I’m especially proud to introduce our new song and video called “Carry On” (co-written by Gene Skaggs). “Carry On” is a tribute to all our loved ones who have found their way to Heaven. The powerful back-story as to how this song came about is included in the video. I need to warn you … I do not look good in this video. I cried a lot and there were many takes. It’s a story that is very near and dear to my heart:
I now want to include yet another amazing true story that happened as a result of moving forward with this musical venture.
Gene asked me to help him continue on with a song he had started for his son, Anderson, who sadly passed on at the young age of 22. I was happy to do so; however, I put it off for a few months. It was difficult for me to even think about writing a sad song. It was nagging at me though, because I really wanted to do this for Gene and his wife, Lucy. Gene and I are both very happy and proud that Carry On is a healing, uplifting song. We believe that it will touch many, many hearts.
I vividly remember the day that I continued on with the lyrics to “Carry On” for Gene’s consideration and input. My two sons, Kevin and Jason, work at a family-owned restaurant. Kari Beecroft was one of the waitresses there. Kevin and Jason were very close to her. She fought cancer for seven years and sadly passed away on June 14 of this year. A few months later, her family had a memorial prayer service for Kari on her birthday in celebration of her life. Kevin was asked to read at this service, and I made plans to attend this memorial service for Kari.
Before I stepped out of bed on the morning of the service, I emphatically decided “Today is the day to start writing that song.” I felt Kari’s presence, and I felt Anderson’s presence — two strong, determined angels. I began to write … and the lyrics just poured out of me. I finished the first draft in less than an hour. Later on that day, I showed the lyrics to my sons, Kevin and Jason. We then went to the service for Kari. We sat and listened to what the Priest had to say. To our surprise, the priest kept saying the same things that are included in “Carry On.” My boys and I just looked at each other and smiled. We all had the same thoughts: “Kari is another driving force behind this musical adventure.”
What I didn’t realize until later is that the lyrics to “Carry On” had a much bigger message for many than what I had originally planned. When I finished everything up in the studio for Carry On, I prepared a CD for Kari’s mother, Linda. I didn’t label it “Carry On.” I labeled it “Kari On.” Linda has told me time and time again how much she and her family members love and value this song … It has been incredibly rewarding. Stay tuned for my up-and-coming blogs. There are even more inspirational stories behind this soulful experience.
Singing is a great way to stay more connected to our loved ones in Heaven … It’s also a great way to pray …
May we all Carry On!