YOUR OPINION ABOUT PLAYING GUITAR

Hi Lieven,

I think you must mean something different than what you are saying here as most most musicians can keep both rhythm and tempo otherwise they would not be able to perform a song.

Please explain further as what you have written is just not true.

Roger

DocPhil. I, too, am having problems understanding your statement of not being able to keep rhythm? I have read a lot of your posts and get the feeling that you are feeling a little bit sorry for yourself due to your physical condition. NOW, I am not saying this to be cruel in any shape form or fashion. While we have never met, thru our communication here on Chordie, I do feel as though we are friends and that is why I am making these comments. Please do not read anything else into these comments other that of friend talking to friend.

So what if you have a handicap. Your mind is bright and sharp. You may have slowed down a step or two but it do seem as though you still have a strong desire to go forward with your music. I say, do it. You wanna take guitar lessons, go for it. Any guitar teacher worth the title "Teacher" should be happy to help you. You say you cannot play while standing - then learn to play while sitting. Need someone to play music with - ask around. Shoot, you probally know enough to do a little teaching to a niece / nephew or neighbor's child and get them interested in this great hobby. You seem to have a vast knowledge about different guitars and equipment (I know from your posts that you do have a talent for researching these products) - how about a part time job at a guitar store. It's all about mind over matter. If you don't mind then it don't matter. Keep a positive attitude. Again, please understand that this is coming from my heart and nothing else.

Nela

DocPhil, I gotta admire you for the effort you are putting forth. I, too have back problems, although no where as severe as what you are going through. I've had 2 back surgeries due to ruptured disc's and was told by the doctor that I could be put on total disability if that was what I wanted. I didn't!!! There is not a day goes by that I don't wake up hurting or go to bed hurting but I do suffer through it. I do not know and probally will never know everything that is going on in your life but even though we are thousands of miles apart you have all my support and prayers. What I mentioned in my post above was not meant to be cruel but I thought I was reading a lotta "Poor Ole Me" issues kinda between the lines. Your accident was a life changing incident that can never be changed. But in reading your posts I can tell that your mind is razor sharp and what you lack in ability you make up for with desire. I'm the kinda guy that has no problems saying what is on his mind. I would rather tell you the facts than to tell you what you want to hear. What I say is said honestly and without malice. Now, enough of that. So you cannot play standing up and must sit. When sitting to play you have problems sitting for long periods of time. OK, so how do we get around that? Is it your wheel chair or just the type of chair you're sitting in that is causing your discomfort while playing. Is some kinda different type of chair needed? Is there some kinda physical therapy excerises you can do to help you sit and play longer? By knowing what the problems are we can come to the solution. Do you have any ideas of what would help remedy your situation? I hear you when you say you would like to take some lessons but would have difficulties getting to and from them. What about a Chordie brother or sister coming to you? I see that you are in Beguim. I don't know the layout there in your part of the world but I do know we have a lotta Chordie brothers and sisters in the surrounding area's. I challenge each and everyone of them to see where they can be of help to you. I know you are a proud man and don't want to ask for assistance but you are in the Chordie Family and family helps family. Come On Chordie - the MAN needs a little SUNSHINE. Lets make it SHINE for him!!!!!!!!!

Your Buddy
Nela

Hi doc,I am in asimiler situation,four years ago my ankle got shredded,and I have bad arthritis in it,I also have disentigrating arthritis in my back.Icant stand for too long,or walk too far. I do exercise daily,tredmill,indoor bike,and the nintendo Wii sports pack I cant say enough about how much help the nintendo has helped me,it makes exercising fun. Have you tried wearing high lace up boots they help alot. Gibson a great guitar,but have you considered  getting one that is less weight? Refuse Too loose attatude is one I have adopted. I Hope something jn here can give you a little lift.