A discussion could be heard from one aisle over at the grocery store.

“Can we buy the Cap’n Crunch Mom?” questioned the child.

“Not today,” replied his mother.

“But, WHY?!” he whined.

“Because I said so,” the mother responded emphatically (and psychologists all over the world weep in agony).

Remember when that answer was enough? Yeah. Me neither.

Even as a child, I needed to know the why…the motivation…behind what people said and did. It made a response or action understandable, even when I didn’t agree with the reason. That hasn’t changed much. Therefore, there will be “whys” in this month’s review. It only seemed fair.

**As a warning…I will get feisty in this one. There will be no apologies for it. I felt as though you should know up front. Kind of like those flashing “Caution” signs on the road.**

Ready or not. Here it comes…

WHY SHOUD YOU NEVER MESS WITH A GREAT LAWYER?

Because they can put you in jail and keep the bad guys out of jail more quickly than the law can. Just kidding…sort of.

I recently watched “The Lincoln Lawyer” starring Matthew McConaughey and loved it. Any movie that uses the law to chase the bad guys has me hooked immediately. And this one did a number on the movie watcher’s mind. Ryan Phillippe is captivating and a severely underrated actor. Even though the story seems like it might be predictable, there are some curve balls thrown throughout. The movie is worth a watch.

And if you REALLY like twisted legal cinema that pits good vs. evil, watch “Fracture.” The duo of Ryan Gosling and Anthony Hopkins is intriguing. These two fall within the upper tier of the Hollywood acting elite and the movie is so wrong, it’s right.

BECAUSE JOHNNIE COCHRAN AND THE BOBBY FULLER 4 SAID SO:

“A breakin’ rocks in the hot sun. I fought the law and the law won. I fought the law and the law won. I needed money, ’cause I had none. I fought the law and the law won. I fought the law and the law won.” – Bobby Fuller 4, “I Fought the Law” (Sonny Curtis)

“If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit” – Johnnie Cochran (You KNOW I couldn’t pass up that quote. And regardless of your feelings on the O.J. trial, Johnnie Cochran was one of the most genius lawyers of our time. That one sentence probably set a guilty man free.)

WHY DOES LOVE CONQUER ALL?

Have you seen the “Adjustment Bureau”?! It. Was. Awesome. Maybe one of my favorite movies in a really, long time. (What do you want from me? I’ve been on a movie watching/book reading tear lately.) Basically, the movie was an analysis of fate vs. free will and how they work together. However, both concepts are overshadowed by one…love. The story is written in a way that is unpredictable and not cheesy at all. It forces you to think about what YOU believe. The discussions ignited following this piece of cinematic art were passionate and intense. Love, love, loved it!

BECAUSE REBA AND VINCE SAID SO:

“The heart won’t lie. Sometimes life gets in the way, but there’s one thing that won’t change. I know I’ve tried. The heart won’t lie. You can live your alibi. Who can see you’re lost inside a foolish disguise. The heart won’t lie.” – Reba McEntire and Vince Gill, “The Heart Won’t Lie” (Kim Carnes & Donna Weiss)

WHY IS ROBERT REDFORD TIMELESS?

He was the sex symbol of my parents generation. The first time I ever saw the man on the big screen was in “Indecent Proposal” (another movie that will cause intense debates among those watching) and that didn’t really cast him in a great light. As a teenager, I couldn’t understand why this guy had been drooled over for so many years.

And then it happened. “Up Close and Personal” hit the theaters in 1996. OHHHHHHH…so THAT is what they were drooling over all those years. I have been a Robert Redford fan ever since that day. Excellent movie by the way. Watch it if you get a chance. You’ll see what I mean.

BECAUSE CELINE DION SAID SO:

“You were my strength when I was weak. You were my voice when I couldn’t speak. You were my eyes when I couldn’t see. You saw the best there was in me. Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach. You gave me Faith ’cause you believed. I’m everything I am because you loved me.” – Celine Dion, “Because You Loved Me” (Diane Warren)

WHY IS IT OKAY TO HAVE A LITTLE “JUNK IN THE TRUNK?”

Admit it ladies. It’s nice to know there are men out there who appreciate a woman who has a butt. I know I am thankful. Although Mr. Mix-A-Lot states this rather…shall we say…indelicately, I still give thanks. We should respect and appreciate all parts of ourselves, right?! And no matter how offended we act by the video, every person in my age group knows every word. Life doesn’t always have to be so serious.

BECAUSE SIR-MIX-A-LOT SAID SO:

“So Cosmo says you’re fat. Well, I aint down with that. Cause your waist is small and your curves are kickin’…” – Sir-Mix-A-Lot, “Baby Got Back” (Anthony L. Ray)

WHY IS RIGHT VS. WRONG IMPORTANT?

The Casey Anthony trial brought my level of worry for the world up a few notches. Is everyone really that scared about putting guilty people behind bars? When did we lose track of right and wrong? Don’t get me wrong. I agree that moderation is important. Extremes in either direction can be damaging and destructive. The world does have patches of grey in it. However, it isn’t a massive grey lump. Right and wrong is what guides us. If there is no mark to hit (a.k.a. the right thing), won’t we be wandering around aimlessly? And if wrong is consistently justified by excuses (crazy/on drugs/sleepwalking/abused/drunk/caffeinated), why don’t people always make up a reason to avoid consequences? Wait a second…

With all that being said, there are also always good stories to shine a light on the positives in life…the silver lining. The world can also be a pretty awesome place. This week, there was a story about a teenager who showed not only is “right” still in tact, but it is also encased in character.

18-year-old Allan Guel from Compton took part in a free throw contest vs. some of his other high-achieving classmates and won a $40,000 college scholarship. Shortly after the contest, Allan discovered that he also won a full-ride basketball scholarship to California State University-Northridge. He was allowed to keep both scholarships. However, Allan didn’t. He knew his classmates needed the money just as much (or more) than he did. So Allan Guel gave up $40,000 to the seven other classmates who had participated in the contest. That, my friends, is character. It also made my worldly worries evaporate for a little while. Allan…respect!

BECAUSE JOHN WOODEN AND JACKIE De SHANNON SAID SO:

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden

“Another day goes by, still the children cry. Put a little love in your heart. If you want the world to know we won’t let hatred grow, put a little love in your heart. And the world will be a better place. Oh the world will be a better place for you and me. You just wait and see.” – Jackie De Shannon, “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” (Jackie De Shannon, Jimmy Holiday & Randy Myers)

WHY DO WE PUSH FORWARD AND WORK HARD EVEN IN FAILURE?

Success doesn’t come with a snap of the fingers. It takes time, hard work, talent and some failure along the way. What is it that is heard so often? “Anything worth having is worth fighting for.” or “Nothing worth having comes easily.” Isn’t that difficult to understand when we’re in the middle of a battle? However, each success is a tremendous reminder and worth every second of our time and energy.

BECAUSE PASTOR DAVE, MICHAEL JORDAN AND JANUS STARK SAID SO:

“You are today what your past actions or inactions have made you.” – Dr. David Foster

“I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” – Michael Jordan

“I’m too out there to be in here all the time. Doesn’t mean that I don’t wanna stay. Anybody can get caught with their guard down. Doesn’t mean that I don’t feel the same. It’s so hard, it’s so hard to stay alive when there’s no room to breath. And you stay alive, you stay alive. Every little thing counts. Every little thing counts. Every little thing counts. That’s why every little thing counts.” – Janus Stark, “Every Little Thing Counts” (Graham Butt & Andrew “Pinch” Pinching)

WHY IS ALLY McBEAL A WONDERFUL TV SHOW?

The show ran at the end of the 90’s and I adored it for the quirkiness and relatable qualities. Recently, I had the opportunity to re-watch some of the show. It was just as amazing the second time. Ally McBeal was well-written, humorous and contained a cast full of distinct characters who brought something to the table every episode.

There was the callous, yet warm-hearted Richard Fish. “Life is just a stupid game. It doesn’t matter what you do or what you have. If you’re loved in the end, then you win.”

The somewhat odd and brilliant John Cage. “The world is no longer a romantic place. Some of its people still are however and therein lies the promise. Don’t let the world win Ally McBeal.”

And finally there is Ally McBeal. “I think I need to believe that it works…love…couple hood…partnerships. The idea that when people come together, they stay together. I have to take that with me when I go to bed at night…even if I’m going to bed alone. That’s a McBealism.”

Plus, Ally had these HILARIOUS visions of what she would like to say or do (even though she didn’t act on them), everyone danced all the time, Matthew Perry and Jon Bon Jovi (among others) guest starred, the music was incredible and the stories revolved around the importance of friendship, love and dealing with yourself.

BECAUSE VONDA SHEPARD SAID SO:

“Go ahead and cry now. Just give into the madness. The only way to feel your joy, is first to feel your sadness. Go ahead and sail out. Just give into the ocean. The only way to tame your fear is to feel her rocking motion. You’re a long way from somewhere you call home. There’s a place in your heart, you’re not alone. All of the happiness you seek. All of the joy for which you pray is closer than you think. It’s just a hundred tears away.” – Vonda Shepard, “100 Tears Away” (Paul Gordon & Vonda Shepard)

WHY DO PEOPLE PRE-ORDER ALBUMS ON iTUNES?

Does the pre-order on iTunes baffle anyone else? Why am I gonna pre-order an album?! Is the digital version gonna sell out? Ummmm…no. I think I’ll wait for the actual buying time thank you very much. I know. I know. It is the personal choice of each individual and I should respect that. Bygones.

BECAUSE BOBBY BROWN SAID SO:

“Everybody’s talkin’ all this stuff about me. Why don’t they just let me live? I don’t need permission to make my own decisions. That’s my prerogative.” – Bobby Brown (Bobby Brown, Gene Griffin & Teddy Riley)

WHY SHOULD WE NEVER STOP LEARNING?

In keeping with the theme of the review, getting answers to the whys in life teaches us. What is the point of walking the Earth if we aren’t learning something every day? The second we stop learning, we stop contributing to society. I’m not saying it has to be epic knowledge. I mean, learn how to bake a cake or something. That should suffice. Some of the most annoying people in the world are those who think they know everything. Isn’t it more beneficial to be reminded that we don’t? One of the most brilliant men in history understood this.

BECAUSE SOCRATES, JONNY LANG AND MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD SAID SO:

“I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing.” – Socrates

“What if old Ben Franklin would have been frightened by lightning? If he would have stayed inside then we’d still be in the dark. Martin Luther King did some beautiful things all because he had a dream just like you and me. Don’t let them tell you can’t be anything you wanna be. Don’t be deceived. Anything’s possible.” – Jonny Lang, “Anything’s Possible” (Jonny Lang, Drew Ramsey & Shannon Sanders)

“I said…Hey, I’ll be gone today, but I’ll be back all around the way. It seems like everywhere I go, the more I see the less I know. But I know one thing. That I love you. I love you. I love you.” – Michael Franti & Spearhead “Say Hey (I Love You)” (Michael Franti & Carl Young)

WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND PREVENTABLE DEATH?

I feel like I’ve been writing way too often about celebrities who are dying young. It’s especially tragic, because in most cases the deaths were preventable. Amy Winehouse died a couple of days ago and it’s so incredibly sad. Although the cause of death has not been confirmed, she was just 27-years-old. Amy was a tremendous talent who became known more for her struggles with addiction then for that special gift. I didn’t know her, but I’ve known others.

To watch someone you care about slowly rob themselves of life is torture. To not be able to help is heartbreaking. You want to serve as their mirror so they can see just how special they are in your eyes, because for some reason the mirror in their eyes does not show them that reflection. People fight battles within themselves every day and there is nothing more sad than watching someone you love lose. It is a concept I’ve never been able to grasp. For anyone who is out there reading this and struggling…you matter. Don’t EVER believe otherwise. The world only becomes dark when the lights that are good souls start to go out before their time. You. Matter. Do you hear me?! You. Matter.

R.I.P. Amy

BECAUSE ROBERT KENNEDY AND RASCAL FLATTS SAID SO:

“Tragedy is a tool for the living to gain wisdom, not a guide by which to live.” – Robert F. Kennedy

“You must have been in a place so dark, you couldn’t feel the light reaching for you through that stormy cloud. Now here we are gathered in our little home town. This can’t be the way you meant to draw a crowd. Oh, why? That’s what I keep asking. Was there anything I could have said or done? Oh, I had no clue you were masking a troubled soul. God, only knows what went wrong and why you would leave the stage in the middle of a song.” – Rascal Flatts, “Why” (Rob Mathes & Allen Shamblin)

WHY IS IT OKAY TO BE A NIGHT OWL?

To all you early risers out there, I have proof that night owls have more mysterious fun.

BECAUSE ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER SAID SO:

“Slowly. Gently. Night unfurls it’s splendor. Grasp it. Sense it. Tremulous and tender. Turn your face away from the garish light of day. Turn your thoughts away from cold, unfeeling light and listen to the music of the night.” – Andrew Lloyd Webber, “Music of the Night” (Charles Hart, Andrew Lloyd Webber & Richard Stilgoe)

WHY DOES MUSIC STIMULATE THE MIND?

Annnnnnd, now for the Songs of the Week…

1. “Second Hand Heart” by Danny Gokey. It’s his new single and I have a feeling many people will relate to this one. Mark Bright produced it. Josh Kear had a hand in writing it and Danny Gokey is singing it. Yeah. I’m sold. “I got a second hand heart. Yeah, it’s a little banged up. But it’s still beating strong enough to give a lot of good love. So if you don’t mind that it’s not brand new. I’ll take this second hand heart and give it to you.”

2. “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry. Although I didn’t attach to it immediately, this song is special. Artists from all genres of music are raving about the tune. It is simple and sweet with an incredible vocal blend from the siblings. “If I die young, bury me in satin. Lay me down on a bed of roses. Sink me in the river at dawn. Send me away with the words of a love song.”

3. “God Gave Me You” by Blake Shelton. Mr. Shelton has been doing an incredible job over the course of the last few albums in picking tunes that are incredible. This time, he chose one written by the pop singing extraordinaire, Dave Barnes. I rarely like remakes of Dave’s songs, but Blake does an excellent job with this one. “I’ve been a walking heartache. I’ve made a mess of me. The person that I’ve been lately, aint who I want to be. But you stay here right beside me and watch as the storm blows through. And I need you. ‘Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs. God gave me you for the days of doubt. For when I think I’ve lost my way, there are no words here left to say, it’s true. God gave me you.”

4. “Born To Be My Baby” by Bon Jovi. All it takes is three words (TWO. THREE. FOUR!) and I’m back to my youth, dancing around the room. So bring out the big hair and eyeliner, grab your boom box and put on the high tops. “You were born to be my Baby. And Baby, I was made to be your man we’ve got something to believe in even if we don’t know where we stand. Only God would know the reasons, but I bet he must have had a plan. ‘Cause you were born to be my Baby and Baby, I was made to be your man.”

5. “Our Generation (The Hope of the World)” by John Legend and The Roots. What a great song. Sometimes you need something motivational that transcends generations. Carry on. Carry on. “hope of the world is in our generation. It’s all left up to us to change this present situation. Take lessons from our elders. Don’t make the same mistakes. Let’s show the world we love. Get rid of all the hate.”

6. “The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson. His music has always been a home base for me. There is meaning, movement and fun in this tune. “The way you make me feel. You really turn me on. You knock me off of my feet. My lonely days are gone.”

7. “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince. It’s Prince. There is no need for me to say anything other than that. “Let’s go crazy. Let’s get nuts….” Sorry. I’m too busy going crazy with movement to finish the lyrics. Gotta love Prince.

8. “Back to God” by Randy Houser. Although there are many songs by Randy Houser I would have loved for you to hear on the radio, this was the one over all the others. Loud, rowdy bar rooms fell silent the second his voice wrapped around this song. There are no words to describe the tune’s true greatness. Do me a favor and give it a listen. “You gotta get down on your knees, believe. Fold your hands and beg and plead. You gotta keep on praying. You gotta cry, rain tears of pain. Pound the floor and scream his name cause we’re still worth saving. Can’t go on like this, live like this. We can’t love like this. We gotta give this world back to God.”

9. “Let Him Fly” by Patty Griffin You will be hard pressed to find any music lover who doesn’t like this artist. This song so perfectly explains why you have to let a negative influence go. Even if you care about him. “Aint no talking to this man. Aint no pretty other side. Aint no way to understand the stupid words of pride. It would take an acrobat. I already tried all that. I’m gonna let him fly.”

10. “She’s Got This Thing About Her” by Chris Young. On an album full of incredible tunes, this one is a keeper. It was written by Dear, Sweet Cory Batten and Kent Blazy (along with Chris). It is the mantra every woman wants to her from the man she loves. Thanks for a great tune boys. “She’s got this thing about her. She’s got this thing about her. Like the magic in your favorite song you just can’t put your finger on. In her arms when we’re all alone, I get the feeling that I’ve come back home. She’s got this thing about her.”

11. “What’d I Say” by Ray Charles. I will never forget watching this legend sing live. There will never be a live performance that matches it. He was so amazing, the oxygen was sucked out of the room as people held their breath in awe. This song just puts a fun exclamation mark on his talent. “Hey Mama, don’t you treat me wrong. Come and love your Daddy all night long. All right now. Hey, hey. All right. See the girl with the diamond ring. She knows how to shake that thing. All right now, now, now. Hey, hey, hey hey. Tell your Mama. Tell your Pa. I’m gonna send you back to Arkansas.” Cannot. Sit. Still. Must. Move. Now.

12. “Home Sweet Home” by Motley Crue. It’s the Crue. Need I say more? “You know I’m a dreamer, but my heart’s of gold. I had to run away high so I wouldn’t come home low. Just when things went right, doesn’t mean they’re always wrong. Just take this song and you’ll never feel left all alone.”

BECAUSE BEETHOVEN SAID SO:

“Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.” – Ludwig van Beethoven

WHY ARE PEOPLE INSPIRING?

Some individuals are just wired for inspiration. About a month ago, I had the privilege of going to dinner with an extremely intelligent and inspiring person. Although he is almost half my age, Luke Christie is about 50 times wiser. I learned so much that evening and I made an exceptional new friend. The talented writer is now putting that inspiration out there for the world to read. If you want to be intellectually challenged and inspired at the same time, check out LC Live. You won’t be sorry. Hey, Luke…Rock On.

BECAUSE NICOLE WITT SAID SO:

“In the heart of a hero, lies a courage you can’t see. Oh no. How far it goes, until they’re jumpin’ in and that yearning to do what’s right goes deeper than the fear inside. If you ask them, yeah they’d do it all again. That’s the heart of a hero.” – Nicole Witt, “Heart of a Hero”

WHY DO PEOPLE STEREOTYPE?

It is the one thing I try really, really hard not to do…and at times I do it anyway. Boxes are horrible. By putting someone in a personality structure we define them without ever taking the time to get to know them. It is the most effective way to make someone feel small. I understand that stereotypes exist for a reason, but wouldn’t you rather make sure? Most of the fun in life comes directly from the surprise of people.

I don’t drink. There is no earth shattering reason. However, it’s difficult for most to believe that is the truth. So they jump to many conclusions about me as a person based on this one, solitary fact. I lost the chip on my shoulder about the situation a long time ago. Now, the assumptions are humorous.

For example, I cannot tell you the number of times someone has said to me…”You need to meet (fill in the name)! You would get along SO WELL! (Person’s name) doesn’t drink either!” I immediately start to laugh. Although they are trying to be nice, the person has no idea what they have just done. And so I have to refrain from responding…”REALLY?! You should meet (fill in the name)! You would love them. They don’t eat broccoli and neither do you?! So maybe I still have a small chip on my shoulder, but at least I didn’t say it out loud. Baby steps, people. Baby steps.

Never define an entire person based on one aspect of their personality. What’s the fun in that?!

BECAUSE MARK TWAIN, MARILYN MONROE AND JOSH HOGE SAID SO:

“All generalizations are false, including this one.” – Mark Twain

“The truth is I’ve never fooled anyone. I’ve let people fool themselves. They didn’t bother to find out who and what I was. Instead they would invent a character for me. I wouldn’t argue with them. They were obviously loving somebody I wasn’t. When they found this out, they would blame me for disillusioning them…and fooling them.” – Marilyn Monroe

“I don’t pretend to be pretty. Sometimes I tend to talk dirty. I can be country or city. Welcome to my world. If you wanna play it safe, Baby, my life will drive you crazy. You know I want to call you my Baby, but that’s who I am take it or leave it.” – Josh Hoge (Featuring Marc Broussard), “Take It or Leave It”

WHY DO WE GET WRINKLES WITH AGE?

They remind us that we have truly LIVED and LAUGHED. And isn’t that the point? If we die wrinkle less, we sure did miss out on a lot of the good stuff.

BECAUSE DIAMOND RIO SAID SO:

“Those are wrinkles, they aint nothing to be scared of. They’re just a product of time and true love. Some are gonna come and go. Some are gonna come and stay. You’re sill young. You’re gonna be okay.” – Diamond Rio, “Wrinkles” (Ronny Scaife & Neil Thrasher)

WHY AM I NOW A TIM TEBOW FAN?

First of all, Chuck Norris endorsed the book…the ACTUAL Chuck Norris. If Tim has both God AND Chuck Norris on his side, I’m Team Tebow.

All kidding aside, I was avoiding this book. I’m ashamed to say that now. Remember that section above about stereotyping? I was guilty of it and that was wrong. Everything I’ve heard about Tim Tebow made me respect and like him, but I made assumptions. Those leaps were made based on just a few small facts. My hard headedness gets me into trouble as much as it keeps me out of it. After avoiding “Through My Eyes” for months, I finally started to turn the pages. Now I am sure I was meant to read it. Isn’t that the way it always goes?

I’ve never really understood the judgment thrown on those who stand up for what they believe in on the conservative side. What is so wrong with that? Tim Tebow (by all accounts) lives life in an honorable way and lets others know WHY he chooses to live that way. He doesn’t force it down anyone’s throat. He just lives life as a good man. For the love of all that is logical in the world, would SOMEONE tell me why that is wrong (and make sense when you explain it to me)?!

You don’t have to agree with the guy. You don’t have to make some radical change in your life. You don’t even have to listen to what he says. So why is it so dang unnerving for people?

The number one reason I respect this man is because he stands strong. No matter what others around him say or do, he remains exactly who he is and believes wholeheartedly what he believes. How often can you say that about anybody?

I honestly am not getting into a religious discussion. I’ve always felt that is for face-to-face time between people who are able to have a calm and respectable discussion. However, I had to talk about Tim Tebow and this book.

Tim broke out of a stereotypical box to show people that being Christian doesn’t mean being boring (Have you seen his interviews?) or judgmental (Listen to what teammates and coaches say about him) or meek (Watch his response to Hawaii coach June Jones calling him a “system quarterback” HERE). He showed that being Christian means so much more. The amount of respect I have for that alone, cannot be put into words.

This is a touchy subject and I know it. It’s something I don’t usually broach in the reviews, but I’m tired of good people getting smacked around for nothing. Tim Tebow doesn’t need me to stand up for him, but I’m going to do it anyway. Indirectly, I got called out and challenged by a guy who is younger than I am…and I deserved it. The Lord works in mysterious ways. Challenge accepted.

Hey, Tim…this one’s for you: 1 Timothy 4:12

If you weren’t playing for the Donkeys, I might even cheer for you on the football field. However, a girl can only do so much. Once a Chief…always a Chief.

BECAUSE GARTH BROOKS AND BLUE COUNTY SAID SO:

“One hand reaches out and pulls a lost soul from harm. While a thousand more go unspoken for and they say ‘What good have you done by saving just this one?’ It’s like whispering a prayer in the fury of a storm. And I hear them saying, you’ll never change things. And no matter what you do, it’s still the same thing. But it’s not the world that I am changing. I do this so this world will know that it will not change me.” — Garth Brooks, “The Change” (Tony Arata & Wayne Tester)

“Knowin’ where you’re going. Embracin’ where you’ve been. Being criticized for standing strong in a battle you can’t win. Living in a moment you may never see again. Let your heart break some rules. Now, that’s cool.” – Blue County, “That’s Cool” (Aaron Benward, Lee Thomas Miller & Scott Reeves)

WHY SHOULD WE TRY AND BE GOOD ROLE MODELS TO KIDS?

The one thing kids need above all else is to know someone cares about them. Spending a little time, saying a kind word or showing interest in their talents can make all the difference in the world. You never know what little thing can change the life of a child for the better.

BECAUSE MICHAEL W. SMITH SAID SO:

“Feels like I’m looking for a reason. Roaming through the night to find my place in this world…my place in this world. Not a lot to lean on. I need your light to help me find my place in this world…my place in this world.” Michael W. Smith, “Place In This World” (Amy Grant, Wayne Kirkpatrick & Michael W. Smith)

WHY IS DREAMING NECESSARY?

BECAUSE BROTHER TROUBLE SAID SO:

“They say the things I’m doing just can’t be done. They walk the line and say that I’m the foolish one. They got this, that and the other. Let me tell you one thing brother. They just don’t look like they’re having any fun. Think I’ll just stay crazy. Think I’ll keep on running wild. As long as you’re here with me, Baby. If I go down, I’m gonna go down with a smile and just stay crazy. Just stay crazy.” – Brother Trouble, “Stay Crazy”

WHY DO OPPOSITES ATTRACT?

Because love doesn’t ever make sense. That’s why it’s a feeling and not a thought. BOOM!

BECAUSE COLLIN RAYE, ELLA FITZGERALD AND LOUIS ARMSTRONG SAID SO:

“Look behind your own soul and the person that you’ll see just might remind you of me. I laugh. I love. I hope. I try. I hurt. I need. I fear. I cry. And I know you do the same things too. So, we’re really not that different…me and you.” – Collin Raye, “Not That Different” (Joie Scott & Karen Taylor-Good)

“You say laughter and I say lofter. You say after and I say ofter. Laughter. Lofter. After. Ofter. Let’s call the whole thing off.” – Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” (Otto Harbach & Jerome Kern)

WHY SHOULD WE FACE OUR FEARS?

They won’t go away. Fears just stick around ready to jump out and grab us until we face them. It’s annoying isn’t it?! However, no matter how scary it may be…there is a solution.

BECAUSE EMINEM SAID SO:

“I’m not afraid to take a stand. Everybody, come take my hand. We’ll walk this road together, through the storm Whatever weather cold or warm. Just lettin’ you know that you’re not alone. Holler if you feel like you’ve been down the same road.” Eminem, “Not Afraid” (Marshall Mathers, Luis Resto, M. Samuels, J. Evans & M. Burnett)

WHY DO WE HAVE TO GET BACK ON THE PROVERBIAL HORSE?

You are talking to a girl who literally got thrown from a horse riding bareback when she stupidly let the animal have control over his head. That is one rough lesson to learn. And what did my Dad do? That’s right. He helped me up and said, “Let’s go. Time to get back on the horse.” I looked at him like he had lost his ever lovin’ mind…and got back on the horse. It worked. I didn’t fear getting thrown again and held onto my love of riding whenever I got the chance. PLUS, I never let any dang horse have its head again.

That’s life. Situations can be painful, difficult and void of fun. We adjust and walk through them. The lessons learned make the next situation bearable. So get back on the horse and try again. It’s always worth it.

BECAUSE JO DEE MESSINA SAID SO:

“Oh. that’s the way it is. You gotta roll with the punches. That’s the way it goes. You gotta bend when the wind blows. You live. You learn. You crash and burn. It’s hit or miss and that’s the way it is.” – Jo Dee Messina “That’s the Way It Is” (Holly Lamar & Annie Roboff)

WHY IS HONESTY SO DIFFICULT WHEN THE TRUTH IS SO SIMPLE?

Relationships between people are complicated because they involve human beings. Don’t get me wrong, they are worth the difficulties. When you form a special bond with someone, there is nothing on Earth better. Dating is tricky. There are no true rules. However, there are feelings involved. This is why I don’t understand how anyone is okay with using another person knowingly.

If you want to be friends with someone of the opposite sex, be friends (make sure they are aware of that fact). If you want more, go for more (make sure they are aware of that fact). If you want to completely cut them out of your life, stay gone. Otherwise, you’re not being honest or fair. I think it’s a pretty simple concept and eliminates a lot of confusion. This has been the source of much debate over the years, but what is there to debate about really? If you are only keeping someone around to soothe your boredom or loneliness, that’s messed up. Am I wrong?

You know I love a good debate. Please. Somebody. Fight me on this. I dare you.

BECAUSE JERROD NIEMANN AND JOHN MAYER SAID SO:

“Why’d you call me today with nothing new to say? You pretend it’s just hello, but you know what it does to me to see your number on the phone. Now tell me…What do you want? What do you want? What do you want from me? Are you trying to bring back the tears or just the memory? You keep taking me back…taking me back to where I’ve already been. When we hang up, it’s almost like I’m losing you again. Can’t you see? So what do you want? What do you want from me?” – Jerrod Niemann “What Do You Want” (Jerrod Niemann, Rachel Bradshaw & Richard L. Brown)

“Friends, lovers or nothing. We can really only ever be one. Friends, lovers or nothing. We’ll never be the in-between, so give it up. Anything other than yes is no. Anything other than stay is go. Anything less than ‘I love you’ is lying.” – John Mayer “Friends, Lovers or Nothing” (John Mayer)

WHY SHOULD YOU LEAVE THE PAST IN THE PAST?

Forgive, forget and move on. Otherwise, it will eat you alive. I’ve learned from experience on this one. The second I accepted this method, life became easier to deal with on a daily basis. Holding onto the anger or the loss only hurts you, not them. Let it go for your own good.

BECAUSE SHANNA CROOKS (AND RICHARD MARX) SAID SO:

“Regret is just a waste of an emotion…a raindrop in the ocean. Meaningless like all the stupid reasons we won’t start believing. We got a way of playing games always denying things. Truth just catches up ready to call your bluff. It’s like trying to fix a broken dream or save a heart that doesn’t beat. Only one left hanging on. Let it fall. Let it fall. When no one’s there to pick you up and you think you’ve had enough. When things are out of your control, let it all…let it all go.” – Shanna Crooks “Go” (Shanna Crooks, Richard Marx and Espionage)

WHY SHOULD YOU USE NEGATIVITY TO YOUR ADVANTAGE?

On a daily basis, we tend to hear more negative reinforcement than positive. Don’t wallow in it. Use it. Some of the most rewarding moments came after someone said or did some awful things. Call it competitive. Call it stubborn. Just call them on it by turning those words into motivation. You’ll be surprised how often it works.

BECAUSE TRAIN SAID SO:

“Words. They’ll try to shake you. Don’t let them break you or stop your world from turning. When words keep you from feeling good, use them as firewood and let them burn.” – Train, “Words” (Pat Monahan, Jerry Becker & Luis Maldonado)

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO CHERISH EVERY DAY?

BECAUSE TRAVIS TRITT SAID SO:

“And it’s a great day to be alive. I know the sun’s still shining when I close my eyes. There’s some hard times in the neighborhood. But why can’t every day be just this good?” – Travis Tritt, “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” (Darrell Scott)

WHY ARE ROAD TRIPS FUN?

There is nothing quite as interesting as hitting the road to explore this extraordinary country in which we live. It doesn’t take lots of money. One of the coolest things I’ve been able to do in the past few years is travel to county fairs, small town festivals, state fairs, etc. and meet the people. It’s the greatest education you will ever receive. Although we have our differences, you will be amazed at the similarities between people. Getting pictures of y’all “Rockin’ On,” makes my day every time.

Get in the car. Take a quick trip. Even stopping to see the World’s Largest Ball of Twine can be an adventure. If you were wondering, it’s in Cawker City, Kansas. True story.

BECAUSE MATT RAMSEY SAID SO:

“Don’t look back. Let it ride. Find a new life somewhere out on this road. Baby, there’s a whole other side of this world I wanna see. Come with me.” – Matt Ramsey, “Come With Me” (Matt Ramsey & Trevor Rosen – 7/6/11, Blue Bar)

WHY IS IT NOT SUCH A BAD THING TO HAVE A BROKEN HEART WHEN DEALING WITH THE JERK WHO BROKE IT?

BECAUSE KATE VOEGELE SAID SO:

“Hurt me before now. Won’t hurt no more now. Not this time. You might do better messin’ with someone else’s mind. ‘Cause you’re not gonna break me down again. You’re done with doin’ me the way you did. It’s gone too far, yeah. You can’t break a broken heart. So try your best now Baby. Try your best to break me. You can’t break a broken heart. No damage you can do now. I’m immune to you now. You can’t break what broke apart. There’s nothing you can do to me no more. You can’t break a broken heart.” – Kate Voegele, “You Can’t Break A Broken Heart” (Diane Warren – 7/10/11, Exit/In)

WHY SHOULD YOU SEIZE EVERY OPPORTUNITY?

BECAUSE NATASHA BEDINGFIELD SAID SO:

“Staring at the blank page before you. Open up the dirty window. Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find. Reaching for something in the distance. So close you can almost taste it. Release you inhibitions. Feel the rain on your skin. No one else can feel it for you. Only you can let it in. No one else. No one else can speak the words on your lips. Drench yourself in words unspoken. Live your life with arms wide open. Today is where your book begins. The rest is still unwritten.” – Natasha Bedingfield, “Unwritten” (Natasha Bedingfield, Danielle Brisebois & Wayne Rodrigues – 7/10/11, Exit/In)

WHY DOES MUSIC SPEAK LOUDER THAN ANYTHING ELSE?

Please believe me when I say one song changed my life in ways more profound than I could ever put into words. The first time I heard it, I made a huge move and career change. What is most interesting, is that it still affects me in indescribable ways. I’ve heard D. Vincent sing it often. Every, single time I was struck with a different realization. One that I so desperately needed to reach. They are the same words, set to the same music, sang by the same voices. Yet, I feel like I’m given different words of advice every time the songs is performed. Many tunes have a way of doing that. There’s no scientific explanation. It’s why everyone has a different favorite. So what’s your song?

BECAUSE D. VINCENT WILLIAMS SAID SO:

“I’ve lived in this place and I know all the faces. Each one is different, but they’re always the same. They mean me no harm, but it’s time that I face it. They’ll never allow me to change. But I never dreamed home would end up where I don’t belong. I’m movin’ on. I’m movin’ on at last I can see. Life has been patiently waiting for me. And I know, there’s no guarantees, but I’m not alone. There comes a time in everyone’s life when all you can see are the years passin’ by. And I’ve made up my mind that those days are gone.” D. Vincent Williams, “I’m Movin’ On” (D. Vincent Williams and Phillip White – 7/11/11, The Listening Room)

WHY ARE POSITIVE INFLUENCES IN LIFE SO IMPORTANT?

BECAUSE CHRIS NATHAN SAID SO:

“Stop running from good things. Keep holding to your dreams. Come over you’ll find me right here always.” Chris Nathan, “Always” (Chris Nathan – 7/16/11, The Blue Bar and Rack Room)

WHY DO YOU HAVE TO LIVE AND LEARN?

There is no one on the planet who is quite as musically talented as Josh Flint. I am constantly amazed at the depth, feeling and intricacies of his music. Go listen to a song or two. Me talking about the music just does NOT do it justice.

BECAUSE JOSH FLINT SAID SO:

“I’ve seen some things in my life that I wish made me cry. When just a trivial sight brings a tear to your eye. I’ve come so far down this road. That’s what I’ve been told. But I tell you right now, I ain’t nowhere close to growing old. So don’t tell me to change the things I already know I’ve done wrong. ‘Cause sooner or later I’ll learn from myself and move on. Don’t accuse me of nothing that you know I’ve already done wrong. ‘Cause sooner or later I’ll learn from myself and move on.” Josh Flint, “Sooner or Later” (Josh Flint – 7/18/11, 12th & Porter)

WHY CAN THE BLUEBIRD CAFE RENEW YOUR SOUL?

I go there once a month on purpose. It is an experience like none other and you can only truly be immersed by it in Nashville. I love taking people who have never been there. Last week, I took clients. They smiled the entire time and begged me to come back next time they were in town. The men and women who sing at the Bluebird are the people who write the songs that change our lives. They make our days brighter, help dry our tears, remind us of days past or give love a soundtrack. The five men who sang a few days ago are some of the best in the business. Three hours later, my cup runneth over.

BECAUSE GARY NICHOLSON, RIVERS RUTHERFORD, JIM COLLINS, TOM HAMBRIDGE & COLIN LINDEN SAID SO:

“I was going where I shouldn’t go. Seeing who I shouldn’t see. Doing what I shouldn’t do. And being who I shouldn’t be. A little voice told me it’s all wrong. Another voice told me it’s all right. I used to think that I was strong, but lately I’ve just lost the fight. It’s funning how fallin’ feels like flyin’ for a little while.” Gary Nicholson, “Fallin’ and Flyin’” (Gary Nicholson – 7/20/11, Bluebird Cafe) Sang by Jeff Bridges in the movie “Crazy Hearts.” Gary was a nominee for the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. Yep. He’s that amazing.

“Yeah, when I get where I’m going, they’ll be only happy tears. I will shed the sins and struggles I have carried all these years. And I’ll leave my heart wide open. I will love and have no fear. Yeah, when I get where I’m going, don’t cry for me down here.” Rivers Rutherford, “When I Get Where I’m Going” (Rivers Rutherford – 7/20/11, Bluebird Cafe) Sang by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton. If you’ve never heard Rivers’ story of the song in the middle of this tune, you are missing out. It’s an experience that can transform a soul. I’ve seen a room of grown men brought to tears.

“‘Cause the one thing stronger than the whiskey was the shot of her holding our baby girl. The way she adored that string of pearls I gave her the day that our youngest boy Earl married his High School love. It’s the new t-shirt saying I’m a grandpa. Being right there as our time got small. And holding her hand when the good Lord called her up. Yeah, man. That’s the good stuff.” Jim Collins, “The Good Stuff” (Jim Collins – 7/20/11, Bluebird Cafe) Sang by Kenny Chesney. It’s another tune that takes me back to exactly where I was when I heard it the first time. This one was also the 2002 Country Music Single of the Year according to Billboard and spent seven weeks at the top of the charts. Jim is one of those writers. It is rare if his songs don’t matter in my life.

“I feel rain falling right out of the blue sky. And it’s the 5th of May and I’m right there staring in your eyes. And nothing’s changed and we’re still the same. And I get lost in the innocence of a first kiss. And I’m hanging on to every word rolling off of your lips. That’s all it takes and I’m in that place. Every time I hear your name.” Tom Hambridge, “Every Time I Hear Your Name” (Tom Hambridge – 7/20/11, Bluebird Cafe) Sang by Keith Anderson. Tom has the fun, rockin’, awesome tunes that rocks the country right out of you. It was hard to abide the the typical rules of the Bluebird. I was in need of MOVEMENT.

“I’m laughing on the inside, ’cause I know the drill. Just set him up and let him go for the kill. Ain’t no one like him North of the 48th. Ain’t nothing like him in the 50 states. This ain’t no cautionary tale. Nobody got mad or went to jail, but you only live one time so have a ball. That mighty boy. That mighty boy. He’d smoke ‘em all.” Colin Linden, “Smoke ‘Em All” (Colin Linden – 7/20/11, Bluebird Cafe) Colin OWNS a guitar and has this deep, soulful and bluesy sound that ropes a listener into the moment. It was a joy to hear him play and sing.

WHY DO WE GO TO TWITTER FOR INSPIRATION?

BECAUSE OPRAH SAID SO:

“Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” – Oprah Winfrey

WHY DO THINGS CHANGE?

And this is the part I knew was going to be most difficult to write. These past four years have been amazing for me. The people, songwriters, artists and music in this town are inspiring and I have loved every, single second of building “Rock On Together.” It meant I got to tell you about one of my favorite things on Earth…music. And I got to meet some of the most interesting folks you can imagine.

Sometimes opportunities lead us in different directions. You have to taken them when they arrive. My goal has always been to get the best music to the ears of the people. Bottom line. And so I”m taking some additional steps to make that happen. I’m not saying goodbye, because I’ll try and check in now and again. However, the blog portion of the website will be on hiatus for a while. Please keep visiting the website. I’ll try and update the calendar as much as possible. I don’t want you to miss anything in this amazing city.

As for me…I’m happy, excited, terrified and eager for what’s coming next. I think that about covers it. Thank you for everything you’ve given me. Your messages, comments, questions and all-around awesomeness. These is no way for me to truly explain how much it means. Don’t stop listening. You never know what you might hear.

BECAUSE KEITH ANDERSON AND TIM McGRAW SAID SO:

“I don’t know if it’s worth it. And I don’t know if I’m good enough. All I know is I’m giving it all I got. And I’ll know when I get there.” Keith Anderson, “I’ll Know When I Get There”

“Some say it’s too country. Some say it’s too rock ‘n roll. But it’s just good music if you can feel it in your soul. And it doesn’t really matter. It’s always been the same. Life goes on. Things change.” Tim McGraw “Things Change”

And this sign off may never have been more perfect then it is right now.

Until next time…

No Reins!

K

P.S. “See you when I see you. Another place…some other time. If I ever get down your way or you’re ever up around mine. We’ll laugh about the old days and catch up on the new. Yeah, I’ll see you when I see you and I hope it’s some day soon.” Jason Aldean, “See You When I See You” (Tony Martin, Wendell Mobley and Neil Thrasher)