Johnny Cash

September 12, 2003 marks the loss of "the Man in Black". My previous post (Sep. 8) referenced his name with regards to the book, The New Johnny Cash. Whatever your thoughts or concerns about Johnny Cash and/or his music there is redeeming value in reflecting on his life to relate in a practical way:

Authority figures have a definite impact on the young. In this case Johnny's father had a negative impact on challenges and events faced in adulthood. Viewing the movie, "Walk the Line" is a good way to experience how this plays out.

Johnny was concerned about the poor and the working class of our great Country. I just learned from Patsy Andersen-Presley (see "older" posts), formerly of Graceland is joining up with the "Johnny Cash Farm" in Bon Aqua, TN. You might enjoy doing a search for more information. There will be a public event on October 5-6, 2018 and numerous noted persons are scheduled to be there among whom are Larry Gatlin and John Schneider of "Dukes of Hazard" and Tyler Perry's, "The Haves and the Have Nots" as Jim Cryer. 

John Schneider lived with Johnny and June for a while and Johnny is credited with converting Schneider to Christianity. It becomes more and more interesting to learn of celebrities who have a spiritual side not so generally known. Patsy indicated to me that the owner of the Johnny Cash Farm, Brian Oxley, is also a very spiritual person concerned about the hereafter. I think I can relate to these guys! Get ready Bon Aqua!

On a personal level, in one memorable experience Johnny performed to a large group of business people of which I was a part. Former President Ronald Reagan was one of the featured speakers at the event. One impressionable performance was Johnny's singing, "Pickin Time", an emotional and meaningful reminder of God's timing in our lives. I recall thinking of how humans expect things of others while God as a loving Father understands each of us, knows our limitations and circumstances. God's expectations may not be as harsh as the world expects from us. What a relief! What a blessing!

Go to: www.storytellersmusicfest.com for information and reservation.