Hi Art and Shelly,
I just wanted to let you know I really appreciate your having started, and poured over 30 years of your life into The Seed. I was the 'other' Thom in "The New Crusty Nostrils" group of around '74-'76 or so. That was a very special time for me. When you asked us to go to Cleveland and sing, it was both an honor and an adventure.
It was cool walking into the room up there, and feeling instantly at home. I have enjoyed that feeling many times over the years as I've visited different AA, NA and GA rooms around the country. I got side-tracked for a few years, predictably, right after leaving The Seed, but am doing very well these days.
Thanks for showing me that I had potential in this world, and for offering a glimpse of what a straight / sober life can be. I also blame you for my love of Jazz. That day you took a bunch of us to your house to hear your stereo playing some of your Big Band collection was a true mind expanding experience for me musically.
Many fond memories, and morsels of wisdom will stay with me always, i hope. The concept of sober humor was first introduced to me by you. The delayed-reaction in putting these things into action was my bad. I thank God for you and your vision and determination and willingness to share it all with us punks. :wink: .
I remember you saying that if the net result of the efforts of the Seed was that ONE kid was spared a life of misery, it would all have been worth it. (or words to that effect) I thought it was a fatalistic attitude at the time, but it makes perfect sense now.
Some of the former Seedlings I'm in touch with these days still harbor bitterness over perceived mistreatment under your care.
Although I don't totally agree with some of your treatment methods during those early years, I hear improvements were made. It was a work in progress. I do recognise you as a fellow human being, living out God's will for your life to the best of your ability, and I thank you for your willingness to do so. I'm sober about 14 years now, and life is good. Thanks for the good foundational work!
Sincerely, Thom McNulty