Can an Artist Change the World?

I'd like to think that sometimes we can make a difference.

In 1963, Norman Rockwell wrote this letter below to the NAACP saying that he wanted to do something to help.

The next month, "Look Magazine" published Norman's painting on a big double page spread:

In 1964, that simple visual was a powerful and shocking "wake up" to the insanity of not allowing equal integrated access to our public schools. Rockwell's painting helped to shift the collective thnking and motivate a needed change.

I'd like to think that Artist Norman Rockwell helped - in some small way - to clear the path for Barack Obama.

And on another note...

No matter who we are, no matter where we rest our heads, no matter what our color or creed...we're able to sing the same song at the heart of it all.

But we have to try to do so in harmony.

And when we do? It's just beautiful.

Musicians from all around the globe sing "Stand By Me," for Playing for Change. Just beautiful stuff.

Every once in a while, it's a good idea to hear the music in all of our souls. For it is in the ways we are the same that our strength truly begins.

So dream away, dream often, dream big and make art.