And the Cat Came Back

I loved listening to Cat Stevens when I was growing up. Anyone who listened closely to his music could understand his desire to retreat from the excesses of the material world. It shows amazing conviction and integrity to "give it all up." To me, that's what's best about Allah, Jesus or Buddha - they remind us to give up chasing the gods of greed, power, lust and ego. Sometimes it takes something extreme to help us reach a peaceful balance.

I wouldn't call what Yusuf, or Cat, is doing a retirement tour. He simply had music inside him that he had to get out, had to share, and I am grateful for that. If you don't want to hear it, or see him in concert, don't. But don't criticize a serious artist who has made a name for himself and still has fans 30 years later. Not many artists can say that, doubt that many "American Idols" will be able to, either.

Cat has always been a classic. His religion took him to an inner peace, now he can do his all time great again.