Rory Storm! And the Hurricanes! The guy's name always cracked me up as a kid, and it was interesting to hear Ringo telling Howard Stern the other day about his days with that band.
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| Rory (l) and Ringo |
Rory's real name was Alan Ernest Caldwell, and his band floundered after Ringo swam away. When Howard asked Ringo where Rory is now, the answer came back, "Dead." And a little research shows me that he died in 1972, and at the time Ringo was asked why he didn't come to the funeral for his old mate.
"I wasn't there when he was born, either," came his reply.
Maybe it's just the way I roll, but I don't mind showing up at funerals and viewings to pay respects to the departed and to console the family. When friends and kin came to our side when my parents and several friends died, it was more of a blessing than they probably knew, to have someone stop by with a handshake or a hug and some comforting words. Or a joke or a story, whatever, it helps.
On the other hand, it's kind of a sting when you lose someone dear and people don't acknowledge it. Yes, I know that going to funeral homes is rough for a lot of people, and some people just have terrible associations with the whole process, but I would urge one and all to try to put those feelings aside for half an hour, and just be there for your friend.
The great sage Yogi Berra taught us, "Always go to other people's funerals, or else they won't come to yours." That's a little levity for a serious topic, but please keep it in mind. There is no "fun" in funeral, but there is love in a simple gesture such as supporting others.
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