Ludwig, your music is still with us. And you are a household name. Your mom would be proud. You have shown people what courage in the face of adversity is; you defied the fates and didn't quit when your hearing went. Today, you are a giant amongst giants. Tomorrow will be your birthday. It must be humbling to be immortal.

Some of your tunes have become hits on the radio, and your name was put in great company by Chuck Berry. He's a rock guys you would have liked. Poor beginnings though he had, he knew about you. The world knows about you, Ludwig, and its a better place for having had you stop here--and stay.

BM