I believe some of Gods greatest inspirational gifts comes from those who have overcome physical obstacles, and who share their positive spirit with others, all of which equates into inspiration for many.

I would like to share with you the positive inspiration which comes from a steel guitar player whom I’ve never met, other than by phone and email, and over the past few months he has lifted my spirits, strengthened my resolve, and enriched my life. I hope that my sharing his brief story will become an inspirational blessing for you as well.

I would like to tell you about Chuck Fisher who, 22 years ago was shot in the neck while being robbed. At the time he was an upcoming musician, but all that ended within seconds. He has been “there”, experienced the darkness into “light”, and allowed to return, for what I believe to be the intended purpose of providing inspiration for others such as myself.

For years he had to endure numerous operations, the end result of which has left him confined to a wheelchair with a multitude of physical restrictions.

Now for the best part of this story....he has transcended his physical limitations through his faith, and he understands there is purpose to life, and everyone has a place and purpose in His plan.

The physical limitations are clear when seeing his position in the wheelchair. http://www.riveting.com/psychoactive/BenoitOCC.html

His positive spirit also touched a dear friend of mine named Carroll Benoit. Carroll worked long and diligently with him while designing a special resonator steel guitar which would conform to his physical limitations and restrictions, the result of which produced a beautiful one of a kind instrument. (Carroll builds the Benoit resonator steel guitar)
.
Chuck Fisher refers to himself as "Ol' Crippled Charles". (OCC) He has accepted His will, and because of his faith, determination, persistence, enthusiasm and attitude, OCC has become a blessing to many.

Since I met OCC I think about him when I sit behind my steel guitar, lay my hands on the strings, push a pedal or knee lever, or encounter a difficult execution or musical situation which I am trying to achieve. His inspiration will be ever present in my spirit.

Chuck Fisher is truly one of the fortunate because he recognizes the gift of giving and the possibility of providing positive inspiration for others. He does not acknowledge the fact that he provides inspiration, but I believe that to be the way He would want him to feel. Gods work is never done, and it is carried out by means which we can’t even imagine.

There are many ways which we can give of ourselves……even when confined for life in a wheelchair unable to attain even a sitting position. Chuck is a perfect example of the enduring spirit of the human soul and the ability to overcome all things with faith.

My most sincere hope is that my sharing his brief story will provide inspiration inspired by him which will help you attain your life’s dreams and aspirations.

[This message was edited by Reece Anderson on 18 March 2004 at 03:56 AM.]

Regards, Paul

[This message was edited by Paul Graupp on 07 March 2004 at 10:02 PM.]

I'm sure this young man could tell of many blessings he has recieved from this tragedy as well. One of which would be getting involved with Reece and Carroll who have the ability to make this man's dream come true. God has put him with two of the finest people there is to help him in his unfortunate situation.

Another inspiration to several of us is the guy who originated this post. Not one to ever blow his own horn, and keeps most of his contributions to himself, is Reece Anderson.

Only those of us who are close to him know of his many endeavors to help people in need without any fanfare whatsoever.

It is a privilege, honor, and a pleasure to know that one of my closest friends is not just a superb steel guitar player, manufacturer, teacher, and performer, but a gracious human being that believes in fairplay whatever the cost.

You may call that "leg-humping" (someone else's phrase not mine) but I would be glad to "talk it over" with you on the backside of this ranch.

Reece thanks for bringing Chuch Fisher to attention of the Forum. He's one great guy.

fred

------------------
The spirit be with you!
If it aint got a steel, it aint real

A couple of years ago, I had a bad fall and had broken my shoulder and Reece took my steel and put new strings on it and polished it up for me and adjusted it out for me. Then wouldn't even let me pay him for more than the cost of the strings.

That is just one of the many ways he has helped me over the years that I have known him.

I am proud to call him my friend, and he has certainly lived up to that name.

------------------
My Website..... www.cmedic.net/~almarcus/

Chuck is an inspiration for sure, and if any one has earned the right to sing the blues,
and yet not be down while doing it,
it's this man.

And kudos to Reece for bringing him to our attention,
and also helping in the developement of this one of a kind dobro.
Good on you my friend.

[This message was edited by David L. Donald on 09 March 2004 at 04:13 PM.]

Thanks for all you do.

Your friend,

Thanks Reece
good memory for the file(brain)

------------------
Steelin' away in the ozarks and life,
Scott
www.scottyhenderson.com