Telling Thoughts

Anyone who hasn’t experience the unique vocal talent of Gordon Lightfoot has missed one of the most outstanding talents of our time.  I was mesmerized by his voice the first time I heard him—ages ago.  Every song tells a tale while taking you on an emotional journey made more poignant by haunting melodies and Gordon’s voice.  I could go on endlessly about this singer, but instead I’ll tell you about the impact If You Could Read My Mind has had on my life.
 The year it came out I had just remarried and gained an instant family of two small children.  After one failure at matrimony I was determined to make this one succeed and have a happy family to boot.  It soon became obvious for a variety of reasons that it wouldn’t be an easy task.  I was ready for the challenge though.
 When I first heard this song the tune played in my head for hours, even days afterward, but I found the lyrics depressing.  As it played I would silently plead, “Try harder”.  The admonishment was as much for me as the singer.
 As the years went by I began to relate more and more to the lyrics.  Twenty plus years later my life and my marriage were at a crossroads.  Though I hadn’t heard it in awhile, the song instantly came to mind.  Never do the lyrics speak of actually talking things out with his partner, only of wishing they could each read the other’s mind.  That was exactly what was happening in my life.  So I insisted my husband and I talk and communicate our thoughts, feelings, and whatever else we needed to fully.  It worked. Now when I hear this song I’m reminded that communication is the key to “just getting it”.  Knowing that though doesn’t take away from the pleasure I get from listening to Gordon sing.