When you've lived as long as a bohemian old hippie like me, you find that there are certain people, places or things that inspire and comfort you as you journey down the rocky path of life. These are some of mine.
My son, Michael Craig Neary
I was 19 and unmarried when Michael was born in 1970. It wasn't an easy time for me because you just didn't have a child without a husband in those times. Not even if you were a Hollywood star. But I stood my ground and did my best to raise him as a single parent. Now, thirty-one years later, I can easily say I'd do it all over again if I would achieve the same results. Michael is a handsome, smart, funny, compassionate man. He makes me proud. Now if only he'd make me a grandmother.
My mother, Juliette Sutton
It wasn't always easy being my mother's daughter. After my father passed when I was in my teens, we fought often and we fought hard, with words that hit with more hurting power than a sledgehammer. She basically disapproved of everything I did and didn't hesitate to let me know it. And I thought she was old-fashioned and mean-spirited and narrow-minded. In the past several years, we've become closer. We've become friends. She's decided I haven't turned out too terribly, and she's proud of my accomplishments. She listens and she has hauled me out of a bind more times than I can count. She's always there for me and I rely on her much more than I should. I love you, mom.
My father, Robert LeRoy Sutton
As I said above, my dad died a week before my 17th birthday. I was not with him when he passed suddenly and I never got a chance to say goodbye. I was the first-born, and daddy's little tomboy. While I was growing up, we always had a small plane and some sort of boat. He always had time for me and patiently instilled the values I carry with me today. My father infused in me a love of adventure. He taught me how to hunt and fish, and to this day I'll camp out in a flash, leaving civilization, as we know it, behind. I miss him. I love you, daddy.
When I was 18, my mother gifted me with a copy of Dr. Angelou's "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings". I read it until the cover fell apart. The woman is talented, compassionate and gifted. She has been a life-long inspiration to me. I still have a letter she wrote to me many years ago in response to some of my poetry that I sent to her.
Gilda Radner
Most of you will remember Gilda from her stint on Saturday Night Live. Who can forget the tangy Roseanne Roseannadanna? In 1986, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. For two years, she underwent cancer therapy - surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. It was then that she found The Wellness Community, a non-profit organization that has a program that helps cancer patients and their family. TWC offered Tai Chi classes, massages and programs for everyone, as well as emotional support. From this came the inspiration for Gilda's Club. On May 20, 1989, Gilda lost her battle against cancer. Her book, It's Always Something, chronicles her love of life and her determination to win her final war. You go, girl!
These three gentlemen were the contributing factors behind a place where I spent a goodly amount of time in the late 80's, a beautiful, magical place called The Land, in a mystical MUD known as British Legends. Filled with dwarves and dragons, goblins and ghosts, rats and wolves, and a treasure-eating swamp, I attained the status of Immortal and became known as Ariel the Witch, with my very own headstone in the Wizzes graveyard. I also became the first winner of the celebrated Goat Cup, a golden chalice presented to the best of the fighters in BL. Simon is no longer with us, but Richard is still lurking about the 'net. These wizards gave me a precious part of my childhood back. For that, I thank them.
Joel Rosenberg is a writer. I met him through his Guardians of the Flames series. I also met a group of highly real characters that I fell in love with, and cried over. I am now reading his Keepers of the Hidden Ways series and falling in love all over again. He's inspired me to believe in our own magic.
Pamela Des Barres was one of the original GTOs back in the 60's. She was also a groupie. Her book, It's Okay, I'm with the Band is a very open and honest journal of her dalliances with some of rock's most shining stars. Her candor and compassion, her wit and beauty have remained a constant reinforcement in my life. And she's looking DAMN good at fifty!
Mr. Hiaasen is a local newspaper columnist with a knack for nailing what's important sandwiched between hilarity and humor in his novels, which I've read over and over again. I am currently enjoying his latest, Sick Puppy. He's made me more environmentally aware (I pick up trash on the beach now).
Jim Passe is a magician, a master of illusion. His feats of magic will leave you dazzled. The fact that he does this from a wheelchair is nothing short of amazing. In 1995, he sustained an injury to his spine that left him in a wheelchair. His recovery and acclamation to his paralysis took two years, bur he is now performing again. Jim does dozen of charity performances a year. He has inspired me to never give up on going after what I want, no matter the obstacles.
Although I'm no longer as big a hockey fan as I was, Rick has remained a constant in my life. I consider myself fortunate to have met this warm, caring, generous, compassionate man. If he never plays hockey again, I will still be his #1 fan. He has reconfirmed my belief that there are good people out there.
I've watched Corey struggle to make it in the NHL for several years. Despite the fact that he's not the world's best skater or goal-scorer, he's got an intensity that I admire. Off ice, he's shy, funny, warm and charming. I consider him my "other son".
I was introduced to Mr. Broussard through Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys. This man is so gifted it's a sin. He writes lyrics, music and is prolific on a plethora of instruments. He's inspired me to write again. I've worn out my original copy of his debut CD, Geeks and am working on wearing out copy #2. His writings will either make you nod your head in agreement or want to reach out and gleefully strangle him. Either way, he will inspire you. And I can honestly say that he is a friend that will give you the shirt off his back (Thanks, Sambo!).
Those of you who read Playboy for more than the articles may remember Suzie as a former Playmate. She and her husband, Joseph, lived the good life in Aspen, Colorado. Suzie decided to become involved in charity work, and became one of the founders of the Mercy and Sharing Foundation, which aids children in Haiti. Suzie is an incredible person - intent on adopting one needy child, she now has thousands who adore her and her husband, who have spent over $500,000 of their own funds on food, clothing, medical supplies for these children. Thank you, Suzie and Joe, for doing what your hearts said needed to be done.
I was fortunate enough to enjoy this wonderful singer/songwriter at the recent Riverhawk Rhythm Festival in upstate Florida. As I sat there in the early Sunday morning sunshine, listening to her sing "Nobody's Child", tears were running down my face as her words were touching my heart. Her songs reach deep inside me every time I listen. Her voice is as strong and as pure as sunshine. She's incredible.
My Friends
I've always been very lucky with acquiring friends. Oh, there have been some bad apples in the bunch but on the whole, there are some good, good people that I've met. Some are friends I've met on the 'net through mutual interests and have yet to meet face to face, but that doesn't make our bond any less strong.
Elana, Sharon, Jennie, Sambo, Tabby, Springer, Brenda, Maria, Barbara, the whole RCB gang, the bookstore people. You guys are my everday inspiration. I love you.
