I sat captivated by the unique sound and joyous harmony of three very talented folk singers.
Today, sadly, one of these voices is now silent.
Mary Travers, of the group Peter, Paul and Mary passed away September 16, 2009 after a courageous battle with lukemia. She was only 72.
She never knew me personally, nor I her, but I feel like I came to know her and her fellow singers through their music. Our politics were as divergent as anything, but music can bridge almost any gap. It did for me, anyhow.
I admired her principled zeal and tireless work for the many social causes which she and her trio embraced and supported. Her music transcended politics and embraced her love of all humanity. Her passing has a left a hole in my heart and in the soul of the America she loved dearly.
And so today–almost 33 years since I first heard her melodious voice and a charming tale of innocence lost–I feel a deep sense of personal loss and a realization that my childhood friend is now gone.
God be with you, Mary. Rest in peace.