Mr. Ray Charles

When I stop to think about Mr. Ray Charles the first word that comes to mind is “transformation”. Brilliant transformation! It amazed me that this man, who had obvious God given talent, was also conditioned with great adversity. Blind as a child, in the midst of racial prejudice and segregation. There was drug addiction and infidelity and yet there was such worldly notoriety and fame.

The transformation was one we all should hope to undergo in our life time. From a sinner to saint. From rags to riches. From despair to freedom. From “unknown” to legendary.

I believe that most think that they know the depths of a man who was as popular as Ray Charles and yet there is a generation to come that will only know “What was” through internet articles, biographies and a rich musical catalogue of music. So to capture the essence of this man, as well as many other extraordinarily influential men and women that have walked this earth? Well, one can only hope that generations to come will stop and ponder about the great men and women who have come before us. May they think deeply upon the lessons that where lived before them so to carry the wisdom of these lessons forward in manner that continues to enrich humanity.

May our brothers and sisters stop and listen to the soulful sounds and feel the passion and heart of a man who through his transformation, transformed the world around him, forever.

WE are proud to celebrate Black History Month by remembering Ray Charles. Thanks Ray.