“The Kid Inside” - I love Barry Manilow’s rendition of this song written by Craig Carnelia for the Broadway Musical “Is there Life After High School”. Every time I hear it a giant lump takes over my throat. just thinking of the lyrics, gets me misty. Of course Barry’s beautiful delivery of the song makes me hear a locker slam, grasp the scent of fresh school supplies, remember those simple times you thought were the beginning and end of all, moments when you’re heart would break and you swore you’d never survive.
They remind me of oldest son’s high school days, the fun he had with his buddies. It also makes me wistful, wishing I personally had more of those memories from life so long ago. I was a complete nerd then – still am in many ways of the world – I never had the guts to join things I found of interest, drama club for one, and instead avoided getting involved in anything, not great for making memories.
The song came to mind with Barry’s recent donation of instruments in Nevada. The look on the faces of those kids was awesome, even if they didn’t immediately know who Barry is, they knew he was someone special.
It dawned on me later Barry gave the kids a gift even bigger than the instruments - which was huge - he gave them himself, his time, his caring. As a friend stated, Barry gave his heart!
No matter how hard we hang on, memories grow hazy. Years from now those kids might not remember the name of their freshman crush, a grade on an algebra test, the shoes that became so yesterday or the winning score of a football game, many might not pursue music!
But undoubtedly they will remember the day world renowned entertainer Barry Manilow didn’t just write a check, didn’t have his people drop off the donation. Instead he took the time to visit them, offer his compassion, his empathy in sharing he was once where they are, he gets it, he remembers his kid inside. He showed them there is life after high school.
On a sunny Thursday in October 2010 Barry Manilow truly gave those kids a “gift of love”. Ultimately in this life what greater gift than love can any of us hope to give or receive!