04/09/2023
I spent all day yesterday lying by the pool and listening to Jimmy. I thought a good day of reminiscing would make the news of his untimely death less painful. No luck. It only made it worse.
I went to my first Jimmy Buffett concert 30 years ago. A large group of us from Goshen, Indiana made the trip down to Indianapolis where I donned my first grass skirt, and danced the night away with people from all walks of life.
Like most of his fans, I immediately fell in love with all things Jimmy. The annual pilgrimage was the ultimate escape from our realities. The first box set I ever bought was Boats, Beaches, Bars and Ballads. The best $69 I've ever spent in my life. All of his music met me right where I needed it to. His songs were silly at times, prophetic, inspirational, hopeful, happy, deep, and fun. They are the anthems I still sing with my high school buddies three decades later.
Man I love Jimmy. I crank his music up on the sh*ttiest of blustery Indiana winter days. I close my eyes and daydream of toes in the sand and a drink in my hand. JB was God's gift for people with seasonal depression.
He was so much more than just a singer. He was a humanitarian, husband, father, best selling author, poet, professor, collaborator, and philanthropist. His music and lifestyle brand brought joy and happiness to millions around the world.
For me, he was the narrator for what I wanted most out of this life. Sun, adventure, fun, friends, and living life like you only have one to live. I don't know many expats that can't contribute some of their "crazy" to Jimmy Buffett. I can honestly say there would be no Better Together Belize without Jimmy. So if you ever come visit, crack open a Landshark, grab your favorite hammock, turn on some Jimmy, and toast to a life well lived.
RIP JB