— from Sharon Abreu —
Today I mourn the passing and celebrate the life of Pete Seeger, who left this Earth at the age of 94.
If ever there was a life well lived, it was Pete Seeger’s. He was a true leader, a courageous activist. He was a mentor, source of support, and inspiration to me and to so many people.
Despite his celebrity, Pete was one of the few people that actually gave me a chance. I will always respect, honor, and deeply appreciate him for that, and for so many things he contributed to our world.
He was all about other people, empowering them, giving them a voice. It’s up to us to continue being “links in the chain” and to “carry it on”.
The NY Times article mentions Pete’s song “Tomorrow’s Children.” It’s Pete’s setting of a poem by Walter Lowenfels. Mike and I are grateful to have had the opportunity to perform this song with Pete, in a benefit house concert in 2000. You can see that performance here:
My thoughts and prayers are with Pete’s family, and also everyone around the world whose lives have been touched by his heart, humanity, and music.
I’ve heard Pete say that if there’s a human race on Earth a hundred years from now, music will be part of the reason. I’ve also heard him say that it will be because of millions of little things done by ordinary people every day. I believe both of those are true.
My life was profoundly altered by Pete Seeger, his mission, vision, and music. I am forever grateful. And I will forever strive for a more perfect union and a compassionate, sustainable world.
Pete, and everyone, may you have fair winds and calm seas.
Thanks, that was beautiful Sharon!
Thank you, Sharon, for a loving and fit tribute to this remarkable man. His humanity touched me deeply in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and my children grew up loving his music and respect for all life.
Thank you Sharon!
Pete Seeger was a hero to our family.
Lydia Miler
Thank you, Sharon. I’m happy you had the chance to know him. Pete Seeger was a true hero, someone who tirelessly worked for the betterment of the human race and the earth we live on, in spite of, at times, extreme opposition and difficulty. He also seemed to keep a joyful heart and good connection with his family while doing so.
Sharon, thank you so much for sharing. What an honor to perform with Pete Seeger. His passing makes us feel that an era has ended. But you are right,as he encouraged, we must all continue doing the little things that will contribute to making the world a better place.
For anyone who would like to watch a wonderful show on Pete Seeger, go online to Amy Goodman’s Democracy Now show from Tuesday, where she reprises a long conversation she conducted with Pete in her studio ten years ago.
“This machine surrounds Hate and forces it to surrender”
RIP Pete, thanks Shar
Thanks for sharing your remembrances with us. There’s something else that those of us who loved Pete Seeger can to help remember and honor him: petition Gov. Andrew Cuomo to name the new Tappan Zee Bridge after Pete. Here’s where to sign:
https://www.change.org/petitions/new-york-governor-andrew-cuomo-name-the-new-tappan-zee-bridge-after-pete-seeger?share_id=glsezhjLRU&utm_campaign=signature_receipt&utm_medium=email&utm_source=share_petition