LEAVES OF ELVIS’ GARDEN the Song of His Soul a book by Larry Geller and review by Jeff Schrembs.
Larry Geller was a polished, and distinguished, hair stylist in Hollywood during “mid” 1964. After being contacted to do Elvis’ hair Elvis offered him a full time job cutting/styling Elvis air in the mid 1960’s and he remained Elvis’ stylist up until (sadly) Elvis passed away on August 16, 1977.
The relationship between Elvis and Larry Geller, who Elvis called him “Lawrence”, became multi-dimensional consisting of the cutting/styling of Elvis’ hair and discussing matters of the inner soul such as; God, Spiritual Quests, Religions, Prophets, etc.
Throughout Elvis’ life, beginning with his twin brother Jesse Garon Presley being born ’stillborn” (i.e. dead) and the delivering physician not knowing there was another baby until Gladys complained of “I feel theres another baby” at which point the Physcian went and examined her and confirmed there was another child and delivered him successfully and naming him Elvis Aron Presley, he always questioned “why did God choose me”? Why did God give me these talents and these opportunities? What is my lifes path? What is life all about? Hence, Elvis had a life long quest to discover answers that mankind has sought since God first put breath into our lungs.
Larry Geller, who was/is a kind hearted honest soul, soon became a confidant of Elvis’ and provided Elvis with books/insight for questions that Elvis sought answers to. Larry Geller even introduced Elvis to some prominent Religious/Spiritual Leaders who gave Elvis advice and counsel along with reading materials that Elvis consumed with the same passion as he did in everything he cared for and that was an “all consuming” desire to learn – to teach – to share – to care – to help others – to control ones self – etc.
As a footnote into the life of Elvis Larry Geller went with Elvis to Hawaii on the last vacation that Elvis ever took. The photographs of that trip show Elvis to be in good spirits, playing football and laying on the beach with Ginger and talking with Larry, and yet there is a definitive “sadness” in his eyes that is evident even through his “one of a kind sunglasses”. Though Elvis is smiling throughout these photos, and many of these photos show Elvis wearing a t-shirt looking thinner than the “last concert” footage CBS broadcast in 1977 after Elvis’ death, there is something (as always as the case) “unique” that the ink on the photo paper captures….something….deeply personal to Elvis. As one who has collected Elvis Presley memorabilia, including over 100,000 individual photos of Elvis, when I look at these photos in Hawaii in 1977 I always “pick up” on his eyes for they do foretell the contents of ones soul.
Since the book Leaves of Elvis’ Garden came into print in 2007 I have read this book numerous times and have cherished it more and more. This book is not a “tell all book” nor is it a “regurgitation of Elvis facts” nor is it a book with an agenda. It is a book from the heart of one who knew Elvis, loved Elvis, shared deep thoughts with Elvis, and stayed with Elvis for (13) thirteen years all the while being an “outsider” (i.e. he was not Southern, he did not meet Elvis in high school or in the Army, etc.) and having his motives questioned publicly and privately.
I have always respected, and supported, the members of the Memphis Mafia (specifically Marty Lacker, Red West, Sonny West, Billy Smith, Lamar Fike along with Joe Esposito and Jerry Schilling) all the while understanding that the connection that these men had with Elvis was far different that the relationship Elvis had with Larry Geller. I would never try to second guess which relationship was more important, and/or more meaningful to Elvis, but I will say that the QUALITY of the men that Elvis spent the majority of his life with were (a) highly professional (b) honest men (c) hard working men (d) trustworthy men and (e) men that any man would be lucky to know…and to call them a…friend.
I HIGHLY recommend this book “Leaves of Elvis’ Garden” for it gives actual insight into Elvis thoughts, his passions, his quests, his questions, and his heart. No book will EVER fully encompass the entirety of Elvis Presley for he was so “multi-dimensional” as well as being “simplistic” and “complicated”. I realize that this descriptive terms are “oxy morons” but in many ways Elvis was a “simple man” yet in others he was highly sensitive and complicated. I believe that Elvis “felt”, from every cell in his being, the pain of his fellow man (including those he loved, worked with, etc.) that the burdens put on him (from many directions) would have broken a lessor man.
One example of Elvis’ courage and commitment to God was during the Ed Sullivan shows. There was an unrelenting attack on him, his movements, his intentions, his singing style, his family, and much more. As a young man Elvis opted to turn to his back up group and say “we are going to do Peace in the Valley”. While wearing a “sparkling jacket” and dark pants the previously “never stop moving” entertainer, with the features of a Greek God and the perfectly groomed slicked back ravenous hair, stood before the audience directly in front of the Jordainaires (i.e. Gospel Group) and looked steely into the camera lens and sang from the depths of his soul a Gospel song that encompassed his love of God and his respect for the spiritual songs that empowered those dirt poor Southerners for decades. I have watched the video of Elvis performing this song for decades and his vocals were INCREDIBLE and the honesty that originated from his vocal cords was pure and not of this World. Inasmuch as his movements mesmerized the youth of America this Gospel Song changed the minds of millions for in their hearts they were awaken by a presence that was not threatening…but one of love.
I applaud Larry Geller for his previous speaches about Elvis and his previous writings. But, this book “Leaves of Elvis’ Garden” is the “real deal” when it comes to emotions stirred by ink on paper. So I say to Larry Geller, and to his family members, THANK YOU for your earnest endeavors and for sharing your stories about Elvis.
Since August 16, 1977 I have hoped, and prayed, that Elvis found enternal peace in Heaven along with God and Gladys and Jesse and since then with Dodger and Vernon and Charlie Hodge and so many others. This hope, and these prayers, go out to each of my fellow men and to each child born and to those yet to be born for if we fail to pray for those our eyes have never seen then we have learned nothing from the Old Testament, the New Testament, or other works of literature concerning God.
For Elvis Fans Worldwide I hope that each of you seek out the members of the Memphis Mafia, and Larry Geller, along with their family members to say THANK YOU and to support their endeavors. Their lives, and their memories, are ever aging and they have never gotten the respect/appreciation/monetary rewards that are/were warranted. Time is no longer an excuse for not reaching out to each of them for with each passing day an opportunity slips away with no guarantee of tomorrow.
Take care and God bless.
Jeffrey Schrembs
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Prayer for all Children by Jeff Schrembs
It is a fact, as well as a tragedy, that there are MILLIONS of children (around the World) who are under constant threat of death/murder/hunger/disease/etc. They go without food, clean water, sanitary conditions, all of which expose them to a life of health complications.
There is an "old saying", that is among my favorite recollections, that goes like this. A question is posed: "How do you swallow an Elephant". The person says they don't know and they ask for the answer. The answer is: "One bite at a time".
Thus, how do we (in any way that we can) help these children? I believe the answer is "as many as we can at a time".
There are many legitimate, and proven, charitable organizations that have VERY HIGH "donations to recipients" percentages. As an example the Salvation Army states that for every $1.00 (one dollar US) that is donated that (approximately) .90 cents (ninety cents) goes DIRECTLY to those in need. The difference, of .10 cents (ten cents), goes to cover their "overhead". Some Charities, that are more "well known", have LOWER percentages so I would highly recommend that you do you research and then...follow your heart.
Whether it is digging through old clothes, shoes, attic, closets, etc. there are ways that we all can help. Of course if we are able to "write a check" that helps as well but anything that is done, from our hearts, can/will make a difference.
Take care and God bless.
Jeffrey Schrembs
Special Needs Children Advocate
Disabled Persons Advocate (Adult and Child)
Child Abuse Prevention Advocate
There is an "old saying", that is among my favorite recollections, that goes like this. A question is posed: "How do you swallow an Elephant". The person says they don't know and they ask for the answer. The answer is: "One bite at a time".
Thus, how do we (in any way that we can) help these children? I believe the answer is "as many as we can at a time".
There are many legitimate, and proven, charitable organizations that have VERY HIGH "donations to recipients" percentages. As an example the Salvation Army states that for every $1.00 (one dollar US) that is donated that (approximately) .90 cents (ninety cents) goes DIRECTLY to those in need. The difference, of .10 cents (ten cents), goes to cover their "overhead". Some Charities, that are more "well known", have LOWER percentages so I would highly recommend that you do you research and then...follow your heart.
Whether it is digging through old clothes, shoes, attic, closets, etc. there are ways that we all can help. Of course if we are able to "write a check" that helps as well but anything that is done, from our hearts, can/will make a difference.
Take care and God bless.
Jeffrey Schrembs
Special Needs Children Advocate
Disabled Persons Advocate (Adult and Child)
Child Abuse Prevention Advocate
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Resolutions for 2009
Such pressure.
Today I was asked "hey, whats your resolution this year"?
Always interesting to be asked a question in front of perfect strangers while trying to get a medication refilled so I replied with "wait".
His "miracle ear" had to loudly say "WEIGHT, you don't need to lose too much WEIGHT".
At this point everyone from the "dropping off line", to the "medication on sale isle", and the "bakery section were privy to my "conversation".
I turned my cart so I could face him and I said (calmly) "no, I said wait - as in you need to wait".
He said oh I "thought you said WEIGHT and I looked at your stomach and I said don't loose too much WEIGHT". I said "I head you as did half the people with 50 feet of us did as well.
As the blinking "status number" changed slowly overhead, I cross referenced my number, for the 100th time and went into the "rx ready line" YIPPEE.
The line wound and before I knew it the "WEIGHT" yell er was reading a magazine like People and talking to himself. I timed it that if the person in front got the teller to the left that I COULD get my medication without having to say anything else to the yeller. My plan was in action.
Arrival at the counter -rang up my item = asked if there was anything else? I look at the yeller who was still looking at the models in summer tanning outfits. I was seconds away from...escape. I handed the teller my card and then signed the ticket and turn to walk away....done. I took one step and heard "HEY" coming from the yeller followed by "Mr. Schrembs please return to the Pharmacy".
I was being "triangulated" on all sides. The Pharmacist had forgotten to give me my card back (THANKS as that would be a bummer if I had lost that) so I said thanks.
Mr. Yeller was back in my view and he said, with a weird look on his face, "out of these three models which one is the hottest". I told him that I was happily married, in love, so I wasn't the right person to ask. He protested so I realized I should walk fast and get out of there. Mr. Yeller turned the page and said "here they are is it number 1, 2 ,3" (with photos under the 1,2,3 caption). I didn't have time so I walked a little faster towards the auto-opened doors and he said "1, 2, or 3" loudly so many people were looking IN ADDITION to the others who were enjoying these exchanges so I put my right hand up and said "bye" and walked away. As I was given the "thank you for visiting Walmart today" I heard Mr. Yeller say Bye what is Bye to which the Walmart Greeter said that is when one persons likes men and women.
As I was about to put my key into the truck I nodded my head thing "first fat and now bi"...only in PUBLIC could these two "statements come out and be completely wrong yet those who heard it will....remember.
My resolution is to go to Walmart at different times of the day with 3 month supplies.
Today I was asked "hey, whats your resolution this year"?
Always interesting to be asked a question in front of perfect strangers while trying to get a medication refilled so I replied with "wait".
His "miracle ear" had to loudly say "WEIGHT, you don't need to lose too much WEIGHT".
At this point everyone from the "dropping off line", to the "medication on sale isle", and the "bakery section were privy to my "conversation".
I turned my cart so I could face him and I said (calmly) "no, I said wait - as in you need to wait".
He said oh I "thought you said WEIGHT and I looked at your stomach and I said don't loose too much WEIGHT". I said "I head you as did half the people with 50 feet of us did as well.
As the blinking "status number" changed slowly overhead, I cross referenced my number, for the 100th time and went into the "rx ready line" YIPPEE.
The line wound and before I knew it the "WEIGHT" yell er was reading a magazine like People and talking to himself. I timed it that if the person in front got the teller to the left that I COULD get my medication without having to say anything else to the yeller. My plan was in action.
Arrival at the counter -rang up my item = asked if there was anything else? I look at the yeller who was still looking at the models in summer tanning outfits. I was seconds away from...escape. I handed the teller my card and then signed the ticket and turn to walk away....done. I took one step and heard "HEY" coming from the yeller followed by "Mr. Schrembs please return to the Pharmacy".
I was being "triangulated" on all sides. The Pharmacist had forgotten to give me my card back (THANKS as that would be a bummer if I had lost that) so I said thanks.
Mr. Yeller was back in my view and he said, with a weird look on his face, "out of these three models which one is the hottest". I told him that I was happily married, in love, so I wasn't the right person to ask. He protested so I realized I should walk fast and get out of there. Mr. Yeller turned the page and said "here they are is it number 1, 2 ,3" (with photos under the 1,2,3 caption). I didn't have time so I walked a little faster towards the auto-opened doors and he said "1, 2, or 3" loudly so many people were looking IN ADDITION to the others who were enjoying these exchanges so I put my right hand up and said "bye" and walked away. As I was given the "thank you for visiting Walmart today" I heard Mr. Yeller say Bye what is Bye to which the Walmart Greeter said that is when one persons likes men and women.
As I was about to put my key into the truck I nodded my head thing "first fat and now bi"...only in PUBLIC could these two "statements come out and be completely wrong yet those who heard it will....remember.
My resolution is to go to Walmart at different times of the day with 3 month supplies.
Valentines Day 2009 by Jeff Schrembs
2009, here we are in the "second month" and I find myself still using "2008". For some reason February is such a "different month" to being with. First you only have 28 days in this month then they throw in Presidents Day and Valentines Day and (historically) February can be "turning springlike" OR "freezing your derriere off".
Anyway I have a wonderful suggestion for those looking for unique "once in a lifetime gifts" to give their loves ones. For those who happen to have (and lucky you) "extra cash lying around" please feel free to just...get it to me. I will make it easy for you, I will have it picked up, I will say thanks, you will feel better and so will I so just...let me know.
For those of you married, and still in love, taking a "loved" photo - and getting it restored/blown up/enhanced and then framed is a wonderful gift. If you have old 8mm movies, or VHS, lying around step it up and transfer them to DVD. But, you can't stop there you have to add the flowers, dinner, and the card.
For those of you married, and not in love, I can't help you...sorry.
For those of you just being able to date (legally) I have only four letters for you but you will thank be throughout your life IF you abide by them (scroll down for the four letters):
W
A
I
T
Wait!
For those of you in College, or getting ready to go to College, FINISH your Education now more than ever. FINISH. FINISH by any means necessary. Study HARD, work HARD, keep your word, hold your head high and PUSH YOURSELF to greatness. God doesn't make "mistakes" so get your move on.
For any children/teenagers writing (in your handwriting) a card about why you love them so much, and what they do to make you laugh, and what they do that you like the most, is a GREAT gift.
For any Elvis Presley Fans checkout the EBay Store entitled ELVISCOLLECTORWORLDWIDE and/or www.ElvisCollector.info.
For adult children thinking about what to get their Parents, and aren't in a position to repay all the years of "roof over your head/food/loans/use of cars/cash/etc.", then BREAK DOWN and "knock out" three of four CHORES that your Parents aren't able to do (wash/detail their car, organize a room, help them with computer, around the house improvement, etc.). Ask...and ye shall find.
Well, that is enough input for now except that I wish ALL of Gods children a wonderful, healthy, beneficial, joyful, memorable, save, and peaceful Valentines Day...and 2009....and beyond. We owe it, to each other, to acknowledge that children/parents have REAL NEEDS (clothing, food, etc.) here in the US and around the World. Even if it is going thought storage boxes, for clothes, giving them to (example) Salvation Army will end up going to a person...in need.
Helping our fellow man, with respect/love/grace, is a wonderful thing indeed.
Diamonds, sparkles, and bling "catch the eye' BUT if you are looking to "catch the heart"...follow your heart as it will let you know the right thing to do...just....listen to your heart as it is the INTERNET to your Soul.
For those who "want to be romantic" but are "cash challenged" then find out what type of books they like OR what are their interests that they always wanted to pursue but haven't. Then go to the Public Library and check out a few books, perhaps a "do it yourself" for certain things you know about, AND see if they have a MOVIE section (all of the Libraries in our areas have a large selection of DVD which surprised me) and check out a movie appropriate to your....mood.
Taking the time to put together a UNIQUE PHOTO, combined with a handwritten letter of love/thoughts/dreams/memories, is ALWAYS a hit.
Take care and God bless.
Jeffrey Schrembs
Anyway I have a wonderful suggestion for those looking for unique "once in a lifetime gifts" to give their loves ones. For those who happen to have (and lucky you) "extra cash lying around" please feel free to just...get it to me. I will make it easy for you, I will have it picked up, I will say thanks, you will feel better and so will I so just...let me know.
For those of you married, and still in love, taking a "loved" photo - and getting it restored/blown up/enhanced and then framed is a wonderful gift. If you have old 8mm movies, or VHS, lying around step it up and transfer them to DVD. But, you can't stop there you have to add the flowers, dinner, and the card.
For those of you married, and not in love, I can't help you...sorry.
For those of you just being able to date (legally) I have only four letters for you but you will thank be throughout your life IF you abide by them (scroll down for the four letters):
W
A
I
T
Wait!
For those of you in College, or getting ready to go to College, FINISH your Education now more than ever. FINISH. FINISH by any means necessary. Study HARD, work HARD, keep your word, hold your head high and PUSH YOURSELF to greatness. God doesn't make "mistakes" so get your move on.
For any children/teenagers writing (in your handwriting) a card about why you love them so much, and what they do to make you laugh, and what they do that you like the most, is a GREAT gift.
For any Elvis Presley Fans checkout the EBay Store entitled ELVISCOLLECTORWORLDWIDE and/or www.ElvisCollector.info.
For adult children thinking about what to get their Parents, and aren't in a position to repay all the years of "roof over your head/food/loans/use of cars/cash/etc.", then BREAK DOWN and "knock out" three of four CHORES that your Parents aren't able to do (wash/detail their car, organize a room, help them with computer, around the house improvement, etc.). Ask...and ye shall find.
Well, that is enough input for now except that I wish ALL of Gods children a wonderful, healthy, beneficial, joyful, memorable, save, and peaceful Valentines Day...and 2009....and beyond. We owe it, to each other, to acknowledge that children/parents have REAL NEEDS (clothing, food, etc.) here in the US and around the World. Even if it is going thought storage boxes, for clothes, giving them to (example) Salvation Army will end up going to a person...in need.
Helping our fellow man, with respect/love/grace, is a wonderful thing indeed.
Diamonds, sparkles, and bling "catch the eye' BUT if you are looking to "catch the heart"...follow your heart as it will let you know the right thing to do...just....listen to your heart as it is the INTERNET to your Soul.
For those who "want to be romantic" but are "cash challenged" then find out what type of books they like OR what are their interests that they always wanted to pursue but haven't. Then go to the Public Library and check out a few books, perhaps a "do it yourself" for certain things you know about, AND see if they have a MOVIE section (all of the Libraries in our areas have a large selection of DVD which surprised me) and check out a movie appropriate to your....mood.
Taking the time to put together a UNIQUE PHOTO, combined with a handwritten letter of love/thoughts/dreams/memories, is ALWAYS a hit.
Take care and God bless.
Jeffrey Schrembs
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