When I wrote that piece, I failed to mention some of the most important pieces that I have in it. And here is the story. In 1984, I was stationed in Stuttgart, West Germany. Europe is known for its huge rock festivals, and that year was no different. The date was September 1,1984 and this time it was very close to home. The event was "Monsters of Rock 1984," and was held at Karlsruhe, a short drive from home.

The list included Motley Crue, Dio, Van Halen (the first one), Ozzy, Gary Moore, and the headliners, AC/DC, among others. We went in at noon and came out ten hours later totally drained and exhausted. In fact , we slept a few hours in the car before deeming it safe to return to the autobahn, a roadway far removed from any concept of a two-lane stroll. It was, as any rock fan could imagine, sweet. Such great memories and that was about all, right?

Wrong. In about 2005-06, I was really into collecting soundboards and writing heavily on a blog. As you might imagine, I made several contacts among friends while seeking out the most obscure recordings many would never consider as important. Anyway, I befriended Bobby. We compared wishes and wants. Would you believe that, in less than six months, a package arrived. Inside it were many soundboard recordings. One batch had a rubber band around it, sealed in paper. Imagine my feelings when I opened that pack and saw that inside were seven cds, containing seven of the exact performances, recorded for posterity exactly as I stood there and heard and saw them. I thought they were only a fond memory in the depths of my mind!

So, now into a new year with great memories of old still at hand, as well as into a new year with more possibilities for new treasures. But, it's about much more than just those precious few hours of music.

It's about the hobby of music and the gift of friendship and sharing. And when you come right down to it, without the blessings of friendship and sharing, there wouldn't be the continual flow of music. That's the key. Friendship.

Music has literally saved my life. That's not an exaggeration, and someday I may write about that. But as we head into a new year, I intend to continue to practice friendship, giving and sharing. Sure, friends have hurt me and I'd be the first to tell you that I have also hurt others as their so-called "friend." I think we all have. But I look fondly on that September day in 1984, and remember that because of friendship, I found a blessing -- memories from a great day I can relive often.

And so, you can be that lone wolf. I have stood many nights at the edge of the woods. Or, you can practice two of life's greatest gifts -- music and friendship. No guarantees that you won't ever get hurt by either; you know how you like to dance crazy. But both will enrich you, and others, along life's two-lanes. Peace.

Brad Moyers of Burnsville, is an eight-year radio broadcaster, and devoted student of music. Readers may contact him at brad.moyers@yahoo.com.