Appropriately, I selected a photo of one of America’s heros to post for this Independence Day. I have followed Willie Nelson for about 30 years now.

I tell my kids that I have been in professional baseball and football stadiums - sold out - in major cities, just to hear his message and his sweet voice. My kids don’t believe me.  He lives more than half the year on Maui, so Willie has become a familiar sight to local folks, who treat and trust him as a friend. Because he is a neighbor to all Mauians, I have had the pleasure, in recent years, of witnessing live concerts in tiny gatherings, and seeing him in restaurants, and on the golf course. Last week at the Maui FIlm Festival I thanked him for all he has done for America, looking him straight in the eye. Then I had a few minutes to photograph him up close and personal. It was one of the greatest moments in my life.

Willie Nelson is not a “pop culture” icon. He is so much more for the good people of this great country.

Happy Independence Day. Relax, Enjoy.