quickly monetized the internet, it increasingly moved away from connecting people to a point now, where it is corrupt and poisoned beyond recognition. Where truth is whatever you want it to be and to hell with the consequences. It is perversely utilized to make money without conscious and without holding people accountable. Everything is “free”, where, in fact, nothing is free. The goal of social media is to addict you, and your kids, to using it and distract you from what is going on in the world around you. It’s all about power and money, and how to achieve these wanton desires in any way one can without morals, without scruples.

    This was not the intention of the creators of the internet. Their intent was much nobler, but, humanity being what it is and has been throughout history, has turned it into crap. A circus sideshow that unfortunately now dominates the world. For every person working right now on a new discovery, there are one hundred vultures eager to exploit the new discovery in any way they can for power and money; even if it creates addiction, corruption, hate, falsehoods and the list goes on and on. And AI? Yes, indeed, the internet is crap.  

  • The Tale of Canyon Dusk – The Story within the Story

    The Tale of Canyon Dusk – The Story within the Story

    The following is a true story. The use of real names is still not coincidental.

    Law & Order SFX again: Dun dun

    If you read my recent blog post called The Tale of Canyon Dusk, this is the story within the story about the spray painting of the lid of my storage foot stool. This will make sense if you haven’t read it, but, it is best to take six minutes to read the initial story. Following is a re-cap:

    I have this old, but durable, large storage foot stool made of faux dark brown leather. You access the inside by taking off the top, padded lid. I decided to finish off the remaining metallic copper spray paint I used on the breaker box for the lid. I had no idea if it would work, but that was part of the fun. The result was actually pretty decent. The lid had a nice, “artsy kinda,” look to it that played well off the dark brown on the rest of the foot stool. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

    What I did not tell you in the initial story is my methodology as to how I spray painted the lid. It’s kind of cloak and dagger.

    One evening, after sunset, I discretely went out back of where I live with four items: the foot stool lid, some newspaper, the spray paint, and a flash light. It is autumn now, so there is always a chance of frost overnight. Earlier in the evening, the idea of spray painting the foot stool lid found its way out of the depths of my little cranium.

    I checked the weather for that night and the next day. All was good: above freezing over night and sunshine with modest warmth the next day. The “Mission” was a go. I wanted to spray paint the lid outdoors because I knew it would take a substantial amount of paint to properly cover it and I did not want to do this indoors. Three main reasons: the paint might spray beyond the extent of the lid and any newspaper under it; there was not enough ventilation, even with my two fans, to dissipate it safely; and the paint on the faux leather would need a long period of time to dry, ergo baking it in the sun the next day. I had to do this outdoors.

    I also had to do the painting right away, because the longer range forecast said it might freeze the following night and that it was going to be cold and rainy the next day. It was now or never.

    I’m sure if anyone saw me go outside with the four aforementioned items, they would think I was quite daft. Sometimes I wonder about the same thing myself. But, this was big fun. An adventure, if you will, into unchartered territory.

    When I got way out back with the paraphernalia I first laid down the newspaper. I still used newspaper because I wanted to protect the grass. Respect nature. You know. I next laid out the target, the foot stool lid. Then, with flashlight boldly in one hand and spray paint can boldly in the other, it was fire away (eat your heart out, Indy). My goodness, it was both cool and fun. For whatever reason, even the spray trigger mechanism was more cooperative than it was before when I painted the breaker box, which was much smaller than the lid.

    After a few minutes, Part I of the “Mission” was completed. I did a thorough covering on the lid and expelled all the content in the can. As best as I could tell, everything looked okay. You have to remember that I was doing this covertly at night (so my neighbours would not think I was too daft, lol) using a flashlight, so the lighting was not ideal to assess my work. But, what the heck, time and patience would tell the tale, and I was having a good time. Now, I left the lid, on the newspaper, outside for the night and I went inside with the other tools of my new trade. I wondered if there was some kind of guild I could join.

    Time passing music please.

    The next morning at a much earlier time than I would prefer, I woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb…sorry, I don’t have much hair anymore. It was time for Part II of the “Mission.” After getting dressed, usually a good idea when you get up in the morning before you go out, I headed outside to the scene of the previous night’s operation (remember, cloak and dagger). The foot stool lid and the newspaper were still there.

    I noticed that there was a very thin layer of moisture on the lid. Was this bad? Who knows? I properly disposed of the newspaper that protected the grass and then it was off to my car on foot with the lid. You might be wondering why? The answer is simple. I was going to put the lid on the top of my car to elevate it and maximize the “baking” process using the sun. It made all the sense in the world to me. I’m sure to others it looked like something accidentally left on the roof of the vehicle. But, with me, it was all part of the planned “Mission.” Later that day, I collected the lid off the car. Much to my amazement, it had a nice, “artsy kinda,” look to it as I previously stated. The “Mission” was a success! Risk and reward. I have to admit, I had wondered what I would do if this whole “spray painting the lid thing” did not work out and the lid was unusable. But, I was as confident as a little kid in a Superman costume.

    And there you have it, the story within the story of The Tale of Canyon Dusk. I want to conclude with some great news for you; I don’t plan on painting anything else for some time to come.      

  • Lyrically Speaking Musical Words

    A Poetic Book by Glenn Hansen

    FOREWORD by the writer…

    I’ve had words and music in my head and heart for as long as I can remember. They have always been an integral part of my being. Words and music has been my friend, my confidant, my escape, my expressions, my joy, my sadness in both good and not so good times. They are a painting of my life story. And for me, words mean as much as the music. I hope you find some meaning for yourself in the words contained in this book.   

    Thank you, Glenn

    A Different Time, A Different Place

    You stand so close, yet you’re so far
    We’ll never fly, but it’s still hard
    I want to pull you close to me
    Press our lips passionately

    A different time, a different place
    I think we could have been great

    It’s not some sordid physical thing
    It’s the other things you bring
    The repartee floats from your lips
    Takes me on whimsical trips

    A different time, a different place
    I think we could have been great

    Soon I’ll be gone
    Time to move on
    Find the place where I belong
    Time to move on
    Time to move on

    I wonder how you feel about me
    Am I transparent or do you see
    I want to talk music and plays
    Hear all the things you have to say

    I didn’t ask to feel this way
    It just happened, no one to blame
    It once was tough caring this inside
    Knowing I must be denied

    A different time, a different place
    I think we could have been great

    Soon I’ll be gone
    Time to move on
    Find the place where I belong
    Time to move on
    Time to move on

    A Million Miles an Hour

    Another day of drudgery at my boring job
    I need money, there’s no choice, I put up with a lot
    The big boss is no manager and the truth be told
    It’s their way or the highway, you dare not be too bold

    Some days I think
    I’m on the brink
    I need superpowers
    Let me be clear
    Gotta get out of here
    At a million miles an hour

    It’s another dreary day, still no cash to spend
    Everywhere I turn my head the selling never ends
    How can you buy anything without a decent wage?
    Get too many folks like this, watch out for the rage

    Some days I think
    I’m on the brink
    I need superpowers
    Let me be clear
    Gotta get out of here
    At a million miles an hour

    Amusement Park

    I recall life as a kid, what a wondrous ride
    It was fast, it was fun, so many things to try
    No one told me that someday it would all be gone
    In the end the ride breaks down as time marches on

    Life is no amusement park
    People keep you in the dark
    When you’re young it’s all a thrill
    Later on that joy is killed

    Soon you see there’s no way to bring back the past
    I really miss that rocket ride, thought it would always last
    Now I know why everyone keeps kids in the dark
    You only have a few years when life is such a lark

    Life is no amusement park
    People keep you in the dark
    When you’re young it’s all a thrill
    Later on that joy is killed

    I remember twenty-one
    The world was at my feet
    That’s when it all came undone
    The ride’s no longer free

    Life is no amusement park
    People keep you in the dark
    When you’re young it’s all a thrill
    Later on that joy is killed

    Baby Let Go

    You’ve got a bad attitude
    You’re so angry, makes you rude
    The world doesn’t owe you anything
    All you want is flashy bling

    Sitting outside in the pouring rain
    Don’t let your life go down the drain
    Sometimes I think you’re so insane

    Let go baby, let go baby, let go
    Don’t let anger go and ruin your show
    Let go baby, let go baby, let go
    World’s not gonna go and change, you know

    You’ve got everything, but want more
    You’ve got a ledger to keep score
    Get in your way you kick and scream
    You tear up people at the seams

    Sitting outside in the pouring rain
    Don’t let your life go down the drain
    Sometimes I think you’re so insane

    Let go baby, let go baby, let go
    Don’t let anger go and ruin your show
    Let go baby, let go baby, let go
    World’s not gonna go and change, you know

    Be Free (Discover Me)

    Why won’t we come to see
    What we must do to be free?

    My heart churns
    The world burns
    How I yearn
    Can’t we learn?

    I need somebody to love
    Someone to cover me
    I want somebody to love
    Someone to discover me

    Why won’t we come to see
    What we must do to be free?

    So much greed
    Mouths to feed
    Children plead
    Victims bleed

    I need somebody to love
    Someone to cover me
    I want somebody to love
    Someone to discover me

    Beggars Bazaar

    We were travelling in a distant land
    Hidden deep beneath the desert sand
    The land all around was deeply tanned
    The sun had scorched the naked burnt earth

    In the ancient town’s misty town square
    Many buyers and traders were there
    The shops were set up with care and flair
    To display the wares of priceless worth

    Gypsy bands came and went through the town
    Cloaked in very mysterious gowns
    The auctioneer auctioned off the crown
    Which drew people from lands near and far

    From the haze a messiah did appear
    And cast away the shadows of fear
    He made the magic to me so clear
    In the midst of the Beggars Bazaar

    Castles in the Sand

    Castles in the sand, so grand and graceful
    A witness to all the fleeting glory
    People with power, yet so ungrateful                      
    In the end it’s the same sad story
    Castles in the sand, castles in the sand

    Storm clouds dance far across the stage  
    Flaming chariots fly on wings of rage
    Gold drops remain a stain on the page                
    Nothing changes with each passing age
    Castles in the sand, castles in the sand   

    Castles in the sand will be washed away   

    The wind and rain erode the face of earth
    A bloody lance weaves a dark display
    Woven destruction without any worth
    Castles in the sand will be washed away
    Castles in the sand, castles in the sand
    Will be washed away
    Castles in the sand, castles in the sand

    C’mon People

    C’mon people it’s all up to us 
    If we all can go build up some trust
    I think it’s still not too late

    Money is fine but not everything
    We need the earth to keep us living
    Now is the time, we can’t wait

    The black tide is rolling in today
    The black smoke is billowing away
    C’mon, c’mon

    C’mon people it’s all up to us 
    If we all can go build up some trust
    I think it’s still not too late

    Money is fine but not everything
    We need the earth to keep us living
    Now is the time, we can’t wait

    There’s chemicals bleeding everywhere
    There’s habitats dying in despair.
    C’mon, c’mon

    C’mon people it’s all up to us 
    If we all can go build up some trust
    I think it’s still not too late

    Money is fine but not everything
    We need the earth to keep us living
    Now is the time, we can’t wait

    The rivers cry, “Stop polluting us”   
    The landscape pleads, “Don’t turn me to dust”  
    C’mon, c’mon

    C’mon people it’s all up to us 
    If we all can go build up some trust
    I think it’s still not too late

    Money is fine but not everything
    We need the earth to keep us living
    Now is the time, we can’t wait

    C’mon people it’s all up to us

    Crazy Creative Fox

    Yes, please, underestimate me
    I think a little outside the box
    I’ve got your measure down to a T
    Cause I’m a crazy creative fox
    Yes I’m a crazy creative fox

    Sometimes I might seem a little shy
    Some laugh ‘cause I try to be nice
    Being nice, it seems, is a weakness
    It’s okay if I’ve got some meekness

    Yes, please, underestimate me
    I think a little outside the box
    I’ve got your measure down to a T
    Cause I’m a crazy creative fox
    Yes I’m a crazy creative fox

    You think you know me, what makes me tick
    What buttons to push to do the trick
    You’ve got it wrong, you don’t have a clue
    My happiness won’t depend on you

    Yes, please, underestimate me
    I think a little outside the box
    I’ve got your measure down to a T
    Cause I’m a crazy creative fox

    Na na na na na na na na na na na

    Da Vinci Codes

    Hot spots burn the globe with Da Vinci codes
    Dark knights shuffle pawns like computer nodes
    So I look to the east and I look to the west 
    And always try to do my best
    Trinkets and bloody pelf, not my journey’s quest

    I will put on my wings tonight
    Embark on a midnight flight
    I will reach up so high
    I will fly, touch the sky
    Touch the sky

    Lasers cut the night without any trace
    Shrouded by smoke and mirrors, we can’t see a face
    Still I look to the east and I look to the west 
    And always try to do my best
    Mysteries confound me, this I must confess 

    I will put on my wings tonight
    Embark on a midnight flight
    I will reach up so high
    I will fly
    I will put on my wings tonight
    Embark on a midnight flight
    I will reach up so high
    I will fly
    I will fly
    I will fly, touch the sky
    Touch the sky

    Don’t Want to Say Goodbye (Moon Beams)

    The clock runs fast, or so it seems
    Don’t want to say goodbye

    We have become so very close
    Our minds meet in the sky
    Our universe connects as one
    I do not question why

    The clock runs fast, or so it seems
    Don’t want to say goodbye
    You light the world with your moon beams
    Don’t want to say goodbye

    I know we will meet once again
    Somewhere beyond the moon
    Just be patient, our time will come
    We will reunite soon

    The clock runs fast, or so it seems
    Don’t want to say goodbye
    Don’t want to say goodbye
    Don’t want to say goodbye

    Moon beams

    Dreams

    Dreams
    We all have dreams
    Dreams give us hope for tomorrow
    Dreams help us forget today’s sorrows

    Dreams
    We live for dreams
    Dreams give us reason for going on
    When we feel that hope is all but gone

    Without dreams there’d be nothing to find
    Without dreams we’d be prisoners of time
    Without dreams we’d all lose our minds

    That’s why we have to believe in dreams

    Each Other’s Shoes

    Pack the suitcase, grab the dog
    We’re heading out going somewhere
    Going somewhere
    We’ll be gone who knows how long
    But we’ll know when we get there
    When we get there

    There’s a trip around the world everywhere you look 
    Add another chapter to your book
    Meet good people with different views
    Learn to walk in each other’s shoes

    There’s more to life than you think
    Open your eyes, there’s much to see
    There’s much to see
    Live, let live is what I say
    Understanding will set us free
    Will set us free

    There’s a trip around the world everywhere you look 
    Add another chapter to your book
    Meet good people with different views
    Learn to walk in each other’s shoes

    See the world you’ll see the mirror
    Your reflection will be clear

    Pack the suitcase, grab the dog
    We’re heading out going somewhere
    Going somewhere

    There’s a trip around the world everywhere you look 
    Add another chapter to your book
    Meet good people with different views
    Learn to walk in each other’s shoes

    Even Beatles Say Goodbye

    Last night I went to hear a Beatles tribute band
    Near the end there were tears welled up in my eyes
    They closed with “Hey Jude,” all those waving hands
    It touched me profoundly, suddenly I cried
    A million memories
    A thousand feelings and thoughts
    Raced through me like a flood

    I remember my older brothers, new vinyl in their hands
    So much excitement, songs they couldn’t wait to play
    Seems like it all happened a million years back
    Yet it feels just like it happened yesterday
    Yet it feels just like it happened yesterday
    Even Beatles say goodbye

    I learned about music all because of them
    Now I see we’re so much older than those days
    It hit me the soundtrack for our lives will end
    Put away forever, no more tracks to play
    A million memories
    A thousand feelings and thoughts
    Raced through me like a flood

    I remember my older brothers, new vinyl in their hands
    So much excitement, songs they couldn’t wait to play
    Seems like it all happened a million years back
    Yet it feels just like it happened yesterday
    Yet it feels just like it happened yesterday
    Even Beatles say goodbye

    Feel the Fire

    Feel the fire
    Hear the choir
    Leave the liar
    Big denier
    Tell them goodbye
    Don’t you cry
    Shine inside
    You got to try, you got to try, you got to try

    They’ll steal your money, steal your heart and steal your soul
    They’ll drain your power, make you numb and then control
    In the end seems no place to go

    Feel the fire
    Hear the choir
    Leave the liar
    Big denier
    Tell them goodbye
    Don’t you cry
    Shine inside
    You got to try, you got to try, you got to try

    They’ll make things hazy, make you crazy, you won’t see
    They’ll steal your freedom, rob you of your liberty
    Lock you up, throw away the key

    Feel the fire
    Hear the choir
    Leave the liar
    Big denier
    Tell them goodbye
    Don’t you cry
    Shine inside
    You got to try, you got to try, you got to try

    Can you feel, can you feel the fire?
    Can you feel, can you feel the fire?
    Feel the fire

    Feel the fire
    Hear the choir
    Leave the liar
    Big denier
    Tell them goodbye
    Don’t you cry
    Shine inside
    You got to try, you got to try, you got to try

    Find You (What Can I Do?)

    Your mind is a maze
    You’ve got mysterious ways
    And the games that you play
    Make me crazy

    And just when I think
    That I’ve found a new link
    I’m a puck in your rink
    Things get hazy

    What can I do, what can I do, what can I do to find you?
    What can I do, what can I do, what can I do to find you?   

    You’re way off the map
    After setting your trap
    Then you watch and you laugh
    What’s so funny?

    I don’t know why
    I continue to try
    Is your whole life a lie?
    Tell me, honey

    What can I do, what can I do, what can I do to find you?
    What can I do, what can I do, what can I do to find you?

    Fire in the Sky

    Fire in the sky
    Can you hear the people cry?
    There’s a fire in the sky

    See the flames shooting down
    Watch the people race around
    Hear them shout, hear them scream
    Is this all a bad, bad dream

    Fire in the sky
    Can you hear the people cry?
    There’s a fire in the sky

    Suddenly your friend is gone
    You wonder what’s gone wrong
    There is panic in the street
    As you start to feel the heat

    Fire in the sky
    Can you hear the people cry?
    There’s a fire in the sky

    A new day will dawn
    We will all be one
    Hear the world sing a new song

    Fire in the sky
    Can you hear the people cry?
    There’s a fire in the sky

    Friendship Frigate

    Sail away on the Friendship Frigate
    It will float your soul away from it all
    Sail away on the Friendship Frigate
    You will find the peace you wish to recall
    You wish to recall
    Life’s not hard at all
    You will never fall
    So, sail away on the Friendship Frigate
    Sail away, sail away, sail away today

    Sailing past cliffs hidden within the night
    White doves that shimmer in the violet haze
    Twinkling stars that shed everlasting light
    A billowing cloud of white drifts and sways
    Magic’s in the air
    Peace is everywhere
    Love is there to share
    So, sail away on the Friendship Frigate
    Sail away, sail away, sail away today

    Please come with me on the Friendship Frigate
    There we will find all the love that we need
    Please come with me on the Friendship Frigate
    You and me and all the world will be freed
    We will all be freed
    Find the love we need
    Plant a brand new seed
    So, sail away on the Friendship Frigate
    Sail away, sail away, sail away today
     
    Sail away
    Sail today
    Sail away

    Goodbye Good Neighbour

    Goodbye good neighbour 
    Sorry you had to go
    You were a nice man
    Always happens here though

    Goodbye good neighbour
    Known so many here
    Goodbye good neighbour
    Let’s not dwell in fear
    Goodbye good neighbour, goodbye

    Life’s bittersweet
    Any time of year
    So unrelenting
    Do your best while you’re here

    Goodbye good neighbour
    Known so many here
    Goodbye good neighbour
    Let’s not dwell in fear
    Goodbye good neighbour, goodbye

    Life is a mystery
    Lost in the sands of history

    Goodbye good neighbour
    Known so many here
    Goodbye good neighbour
    Let’s not dwell in fear
    Goodbye good neighbour, goodbye

    Got to Be Free

    Everybody’s got to be free
    Why can’t we live in harmony?
    Why all the hate, why all the greed
    We’ve got to be free

    We are different on the outside
    But we’re the same in heart and soul 
    We all have hopes for tomorrow
    Live, let live should be the goal

    Everybody’s got to be free
    Why can’t we live in harmony?
    Why all the hate, why all the greed
    We’ve got to be free

    We can agree to disagree
    Work it out without war
    There is money to go around
    Livelihoods at every door 

    Everybody’s got to be free
    Why can’t we live in harmony?
    Why all the hate, why all the greed
    We’ve got to be free

    Got to be free
    Got to be free

    Hey Man What You’re Fighting For

    Hey man what you’re fighting for
    Hey man ain’t no reason for war
    Why you want to go out and die
    For some other man’s piece of the pie
    Hey man, what you’re fighting 

    Hey man what you’re fighting for
    You don’t got to go through that door
    Why you got to even the score
    Can’t you see there’s no reason for war?
    Hey man, what you’re fighting for

    Highway 59

    You want to get out of town
    Don`t want to just hang around
    Make your escape to another place
    There’s nothing so fine
    As in the sunshine
    Cruising Highway 59
    	
    Cruising Highway 59

    Grab your friends, go for a ride
    Pretend you’re Bonnie and Clydes
    Make your escape to another place
    There’s nothing so fine
    As in the sunshine
    Cruising Highway 59
    	
    Cruising Highway 59

    You want to get out of town
    Don`t want to just hang around
    Make your escape to another place
    There’s nothing so fine
    As in the sunshine
    Cruising Highway 59
    There’s nothing so fine
    As in the sunshine
    Cruising Highway 59

    His Name is Jesus

    There’s a man with a handicap waiting for the bus
    We laugh at him or ignore him, he’s not like us
    And you ask, “Does anyone care?”

    There are people in this town homeless and abandoned
    We’re so busy with our lives, well we never imagined
    And you ask, “Does anyone care?”

    There’s got to be someone, someone who cares
    Someone who can change what’s going on out there
    There’s got to be someone who can undo what we’ve done
    There’s got to be someone, there’s got to be someone

    His name is Jesus
    And we praise Jesus
    His name is Jesus

    There are people who live in terror each and every day
    Their government tortures and kills them for the things they say
    And you ask, “Does anyone care?”

    There are people who routinely kill for their cause
    They don’t have any regard for life or laws
    And you ask, “Does anyone care?”

    There’s got to be someone, someone who cares
    Someone who can change what’s going on out there
    There’s got to be someone who can undo what we’ve done
    There’s got to be someone, there’s got to be someone

    His name is Jesus
    And we praise Jesus
    His name is Jesus

    Change is in the wind
    Time for a new start
    Change is in the wind
    Look for him in your heart

    There’s got to be someone, someone who cares
    Someone who can change what’s going on out there
    There’s got to be someone who can undo what we’ve done
    There’s got to be someone, there’s got to be someone

    His name is Jesus
    And we praise Jesus
    His name is Jesus

    Home on Christmas Day

    I see the clock ticking down
    Warm feelings start to abound
    I know the time’s getting near
    The moments I hold most dear

    It’s the Season of seasons
    Wonderment is the reason

    I hope your Christmastime is filled with great joy
    And may the Season’s spirit be everywhere
    It’s alright if you act like young girls and boys
    Make memories with new stories you’ll always share
    And I’m on my way
    Can’t wait to get home
    Home on Christmas Day 

    Now it’s time to grab my coat
    Put away my pen and notes
    Home is calling my heart
    The magic is ‘bout to start

    It’s the Season of seasons
    Wonderment is the reason

    I hope your Christmastime is filled with great joy
    And may the Season’s spirit be everywhere
    It’s alright if you act like young girls and boys
    Make memories with new stories you’ll always share
    And I’m on my way
    Can’t wait to get home
    Home on Christmas Day

    How Long?

    Climbing walls
    Hitting heads
    Silent halls
    Empty beds
    Curtains fall
    Actors bleed
    Singers call
    Vultures feed

    We’re all headed nowhere fast
    How long can it last?
    Living on reviews from the past
    How long can it last?

    Times Square chimes
    Loud applause
    Poets rhyme 
    Rebel cause
    Floodlights bright
    Spiral stairs
    Moonbeams light
    Empty chairs

    We’re all headed nowhere fast
    How long can it last?
    Living on reviews from the past
    How long can it last?

    There’s a dream 
    That can’t be seen
    On the silver screen
    Where the hell have we been?

    We’re all headed nowhere fast
    How long can it last?
    Living on reviews from the past
    How long can it last?

    I Just Wanted to Talk to You

    I can clearly still remember
    It was such a sad September
    I was drowning deep in a well
    There was no one who I could tell
    So I tried to reach out to you
    Thought you’d care and help me pull through
    Trusted my hurt heart in your hands
    Needed for you to understand

    I just wanted to talk to you
    And you talk to me
    Thought you knew my intentions were true
    Why wouldn’t you see?

    I just woke up, dead of the night
    Had a dark dream searing my sight
    How come after so many years
    There’s still some pain buried in here?
    Will I ever get some closure?
    Didn’t mean to lose composure
    Thought those memories were dead and gone
    Never dreamed they’d linger so long

    I just wanted to talk to you
    And you talk to me
    Thought you knew my intentions were true
    Why wouldn’t you see?

    I Need Gold                                                                         

    I need gold

    I headed west to Frisco Bay
    Lookin’ for gold, home far away
    Seeking riches to fill my pan
    In the mountains, that was my plan

    I need gold

    I staked my claim along the stream
    There were thieves who wanted my dream
    Seeking riches to fill my pan
    In the mountains, that was my plan

    I need gold

    In the end I lost ev’rything
    No food to eat, I was no king
    Seeking riches to fill my pan
    In the mountains, that was my plan

    Seeking riches to fill my pan
    In the mountains, that was my plan

    I need gold
    I need gold

    I Will Wait For You

    I know it’s been a tough time for you
    I understand because I’m there too
    I want you now but there’s no guarantee
    For all I know you’ll never want me

    I will wait for you
    I will wait for you
    I will see it through
    I will wait for you

    I realize it’s a long shot at best
    As I put myself up to the test
    I wonder if I’m out of my head
    It’s the rejection that I most dread

    I will wait for you
    I will wait for you
    I will see it through
    I will wait for you

    I’m a Dragon Slayer

    




    I’m a Dragon Slayer
    That’s my occupation
    The hours are short and the pay is good
    And I get four months vacation
    I live in my own penthouse
    In the north side tower
    I’ve got about every luxury
    And this too includes a shower

    But, you know, I must confess
    A dragon, I’ve never slain
    Because, you see, there’s but only one
    And to slay him would be insane

    So, in order to keep my job
    And so he can survive
    We have made a pretty sneaky deal
    So both of us can live and thrive

    So once every second week
    I go out to his cave
    And pretend that I’ve gone to slay him
    And all the pretty damsels save

    I’m a Dragon Slayer
    That’s my occupation
    The hours are short and the pay is good
    And I get four months vacation
    I live in my own penthouse
    In the north side tower
    I’ve got about every luxury
    And this too includes a shower
    




    Into You
    




    I was walking in the desert going nowhere
    Like a mirage there she appeared 
    I had to stare

    Her oasis beckoned me
    Crystal waters, palm trees
    This was the place I wanted to be

    I am, I am so, so into you
    I am, I am so, so into you
    I am so into you

    Laid on the sand sheltered by shade inside the gate
    It took time for me to find you
    Well worth the wait

    Her oasis beckoned me
    Crystal waters, palm trees
    This was the place I wanted to be

    I am, I am so, so into you
    I am, I am so, so into you
    I am so into you
    




    It Only Hurts
    




    Life is such a paradox
    Living here inside this box
    Makes no difference where you head
    You hit a wall, bruise instead

    As you add up the years
    As you add up the tears
    It becomes clear

    It only hurts when we love
    It only hurts when we hate
    It only hurts when we give
    It only hurts when we take
    It only hurts when we laugh
    It only hurts when we cry
    It only hurts when we live
    It only hurts when we die

    And I wonder why?
    Don’t you wonder why?

    Doesn’t matter who you are
    You can’t erase any scars
    You’re sometimes right, sometimes wrong
    Just grin and bear, carry on

    As you add up the years
    As you add up the fears
    It becomes clear

    It only hurts when we love
    It only hurts when we hate
    It only hurts when we give
    It only hurts when we take
    It only hurts when we laugh
    It only hurts when we cry
    It only hurts when we live
    It only hurts when we die

    And I wonder why?
    Don’t you wonder why?
    




    It’s Not Too Late
    




    How can I explain with my head what I feel in my heart?
    It’s hard to put into words what I feel
    All the love, the knowledge, the truth that’s waiting for you
    It just takes faith in the Lord to find it’s real
    You say it sounds too good to be true
    But if you give Him a chance, you’ll believe too

    It’s not too late to cross that bridge to the other side
    It’s not too late to cross that great divide
    It’s not too late to leave your past, let a new life begin
    It’s not too late to make a choice for Him

    Take a look at what’s around you, then honestly say
    It’s all just random luck that you see
    The green grass, the blue sky above, total perfection
    He made the Creation for you and me  
    You say it sounds too good to be true
    But if you give Him a chance, you’ll believe too

    It’s not too late to cross that bridge to the other side
    It’s not too late to cross that great divide
    It’s not too late to leave your past, let a new life begin
    It’s not too late to make a choice for Him

    I get down on my hands and knees
    And I pray that one day you’ll see

    It’s not too late to cross that bridge to the other side
    It’s not too late to cross that great divide
    It’s not too late to leave your past, let a new life begin
    It’s not too late to make a choice for Him
    




    Land Ho
    




    DEDICATED TO THE ADVENTUROUS LIFE OF RODNEY JOHN WEBB
    




    I was born to sail the seas
    It’s always been in me
    High adventure, such great glory
    Each time it’s a new story

    Land Ho
    There’s a new world waiting for me
    Land Ho
    I will be the first to see
    Land Ho
    Land Ho

    I was young and full of fire
    The high seas my desire
    Now I’m older, battered and bruised
    No regrets, dreams came true

    Land Ho
    There’s a new world waiting for me
    Land Ho
    I will be the first to see
    Land Ho
    Land Ho

    There was sun, there were storms
    Sometimes cold, sometimes warm
    You never were really sure if you’d make it back home

    Land Ho
    There’s a new world waiting for me
    Land Ho
    I will be the first to see
    Land Ho
    There’s a new world waiting for me
    Land Ho
    I will be the first to see
    Land Ho
    Land Ho
    Land Ho
    Land Ho
    




    Lantern in the Sky
    




    I watch the rain as it comes down
    Like the tears within my heart
    I see madness, it’s all around
    Seen it from the very start

    I want to soar up high in my lantern in the sky
    Levitate from far below, find somewhere for my soul
    I want to soar up high in my lantern in the sky
    Maybe there’s a whole new place filled with love, kindness and grace

    We all need hope to fulfill dreams
    Help keep us moving along
    A life flows like a winding stream 
    You have courage, so be strong

    I want to soar up high in my lantern in the sky
    Levitate from far below, find somewhere for my soul
    I want to soar up high in my lantern in the sky
    Maybe there’s a whole new place filled with love, kindness and grace

    I watch the rain as it comes down
    Like the tears within my heart
    I see madness, it’s all around
    Seen it from the very start

    I want to soar in my lantern in the sky
    I want to soar in my lantern in the sky
    




    Lavender Blue
    




    Nearby the coffee shop
    Saw you, I had to stop
    You wore lavender blue
    Had to come and meet you

    Love you Lavender Blue
    Can’t stop thinking of you
    Take me somewhere that’s new
    Your sweet fragrance fills the air
    You can take me there

    Where do we go from here?
    Nothing is really clear
    There is one thing that’s true
    I need to be with you

    Love you Lavender Blue
    Can’t stop thinking of you
    Take me somewhere that’s new
    Your sweet fragrance fills the air
    You can take me there

    You can take me there
    You can take me there

    Love you Lavender Blue
    Can’t stop thinking of you
    Take me somewhere that’s new
    Your sweet fragrance fills the air
    You can take me there
    Your sweet fragrance fills the air
    You can take me there

    Love you Lavender Blue
    




    Let Love Always Shine Through You/Change the World
    




    I see the meanness of the world, it confounds me
    I wonder if love can surround me
    Is there someone somewhere I can love?
    Share the hopes and dreams of doves

    Let love always shine through you
    Let love shine
    Let love always shine through you
    Let love shine

    Sometimes I want to sail the high seas
    Discover places to be free
    So many takers in a world full of need
    They just want to see you bleed

    The mountain seems so high
    There are times I want to cry
    I will never give up, I will always try

    Let love always shine through you
    Let love shine
    Let love always shine through you
    Let love shine

    Change the world
    Change the world
    




    Magic Touch
    




    I’m not looking to come and move in
    Wedding bells are not in the cards
    I’m just looking for honest love
    Someone to get inside my heart

    I need, I want…
    Someone to hold, someone to kiss
    Someone who I will sometimes miss
    Someone who’s got my back and know I have theirs
    Someone who knows how much I care
    I need to feel that magic touch
    I want to give that magic touch

    We won’t live in each other’s face
    We can keep on doing our thing
    But when you need to talk or embrace
    I’ll be there for you whatever life brings

    I need, I want…
    Someone to hold, someone to kiss
    Someone who I will sometimes miss
    Someone who’s got my back and know I have theirs
    Someone who knows how much I care
    I need to feel that magic touch
    I want to give that magic touch

    I want to hold hands, simple and sweet
    Have someone who cares about me
    I’ve got heart and affection to give
    I have a spirit I’m happy to free

    I need, I want…
    Someone to hold, someone to kiss
    Someone who I will sometimes miss
    Someone who’s got my back and know I have theirs
    Someone who knows how much I care
    I need to feel that magic touch
    I want to give that magic touch
    




    Man in the Moon
    




    I’ve met the Man in the Moon
    I’ve heard him sing his simple tune
    And you know it’s really kind of nice
    The way he brightens my loneliest nights
    And the way he makes tomorrow seem alright
    Seem alright
                                                    				      	
    I’ve been all around this world my friend
    I’ve seen sadness again and again
    I often wonder where it all will end
    But then I hear the sweet melody
    The Man in the Moon sings for me
    He makes the world the way it should be

    I’ve met the Man in the Moon
    I’ve heard him sing his simple tune
    And you know it’s really kind of nice
    The way he brightens my loneliest nights
    And the way he makes tomorrow seem alright
    Seem alright

    Look in my eyes and see all the tears
    They reflect my hopes and my fears
    Like the pieces of a shattered mirror
    But then I hear the sweet melody
    The Man in the Moon sings for me
    He makes the world the way it should be

    I’ve met the Man in the Moon
    I’ve heard him sing his simple tune
    And you know it’s really kind of nice
    The way he brightens my loneliest nights
    And the way he makes tomorrow seem alright
    Seem alright
    




    Maxine the Mink
    




    Have you met Maxine the Mink?
    She doesn’t know how to think
    I don’t really think she can
    But she likes to go to bed with a man
    Have you seen the Dynamite Kid?
    You should see what he did
    He went to bed with Maxine the Mink
    Now he doesn’t know how to think

    Who really knows
    How time comes and goes?
    But when time is gone
    It still keeps running on

    Many people believe they’re a star
    So Maxine will buy them a drink at the bar
    But all stars in time must fall
    And their past you just can’t recall
    Night turns to day or day turns to night
    No one knows for sure which is right
    Two people love each other or so they think
    Maybe someday he’ll meet Maxine the Mink

    Who really knows
    How time comes and goes?
    But when time is gone
    It still keeps running on
    




    Maxwell
    




    You came early on a crisp December day
    But with one look you melted hearts away
    Mom and Dad’s eyes were filled with tears and awe
    Such profound joy in the little life they saw

    Running through life we forget about the circle
    A new born baby breathes life into our souls
    It reminds us every life is a miracle
    A special gift, not something we bestow
    And I marvel at the miracle
    We marvel at the miracle
    I marvel at the miracle of you

    No one knows where the winds of life will blow
    Embrace each day with a love that overflows
    Little Maxwell, he touches all our hearts 
    Cherish every moment from the start
    Running through life we forget about the circle
    A newborn baby breathes life into our souls
    It reminds us every life is a miracle
    A special gift, not something we bestow
    And I marvel at the miracle
    We marvel at the miracle
    I marvel at the miracle of you

    La la la la, la, la, la, la, la
    La la la la, la, la, la, la, la
    




    Mellow Man
    




    I’m a mellow man
    Oh yes I am
    Hey it’s all cool
    I ain’t a fool

    That’s enough bull
    The pail is full
    Time to kick back
    Stay off the track

    I’m a mellow man
    Oh yes I am
    Hey it’s all cool
    I ain’t a fool

    Liars, they lurk
    Sell you some dirt
    Turns out its muck
    What you got sucks

    I’m a mellow man
    Oh yes I am
    Hey it’s all cool
    I ain’t a fool

    Don’t stress out about 
    What you can’t control
    Control what you can 
    Do your best and roll
    Let life unfold 

    I’m a mellow man
    Oh yes I am
    Hey it’s all cool
    I ain’t a fool
    




    Meltdown
    




    The concrete tower
    Producing the power
    Casts a deep, dark shadow
    Over the countryside

    Hour after hour
    The nuclear reactor
    Drives the giant turbines
    That keeps them electrified

    But what would happen if there was an accident?
    The utility says this could never occur
    They say the fail-safe systems would prevent
    A disastrous situation, this they assure

    But can we really believe everything they say
    When they don’t even know what to do with the waste
    It seems that money is the dominant factor
    It costs too much to shut down the reactor

    Meltdown
    It’s called the China Syndrome
    Meltdown
    It would drive you from your home
    Why do they have to play
    Russian roulette with a loaded gun?
    Some day it may hurt everyone
    Meltdown
    Meltdown

    The issues are complex
    The public is vexed
    But the utility
    Ignores the public’s pleas

    It’s a power play
    In more than one way
    There’s much at stake for the
    Nuclear industry

    They try to placate us with meaningless statements
    But public relations won’t help us at all
    If there’s an uncontrollable nuclear incident
    That finds a way out of the tower’s concrete walls

    No, we can’t really believe everything they say
    They’re too involved in the complex power play
    It seems that money is the dominant factor
    It costs too much to shut down the reactor

    Meltdown
    It’s called the China Syndrome
    Meltdown
    It would drive you from your home
    Why do they have to play
    Russian Roulette with a loaded gun?
    Some day it may hurt everyone
    Meltdown
    Meltdown
    




    Messiah
    




    As we sift down in the sands of our time
    Seeking answers to the depths of our minds
    We don’t know which direction we should take
    To try and rectify our past mistakes

    Messiah, show us the way
    Messiah, show us the way
    Messiah, show us the way today
    Show us the way

    Messiah lives on the far side of time
    In a place where the universe rhymes
    He sees everything that’s beyond us all
    He sees all the things that cause us to fall

    Messiah, show us the way
    Messiah, show us the way
    Messiah, show us the way today
    Show us the way
    Show us today

    Show us the way today
    




    No More War
    




    Rich men, they can coerce their plans
    For gold and oil, they want the spoils
    Others filled with hate, they just can’t wait
    Crank up the war machine, even though it’s obscene

    Off they send all the kids
    Fighting so they stay rich
    Civilians suffer, they don’t care
    And when you win, they still don’t share

    It’s not funny, power and money
    Some want it so bad, it’s pathetic and sad
    Sell their own soul to gain control
    They will smother, get one another

    You have to let go of these deadly dreams
    They’ll tear you up, all the wicked schemes
    Don’t fall victim to the grand delusions
    In the end you’ll see its all illusions

    No more war
    Shut the door
    




    Pretty Pirouette
    




    Dance for me pretty Pirouette
    So sublime I will never forget
    Rainbows radiate all around 
    Sunshine, butterflies, they abound
    Dance for me pretty Pirouette

    Dance for me pretty Pirouette
    Be my star though we never have met
    I feel your aura all around
    I see miracles without sound
    Dance for me pretty Pirouette

    Carry me far, far away
    Somewhere new for us to stay
    We will dance across the sky
    Won’t have to even ask why

    Dance for me pretty Pirouette
    So sublime I will never forget
    Rainbows radiate all around 
    Sunshine, butterflies, they abound
    Dance for me pretty Pirouette
    




    Rainbow
    




    When storm clouds come rolling in
    And darken your skies
    And the tears from your heart
    Pour down from your eyes
    Did you know
    God has a rainbow
    Just for you?

    When you can’t shake the past
    Get it out of your mind
    And you feel you’re going down
    For the very last time
    Did you know
    God has a rainbow
    Just for you?

    Hold on with all your might
    God will see you through your darkest night
    Through your darkest night

    When storm clouds come rolling in
    And darken your skies
    And the tears from your heart
    Pour down from your eyes
    Did you know
    God has a rainbow
    Just for you?
    




    Rhythm, Time and Life
    




    Rhythm
    Time
    Life

    Life glows in you
    Life glows in you

    Feel the beat 
    Feel the pulse
    Feel the heat
    For yourself
    Oh, the Universe calls
    Tear down those walls

    Kindness and compassion should know no boundaries 
    In rhythm, time and life
    Love, hope and harmony should know no boundaries
    You shouldn’t have to think twice

    Hallelujah
    Hallelujah
    Hallelujah
    The spirit is in the sky
    Hallelujah
    The Universe is alive
    Hallelujah
    Prescient intelligence
    Hallelujah
    Bright light is your defense

    The dark ages
    Impending doom
    The elephant
    He’s in the room
    There is a light
    Shines through this gloom
    You will survive
    The threat that looms

    Rejoice people
    Oh, rejoice
    Rejoice people
    Your light it glows inside

    Rejoice people
    Oh, rejoice
    Rejoice people
    You see it in the sky

    Rejoice people
    Oh, rejoice
    Rejoice people
    It unites you and I

    Rejoice

    Rhythm
    Time
    Life
    




    See You
    




    Another day down the drain
    Life on this rock is so insane
    A dark cloud swirls in my brain
    I always hate it when it rains

    So every time I’m feeling down
    Need to get up off the ground
    I always come around to see you

    Relationships can take their toll
    Leave you lost in a black hole
    Suck all the joy out of your soul
    Really rake you over the coals

    So every time I’m feeling down
    Need to get up off the ground
    I always come around to see you

    I know you’re spoken for
    But I’m still looking for a crack in the door
    When I’m with you I want you even more
    I’m still looking for a crack in the door

    So every time I’m feeling down
    Need to get up off the ground
    I always come around to see you
    




    Shine On
    




    See all that light in the midnight sky
    Tell me do you ever wonder why
    We like to think we are queens and kings 
    We think we can control everything

    Shine on, shine on, my midnight sky
    Shine on, shine on, I’ll try not to cry 
    Shine on, shine on, when we’re all gone
    I know your light will always shine on

    Infinite sky, can you comprehend
    Our little lives, what waits at the end?
    We waste our time indulging our greed
    The things we chase, we don’t even need  

    Shine on, shine on, my midnight sky
    Shine on, shine on, I’ll try not to cry 
    Shine on, shine on, when we’re all gone
    I know your light will always shine on
    




    Someday We’ll All Be Gone
    




    The parking lot is really jammed
    Thousands of fans pack the stands
    Everywhere faces fill the streets
    So many people you`ll never meet

    Suddenly it occurs to me
    Someday we`ll all be gone

    Rich or poor; every colour of skin
    Famous or not; women, children and men
    Dictators, presidents, great magicians
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    So think about what really counts
    Life and death, it’s all profound
    What will you do while you’re still above ground?
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    Someday we’ll all be gone

    Up in space you can see us all
    Billions of minions wall to wall
    Living in a world where we crawl
    From city slums to shopping malls

    Suddenly it occurs to me
    Someday we`ll all be gone

    Rich or poor; every colour of skin
    Famous or not; women, children and men
    Dictators, presidents, great magicians
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    So think about what really counts
    Life and death, it’s all profound
    What will you do while you’re still above ground?
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    Someday we’ll all be gone

    So many people have cared about me
    But one by one they start to leave
    No last chance to say goodbye
    It chokes your heart, tears fill your eyes

    Suddenly it occurs to me
    Someday we`ll all be gone

    Rich or poor; every colour of skin
    Famous or not; women, children and men
    Dictators, presidents, great magicians
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    So think about what really counts
    Life and death, it’s all profound
    What will you do while you’re still above ground?
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    Someday we’ll all be gone
    




    Starting Over
    




    I admit I’ve not been smart
    Too much thinking with my heart
    How could I have been that blind?
    So much wasted time

    Here I am starting over down a diff’rent road
    Here I am starting over, wonder where it goes
    Here I am starting over, I won’t be afraid
    Here I am starting over, it’s a new parade 	

    What’s done is done now, can’t be changed
    Just as well ‘cause life is strange
    Time to move on, play new cards
    Hit the hammer hard 

    Here I am starting over down a diff’rent road
    Here I am starting over, wonder where it goes
    Here I am starting over, I won’t be afraid
    Here I am starting over, it’s a new parade 	
    




    Such a Long Time
    




    I was longing for tenderness and intimacy
    I needed someone warm with a gentle way
    I was weary of a world so cold and consuming
    I wanted to give up more times than I can say

    I can hear you
    I can see you
    I can touch you
    I can feel you
    Your warm body
    Up against mine
    I have waited
    Such a long time

    I yearned for someone with a positive heart
    A close friend, a loyal lover, a caring confidant
    To share things like touching toes underneath the covers
    You’re the daylight in my life, everything I want

    I can hear you
    I can see you
    I can touch you
    I can feel you
    Your warm body
    Up against mine
    I have waited
    Such a long time
    




    Sweet Summer Romance
    




    I see you at the beach
    Are you out of reach?
    Or tell me are you free
    I want to taste your lips
    Hold your honey hips
    You’re the only one I see
    You’re my heat, you fuel my fire
    You ignite my burning desire

    I need a sweet summer romance with you
    I need a sweet summer romance with you
    So won’t you please say I have a chance with you?
    I need a sweet summer romance 
    Sweet summer romance, sweet summer romance with you

    I want us to embrace
    Touch your lovely face
    Put your hand in mine
    We can take it slow
    Bask in the sunny glow
    Love in the summer time
    You’re my heat, you fuel my fire
    You ignite my burning desire

    I need a sweet summer romance with you
    I need a sweet summer romance with you
    So won’t you please say I have a chance with you?
    I need a sweet summer romance 
    Sweet summer romance, sweet summer romance with you

    Sweet summer romance
    Sweet summer romance
    




    The Best is Yet to Come
    




    I know it’s been real hard for you to find passage through
    I understand it’s not easy, I’ve been there too
    I will be here long as I can, so never give in
    You can make it if you face it, I know you will win

    Wish I had the power to fix it all for you
    It doesn’t work that way, it’s something only you can do
    You’re smart with a good heart,
    And you’ve got all the clues
    The best is yet to come for you

    I don’t know why things are this way, why all the pain
    But I do know it’s not hopeless, you can fly again
    I will be here long as I can, and I’ll see you win
    After I’m gone you’ll keep winning, I’ll have a big grin

    Wish I had the power to fix it all for you
    It doesn’t work that way, it’s something only you can do
    You’re smart with a good heart,
    And you’ve got all the clues
    The best is yet to come for you
    The best is yet to come for you
    




    This Christmas
    




    See the lights of Christmas dance on the snow
    Hear the laughter of children wherever you go
    It was under the light of a star shining bright
    That He was born on that first Christmas Day
    He had come to free us, little baby Jesus
    Had come to take our sins away

    May you find the love of Jesus
    Come to know His forgiveness
    May you find the love of Jesus this Christmas
    May you find the love of Jesus
    Come to know His completeness
    May you find the love of Jesus this Christmas

    See the crowds of people shop in the mall
    Happily buying presents for one and all
    But the best gift is free; it’s for you and for me
    And it’s for all of eternity
    So come Christmas Day I hope and I pray
    His love will have set you free

    May you find the love of Jesus
    Come to know His forgiveness
    May you find the love of Jesus this Christmas
    May you find the love of Jesus
    Come to know His completeness
    May you find the love of Jesus this Christmas
    




    Travellers
    




    How many miles do I have to go?
    How many hardships must I endure?
    I’m not a hero, but do seek the truth
    My heart strives to be pure

    I will not give up, I will persevere
    The way is not clear, hard to discern
    My destination’s still within my reach
    My candle brightly burns

    My fellow travellers you are not alone
    I know together we can make it home
    Let hope and goodness help you down the road
    Look hard in your heart to vanquish the cold

    How many miles do I have to go?
    How many hardships must I endure?
    I’m not a hero, but do seek the truth
    My heart strives to be pure

    I will not give up, I will persevere
    The way is not clear, hard to discern
    My destination’s still within my reach
    My candle brightly burns

    I’m getting nearer, maybe the next turn
    I have learned so much, still have much to learn
    My fellow travellers you are not alone
    I know together we can make it home

    How many miles do I have to go?
    How many hardships must I endure?
    I’m not a hero, but do seek the truth
    My heart strives to be pure

    I will not give up, I will persevere
    The way is not clear, hard to discern
    My destination’s still within my reach
    My candle brightly burns

    We are all travellers
    




    True Friends
    




    Your friend sees you in the hallway
    They run over, ask “how’s your day”
    Your day is rough, you need to talk
    Confide in them as you walk 

    It’s nice to know there’s someone
    You can turn to, depend on
    There’s someone

    True friends always there to help you
    True friends always care, pull you through
    True friends always share, love you too
    You just need to be yourself
    Yeah yeah yeah yeah
    Don’t have to be anybody else

    They support you all the time
    Lift you up so you can shine
    Just when it seems you’ve got nothing
    They magically turn it into something

    It’s nice to know there’s someone
    You can turn to, depend on
    There’s someone

    True friends always there to help you
    True friends always care, pull you through
    True friends always share, love you too
    You just need to be yourself
    Yeah yeah yeah yeah
    You just need to be yourself
    Yeah yeah yeah yeah
    Don’t have to be anybody else

    True friends
    They care
    They share
    Yeah yeah yeah yeah
    




    Walking in the Woods
    




    I see the sun in your brown eyes
    They shine above the Blue Ridge rise
    You’re prettier than southern skies
    And sweeter than mom’s apple pies

    When we’re together it’s so grand
    Walking in the woods hand in hand
    You’re my girl yes I’m your man
    I couldn’t have made a better plan

    Your gentle ways they carry me
    Help me see what I can’t see
    Never knew love quite like this
    I’ll always cherish our first kiss

    When we’re together it’s so grand
    Walking in the woods hand in hand
    You’re my girl yes I’m your man
    I couldn’t have made a better plan
    




    Water from the Stone
    




    I know your sun is down now
    But it will rise again
    Yes it’s hard to see how
    But the darkness it will end
    But the darkness it will end

    You can climb this mountain
    And you are not alone
    You can reach the fountain
    Drink the water from the stone
    Drink the water from the stone

    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Whoa oh oh oh oh 
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Water from the stone
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Whoa oh oh oh oh 
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Water from the stone

    You can climb this mountain
    And you are not alone
    You can reach the fountain
    Drink the water from the stone
    Drink the water from the stone
    Drink the water from the stone
    Drink the water from the stone

    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Whoa oh oh oh oh 
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Water from the stone
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Whoa oh oh oh oh 
    Whoa whoa oh, whoa whoa oh
    Water from the stone
    




    What’s the Purpose of It All?
    




    Fantasies are created in a man’s imagination
    They come across in many a variation
    I know that I’ve just got to keep on dreaming
    For the world around me is always scheming

    You fall in love and then you fall out again
    It’s just an endless chain of pain
    Just when you think you’ve made it back in you fall out
    It makes so little sense you just want to shout

    What’s the purpose of it all?
    Why should I want to get all tangled up?
    It’s just a hopeless circle, this silly game
    Something always springs up that brings a new flame

    Sometimes I feel like building a fence around me
    Then I won’t get lost in hollow harmony
    It seems so unfair to mix up other’s emotions
    Can there really be true devotion

    The choice is yours on how you should live
    Just be careful of how much love you give
    I know I may sound bitter and quite distraught
    But believe me when I tell you I’ve been well-taught

    What’s the purpose of it all?
    Why should I want to get all tangled up?
    It’s just a hopeless circle, this silly game
    Something always springs up that brings a new flame
    




    Will I Ever See You Again?
    




    




    People come and people go
    Some are strangers, some you know
    Lives intertwine, is it just fate?
    Love’s a fine line you can debate

    How do I find my way back to you?
    I miss you now
    It was such a long, long time ago
    I don’t know how
    Will I ever see you again?

    Ever want to be nowhere
    Lost in limbo in the air?
    Soothe your senses just for a day?
    Soak in sunshine a world away?

    How do I find my way back to you?
    I miss you now
    It was such a long, long time ago
    I don’t know how
    Will I ever see you again?
    




    Will You?
    




    Time’s eternal
    The window’s small
    Will you rise
    Or will you fall
    It’s on you
    Make your call

    Will you?

    Will you stand up
    Do what’s right
    Be a beacon
    In the night
    Lift up people
    In their plight

    Will you?

    If you have much 
    Will you share
    Demonstrate
    That you care
    Be honest
    And be fair

    Will you?

    There is evil
    There is good
    Will you want more
    Than you should
    Will you take gold
    Over wood

    Will you?

    At the end of
    Your time here
    Will your path
    Now be clear
    Will you move on
    Without fear

    Will you?
    




    World of Pain
    




    It’s unpredictable like a hurricane
    I never know when it will strike again
    I get battered by the wind and rain 
    I don’t understand, I can’t explain
    But here it comes, my world of pain 

    It was stalking me when I was a kid
    Hiding in my head just off the grid   
    I long for those days of youthful bliss
    Didn’t know my life would be at risk
    And here it comes, my world of pain

    I won’t let it defeat me
    I’ll never give in
    It will always release me 
    In the end I’ll win

    It’s unpredictable like a hurricane
    I never know when it will strike again
    I get battered by the wind and rain 
    I don’t understand, I can’t explain
    But here it comes, my world of pain 
    




    World Turns to Stone
    




    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?

    Really don’t know why 
    you keep putting rocks 
    between us?
    You know in your heart 
    I’m the one person 
    you can trust

    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?
    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?

    It’s so plain to see 
    how you care for me  
    Why hold back?
    You’re so hesitant
    Maybe there’s a ghost
    from the past

    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?
    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?

    What you’re waiting for?
    C’mon, jump through the door
    It’s time to take a chance
    It’s time for us to dance  

    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?
    Who’s going to save you when you’re all alone?
    Who’s going to help when your world turns to stone?
    




    The End
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
  • 
		
		
    
			
			
    ClimateX
    
			
    

    Climate change. It was a big issue for a long time. A media darling, too. Then, just like that, it was a nothing burger. Yes, I know it is real. I agree with the objectives of the message. At the end of the day though, it was just not important enough in the world of reality. The reality? Money, power and jobs is what matters the most to people in the developed world (the rest of the world, too, but, that’s for another time).
    




    It was a moment of considerable inconvenience that threatened profits for wealthy owners, big companies and shareholders. As for the jobs part, that’s you and me. Since money is, unfortunately, the top tier of our want lists, we will take the jobs and money over whatever the speculative problems might be for the future generations to come. No need to be embarrassed. This is reality.
    




    We’re beyond the expiry date for stabilizing the planet’s climate now. Yes, we should still continue to work to try and make the major changes needed in powering our industrial platform. Truth is, it’s going to take a long time. Not even government is enlightened enough because they too, need the cash.  
    




    So don’t give up. Keep trying. In the meantime, there are other factors that could mitigate the current conundrum. We might make a breakthrough technological discovery that could rescue us. Or, since the world and universe is much greater than anything humans could ever contrive (personally, I would put God at the top of this list), maybe it will bring back an ice age sooner than expected, in which case, we may want that global heating back. On this matter I grade us “A” for effort and “F” for effectiveness.      
    




    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
  • 
		
		
    
			
			
    Fake Friends
    
			
    

    You see them chatting in the hallway
    




    They say hello and ask “how’s your day”
    




    Sometimes they want to stop and talk
    




    Get some good gossip they can walk
    




    You think you know someone
    




    Next thing you know you’re done
    




    You’re done
    




    




    Fake friends say they care but they don’t
    




    Fake friends say they’ll help but they won’t
    




    Fake friends only care ‘bout themselves
    




    They don’t see anybody else   no no no no
    




    They don’t see anybody else
    




    




    Constant complaining is what they do
    




    Give them a million, the bills aren’t new
    




    Do them a good turn, means nothing
    




    Nothing always becomes something
    




    You think you know someone
    




    Next thing you know you’re done
    




    You’re done
    




    




    Fake friends say they care but they don’t
    




    Fake friends say they’ll help but they won’t
    




    Fake friends only care ‘bout themselves
    




    They don’t see anybody else   no no no no 
    




    They don’t see anybody else   no no no no 
    




    They don’t see anybody else
    




    




    Fake friends
    




    Everywhere
    




    They don’t care
    




    No no no no
    




    




    Lyrical poetry by GS Hansen   copyright SOCAN