Friends from memory

ok, you're showing off... you've got a helluva good memory !
Real friends aren't hard to remember. May look like a long list from the outside, but in my head it's just a nice walk through memory lane. — Derek

This is an excellent idea Derek. Thank you.

What a wonderful and moving idea. I shall start on mine. We sometimes forget so many people who have helped or been influential along the way, and this is a lovely way to treasure the memory.

Hello. :-)

what a lovely idea! you won't remember me but we were introduced and chatted a few times at TEDGlobal in 2009. it was a random encounter that i've remembered.. your enthusiasm was inspiring!
Hi Amy D! — Derek

I feel honored to be remembered.

Wow... That's a lot of names... I spent a few minutes and struggled to come up with 20. Several of them I can't even remember their names... Either you are quite fortunate or I suck at interacting with people... Probably both...

Great idea Derek. Thanks for the inspiration.

This is an interesting exercise for sure. Very relatedly, I keep a list of people that I want to keep track of and ensure that I stay in touch and keep learning from them, you can think of this as a personal CRM - http://www.gtdtimes.com/2009/11/26/a-creative-way-to-manage-your-friendships/

Do you do something like this Derek? :)
Smart! Great idea. — Derek

I've done this before without writing it down , and thanks to you , ink will flow .

Derek... c'mon dude... it's just a thing. Life is only a short time. Love those that love you... that's all that's important. I remember many that don't remember me... You are nothing more than a burst of energy in that time. I can only wish that you continue to share your burst with those you know. Your list is only important to you.

Wonder if there is a webapp in all this? :D
Great idea looking through memory lane.

And.... there were a few on your list....

This exercise would have me writing and scribbling for hours.... right now those hours are dedicated to getting my 80-100 Christmas cards out to friends :-)

I will always remember our time at Midem fondly! What a great idea, this list.
Hi Sinem! Me too. I had a crush on you. — Derek

I have done this often, throughout mu life, and fill my prayer/meditations/good thoughts lists. It is quite awesome to explore, remember, re-vivify feelings for and about the people, pets, and other animals and plants throughout one's existence "this time 'round"...
My card and letter-writing list (now email & facebook!!) have always been rather long...
Thanks for your enjoyment and sharing of this process, Derek!
Singingly, VOICING YOU! Sheryl at RakVocal~~ :-)

Facebook has helped a lot in remembering these friends that we may have lost or the memory of and then when found in facebook we remember and think oh yea that was good times or bad times. Nevertheless Facebook has probably altered the quality of the list as being as pure as someone who never uses facebook because that means the memory is more of an impact to your life then a memory being refreshed by facebook. Haha just figured I would add food for thought
Great point. I never really did Facebook. Most of my real friends aren't on it. Definitely more touching to see who you remember without tools. — Derek

Nice list and great thoughts. Have a great xmas, Derek.

Excellent idea but I'm struggling to come up with even 20 names! I remember their faces distinctly but just can't remember the names, like my best friend in nursery!

Great Idea Derek.....now to my list...hmmmm

Another great idea that is both inspiring and immediately useful. I keep thinking about your "co-op business model" (which probably could use a re-name).

Derek, what is your main goal in these posts? Is it service or self-expression?

Also...

...it's super ballzy to admit to Sinem that you had a crush on her. Awesome! *Also, her website is broken.
I mostly only post things here that I think others will find useful. In this case, I thought others might like this exercise. Or at very least, the people I remember should know that I remember them, even if I don't know where they are anymore. — Derek

Derek,

Wow - what a great idea :)

You said "Some day I’ll be dead, and this will still be posted. (A reverse funeral! The dead remembering the living. Wow.) "

A Digital Legacy is an important thing. When you get a chance I'd really like to know how you have planned to ensure your domain remains registered permanently, and the server that runs your blog continues to host it, so that this post "will still be posted".

Neil
Good point. I don't have something like that in place, so thanks for the reminder. — Derek

wow. i consider myself a social person but I don't think that many names would pop into my head. i think i might try this exercise, but as it is 2am i think i'll try it later. lol. per usual great post derek. posts like these really make me think what life is about. to me it is about the people you meet along the way and especially the ones you choose to be connected to for extended periods of time. to love and friendship.

Nice. Navigating dormant tributaries of our unique histories we remember, all the better, who we are. Always a good thing.

Thanks...even if their names are only written on my heart, great project!

Boy, my memory ain't what it used to be! But this exercise DOES give me pause... thanks, Derek!! And Happy Holidays!! XO - M

You're on my list without me having made one :)

As I've added years so the quality of character matters more.

'Burst of energy' doesn't really cover the effect we have on each other.

Some people nourish multitudes by their very existence.

We're unlikely to meet yet your sincerity, simplicity and depth crosses oceans of time and space.

As we're generally uncomfortable with praise, please take this in the spirit of the moment ...... and now I'll get on with the next.

Cheers, one and all

Great point. What makes us who we are? What shapes our memories, experiences, values? It surely is also things that happend to us (call it luck and fate) but I agree with you that it is mostly through the people we met that we grow as individuals. This reality rests with us - very personally. It's not in Facebook, LinkedIn or an address book. However, social media helped me a couple of times already to find and re-connect with old friends and refresh my memories. I wonder what would happen if you went back to your list and sorted not chronologically but by personal impact (adding family as needed). With few exceptions I would say that those people I met between 17 and late 20s are those that shaped me most: Teachers, girl friends, early colleagues.

Derek Whats the good of remembering them i am bit of confused kindly help me :)

very, very cool.

Great idea - maybe needed a few blanks for the friends who presence/effect is remembered, maybe even their face but the name escapes. It would be a bit like the Unknown Soldier then all of us could have thought "That one could have been me"
P. S .YOU, Derek, are definitely on my list (and probably two of my sons) from the time we met you in Scotland a few years back on "Baby" business

you are one of the people who affected my life in a positive way ...Kaleta ZOZOAFROBEAT.COM

I am trying to find real friend in this jungle savage world.

Great idea. Thanks for the inspiration Derek. One Love!

Hi Derek,
Didn't see my name on the list :-P. You have had a great influence on my music over the years. It's ironic that you sent me this link. I recent lost 2 of my dearest friends (from the same family) of 2 different forms of cancer. I began to think about how time is the enemy of all things living. I was thinking about the people I've influenced in my life, and those who've influenced me over the years. I found it interesting that the same day I found out about the passing of my friends (who were like brothers to me growing up), as both had passed within the last 18 months. I was contacted by a girl I once dated in high school on FaceBook. Apparently I had influenced her life, and she had been trying to find me for a couple years. It's a great thing to have been influenced by, and influenced the many people who have touched my life. I always find your articles to be informative, and inspiring. Although I rarely comment, I felt it appropriate to comment on this particular article, as I've just done the very thing myself before ever reading this article. I'll always remember the many conversations you and I have shared, and will continue to be amazed at all you have accomplished in your life. Take care of yourself, and have a wonderful holiday. I hope to talk again with you soon. - Ed

Great idea. Thanks.

This IS the friend list time of year for me. I send handmade original holiday cards (I'm an artist) as thank you notes to people to whom I am grateful at the end of each year.

I never spoke with you, but I saw you speak at a DIY Conference at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood in 2008. The business you founded and ran, CD Baby, radically changed my experience as an indie singer/songwriter/record producer for the better, not only by selling my CDs, but through your inspirational, simultaneously funny and very practical writing about touring and making CDs. I owe you a holiday card, or six.

Happy Solstice, Derek!

Alicia

I've read -can't remember where- that human beings cannot retain more than 1500 other human beings in their memory.

I am wondering whether there will be someone to remember that many people...

BTW, I find your idea excellent!

This is a great thing to do at solstice time and remember our forefathers who paved the way
Rob Byron

I love the list but honestly, no one has that many true friends. True friends you can count on one hand, maybe two...

You are on my list.

You said when you are dead this will still be posted, but that is assuming we will still have the web in the future. it may go away or get destroyed.

but an interesting thought.

I did that once! I was about 30 at the time and I realized that I was slowly forgetting about people from school days and couldn't just reel off their names any more. I'd already moved from Northern Ireland to Canada and in those days there was no Facebook and practically no contact with anyone other than my closest friends and family.

I still have the list somewhere and I recall that it was a surprisingly enjoyable exercise.

Glad to know that I'm not the only one to have had the same daft idea!

DC

Derek,

Thanks

There are friends who touched me for a lifetime and some only for a part of it. Thanks for all and hello to all who will come in future :)

Derek, ive known a lot of people in my sixty years on the planet inluding
Ozzy Osbourne when i played in the Approach with him, but about 15 year ago me and this college lecturer did a charity bike ride along the canals from birmingham to banbury, it was for a friend who had died from cancer, we raised about 200 pound, i was out of work at the time but what surprised me was that when we looked at the list of contributers, it turned out that i had more than the lecturer, i though it would be the other way round, but a lot of people ive played with and worked with i never got to know their surnames anyway, i remember meeting you at that pub here in birmingham town, prior to which, you asked me if i could recommend a pub here, thanks for suggesting facebook, one of the best things ive done, anyway a great post, people and places, memories...

I can`t find my name! You remember? I borrowed times 100 dollar to you ;-)

I can't list them they might want me to pay them back

Thanks for sharing this meaningful and beautiful excercise. Aside form my musical career, I also do speaking engagements where I emphasise the importance of acknowledging the important people in your life during your lifetime - face to face, via email, phone, or on paper, in a letter etc.... Reaching out every now and again to thank someone for the impact they had on your life, for the lessons you've learned for the gifts you've received, expressing your love and or appreciation of that person in their lifetime too! The feeling of knowing you are thought of, appreciated and acknowledged is so powerful. I also encourage writing or recording one's life story - to leave as another legacy of love and learning. :)

And Derek....you are SO on my list of people who have inspired me over and over again and continue to do so.... Thank you SO much for sharing who you are and what you know.

Fantastic idea, I did my list on the train to work. It was a nice trip down memory lane.

It is amazing how many are in your memory. I have memory refresh with friends ive met almost everyday. Yet im always working, doing something, little time for being overly sentimental. But its amazing how someone can etch themselves on your memory like an engraving, even chidhood friends of 4 or 5, who have little developed as a person yet beyond words, experience and something in their soul, something fundamental in them that they dont even know, says to you, this person is important to me to never forget them. Pretty impressive list though.

Hi Derek ,
Do you remember where we met ? Ever been to Brisbane ?
Cheers

Hi Derek, Its a bit coincidental that you have brought up this subject. Something on similar lines is happening to me. This year its like I am on automatic memory progression. I am remembering things from so long ago, names faces and places from when I was very little and I am amazed. Its like every day I unearth some memory so distant from such a long time ago, with the finest of details that I am startled. It seems like something is excavating things buried in my mind and its like it takes me there back in time.

@ answer to 26.:

a DIGITAL ETERNAL LEGACY INTERNET SITE! Please find a way to put it up and let everyone know.

Thanks God

Hi Derek, a lot of your list will match my own as so many of the important people in your life once our worlds collided are the same for me. I have some very close friends on your list, many others who have crossed my path many times in meaningful ways. (Ironically, there's even one who just this week rebuked my own attempt at friendship because I dared defend another of your friends. My what a small world eh?) I am just thankful we're in this together! This idea is another compelling home run by you my friend!

Wonderful idea, thanks!

I have been meaning to write a list of all my friends and contacts, past and present, but it seemed (and it is indeed) such a huge project that I just never could get around to do it...

But most probably this would be the best way to start it. Could be a nice Christmas program...

Facebook and other social networking sites did help me a lot though, to get in touch with my folks I have lost along the road. I remember once I was in a new country for a whole year, had only a basic contact with my family and only with a very few people I have known - was terrible! (On the other hand, I did get to know a lot of more people and got new friends).
Then I came to live in yet another country where first I had NO any contacts at all, only my husband's family... and that was when I found a social networking site from my country, with hundreds of my old friends - awwww, what a feeling it was! :-)

And when I'll get around to write another list, of people who have inspired me, Derek you'll be on that :-)

Merry Christmas!

Great exercise for each and everyone of us.

Thanks for the gift; what a wonderful idea!

Hi Derek,
Thanks for sharing and also for a bloody good idea/concept. This is almost a gratitude exercise, which at 54, does get long. The only problem with it, is that I see faces in my head and struggle to remember names. All good.
Best,
Luis

Great idea, Derek! Thank you. Growing older our understanding of what happened in the past and impression from people we met transforms. Ideally we begin to see a broader picture. Very interesting experience.

Hi Derek,
I wish I could say otherwise, but my list would be very, very short. In fact, one of the guys who was on my very short list, I just ran into him recently, tried to work with him, he did quite a number on me. He was one of the (2) guys I would have liked to help if I would have ever run into money. Needless to day, there is one less person on my list.
Thanks for all that you do.

Thanks Derek. Not sure how this is landing - maybe because my days are spent in nursing homes with folks who are deeply forgetful - all that matters there is now...and it is tough to find students of the present moment. So many gazing back or forward. Everything happens now. And I have my own challenges around 'digital distraction' - here I am on phone with daughter and friend eating pancakes downstairs - shouldn't I be with them rather than with a list of your friends and your thoughts?! Lots to ponder Derek, as always. You nearly decided to support our work by putting a call out to your crowd before - your spirit resonates with me. Andy

Great idea. We rely so much on computers these days, we tend to forget the power of our senses and memory if we are not careful. This intention is great here. One can only have a few close friends though, although many shorter deep connections are possible with those who are willing to share.

Great idea! The list proves that we are not alone, and that who I am, is a mix of what I inherited throgh my genes and people I met who influenced me in one or many ways. Perhaps in fifty years from now, we have understood that all humans are connected in much deeper ways than we believe now. Even our thoughts are connected. That will be the time when discrimination and cortuption will end, because we all know that it's meaningless?

hi Derek, you can always bring something new in my mind, especially when updating your blog. I guess I will do the same thing tonight!

My "Three Closes Friends List"... Billy, Bill, Jim

One died of coke. One died of rope. Jim used a gun.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Great idea to show appreciation to the people who have made a change in you, For Good.

Thanks Derek! Your on my list, although we've never met. Because of the reason you started CDBaby, the way you sold it, and the several educational, inspirational, and timely articles you email us all....

This is a wonderful idea and it could also be used as a group exercise or discussion (he counselor in me speaking right now). However, as a writer and vocalist, this could easily turn into a song as well. Thanks for sharing! It is always nice to be remembered, so remebering the many people who have been a blessing in my life would bring even more joy to the fond memories we shared. I love this Derek!!!

Derek, this reinforces my own belief that we're each important to those we come into contact with, whether we know it or not.

During this past year, I've been able to reconnect with some of my friends from 50 years back, and it's been such a meaningful experience.

Thanks for the nudge!

Derek, I don't know which I'm more impressed with; all the old friends you were able to recall (I can't remember anywhere near that many) or that you were able to spell all those names!

As soon as I saw your list mine started flowing in my head. Don't think I'll end up posting mine publicly as I think about the impact of leaving someone off AND I remember an exhausting number of people whether I could recall their names or not. But I do, throughout my life, try to tell people of their positive impact on me and of any of their gifts that I observe -- for anyone from family and friends to passing strangers. Easy to do and always rewarding in all directions. Thanks Derek, for so much positive energy shared.

Hahahahahaha I think your list is way longer than mine Marina V was one name I think I link with.... Will think of list at a latter time (: when I have more time (:

Hi Derek,

Great Idea... I am working on a project for my children that is similar but quite a bit more extensive... I created a several DOCS and Spreadsheets in Google Docs... within these are segments of my life... my memories, opinions, ideas, etc... then I gave them access to the Docs along with my wife and brothers. I also I created a timeline spreadsheet that lists all the years of my life, where I was, what years my children were born, etc. I lived in many places in the first 12 years of my life, including two stints in England... so I used this spreadsheet to help me unscramble some of the memories.

The things that started me down this path was that when my mother passed away in 2009, I started to read some of the things she used to type on her old typewriter... her memories... and thought, what a great idea... I wish she had written more. She was a great resource of wisdom for me and I miss that.

The thing I like about your idea is that it places these names into the line of sight of Google so that maybe some old friends can reach out to you... I am going to do that!

Thanks! Happy Holidays to you and your family!

Your list spurred the beginning of mine Derek. I'm finding it interesting how one name sparks another...and then another from that same time period. They are not all close friends that come to mind.

Hi Derek

I write and publish a blog each week, and just lately I've remembered or written about old teachers or friends going back to the beginning of my life. You must have read my mind! :) No really, that's a great idea, and I want to make a list as you did - chronologically. Thanks again! Some friends come and go, but real memories are forever.
Bill

Small world - though not really a surprise. While you & I met only briefly once (at a music event), I know 2 of the people you've listed and 1 of the commenters, thiugh from very different paths. I don't believe they know each other, thoughit's always possible!

I find I do this quite often when I have time to just sit and let my mind wonder. I think of a friend of major influence in my life and I'll think of a situation, and maybe remember a few more people who where in that picture or movie...it just keeps branching out.

Also lets me go back and take a look at myself from that time, if that makes sense...how I would have handled something differently, something I wished I did or didn't do. Some people you think were small players in life turn out to be the ones that introduced you to someone major... little cogs making the whole mess work... it makes sense when you look back, but you could never have planned something like that out....

I'm babbling....

Shawn

From time to time I do this but I get too emotional in my discussions with my long friends and afterwards a little embarrassed about it. So there are big gaps in these episodes.

Island Frank

not a single Turkish guy! You are missing something here

Well my name might not have been there, but I did get this e-mail...

Have a Merry Christmas Everyone...


Musically Yours,


Guy Leroux~^o^~ cheer

So I didn't make the list.
I'm heartbroken.

Thomas
Tom Pecora! Yes, you should have made the list. My first and most-awesome guitar teacher. (Sorry I was thinking highschool friends for those years.) Good to hear from you. — Derek

Thanks Derek.
All is forgiven.
I think of you often and fondly.
And I've ALWAYS been proud of you.
You were one of the most gifted of the thousands I taught over my 30 years of teaching. I always knew you'd "surface" at some time in the future.

Thanks again,
Your over-sensitive Friend and once Teacher,

Thomas

As we say in Dudeism, the religion of Lebowski, I dig your style, man. What a cool idea!
Ah, Dudeism is my language. California native. Thanks JJ. — Derek

Derek, how long did it take you to write 'em all down?
A few wonderful hours. — Derek

From what I can tell from your posts and videos, you are a loving & lovable person. Keep inspiring the world, as you do!

This was more than pleasurable to read. I have to do this as well. I think about this quite a bit actually. I once had a bag stolen in Florida thatched a book of about 300 names and addresses from my travels abroad. I did not have deep connections with these people, just mostly short term ones. I felt at that moment the universe was sending me a signal to concentrate on those that were impactful and close
to me. So I forged on and now I can probably make a list as long as yours. This is powerful. People do make a mark on our souls in a big way. Good move brother! Let's connect soon.

Merry Christmas Derek et. al., I am getting ready to travel so I don't have time right now to do the list - but I will over the holidays. Derek, I love receiving your updates ~ you are truly a blessing. In the meantime, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and blessings to all on which ever holiday you celebrate. PEACE & ONE LOVE.

Would love to have the time for this Derek! Can I send my to-do list to someone, as muck-work! This seems way more fun & inspiring ;) Great idea! X

perfect.
lately I've had spontaneous memories of friends and family pop into my head, you've given me a wonderful exercise to continue and contemplate.

This is what I did on Facebook. Alas, many who I wanted to find apparently don't want me to find them.

Derek, you didn't forget your mom, did you?

I would have never thought to do this. I'm going to try this exercise this weekend. It will be fun to think of everyone who has influenced my life.

I don't think I'll come up with as many as you, but that's ok. I'll try my best.

Forgot everyone on your mailing list)))

I did not make this list, but got the E-mail. I remember you Derek and you have been a great help in my music. Thanks for that and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thanks for the reminder to remember and for the mentioning in the posts related to a person's online legacy. My family is going through the Hospice process with my wife's grandmother and legacy and memories are front of mind. I can only imagine how the pre-death grieving process will look in 50 years by having the traceable trail left on the web for loved ones to reminisce. I can only hope that the internet remains free and that my memory (noggin) stays intact.
By the way, it's incredible when you put paper to pen the list of people who have made a lasting impact (really fun exercise)- Thanks!

PS- the website listed is my wife's business, just launched. Thanks for the motivation and techniques set out in the video at appsumo and Anything You Want

Very cool exercise in gratitude...thanks for sharing Derek!

Derek,

It's been a long time since I commented but what a great idea! I have to say that this will be a great excercise but the truth is when I get to the present with regard to people I remember who have had a profound influence on me, you're going to be right up there at the top of the list, no bullshit. Thanks for all your inspiration and truly original ideas. You rock!

Happy Holidays!

Mark

Derek: Many years ago I emailed you a question at CDbaby regarding my music and to my surprise you emailed back. It was a short burst "follow your heart and passion / be yourself" kind of response. But it made an impression - you never know when the small exchanges count. Thanks for taking the time! - Jason Paul Johnston

Yep...I have not done this on a blog...but may have to...yes...I have many, many friends from memory...too..thnx

Derek,

This is a wonderful idea!

I think it will be nice to add (for each person on the list) a one unique thing that effected you most.

Thanks! Happy Holidays,
Eyal

I visualize friends and "enemies" and how we helped each other grow during my gratitude moments...it is amazing how long the lists can grow! :D

We both attended a CGW with Steve Pavlina, you and I...and met other people who met you, but I don't remember meeting you Derek...next time I'm in Singapore (which would be the first time, but my wife is from Japan, so it could be a side trip some day), I'll look you up! :D

CHEERS! and thanks for sharing...I want to meet a lot of folks on your list...

Derek,

Thanks - Inspired by your work. Cheers and all the best this holiday season.

Brian

I did this a few weeks ago in a lonely moment, then decided to circle the names of those I felt still believed in me/or still would if we were in touch. As the circles grew, I went from feeling lonely to blessed. Also realized there were some uncircled that I still pour time into, and circled whose friendship I have neglected. Trying to adjust that.

Greetings Derek, this is a great way for remembering friends. But it is also a wonderful way to keep in touch with friends and keeping friendships alive.

Good friends are hard to come by, so it is nice to cherish friendships that are meaningful and real.

I, for one, am blessed to have friends like you who are wonderful and kind. Thanks for your friendship.

Your friend,

Ali

nice idea,
I am hoping that I can one day make the time to make a list like this...
would be interesting to see how many names I remember, although there are those people who remain nameless because we never exchanged names, but I remember their smiles or faces. Random encounters in coffee shops, book stores, subways, and music stores...

very interesting as an exercise in fact.

It would have been just as interesting to read this list based on the year or age groups to understand the effects of variation caused by these interactions and their intensity according to the different period you have been through so far.
Sometimes there are long in the wilderness where a single match can open many doors afterward.

Thank you for sharing this experience Dereck.

Dear Derek - This is a great idea and a nice way to celebrate the holidays and life in general. Bravo ! I know I will try to follow your lead and do this exercise as well. Thank you for sharing !

Dear Derek,

I can't believe you can remember all those friends and names. Frankly in my life I've had very few true friends, and just about the only 1 I have is my wife Rebecca, but real true friends I honestly don't have any besides her. Most of the folks I remember most helped me in music immensely, and I'm very grateful to all of them. I always try to remember that whether someone approves of you or not it has nothing to do with one's own internal worth, so I suppose I have 2 friends. My dear wife and myself, but I wish the best for all human beings! You met Stephen King, too. He's an interesting man. I met him, too down in Sarasota, FL, and we lived at one time right down the road from him. I have a song that I would love for him to hear since the theme is similar to his story "It." I think it was the one I sent you, and you graciously listened to. I want to wish you and yours, Derek a Merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2012, and what an interesting idea you have here. I hope many of your friends get in touch with you. Thank you!

you wrote this to hurt my feelings, didn t you.
hahahahah, . most people in my life , I have night mares about..
no there were a couple good memories, good to hear from you.

Hello again Derek,

Lastly I wanted to say that you have been like a friend to me, but I guess in truth we're not true friends, because we really don't know each other that well, and I believe you really have to meet in person to become a true friend. But thank you for all the friendly things you have done for me.

Most Sincerely,

Clay Wilson

In "Innumeracy" John Allen Poulos does some interesting math about shared acquaintances. While chances are pretty low that two random strangers who meet will share a common friend, the mathematical probability that, if we end up seated next to each other on an airplane, one of my friends knows one of your friends is nearly 100%.

Perhaps our lists being posted online will allow for some cross indexing to see how we're all, not six, but three degrees apart. Can we call that "twice as close" ?

It must be extremely honorable for those listed, as you have accomplished so much in such a short time.

I think that this exercise also helps us realize the importance and building positive relationships with others, sharing, and working toward making this a better world.

I'm sure the internet will be runnung 30 or so years from now. It might be used in a totally different way though. You know how technology is today. I'm sure that Alexander G. Bell never even imagined that you could walk around with a telephone the size of a long stick of gum hooked to your ear either.

Terrific idea! The world is smaller now, and with all the communication channels available, it just makes sense to let people know you remember them.

Thanks, Derek -- I have a new project!

Meh. I'm not on the list.

However, you're on mine. That goes without saying!

I am really gifted at "forgive and forget", and I don't like to remind my past at all (for reasons beyond understanding, and because it is totally off-topic here!)

It's hard for me to remind people. I don't even care about myself, so how could I care about others?

Whatever. In the end your idea is a great one, as usual!

I try to keep track of the famous musicians I have worked with:
Notable performances coached by Morton Subotnick, Alvin Lucier. Performed with Joshua Bell, Moody Blues, Smothers Brothers, Dave Brubeck, Stephanie Chase,
Kenny G, Captain Kangaroo, Eartha Kitt, Sherry Lewis & Lamb Chop, Luciano Pavarotti
& many other famous classical musicians.

Premiered (in Concert or premiere recording) horn solo or chamber music by:
"Elaine L. Bearer", Aaron Blumenfeld, L. F. Dauprat, Ken Durling, Victor Herbert, Jon Ward, John Webber, and others

It would be an honor to someday be added to the 268 names that popped into your memory. There are apps that can do things on notice of your death (eg ifidie.net) You may want to start a movement to send good-bye messages on the day of your funeral celebration.
Keep good ideas flowing, please.

Nice idea - will have to try it when I can spare the hours.

Kind of reminds me of my own pet project, which is to list every musical recording that has had an impact on me through the years. (Seeing as how the first one on the list is Ain't Nothin' But a Hound Dog by Elvis Presley, this has and will continue to be a daunting task.)

I have a running list in my mind always.

Most of the folks that I really appreciate are the ones that remain nameless to me; the two elderly women from our little, tiny church in the Oakland District of Tacoma, WA that brought me a cactus plant in a ceramic pot shaped as a Victorian girl in full hoop skirt and corset after being released from the hospital at age 7 following a horrific bicycle accident, the nurse that took over coaching for my husband in the middle of the night when he needed to get coffee and I was just about ready to start another contraction, the man that picked up my mother and my four siblings all under the age of 7 after walking 5 miles into town, with all of our neighbors driving by and gawking - we still had another 5 miles to go - he loaded all of us up in his old 40's make car of some kind or another and took us to a bank so that my mom could cash a check that had just arrived in the mail from her mother in Texas so that she could feed her children.
To those folks that have probably passed on in life, I say, thank you! I remember your kindness. I forever will be in your debt.

Julie Wiley

Excellent exercise, I will take it up for myself...funny that I have 'sort' of done this from time to time and depending on the mood or where the memory is at the moment the list changes, while I will consolidate them, it is interesting to reflect on the differences in time and reflection. I haven't yet really, really concentrated on this and will - because it is a good idea and exercise. Please send along others as you think of them. Thanks, Annie

Derek,

This was a fun experiment; although I anxiously scrolled up and down through your list a couple of times and didn't see my name.

Damn, I was kinda disappointed but it's amazing the people you did remember. On second thought, you should have not forgotten me since it's been less than a year we exchanged frivolous emails( I think about business stuff)

Hopefully, if I keep a steady correspondence, I'll be on next years list...this is how tradition starts.

Best wishes for the holidays & N Y.

TK

Include me as another of your Greek-American friends who treasure the gift of existence.

Hey Derek,
Congratulations on another great year. Is Mark Hemstreet at the top of your list the same person who owns Shilo Inns in the Northwest? Was he a business person you learned from/ looked up to? I've always been impressed with his operation, locations and independence.
Thanks for all you do.

Wow, you're good! I think this just goes to show how truly valuable and important people are in our lives. I love that you did this completely from memory because that's what made it all the more meaningful. Happy Holidays!

Great idea. The thing that would hold me back doing this is my dyslexic memory, and business colleague/friend boundaries. If I put anyone from my companies, then I start having to put others on for political reasons, and then it loses meaning. If I put no one from any of my businesses I start leaving people out who were very important to me in my life (plus I am sure I would forgot people)
happy Christmas from Poland
Richard

You have a great memory and great memories Derek!
Artists need freedom, and you were always gracious and encouraging to the less than norm.
Merry Christmas Derek!
Rachel

Great, I always do the same and I thinking prove to give a phonecall them. Of course you have a long list Derek.

Happy Hollyday and a very helpful 2012.

**HUGS**

Beautiful! Seeing some of your names brought me down memory lane too... and my time at W/C and New York... what a wonderful reminder, thank you! Have a wonderful holiday and thank you for being one of those people who have touched my life. Robbie

What does it take to make the list now? Or is it closed? :)

Though we've never met in person, I believe I'd put you on my list.

Ted

I love this, Derek and will do it too. What a great idea.

This is certainly a worthwhile exercise. It would be wonderful to go off to a cabin in the woods and start writing down names. It would be an experience of the mind, reconnecting with all those dear souls.

Hi Derek,

May you continue adding names to your list for a long, long time. Merry Christmas!
Robert

We are all alwayz connected indeed

As usual, grreeeeaaaattttt idea Derek! Thank you for sharing...

Johanne Plamondon and I have started a project in my village and the other villages around ours that we call Communitea. We invite people to make a card for someone who have changed their lives just by being there and being who they are. Its about gratitude and its about relationships that matters. We ask people to share their friendship memories over a cup of tea. Please feel free to spread communitea! I like to make a collage of images that represent the quality of being of the person I send the card to. I then call them, bring a special tea named friendship blossom and we have a lovely moment together. I invite them to do the same for someone else or all of their friends. Derek you would be on the go for a long time!:) I have friends overseas that I will send the friendship blossom to and their card and we'll take tea over skype! There is always time in my life for friendship. It is one of the very best think Life gives.. like nature and children its all about love.

If there was a way I could stream all the pictures inside my head into a blog post, that would be more useful in this exercise. I remember faces better than names, unfortunately. Could you write an awesome program that would allow me to connect with my Mac, and download images??? Then could you write a program to make it possible to Google images without names??? Well...maybe in 2013...

Thanks for giving me a boost of gratitude for all the wonderful people in my life.

Fun exercise Derek, gratefulness for all who entered our lives, love it! I travel a fair amount of different circles and sometimes add to that exercise all the people I've worked with who weren't necessarily there long enough to be my friends per se, makes me wish sometimes i'd kept a list, from having worked on movie sets. Talking with Elizabeth Taylor and having her smile at me and remind me of my grandma was a treat. And then I realize I can't document everything i do. But am very grateful for every person that values the moments we share. Being there when it happens and making the exchange with each one as significant and valuable as it can be is what I increasingly have learned I value doing. Time happens once.
Happy Holidays!

Amazingly .... , that exercise also recalled the image of what they looked like the last time I saw them.

I'm way too lazy and memory impaired to actually do this but Facebook would make it a walk in the park because even if they're not all actual friends, they would remind me of people who were. Remember a friend will help you move your furniture, a real friend will help you move a body.

Derek,
What a cool activity! Thank you for sharing. I cannot imagine anyone "hating" you; perhaps some envy you? But I guess hate is a fact of life and sometimes we never know when someone hates us. I am not comfortable with hate, but i am all about love, and you, Derek, seem to have a lot of it to share.
Bless you. Have a wonderful Christmas and a blessed new year. You deserve it!

Derek - This is sooo cool. You are on my list for sure. So true that some will remember us and others will not and some will hate us too. Then there are those friends who will always remain a friend and be your friend forever. This time of year is when the list seems to come out and we can't help but take notice of it and reminisce. Wishing you a beautiful season of recollection and a holiday season you'll cherish forever.

Love this! Each person we meet turns us into who we will and can become. Thanks for sharing, Derek.

This can be done in many different ways - ie - include THINGS and EXPERIENCES I am grateful for like the book I read, or the person I never met, but who's music, or words, or art profoundly affected my life. Then we can run a list of other personal experiences that may be no one but ourselves can appreciate, but which brought about development of being or expansion of consciousness in some way. And finally - how about the gift of life itself?

Really enjoyed this one Derek. I've been feeling a bit nostalgic for some of my old friends myself of late, but have not been able to track them down anywhere. Maybe doing this activity will help me remember some of the others so I can find a way to relocate them.
The interesting thing would be what people would have you on their list and how they align with yours. I think that it is a truism that we sometimes have an impact on people's lives that we never even realised, and they will treasure our friendship more than we did theirs. It would be fascinating to know the people you may not realise who fondly remember you.
Another thought provoking share Derek.

Reminds me of one of the Eckankar exercises (though much easier than this one) of looking back on your day, at night before going to sleep, and remembering three positive things that happened in that day.
I'll try this late on.
Wow, I'm amazed at how many names you remembered, Derek!

Steven

A boyfriend made me make a LIST of EVERY GUY I EVER SLEPT WITH...not fun at all. It turns out half of them were highly regrettable (if I bothered with regrets) one night stands during a drunken year spent trying NOT to deal with the death of my partner...OUCH.

This list will be MUCH MORE FUN...SUPER IDEA!

I'm still here, Derek. I'd love to talk sometime...and if you ever want to sing together, give me a shout.

Derek… Fascinating food for thought. To think about it, indeed…. I can remember quite a few people. Although my list might not be as long as yours.. laugh.

cheers. this is a concept i have noted.
i may apply it. or may not. i'll have to think about
it first. but my current phase as a contemplative
hermite is coming along quite nicely and things
are nice and peaceful now...

hello derek, i can remember the people that made a difference in my life (for the better ) and have seven fingers left. of course there are friends -and then there are aquaintances. of course back in the day i was so f**ked up most of the time -i didnt know who-where-or what i was----these days if im not sure, all i have to do is look into a mirror and see some one who really cares looking back at me-----no reflection on your list. enjoy the moment-and each breath---dont see the glass as 1/2 full or 1/2 empty--but as filled to the brim and over flowing with good energy. best, mort weiss

on a certain socio/cultural level, if i have influenced a great many others through my art, how could i possibly know how many friends i've had?
i'm a people person and always have been. instinct and observation tells me there's a reciprosity to that whole human interaction process. as for
'friends i can't see'... if high-profile cultural projects originate from sources other than where they are alleged to originate from, 'true origins' can have a great many friends who have entrusted their respect and adulation with the wrong entities. that's not necessarily a bad thing for, in principal, i believe in the better humanitarian application of creative commons. i do not, however, believe the work we have given up freely for the common good of all should be plagiarized and exploited 'for profit' by those with no sincere belief in the creative commons. conspiracy theories abound, but the karmic truth behind all matters will be revealed eventually. i don't really believe i've ever met my best friends and may not until much later. as is, the lionshare of the names i recall from the past 60 years are recalled with sublime affection.

a wonderful idea and exercise in humility.. thanks for the inspiration

Love the idea. Afraid I wouldn't be able to come up with half the number of names you have. But that's not even the point, is it. The point is to see the mosaic of relationships that have influenced us all through the years. And though they may have slipped out of our world and recollection, their impact is with us, enduring. Thanks for the thought, Derek.

I think of friendship as a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and something (or things) in common. I have literally thousands of acquaintances, as I'm sure you do as well...comes with the territory. But friends, throughout my life...I can count on both hands without using all fingers. (You are on my list, too. ;-)

But by your definition, this project would probably take me more time than I have left, so I will likely start reverse chronologically...

I like it.

Hi Derek,
Love,love,love this. What a treat to re-remember friends + the memories.

You are an interesting cat. Fabulous idea. Bravo!

I may try this just to see how many names I can come up with. Funny thing is, so many people you may have had a relationship with in the past, for alot of them you're best left in their past. Trying to connect after many years doesn't always work out either you've changed or they have. The things you used to have in common just aren't there any more.

"And even if you were in some prison, the walls of which let none of the sounds of the world come to your senses - would you not then still have your childhood, that precious, kingly possession, that treasure-house of memories? "
~Rainer Maria Rilke

Inspiring idea...it's amazing how much we hold in that head of ours...as information becomes more and more accessible I wonder how our brains will adapt...is their a limit to the memory stores...

People like mandela, aung san suu kyi, Ingrid Betancourt (http://wheelercentre.com/dailies/post/ae202c364de4/) must have used their memories and imagination frequently to survive and remain grateful and inspired...

Thanks Derek,
May 2012 be filled with material that remains forever rich and timeless in your memories

It's a nice thought, but perhaps a slight invasion of privacy.

Hmmm, does Facebook let you see friend lists if you're not a friend? I guess it does.

Great idea! I always believe the past make you what you are. Also help you get back to basics what are the important things in life

Greetings Derek,

Thank you for this noble and fresh idea for this holiday season.

Blessings of light and love, Ahmad

Is it ok if I copy and paste your idea on my site but with my remembered names ?
Of course! Go for it. — Derek

I do stuff like that I have often tried to go chronologically. But I do even think one thought after another, it's more of a bombardment of fragments of memories. More like a riddle that has been solved but no one understand. Is that clear? I would ask myself as I reflect on how many people have affect my life! I will try again soon! Sounds like FUN!

Hey, where's my name, Derek!? LOL! I want on. You are a great guy and I really like your blog style. Thanks, too, for taking time to explain this very blog page setup to me, a regular old free subscriber, a few weeks ago--- unheard of in the internet marketing world.

Maybe 5-20 years from now I'll make your list. That would be cool. For now I'm delighted to be on your email list. Thank you.

Your list idea sets me to thinking about other kinds of lists. The other day I was thinking about those who've gone on before...that I hope will be there to greet me on the other side...an interesting list in my head right now.

Happy Holidays!

Derek, used your super cool idea and listed teachers I've had who impacted my life by the experiences they provided me. Great to think about them again.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year ¸¸.•*¨*•★

I love this great idea, Derek! I do remember many people who've made a difference in my life. Sometimes, I wonder if I've made a difference in someone else's life. If it can be like the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life" -- on days when we are down, it would be nice to know how we have made a difference in other people's lives. I'm thankful for all those who came into my life. Merry Christmas and all the best in 2012!

Hey Derek! firstly, fantastic idea! and I saw that my name made it to the list of people :) - You made a big difference in my life, and were a BIG part of how I ended up making a career for myself in the music industry!

So thank you! and one day, we should revive some of those old projects.

Derek,
I don't even know you really - except for what I've read about the way you lead your life and business. Yet, you remain a very influential and inspiring person for me. I'm grateful for the knowledge you impart from your mind to mine. Many Blessing to you and yours this season.

Hi Derek,

Thank you for sharing this nice idea. Besides been a great memory exercise it's also an interesting way to review our lives.

I think we can learn something about ourselves when we review the connections we've made (and those we didn't) in our lives.

Thanks,
Ziv.

Derek- I do make these lists too! Sometimes I re-do them just to keep remembering. It's a wonderful walk down memory lane. You're such an inspiration to many...thank you.
...to those who thing Derek's list is just important to him, think again...Whether you know the names on his list or not, Derek has placed a seed of "inspiration", and THAT friends, family, and countrymen, is a gift! Smile and be grateful!

all the best for 2012

Many paths cross ( some for only few seconds )
all of them significant in some way. Even if it's not
a formal meeting maybe just a smile or a hand across the shoulder. All have touched my life,
I thank you, and remain grateful. Greg Jensen.

Great Idea Derek. I must do something similar before It's too late. Wishing You and family many wonderful Christmas and New Year greetings.
Bill.

Hi Derek,

Thanks______
Puts things in a better Perspective.
I can see read the Road Signs more Clearly
Hope !

Tom Petty: " A Face In The Crowd "

Carey

Good project. I've done this mentally at times, specifically with the names of coworkers at specific jobs from long ago. For the past five years, I've been compiling a recap each December of the year's most memorable experiences with a brief description. It helps me put the year in perspective and to hold myself accountable to what it all amounted to. I also list favorite music, films, books, the single best day, best dinner, and the saddest moments as well. Where possible, I link to photos and videos. I send it only to a few close friends, one of whom compiles his own version of the recap.

I'm making my list. You are on it because the way you make me think about opportunity. Instead of being unemployed, I went into business for myself. You gave me some great advice.

To all of you making yor own list: How many of the people on your list would add your name to their list?

I don't want to be on anyone's list just to be on the list.

Very cool and fun Derek! Merry Christmas!

This is why folks admire you Derek! It's not just the trip down memory that is useful, but the reflection on how all of these people helped to influence and create who you have become. It can be a humbling experience to realize we are made up little bits of all the people around us.

What a great idea Derek. I think i'll eat some mushrooms and write up my list too!

What a great "exercise"... beats the heck out of going to the gym. Even though I'm not on your list... I'm obviously on some list... otherwise I wouldn't have received this. It's always good to touch base with you. You've definitely changed lives. My best regards to you and your family for all things going forward.

Curtis

This is awesome!! GREAT idea. Will do this! I'm going to share it on facebook (with credit to you). Perfect season too, for remembering those who we've known and who have known us.

Such a great exercise to do in a time where so much of our memory is done for us with speed dial, facebook reminders and contact lists.
Thank you for reminding me that every contact entry and profile page links to a real person who has affected me in some way.

Happy Holidays Derek!

Hi Derek,
What a wonderful idea.
Thanks.

How interesting, I think I'll try this. Did you get to send this to anyone on your top of the head list?

Also, what inspired you to do this?

.
Hello, Happy New year Derek!
Quite a great project indeed, & that of gratitude to God....and reminiscing....yeah
....nostalgic...at times yes. I think we all do to a certain degree have good memories of people who walked into/ through our lives leaving behind traces that shaped us somewhat at some point in time.

However good this project may be, it must said that the Christian should do so objectively because the Bible says to him who is born again that all things have become new and the old things have passed away (2 Corinthians 5v17). This involves all that belongs to the past. We should reminisce it not if it belongs to the old you. In christ we unlearn what we learned before which didn't serve any purpose for our existence. In addition, the memory that's and that will bring blessings when recalled is the memory of the righteous (Proverbs 10v7).
Certainly the works of the good people you've met are worth recalling. It was quite an interesting project again from you. Thank you.


Merry Christmas to you all.

Great idea, Derek! It's a great way to count your blessings by remembering people in our past and the stories that go with them. Thank you for sending me this post! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Derek, wonderful to see how many on your list are, and have been important in both of our lives. Our stories will continue to be woven together. Blessings to you and your list.

Great idea, I actually do this often (I'm a sucker for reminiscing and nostalgia). I don't write down the names so I'll do that next time around. When I come up with a name of a person that I know I haven't spoken to in years, I make it a point to track them down just to say hi. I'm not always successful but when I am I usually at least get a hi back and more!

I love you Derek. You are a gift to the world : )

Thank you for the great idea. I can't wait to use my Christmas vacation to take my own walk down memory lane again. I did it last when I completed the first draft of my manuscript, wanting to remember the shoulders upon which I stand and acknowledge their owners ;).

Blessings to you and yours.

What a wonderful gift. How to be grateful for all these people in my Life no matter how slight the encounter.

Thank you.

derek
you forgot steven cravis. you forgot ian bruce who has offered to piss on your feet at least several times...

Ah, Derek, I would love to have a memory like this! But truly, you are blessed to have so much in your list and surely even more that you have yet to mention.

And now, to start my own.....

Have a Happy Christmas!

Thanks, having my own Sgt. Peppers' sleeve. I shared your gift.

Love how you worded the intro. A few years ago, I started having some memory issues. It is mostly due to my epilepsy meds, bus some of it is due to my lazy mind, I'm sure. We've discussed my total lack of recall of how to read music or even how to play the instruments I used to play, after my seizure, and how it was years later until I even realized I had lost that ability... so, I was curious about what else I was forgetting...
I tried to list everybody I knew and gave up due to sadness.
So many were dead... I had forgotten so many names, and SOOOO many were out of touch. None of my current circle of friends could even find the ones I really wanted to get back into contact with. So, I quit. It was not a pleasant experience for me, then, but, it is one that I may need to revisit one day.
As always, you inspire.
-E

merry chirstmas and a happy new year

From time to time I pop up like stuck toast (overdone, but still hot) You've become one of the most important influences in my life and it's only fitting to drop a line now & then to let you know I'm a better person for having known you.

Such a wonderful way to remember friends!! :-) !!
You are truly passionate and creative and an inspiration for me!! :-) !!
God Bless You.
Merry Christmas and have a very Happy New Year!!

Derek

Your suggested exercise was a fantastic and thoughtful Christmas present. Thanks and have a great New Year.

Boy Derek!...Great idea and unbelievable memory. My father could have put a list like that together...but he had a photographic memory which was his curse...being at Pearl Harbor during the attack. How long did it take you to amass your list? Allot of folks that I met or remember from days/years gone by...I only remember their first names!

Anyways, a great mental exercise and a tribute to your forward thinking and those souls that have touched you and you to theirs....I am sure, mostly positive. It is amazing how many people that one meets in a life time.
Keep us musing and alert to life's bounties.

Keep vigilent in exploring life and passionate on sharing.
I hope that you and yours had a wonderful and Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

A great idea.
certainly raised some smiles on my behalf as I thought of some good friend I thought I forgot about over the years.

You can't get much greater than Derek. What a beautiful concept. And so simple.

Great idea Derek. One question, as you thought this out, how did you define friend vs. acquaintance? We have all had many pass through our lives, how to define who makes the "friend" list is always a tricky question. Is it on time known, impact of interactions had, or some other universal truth?
I was defining it as people who I spent good face-to-face time with, (at least a couple meals together), and still remember our conversations well. Some people make a big bonding impact in a short time. Some stay just-acquaintances for years. Hard to draw that line. — Derek

Great idea for keeping in touch with friends.

What great process to go through... I always love to look back at each friendship and how it shaped who I am today. I always find myself taking a little bit of what I like about each friend and making it part of who I am.

Wait,

Your not getting ready to bite the bullet, aye?

Neat idea, and f*ck -- I didn't make the list (but if you're sticking around then never mind, I have time).

I shall do that one thing that even you will say, "Damn. That's cool."

If I bite the bullet, I was posted here.

Might seem odd, but I miss your interpretations. Regardless, stay as well, and when you feel like it, write us all a song about where you are.
Getting ready to die? Yes. Expecting to die? No. — Derek

my dreams seem to get in the way of my memories.

Derek - GREAT idea - thanks much! Always love your posts, and appreciate you keeping me in the loop! You've had a blessed life, and the people on your list are blessed to have known such a great guy!

Best to you in 2012!! - Will -

I'll never forget Kevin and I having both you and Tamara Nile over for dinner when you were here in Vancouver Derek, and how beautifully open you were to accept the invitation. I'd never met Tamara prior to that night, (although she and I are considered "local artists".) I felt that it was a good evening with good company as well as intriguing and interesting conversation ~ your humility and depth of knowledge graciously shared is admirable. If you recall we chatted quite a bit about "relationship" and not long after you were announcing your marriage! For me, life is a wonderful set of experiences and adventure, filled with "chance" meetings and sometimes brief connections that help to enrich our journeys. I am glad I invited you to dinner. I am also glad that you accepted the invitation. So thank YOU for your lovely contribution to my own life experience Derek!
Namaste,
Cheryl ox

Gratitude - what a beautiful, powerful and magnificent practice and gift! Thank you for the exercise and example. With love, Sim

What a fantastic idea. It was a lot of fun remembering good and bad. I have just uploaded a song to start the New Year - From me to you (a love song to the world). As the song says, I'm sending all my love to you. I would be delighted if you could look at it.

http://youtu.be/jnPfgWeS33E

Very Best Wishes to you and your family for 2012. May we all find love, peace and happiness this coming year.

At what point does your sister get to appear on the list. I know I'm there :)

Dear Derek,
Thanks very much, you have a million friends and deserve them all. Richard had a gig for a big jewish thing in Melb Xmas day, Hahnaker? Please excuse spelling. He said it was a huge deal! He set up the AV gear for speeches, singing, all that. Killed them, they want him back for more things later.
I played at Docklands Melb NYE, agent from TempoTalent there.
Did "I've Found A New Baby"
(1920's Clarence Williams tune). Killed her !

Tempo send Musos all over OZ and Asia. Good!
Lovely money!
74 on 4th Jan, don't feel old, playing well, even blowing nice horn.
Thanks again for all your help in the past, you are a very good person.
Mark The Mad Muso Of OZ.

Hi Derek,

Wish you and Saj a wonderful 2012! Great way to show people to reflect as we march ahead! We have exchanged emails. I did meet you at INSEAD entrepreneurship for one minute . Hope to become your friend soon.

Cheers
Sirish

I've been thinking about this since your post. It does remind me of my Facebook, as people come to mind, I send them a friend request. I did this a couple of times over the holidays. You might need to be careful, the 'twins' might be after you next.

Wish we had met face to face so I could put you on the list I am making. Loved your book. Miss talking to you. Business is incredible. Regards and happy future to you. Michelle

Very interesting post Derek! I put together my own list after reading your post and its interesting how many people you actually remember once you sit down and think. I remembered a friend from 30 years ago that I haven't seen since then. I don't remember his last name so there is no way for me to even search him out.

How long did it take you to compile your list? Were you able to remember everyone's full name or did you need to look some up?
I remembered the full names for all but 2 of them. Took a few hours. I kept remembering more the next day, and adding to it. — Derek

Hey Derek,

I really like the Idea.
It is a wonderful exercise for the mind, and it shows your friends that you appreciate them :)
It also gives us some time to analyse our life, kind of a pit stop...
Think of the good things, remember of lessons we learned from the bad ones. I like it!

I am still young, my list is still short, and I still want to achieve half of what you have attained in your life before my pit stop, so for sure, I will do it in the future :)

Stay in touch,
Ofer

Derek,
I'm a teacher, and one of the things I keep in mind is that students won't remember what I teach them as much as how I treated them. I think that your ability to remember so many friends illustrates this idea in a general sort of way.

Thanks as always for sharing your thoughts.

Guy

watched your video at a friend's place (uncommon sense) & looked you up, inspired. you seem like a beautiful & humble spirit & i wanted to thank you for sharing your ideas & philosophy with us all. it's truly remarkable the way you wound down CD baby & wish there were more people around who're like you.

as Dave Allen (Irish comedian) used to say at the end of his shows, may your God go with you.

all the best

G

P.S. Forest Gump is one of my all-time favourite movies! ;-)

What a great idea. That is quite a list. I did mine as well, but I stopped writing the names down after a while :D I don't even know everyones last name. especially the easy ones. Weird ones I still remember.
That was fun, thx.

You have an amazing memory Derek, wishing you continued success

LOVE THIS!!! I will try this right now. It might prove to be interesting since I'm tired...

Derek...I'll be 72 tomorrow...I'm still writing and recording songs... I put my first album with you on CDBaby....You were so encouraging...kind and I always felt wise way beyond your years!!!! I've enjoyed keeping lines of communication open with you all these years.... receiving your pearls of wisdom and continued encouragement and excitement about life and live. I'm working on a new career, motivational speaking...and have created a place for the songs I've written.... Thanks to you, for being so caring..... The thought...and the list you made is further testament to how
much PEOPLE and friends mean to you..... I love that ...appreciate it......I'm glad to have known you..... You'll certainly be on my list of favs, for sure! (not everyone starts a new music career at 51.....and you were always so supportive and encouraging!!)

Congratulations on all your successes! Continued blessings to you, my friend!

KC - Kay Seamayer
KC Singin and Swingin

...Oh, there will be more memories! Still on for lunch in France in 5 years? Working on getting those years down, big dreams don't die, especially with awesome, and sincere judgement. Thank you for keeping the fire burning when some of us get burnt out. You will never cease to inspire and I will always consider you a great friend :)

Like it!
I'm good with faces but was terrible with names in the past. Learning now and surprisingly easy. This game could be like scrabble for me, very tough...

Hey Derek! I want to take a minute to say thanks friend! You have had a very positive place in my life as well. Thanks for the years of inspiration! God bless you my friend. Jim Vilandre

So lovely! Honored to be a part of your list....you are a part of mine!

Thanks for thinking of me! I am so thankful I met you all of those years back. You are a true inspiration, a pioneer and your friendship means so much to me! xox

Awww I am honored! I love that Tom and I have been married almost 9 years (remember the day you wore a TUXEDO?!?!) and you still remember me as Jen Drobny.

Hope you and Saj are doing well. We hope to introduce you to the newest Chernaik soon :).
The tux wasn't the funny bit. It was the yarmulke taped to my bald head with double-stick tape. — Derek

Great Idea! i'll try it too and see how many people can i remember. . .
Thanks Mr. Derek

I've got to step my game up!

Great post - I must admit that the first place I'd turn to is probably Facebook but this sounds like an interesting little exercise to try without the usual tools!

Great idea & post ~ I am on the forgotten list but I am going to rib Noel Ramos about being on the list next time I talk to him! :)

As always thanks for sharing!!!

You're on my list Derek! :) My memory for names has never seemed the best, but I at least remember a face and what the person did for me. If I make my list like that, it will be much like yours: Memory Lane. :)

add me to that list, your mentee that made a million
dollars through your ideas

:)

I really like your exercises for students of life, which we all are whether we like it or not! The exercises keep me from sleeping through class.

Nice to be remembered D! You most definitely make my list as well, it's been an honor to know you.

What a beautiful act! I'm sure all of those people were touched by you as well. It is amazing to be someone like I sure you are, Derek, that enriches people simply because they have known you. This occasionally occurs post facto - such as with a celebrity who comes out of nowhere (I went to high school with Madonna!) . It's quite an interesting event - to touch people after leaving their physical presence.

Lovely idea. It reminded me of a quote from my favorite book, The Urantia Book:

Train your memory to hold in sacred trust the strength-giving and worth-while episodes of life, which you can recall at will for your pleasure and edification. Thus build up for yourself and in yourself reserve galleries of beauty, goodness, and artistic grandeur. But the noblest of all memories are the treasured recollections of the great moments of a superb friendship. And all of these memory treasures radiate their most precious and exalting influences under the releasing touch of spiritual worship.

Hi Derek,

I really like the idea you came up with here but I'd love to see you take it one step further and write down at least a line or two about why or how that person impacted you and/or what you remember most about them.

Not only would it be great to get some glimpses of wisdom from you AND them this way, but it'd probably trigger a bunch of other memories that are locked away.

Thanks!

Michael

But we chatted a bit awhile ago about Sammy Cahn who's name I missed seeing on your list ...sad... You know his writing partner Jimmy Van Huesen (Chester Babcock) would be on mine. Someday when I have time I've got to try one day and make my memory list as you have accomplished so well. Congrads!

What an amazing idea! I wonder how many people will stumble upon this page when Googling their own name. (Come on, you know we all do it.)

I'd love to see a followup post if you reconnect with any of these people!

Its a huge list... But yes you have got a fine memory. That's a great idea to recall your old memories!!

Good old fashioned common sense courtesy to remember people from time to time. Thanks for the reminder!

That is an amazing thing to do - it brings back so many memeories - AWESOME!

So if we didn't make the list it means you have known us so long it has slipped your mind? I remember helping you with the lyrics to Freefalling in Orono, Maine and hanging at your house in Woodstock, New York with my then 6 month old daughter (now almost 14 now).
Ooops! Hi Ed and Lisa! Of course I remember you. — Derek

Remember the Alamo!

Thanks Derek,

"Friends from memory," was the perfect link for this moment. I needed to put my gratitude goggles on when indignation bug was swarming my viewpoint. I had to ask myself, how do I want to live my life and am I willing to let the behavior of others toward me drag me down...to become someone I don't like.

The friends link you gave is a great reminder about ebb and flow of relationships. My mind flashed down memory lane and there are more than a few names I'm gonna have to work for to put with the faces I saw in my mind, people I haven't thought of in years. I'm surprised that the process is more challenging than I expected.

It is also sweet to recall those who significantly influenced my life from the outset.

I appreciate your candor. "some who hate me,"you don't seem to take it personally.

I guess the key is the gratitude. Yes, that is the most important reminder. I didn't get here alone and even the challenging relationships offered gifts.

Thanks again.

Derek,

Today, I had a chance to make a walk-through on your blog where I have been planing to do so for a while. You have been favorited on my bookmarks as a must-read since the time I watched your TED talks.

Amazingly, today became a stepping stone for me! You and your ideas inspired me such a way that I decided to form a team with a couple of my closest friends. We will soon start to work on a business idea which we hope to bring to reality. Right people are already in place, this is the first step:)

I want leave this comment open ended as I will be concluding with appreciation once we bring this idea to life (I will not curse if we fail, I promise:D). I hope this will give us a chance to meet even face-to-face, if not via email.

stay tuned, you will hear from us soon!
Fatih

Derek,

I just came across this now and have been following you for a few years. What a great story and congrats. You may not remember me but we grew up in Hinsdale together. You lived right next to the St Isaac parking lot and we used to ride bikes there. I remember jumping off a 2nd story balcony on the back of your house? The memories are still pretty clear. It is funny to see the names at the beginning of that list.

All The Best,

CM
Hi Carl! Long time! I'll email you.... — Derek

Never thought of something like this Derek, brilliant idea!

Hi Derek, I just couldn't believe it when i read this post - two days back, i was going thru my address book and thinking i am so bad at keeping track of my friends. So i am writing down my friends - starting with Kindergarten. I use the online outliner - Workflowy for this type of lists. Amazed that i should see this post just when i started doing this.
BTW, i have been a lurker for a while - stumbled upon your blog from the link http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2012/05/31/the-most-successful-e-mail-i-ever-wrote/#more-6857. I love, love, love your clean list of posts.

Regards,
Nija

Fascinating food for thought. I wonder how many people could actually list their Facebook 'friends' from memory.

Wow - you listed 272 people. You inspire me to make more connections - and to remember and appreciate the one's I've already made.
Really? Wow. That's way more than I thought. I guess I hadn't counted. Hmmm.... — Derek

Derek:
Being "new" to your posts, and having responded to some, I find at the very least, a "nugget" of inspiration in any and all I've thus far delved into. Many times far more than a mere nugget.

This post is no exception to that premise.

The responses you seem to elicit are in of themselves, often great sources of inspiration. Your "following" is an eclectic array of individualists, on the whole. IMHO
"thus far", because I am new enough to be put into the categorical equation of hours.
Once again, as is my wont, throwing caution to the wind, or 4 winds, as the case may be, I am relatively soon to find myself in Singapore. Looking forward to a new future, in a new cultural environment, with a soon to be new wife, Singaporean.

This particular post, has me reminiscing along a path of introspection as to who I am, by virtue of the selfless generosity of people that have entered into and out of my life in its entirety, intentionally or unintentionally.
Their respective influences on my character development as a person, have led me to this precise moment in time. Where I, no longer young by any known standard, can, with no small amount of reverence, give credit where it truly is due.
We all are products in totality of where we've been and whom we've known.

Advice often shunned while trapped within the throes of youthful impetuosity, now of course in retrospect, seems like sage wisdom, proportionally.

I agree that the length of time spent with each is not as pertinent as what we have gleaned therein, knowingly or unaware, as to the lasting importance of their influence in the ongoing said development of our individual characters.
What I deem to be of paramount responsibility, is to utilize all of our accumulated knowledge and wisdom, in my particular case, wisdom being loosely interpreted, open to the possibility that we can and should enrich others in our day to day lives, one on one if you will, through all of our interactions.

When you give fully of all that has been given to you through the generous auspices of others, in small enough amounts so as to not offend through verbosity, the rewards that return, often multiplied, will add further positive dimension to the character you've already become. Thus I look forward to expanding who I am and sharing it with others. That I may in some small fashion, impart the "wisdom of others" who have graciously influenced me, intentionally or not, to the burgeoning individuals in a constant flux of character expansion, who intersect my ongoing path. Excitedly anticipating the growth of my own character through them.
with admiration:
Harris
(A man of few words.......per second)
See you in Sing in Jan.

Aww, I just saw this! I was talking about the MIDEM craic just the other day - such good times! Happy to know you, DS. :) x
Hello, my dear perfect example. — Derek

B*E*A*U*T*I*F*U*L !

Awwww- I just read this and was very touched! So glad to hear you're well and happy. Will look you guys up if I pass through Singapore. X

Derek - glad I found this list and thanks for putting me on it. I saw Hoover Li's name on here - whatever happened to him? I remember fondly his large meals he'd make at our Astoria, Queens apartment and sharing the food (I ate quite a few nights thanks to him! ;-) Eddie Martinez was the roomie I replaced, also in your list. I saw Rasmus Jensen in a record store in NYC back in 1999 (or 2002?) and he was doing well - we're connected on Facebook. The one thing I have learned over the years is to value the people you meet in your life and I am fortunate to have met you and those guys when I did as a single "Man About Town" in NYC -- good times! (And I miss fresh bread from that bakery on the corner of our block -- that and Greek food from Uncle George's restaurant nearby).
Hey Brendon! Great to hear from you. You get 100% full credit for turning me on to the internet. I never found Hoover Li or Eddie Martinez again. — Derek

Hi Derek! I'm reading your blog since 2013 but I had never bumped into this post. Amazing!

I had problems with some friends (misunderstandings) in 2002 and we lost contact. Writing this list is a beautiful way to thank them for the good times.

Thanks Derek from Spain!

I stopped enjoying my alumni magazine when I realized I could no longer remember names. Next time I'll buy a year book or take pictures.

What a wonderful homework assignment. My list initially is only about 50, but it might grow in the next few days. So many folks are only first names, unfortunately, or no names at all. Like, "that group from the Green Bay dance club in 1995 with the two brothers and the girl with the Cabriolet and the moody guy on the motorcycle . . .."
It might come back eventually, if I keep poking at it. It's a good thing to put out in the world on a web page, to allow the digitally inclined to find themselves as part of my memories. Cheers, and thanks!

It's always nice to be remembered

This Is Great Idea... To Be Grateful To Friends. Thank You, Derek.

Thank you for this idea.

I struggle with happiness from time to time.

To counter this, I have started visualizing the people that I love, gathered in a place I love, so I can still visit them whenever I close my mind.
It really helps me miss the past and people less.

I really like your idea of travelling through memory, and remembering all those that made an impact. I will try that excersize, maybe I will find someone I forgot to add to bring to my happy place.

I have always been a big fan of yours from a personal point of view, I still have the cd of mine and my ex in the cdbaby site.
I came across this list because,like you probably were, I was looking for someone online, a former friend and Berklee student, Dan Charneco. I suppose you met him through some kind of musical endeavor….
Funny how life is…I do remember a lot of people but not their last names.

I wish I could get in touch with my former band mates from my first ever gig in The Rocket in Providence,RI, in 1987, as “The Heebeejeebies”, Kevin the singer, Chris the red headed guitarist from San Diego and Mike the drummer from RI ….

Thanks for the trip down Memory Lane!

I liked this idea very much

It's amazing how this idea can have such a powerful impact on the perspectives of so many strangers. I've always thought about texts — books, articles, comments — as windows into someone's mind, something deeply intimate. I'm 21 years old, and to me, this feels like something that will remain here for many years to come, preserving a version of who I am right now