Different Drummer Summer

If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.

I think this quote was on a poster at my high school.
In Mr Gordon’s office.
He was the guidance counsellor.

I didn’t know at the time what good advice it would be.
More than 50 years later, it’s time to take stock.

Do you think I am a total weirdo?
Many of my closest friends would agree.

Well, blame this guy.

(A gift from my London bestie, Carmen.)

Yesterday I went back to Walden Pond.

To honor the Saint of Simplicity.

He had no TV, AC, SUV, smartphone, Apple Watch, rider mower or snow blower.

And neither do I.

Simplify, simplify, simplify!

I went to Walden with my gal pal Lucinda.

Who grew up just down Thoreau Street in Concord.

She is a very talented artist.
Who is brave enough to try to teach me to draw.

I like to learn new things.
Even at my advanced age.

And I have plenty of time to learn them.
Without much mental clutter to get in the way.

When I was just a boy, I remember my mother telling me:
“Jimmy, if you do well in school, you can grow up to be whatever you want.”



How right you were, Ma.
How right you were!

Time to begin my Different Drummer Summer.

Care to join me?