As a young boy growing up, I developed a passion for music. Not only the songs themselves, but how they come to be, what was the meaning behind them, and how they may relate to life.  
 
Recently, one album in particular keeps popping up to me. It's called ‘Free to be you and me’ by Marlo Thomas and friends. The album was released in November 1972, the same month and year I was born. I can vividly remember listening to the record with my mother, (yes, I had a record player - I'm old). The concept of the album came from Marlo Thomas wanting to teach her niece about life and that it was ok to be different. Some of the song titles were; Boy meets Girl, Parents are People to, It's alright to cry and, my favorite, William’s doll (yes, I wanted a doll). The song put into perspective a young boy’s desire for a doll and that it was ok. My mother always allowed my sister and I to follow our own paths, to be whoever we wanted. She gave us space, but also support when needed. This is something I do for my kids - three kids who could not be more different. I orchestrate them in such a way to follow their own paths, wherever it may take them. I cheer them on and offer support when needed.  

In thinking of an idea for this ‘Born To’ piece, I spent a while looking at others work. My coworkers shared their passions of art, cooking, wine making, numbers, gardening with their kids, and collaboration - to name just a few. They were all educational, interesting and gave an insight to the outside world of the people around me. We all come from different backgrounds or areas of this planet. We all have passions and hobbies. We were all born to be different. In starting this ‘born to’ campaign, I believe John Mini has orchestrated a space where we are all born to be free........ free to be you and me. 

William Eager, Yard Supervisor