Rick, I was fortunate enough to have a "day job" all of my life, until I retired just about a year ago. None-the-less, I have constantly "looked over the fence," always thinking how much fun some of my friends were having as professional musicians/singers. They've scratched out a living, but they have led extremely interesting lives. I somehow admire their cavalier attitude. It no doubt has allowed them to experience life and learn important lessons about themselves. Some of them may be thinking they wished they had taken my route (I ended up in senior management of a good size company). It's funny, but we've never talked about it. I know they view me as very successful, but you know what? -- I think they are equally as successful. I think they have had more fun than me.

My life hasn't been exactly boring, but I can't count any call girls among my friends or even acquaintances (at least I don't think so). It doesn't sound like something most would want to do, but as you say, although their lives are often tragic, they are very intelligent and interesting people. There are many among us that fit that description. Playing music has definitely taught me not to judge a person by what they do to make a living, or how they look. Some of my best friends wouldn't be welcomed in board rooms. There are so many truly interesting people in this world and we can learn so much from them. I think my experience with music helped me in my chosen career.

I'm reminded of the guy who was watching the blacksmith shape horse shoes. Without hesitating, the guy walked over and picked one up, then quickly dropped it. The blacksmith said, "burned you, didn't it?" The guy said, "nope - it just don't take me long to look at stuff." It would be nice if we could all learn that quickly. The path we choose in life is influenced by so many things. I'd be surprised if you don't think your life experiences have taken you to where you are today. From what I can see, that's a pretty good place. And, you've had great experiences along the way. How fortunate!

Jim