I am currently in the desert on BLM land near Quartzsite, AZ. When I first arrived, there were lots and lots of vans and skoolies already here. I picked a spot and set up camp. So many people nearby, and I did my best to connect with some of them and felt absolutely nothing back from anyone. I figured that was OK. I’m used to being alone, but it’s harder for me to be alone in a crowd. I decided I wouldn’t stay too long and, on what I thought would be my last night there, I went down the road a bit to hear a concert by Jamie & The Dreamers. They totally blew me away. The songs, written by Jody Pate and sung by him and his partner Amy felt like they were written for me…songs about the nomad life, loving one another, following your heart.
I went the next morning to look for them because I sort of knew where they were camping. I found them and saw Jody and let him know how much his music spoke to me. He asked me to come back again, and I did later that day. He invited me to move my van and come stay at their camp. I did. It has been life-changing. I wake up to his beautiful music most mornings and am serenaded to sleep most nights. He is one of the most gentle souls I’ve ever encountered and just exudes loving kindness.
The other night, while sitting around the campfire with lots of other people, many with instruments, others singing along, it felt like Woodstock. I was a couple years too young to have made it to Woodstock, but surrounded by such beautiful people here, listening to original tunes, and talking mainly about peace and love, I realized the Woodstock spirit had not fizzled out. There is still a spark left and I’m hoping the flame is about to turn into a world-wide blaze.
Thanks Jody, for inviting me into your camp and into your life. I appreciate you.