Pete Seeger's birthday cake

I just read this article by Studs Terkel acknowledging Pete Seeger's 86th birthday.

I'm reminded of the amazing impact that living an exemplary life can have on others. I'm reminded of the importance of faith, hope, and charity. And I'm reminded, sadly, how hard it is to live that way, and how rare the people who are able to do so, and still let their little lights shine.

I saw Pete Seeger at Massey Hall when the Folk Alliance was in town, inspiring people to tears in a 15 minute set that could have gone on for hours. I've seen both Odetta and Richie Havens at Hugh's Room over the past couple of years, radiating joy and commitment as if unaffected by the cynicism all around. I see Bono and Springsteen tirelessly striving to make our global village more just, and more humane. And I see people in this music community working just as hard to bring their convictions to life in the world around.

Sometimes people like that, and the lesser-known folk among us who are similarly driven, manage to make some really great changes happen, and the world is a better place as a result. That is an awesome thing.

Still, the thing I value most is the ability to keep contributing with grace. That's something Pete Seeger has achieved, I think, and it strikes me as a truly divine gift.

86 candles on one birthday cake adds up to a lot of little flames - enough to light millions more little lights.

Let 'em shine!