If John Lennon Were Still Alive: A Penetrating Reflection

It's been over two decades since the enigmatic and complex John Lennon was no longer with us. Many of us, including myself, have often wondered how our lives would be different if John Lennon were still alive today. What would we say to him if we had the chance to meet and converse?

Let's dive into what I would discuss with John Lennon if given the chance, and how his legacy and art has influenced my life and thoughts.

Admiration and Appreciation

If given the chance, I would definitely express my admiration for John Lennon's work. While I love his music, there is a part of me that adores something else: his cheek and spirit of rebellion. I particularly cherish the memories of seeing him dance with Yoko in public spaces. This demonstrates his ability to embrace life and love, even during a time of personal and professional turmoil.

Thank you, John, for your art and your words. They have inspired me and countless others. Your presence in the psychedelic era was a beacon of hope and truth.

The Yoko Controversy

Discussion with John Lennon would not be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: Yoko Ono. The relationship between John and Yoko is a topic of endless debate. I would start by expressing my confusion and perhaps even frustration over some of John's choices regarding Yoko. Questions like, "Why in the hell did you hook up with that 'hag' Yoko?" come to mind. It's a question that many have asked, and one that speaks to the complexities of John's personal life.

It's clear that John's relationship with Yoko had a profound impact on his life, both personally and creatively. Did it bring him happiness? Success? Or was it another detour in a journey that he should have taken inwards?

Avoiding External Influence

If I could turn back the clock, I would have a serious conversation with John about his tendency to seek external answers to his inner pain. So often, he looked to others, whether it was his mother, Elvis, drugs, the Maharishi, numerology, or Yoko herself, to fix his inner turmoil. While these experiences undoubtedly influenced John's life, they did not ultimately lead to the fulfilling and balanced life he could have had.

Instead of relying on others, I would remind him of the importance of introspection. His lyrics, such as 'People Think I'm Crazy Throwing My Life Away,' suggest that he understood his own pain but perhaps did not always address it in the right way. It's a testament to his vulnerability and openness, but also to his struggle with inner demons.

One significant moment in John's life was his participation in Primal Scream therapy. This therapy helped him make progress and become a more balanced person. Unfortunately, it was abruptly stopped when Yoko intervened, which is a shame. I would have liked him to continue on this path and learn to appreciate the people and things in his life for who they truly are, rather than seeking validation and answers from external sources.

Lessons for the Future

Ultimately, I would want John Lennon to understand the value of self-reflection and introspection. By addressing his inner pain and looking deeply inside himself, he could have avoided many of the bridges that he burned along the way. A healthier, happier life might have been possible, and he certainly wouldn't have caused himself and others so much pain.

So, if John Lennon were still alive today, I would tell him to stop seeking answers outside of himself and to stop dancing to the beat of other people's drums, most notably Yoko's. This advice is not just for John but for anyone who struggles with inner peace and happiness. Living authentically, finding true fulfillment within oneself, can lead to a much richer and more meaningful existence.