Jerry Garcia Life Lessons

Jerry Garcia achieved great things. He was an artist with a unique vision and a unique ability to convey his vision. He was also a hero to many, and a rock icon to many more.

He was also a nice man with a large heart and a gentle spirit. There’s plenty of evidence, including my own anecdotal evidence. I met Jerry one morning, completely by chance at his local grocery store in Marin County. I wanted to give him some space. He wanted to chat. Because he was gregarious and he loved his fans.

In 2013, to celebrate 9 Days of Jerry (the annual event to remember Jerry which takes place each August 1 to August 9), I started this series of articles about teachings that can be gleaned from his work and his life.

I am now making the series available here, and adding new pieces to the collection as I write them.

Jerry Garcia: Guitar Yogi

Jerry Garcia: Improvisational Wizard

Jerry Garcia: Rule Breaker

Jerry Garcia: Risk Taker

Jerry Garcia: Built to Last

Jerry Garcia: He Did It Himself (And So Can You)

Jerry Garcia: Master Collaborator

Jerry Garcia: Strong Leader

Jerry Garcia: Roots Man

I attended my first Grateful Dead concert on April 8, 1985 at the Philadelphia Spectrum. The band opened the second set with “Revolution,” by The Beatles. For me, the entire experience — from the scene in the parking lot to power of the band and the total devotion of audience — was revolutionary.