Walk the Line

I just watched the terrific film, “Walk the Line” and I was so touched by the story of Johnny Cash’s life. I’ve always loved the man and his music, especially the lyrics to “Man in Black.” My boyfriend and I even named our black puppy after him because of those lyrics; we want him to grow up and be a noble protector, a faithful friend. So far he’s just a friendly spaz, but I digress. ;)

Johnny Cash was a truly great man with a wonderful heart and tremendous talent. I’m sure he and his late wife June are in heaven, proud of the tribute Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon have paid them.

I admire anyone who can survive the tragedy of losing a loved one and anyone who can overcome a powerful addiction. But when people can do those things and then share their stories and spread their hope to the world and truly touch people… THAT is heroic. And to help someone battle their demons so that they can live to offer their gifts to others is just as heroic.

Here’s to you, John and June—your spirit and your message lives on.

“Man In Black” by Johnny Cash

“Well, you wonder why I always dress in black,
Why you never see bright colors on my back,
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone.
Well, there's a reason for the things that I have on.

I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down,
Living in the hopeless, hungry side of town,
I wear it for the prisoner who has long paid for his crime,
But is there because he's a victim of the times.

I wear the black for those who never read,
Or listened to the words that Jesus said,
About the road to happiness through love and charity,
Why, you'd think He's talking straight to you and me.

Well, we're doing mighty fine, I do suppose,
In our streak of lightning cars and fancy clothes,
But just so we're reminded of the ones who are held back,
Up front there ought to be a man in black.

I wear it for the sick and lonely old,
For the reckless ones whose bad trip left them cold,
I wear the black in mourning for the lives that could have been,
Each week we lose a hundred fine young men.

And, I wear it for the thousands who have died,
Believing that the Lord was on their side,
I wear it for another hundred thousand who have died,
Believing that we all were on their side.

Well, there's things that never will be right I know,
And things need changing everywhere you go,
But 'til we start to make a move to make a few things right,
You'll never see me wear a suit of white.

Ah, I'd love to wear a rainbow every day,
And tell the world that everything's o.k.,
But I'll try to carry off a little darkness on my back,
'Till things are brighter, I'm the man in black.”