Fall always reminds me of one of the most amazing songs I have ever heard in my life. It was written by John Lennon. He was born on October 9, 1940 and murdered on December 8, 1980. I bet you have heard the song; it’s a song full of hope and peace.
Imagine there’s no heaven
It’s easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today…
Imagine there’s no countries
It isn’t hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace…
You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will be as one
Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world…
You may say 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
It’s pretty hard to imagine a world where there is no war, no religion and no politics. Especially as we approach another election and there is more war and hatred in the world than ever. Is it possible Mr. Lennon was right? Is it time to put down our guns and set aside our hatred for one another and surrender to peace? What would our world be like if all of humanity lived in harmony? John Lennon thought it was possible and made peace his mission during the second half of his life, his post Beatles years. He staged two ‘bed ins,’ one in Montreal and one in Amsterdam. They were intended as non-violent protests for peace; a first of their kind which was a very revolutionary form of protesting. The song “Give Peace a Chance” was recorded and filmed with dozens of friends and reporters present that were interested in Lennon’s vision.
How ironic is it that the song “Imagine” was produced by Phil Spector, the creator of ‘the wall of sound’ in dozens of hit records throughout the ’60s and early ’70s, who was later convicted of second degree murder. Even more ironic is that Lennon himself was murdered on his front door step. Was Lennon an impetus for peace but the rest of the world wasn’t getting it?
Imagine has become one of the most recognized songs of all time. It is certainly arguable that it was the best song John Lennon ever wrote. Other artists like Seal, Pink, A Perfect Circle and Joan Baez have covered “Imagine”. It is definitely one of the most emotionally moving songs ever written.
What would our world look like if John Lennon would have his dream come true? Do you think it’s possible for all of humanity to lay down its ego, beliefs and morals so everyone can live in peace? Listen to the words of “Imagine” and let me know your thoughts.