I understand that many of us have long-term memory issues, but I was somewhat surprised at the short-term memory loss that many in our extended family seem to have. But then again, maybe I’ve got that backward. Some old Heads can remember the first song of the second set played at some civic center in East Podunk back in ’72, but we seem to forget the lessons of one month ago.

Yes, folks, just one month ago we convened in what seemed to me like the largest gathering of singular intent – to share the music we love with the people we love. We were all family, whether we knew each other or not.

I know every family has the crazy uncle who gets drunk at every gathering and waxes political using the saltiest language even in front of Nana, or the annoying bratty cousin, who rats you out for smoking a joint while walking the dog, but we are family nonetheless.

Today we were introduced to Dead and Company. Yay! Some of our favorite musicians playing our favorite tunes at one of our favorite venues! What could bad about that? Oh. Phil’s not there because he’s an indentured servant to Peter Shapiro at the Cap. Oh. Phil can’t sing. Oh. John Mayer sucks. Oh. They should never use the name Dead because Jerry is, well, dead.

So I was wondering. If we, as a community, are OK with bands like DSO, JRAD, Golden Gate Wingmen, even (or especially) Phil and Friends, why are people freaking out? Again? Did we learn nothing from Trey at Fare Thee Well? Don’t we know that the music plays the band? That talented musicians playing the music we love is an experience worth having?

But most importantly, where is the love? Where is the feeling that we took from Chicago? I love that we all have different ideas and different opinions. But let’s be kind. Mickey implored us to do so, but that’s not why. We need to be kind because that’s who we are.

My daughter and I are headed to where-the-hell-is-Arrington, VA to go to Lockn next month. The lineup of musicians is unbelievable and we cannot wait. And then you’ll find me at the Cap for Halloween and Phil. We are all blessed beyond belief that we can still hear this music performed by the boys who have been playing for us for 50 years. Honestly. What is there to complain about? Enjoy the ride folks!

Peace.

Love,

Meri (rhymes with Jerry)