I went to my first Dead show at Bill Graham's Fillmore East in 1971.

My roomates sort of dragged me along.

It was back in the days when Jerry played some sets with the New Riders on pedal steel, and then was joined by the band.

By the time they played "We Bid [you] Goodnight," I was standing on my seat dancing (I NEVER DANCE!)

My life changed during that show, (not just from the hallucinogenics:) and I was reborn, a Deadhead for life.

I didn't follow the band to all their shows, (not that I didn't wish I could!) but they became deeply rooted in my heart and soul. I became a part of the music and the fans, and they became a part of me.

It has gone on for all these years now, and it's an affinity that will remain with me throughout time and space, wherever I may travel...and I can honestly say, "I've never met a Deadhead I didn't like," and I've met a whole lot of true brothers and sisters throughout my life, thanks to this common bond. I am and will be FOREVER GRATEFUL!