I worked as a title searcher for almost 25 years. It took awhile for it to become fulfilling because it doesn't pay a whole lot, takes a long time to learn, and in the years of learning there are endless frustrations. And then it creeps up on you that you're able to solve problems, answer questions and rebut any challenges to your work.

I loved being around live rocking music, but I never knew what to do with myself socially at a show or club. I discovered that the dance floor was the perfect place to hide in plain sight.

I worked as a title searcher for almost 25 years. It took awhile for it to become fulfilling because it doesn't pay a whole lot, takes a long time to learn, and in the years of learning there are endless frustrations. And then it creeps up on you that you're able to solve problems, answer questions and rebut any challenges to your work.

One of my favorite writers is short story writer/essayist Jorge Luis Borges, who was blind. I'm not claiming to be anything remotely resembling a talent of Borges' caliber, but he is an inspiration and a proof that one can be a meaningful and successful writer while blind.

I just implore local music fans to get out on a regular basis to support the local bands that you like. If you find what the corporate record industry shovels out as distasteful, prove that there's a demand for something different and better. I don't expect everyone else to do the two or three nights a week that I did at my peak, but two or three shows a month isn't much of a burden for true music fans!