Twenty-nine years ago today, my oldest son Gabe came into the world. Wordsworth says “trailing streams of glory do we come from God.” And he did. Gabe was talking almost immediately, forming sentences before his first birthday. His early words of wisdom are gems we all continue to take instruction from such as: “Most times farm animals don’t bite-chew.” This is translated of course as –- Most times farm animals don’t bite you. Note, he doesn’t say that they will never bite you. He doesn’t say that no animals will bite you. Rather, he says that when dealing with farm animals, you should feel pretty safe. You can take this little bit of wisdom and apply it to so many areas of life. Look at a situation. If the evidence suggests something isn’t dangerous, proceed — but maintain just a little caution.

I wrote a baptism song before Gabe was born in anticipation of his arrival with us. I have a copy written down somewhere, but I also have a copy stored in my brain and in my heart. It goes like this:

Bless, bless the baby
We don’t quite know him yet
But I’m sure we soon will

Bless, bless the baby
Somehow the whole world
Has been waiting for him

Night and day
These are uncertain times
We are sharing

And long is the way,
But not too long
When someone is caring for one

Sweet tiny baby
Nowhere he has to go
But for him no doors are closed

Laughing baby
With a smile and jerk
The most dignified of men
Are disarmed
Before a new spirit now unfolding

Like a ray from the sun
A light shining into forever

Oh God, bless the baby
Oh God, bless the baby
Oh God, bless the baby
The woman and the man
A family, guide us with Your hand. (“Bless the Baby” by Bob Tatum)

I still love the song. When Gabe was little, he used to sing it from time to time. He would make it very dramatic, especially the last section. I could write about the song for a long time, and I could tell so many stories. But I will just say that God did bless the baby, and I continue to feel blessed to be connected with such a wonderful young man. – Bob Tatum

Sound Traveler just returned last night from playing at the wedding reception for Rachel Victor and Joshua Goldsmith – the couple now known as Rachel and Joshua Goldsmith. We had the opportunity of playing in the Oglethorpe Ballroom of the DeSoto Hilton Hotel. I played there many years ago as a member of Echoes and Shadows. It was good to be back, this time making music with my own sweet bride.

To respond to this post, click on the title, scroll down, and share some memories – musical or otherwise.

7 Comments to “SongTravelin’:02.22.11 – A Song for a Soul”

• February 22, 2011 at 10:56 am
  Jep says:

  Bob,

  I enjoyed your story of young Gabe. We lived far from you when your family was young and did not get to enjoy your children much as they were growing up. Gabe has grown into a fine young man and we are proud of him.

  The Victor-Goldsmith wedding gig sounds like it was big time fun at a big time venue. Glad you and your bride were able to participate in this event with old friends.

  Love,

  Jeppy III
• February 22, 2011 at 11:15 am
  Kay says:

  Happy Birthday Gabe!! You share a birthday with Seven of Nine.
• February 22, 2011 at 11:50 am
  Your Sis, Terry says:

  Gabe, it was so wonderful to see you last summer. I think it is impossible for you not to smile! You radiate such a feeling of warmth. Of course I love your Dad’s memories. They always paint a picture and invite us in – to “more”.

  When I think of you today I remember last summer and then my mind jumps to a picture I remember of you barreling down the dock in Savannah on all fours when you were tiny. Your spirit of adventure was very evident. You were checking out your surroundings but very cautiously. You obviously were applying your “farm knowledge” skills. I am sure they are serving you well as you explore life and all of the opportunities that are before you.

  We love you very much and are very interested in you and how you are doing. We hope this year is the best yet and that God will bless you with good health, happiness and joy all throughout the coming year.

  Come see us.

  Uncle Jim and Aunt Terry
  PS – the wedding sounds wonderful and takes me back in time. I went to so many dances there and there was always live music. I would have loved for it to be you and Patti!
• February 23, 2011 at 6:35 pm
  Patty says:

  Gabe, I hope your birthday was very special. I remember when we first met that I instantly felt comfortable around you. It seems that you just have that effect on people, and that, of course, is a wonderful trait to have.

  Of all the beautiful toasts, speeches, stories, and songs that were shared at our wedding celebration last June, yours was the one that moved me the most. Thank you for your kind words and open acceptance.

  Bob, I hope your second gig at the DeSoto was as awesome as your first, and I’m glad I could share it with you.
• February 23, 2011 at 11:03 pm
  Farm Handler G says:

  I hear this story every year. I suppose there is wisdom in the statement though! Thanks for the Birthday wishes!
• February 23, 2011 at 11:06 pm
  Farm Handler G says:

  oh yeah and BLESS THE BAAAABBYYYYY!!!!!
• March 1, 2011 at 12:23 am
  Mike Hodge says:

  Bob and Gabe: Thanks for the story! I wrote a song for Zachary when he was born, too, and sang it at his baptism. Much love and appreciation for your music and your lives!