Day 302: Arlo

Day 302: Arlo, originally uploaded by susanvg.

Arlo Guthrie and Family's Montreal concert was delightful, nostalgic, moving and most enjoyable. It was a tribute to the Guthrie who started it all: Woody, with many of his songs along with songs written by his children who were on stage - sung and played by Arlo, his children and his grandchildren. It was a trip backwards and a look forwards, always with a positive, upbeat feeling.

It is amazing how music touches us, triggering memories, emotions, bringing people from our past back to life. Woody Guthrie and Arlo were very much part of my past. I grew up on Woody's songs and matured with Arlo's. As I listened my mind swirled with images of my childhood, of a cold, snowy winter night when I went to see Pete Seeger and Arlo Guthrie, of evenings spent singing with friends.... And his children sang some of their songs which triggered memories of myself as a young mother. Each song spoke to me; some brought smiles, some tears and most brought joy.

Their land is my land and I pass on to you the message from their last song - all I can give to you is my peace. Please pass it on.