Finding a Long Lost Friend in the Guitar

Chuck Everhart, 56, played guitar as a child and recently reconnected with the instrument after many years. Painting: Guitar Man by Hubert Jackson.

Music has always been a part of my life in some way or another. I was playing a guitar when I was around 7 or 8, and wrote my first song at the age of 10. My family life was so rough that my guitar became my best friend.

I could communicate best by singing about how I felt, or how I wanted things to be. I began performing on stage with relatives that played music. And I loved the feedback that came from it! People would relate to my music and what a feeling it was to fit in.

After marriage, I played less and less. As the children came, I had to give up my dreams for awhile. I never realized how much I missed it. I felt as if some part of me was missing.

I recently picked up my guitar and I found I could get those feelings back by playing and singing again. It was if my best friend had returned. Now, I tell all those with dreams of music, never give up what your heart knows is right. Never again will I let go of what I hold close to my heart. I say it with music!

Chuck Everhart
Florida