Happy Birthday, John

You would have been seventy years old today.  I'm sure you're still rocking among the stars.  Tonight I was busking on 2nd and Chestnut Streets.  I set up a little shrine for you.  I had a t-shirt with a large portrait of you on the front with the word "Imagine" under it, which I draped over my guitar case, and lit a candle which burned all night long while I performed.  I ended up talking with a lot of people about you, people who seemed to need to talk about you, your contributions, your memory.  People of all ages.  I ended up singing all the Beatles songs I know tonight.  People sang along with me, which doesn't happen very often, and I let them.  It was kind of a Happening for you, John. 
The highlight of the evening was when an older couple came by with two young girls.  I figured out quickly they were their granddaughters and they were out on the town for the evening.  The older daughter was maybe thirteen and warmed up to me instantly, took up her position next to me.  I didn't mind.  Her younger sister stood behind her, not wanting to miss out on anything, but still a little shy.  The thirteen-year old knew as many Beatles songs as I did and they didn't seem to want to leave, so I decided, this was the reason I was there tonight.  To meet her and sing with her.  She could harmonize pretty well, and the two of us ran through song after song, songs I've never played before.  I'd like to think maybe John was smiling down on me, enjoying the moment.  We sang some of the more playful songs as well, like an "Octopus's Garden." 
Anyway, John, you surely have had an effect on this world.  You've touched our hearts.  You've brought us together.   Thank you, John.

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

Imagine that.