My Friend Steve Is Gonna Write a Blog

A young friend of mine told me last night that I inspired him to write a blog. I am not sure if I am gratified or dismayed. Is he encouraged because my words struck a chord with him or because he feels that “if anyone reads Rick’s pointless drivel, they will love my writing?” The same way that Wally Pipp inspired Lou Gehrig. Nobody is going to get that obscure reference. How about the way in which K-Mart inspired Wal-Mart?

I suppose it doesn’t matter how creativity is stimulated, just that it is. This particular person is only 17 years old and is very talented in many directions. He is a singer-songwriter, who has written a butt load of songs. He is a computer whiz that can hack into your website and change your “Church of God” to “Church’s Fried Chicken” in minutes. And unless your name is Jack White or John Frusciante, he can play the guitar better than you.

I am not, generally, a big fan of 17-year olds. Particularly pasty white, suburban, kids that assay to be black, and can’t quite pull it off. While many 17-year olds express their originality with a spray can and your wall, Steve channels his into music. While many 17-year olds can’t form a coherent thought, let alone a complete sentence, Steve is contemplating writing a blog. I applaud his efforts, regardless of his motives. I am humbled that he even takes the time to talk to an old geezer like me, let alone find value in my words.