The albums that I listened to in the night had come to me from Bill Bartley, a grammar school teacher who had taken a special interest in my education. I was in his class when I was ten years old but our friendship continued for years after that. I began by helping him with yard…
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One response to “The Man Who Bought Me Records”
Kevin, just this morning, I came across this story of yours from last December…what a nice surprise! Once again, you inspire me to consider writing about my life. These early-life experiences can leave a deeper mark than those that follow. I had a similar experience with a flute teacher, who offered lessons in a music store/house on Shattuck Ave. A few years of a close, inspirational relationship ended upon his declaration of love. He recoiled when he recognized that I did not reciprocate. This betrayal of trust is difficult for a youth to process. We feel insecure enough that we do not share it with others. It is good to hear your story – both how important this person was, the dark and light marks left, and the irreconcilable end (chocked full of heartache and lessons about humanity). Such is life, right? So many irreconcilable truths…especially in passion and fear.