Rivers Flow Down and the Children Grow Up

The Gaviota Writers recently reconvened, the first time we've had the heart and time to meet since the passing of our dear friend Bob Isaacson, who was very much with us in spirit.

One of my favorite things about this funny little group is that sometimes we get to hear a song or song-in-progress by Jim Brady. Now, with the wonders of technology (and Christine's impressive know-how) it's shareable here too, and I'll post the link at the end.

Jim's song on this day was of things that remain constant despite the passage of time, capturing both change and continuity. Rivers flow down and the children grow up...there's something wistful and almost-sad about that truth and the song in general.

We talked about how maybe it's the low hum underneath the melody that moves people, as in a bagpipe tune. But I guess we're all feeling a mixture of wonder, reflection, loss, and surprise at this season of our lives, and Jim just expresses it well, with that direct infusion to the soul that music provides.

And although the song takes us all the way to the Amazon, certain familiar images evoke to me a very Gaviota sense of place. The opening verse, for example:

There's foxes in the orchard, chickens in the pen, apples on the trees, and it's nearly autumn again. Dirt is dust, grasses are brown, and those midnight stars just go round and round....

Anyway, sitting with dear old friends in a house nestled among the golden hills and listening to Jim singing his song...well, it was one of those "I love my life" moments.

Listen here if you want:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHKpqGecfeY