"I play what I live" - McCoy Tyner who plays My Favorite Things

"I play what I live" - McCoy Tyner

John Raitt was far more than Bonnie's daddy

John Raitt helped set the standard for tenor/baritone strong voiced, granite chinned leading men on Broadway in the late 1940's and 1950's.  He originated the lead roles of Curley in Oklahoma, Billy Bigelow in Carousel and Sid Sorokin in the Pajama Game, among others. 
Raitt was unable to translate his stage success to films with his only major big screen triumph coming in Pajama Game opposite Doris Day. His career continued, however, in national touring companies and he remained popular for many years as a concert singer. 
He is, perhaps, best remembered today as the father of Bonnie. This  collection may help rectify that oversight. 

My Darling Children

My Darling Children,

May your most precious memories be of

brilliant morning suns rising to greet you and

days filled with never ending promise;

Of adoring parents to love you,

families to embrace and care for you,

your own children returning 
through a welcoming door,

friends and comrades to walk alongside 
on your journey;

those who pause to note your presence, 
admire your visage,
respect your integrity 
and trust your judgment,
those true few who will stay until the end of time

and forever gentle evening gloamings 
to usher you safely 
through nights filled with sheltering peace.

HL 9/22/13