No One's Illegal

My friend George Toilman made this album, some of his best songs from over the years.  I met George at a peace walk he organized.  My favorite memory from that walk was meeting at a park near the Bay Area.  The three walkers arrived from their day of walking--we supporters were waiting for them with food.  Seeing them come with their flags flying, over the beautiful hills--I was very moved.  They seemed heroic. 

I asked one walker, "How are your feet?"  She said they were fine--I wasn't sure if she was telling the truth.  I believe in listening to our bodies and taking good care of ourselves, as we can.  But something about her intensity and ideals really appealed to me.

We ate a meal together, at a picnic shelter, and I remember a Question Authority banner was there.  It was someone's birthday--someone's mom had made a special dish.  There was cake. 

Then we stood by the lake holding hands in a circle.  My friend said something about the baby geese swimming in the water, and I told her they're called goslings. 

She led us in singing Bella Ciao.   The light turned golden and was shimmering on the lake.  My heart was filled with joy, and I wanted my life to be like that day.

Not sure if I've seen George since that peace walk.  He can be hard to get a hold of.  But he's someone I admire, and his music is thought-provoking, comforting, creative, and life-affirming.  I like the ideas and values.

My favorite song on this album is probably "No One's Illegal."  It makes me think of my ancestors, working people, work itself, dignity, immigration laws, racism, people bending in the fields, picking the foods we eat every day, and I like the details.  Someone could make a great music video for it--a music video plays in my head, while I listen to it.

"Stand Behind My Shield" is very kind and I love that one too.  It's about protecting one another and being there for one another emotionally, the reality of learning from mistakes.  I love the supportiveness and gorgeous piano!

Do you know how wonderful
you are when you shine your soul?
Do you need a bodyguard?
Stand behind my shield.

"Moment of Our Future" is sad but wonderful.  The robot part is chilling yet exciting with insight.  I've loved some of these songs for years, and they seem to have permanent residence in my mind.

Please consider supporting this music and putting these songs in your mind also.