Elvis - A Lighted Candle

[Rainbow Light]

Hi Wanda

How ya doin'? I know that Elvis had so many books he read and understand that with ones he really liked, he might buy copies for his friends or recommend them to others including yourself? Did you read them? and if so, were there any specific books you liked particularly, felt influenced by or connected to, spiritually? that he'd recommended to you?

Guess if he wanted someone to think about something or read one of his books he could be quite persuasive in asking? Sorry to ask all these questions but just kinda interested!

Have seen Elvis and The Presleys and especially the part about Elvis being spiritual etc. Know that she was young and mostly kept to herself, also that she didn't truly understand that side of him but did she ever let her views of spiritual matters be known at any time that you know of?

Also, don't know if this is true and I have read it somewhere (think in one of Larry's books) that she wanted Elvis to burn all of his books at one stage for her and that he had done so? Were you aware of this? I have been struggling whether to put this down or not for a little while in a letter as I appreciate it's not positive but am kind of confused on this issue and a little mad if it is true.

Don't like to bring this up but just find it puzzling that's all. After all, I can understand she was young, didn't understand or was not interested, fair enough and he was so in love with her he would do as she asked. OK, sure but in that case, she's just using the spiritual side of his personality to boost the DVD and that just don't seem right?

I can imagine, from what I've heard and read, that he would have been really and truly charismatic when he read passages from the bible and talked to people about spiritual issues. There is a certain amount of his charisma that one can pick up from watching him on video, DVD etc, specially in concert. But wow, it is only now possible to imagine the effect he had while in the same room!!!

Would appreciate your thoughts and views on the above?

Many thanks,

Best wishes - Sue

[Wanda June Hill]

Hi Sue, yes Elvis did give me several books, some of them I read, some I wasn't really into enough to stay with it. I have a copy of The Impersonal Life that was one of his favorites-I did read that one several times-it's small and easy to read; Elvis had one with him almost all of the time and gave many copies to people. My daughter reads it quite often, it's kept beside her bed and she says it's "inspiring" especially because he had marked some pages and added a line or two of his own.
And he gave me books that were not necessarily spiritual in nature-though they had good "lessons" for living in them. I read them. Most of the books on "his list" i haven't read-I read the religious (Christian)ones because I could relate them with the Bible and what I was taught. He also referred back to it in many cases and studies. It's true he burned some of his books for her-but he also kept some that he just couldn't part with and just didn't read them around her. He did a great many things, I mean that in a giving way-he did them-giving up things, putting up with things and in his mind that was just part of being married-compromising to please the one you loved and vise versa. She was young, sheltered and protected and he admited that he made a mistake in keeping her that way-that he ought to have let her go, try her wings, experience the "world" outside of his, and then maybe she would have understood what he gave up to live in his. But he said it was all his fault-he was too busy and he lost her. Some say he didn't want to get married, that he didn't love her etc: but if that wasn't love when he burned those books, when he forgave her when she cheated on him -and I believe he did not cheat on her until he learned-after nearly a year of not having a clue-of her affair (s). I should rephrase that-he tried to forgive her-his probelm was he just couldn't forget-couldn't trust that it wouldn't happen again-and it did-even then he didn't want a divorce-and didn't file until she "made him" do it-and even then, his last year he was hoping they could get back together. Wishful thinking, but still he wanted to be with her and his daughter. But I think it was because he knew he wasn't going to be around much longer and he just wanted to be with his family. Well, this is far more than you wanted to know, I'm sure. Sorry, Wanda

[Rainbow Light]

Hi Wanda

Many thanks for your reply and found it to be of interest. It's great that your daughter also finds inspiration from The Impersonal Life including the notes Elvis had put in it.

I understand what you say in relation to the books as there a few I could not 'get into' as such and quit reading them.

It has to be said that it was only when I'd submitted my message I realised I had left Priscilla's name out in the entire text. Despite some misgivings I have always held about her, Prisciilla was still someone who Elvis loved and cared for, also the mother of his child. I can assure you that I honestly do respect and understand that.

You did not mention too much information or let me know more than I needed as I've kind of been aware of many things for some time. I knew of course of Mike Stone, the karate teacher, and kind of guessed at perhaps another affair but was never quite sure with who.

However, while as you say, a certain give and take and/or compromise in marriage is more than necessary, it is kind of a comfort to know he kept some of the books he could not part with.

It is a testament to Elvis' character that, despite what he may have felt at times, he did his very best to always help everyone, and lived his life as far as he could to never let other people down. Even though, specially at the end, this meant him sacrificing his health for the sake of others.

Kind regards

Sue

[Wanda June Hill]

Hi Sue, well, I may learn how to use this machine yet-I got rid of the underlines! I'm very new at this, so please forgive me-I "wasn't yellin'" as Elvis said a few times when he thought he was being "harsh" when actually he seldom ever raised his voice-one had to really listen!
I think that Priscilla has come to know Elvis better as she has been "out there in the world" and is older too. I don't think she's "using" his spiritual interestes so much as perhaps wanting to be understood herself somewhat, because there are many who still "blame her" for what happened to Elvis. It was both of them who were to "blame" for a lot of that and he understood that very well. I think that whatever anyone can do, to let those people who are out there, young ones, older ones and those who will be born years down the road, to know and understand this guy who made such an impact on the world, not just his fellow Americans, but the entire world-even some remote Islands-we should all do it. And perhaps that's her intent-and not just money or attention. Lisa appears to have a pretty good handle on it, she's open to many things though she is very careful and like her father in that she doesn't say what she doesn't mean, especially when it comes to her daddy. I like her, she's turned out okay after a few ups and downs which is pretty understandable considering what her life became at such an early age. She's alot like that father of hers...and I think she likes it. Have a nice day, I'm about done with editing the manuscript and will get it off for assembly and then on to the whatever they call printing it today. Thank God for computers-I don't spell perfectly and am flat lost when it comes to where to put simicolons and etc: ! My edited manuscript was more red than black in spots! What a chore-very eye opening. Wanda

[Rainbow Light]

Hi. Many thanks for your thoughts and insights in this regard. Am very much looking forward to reading your book when this is out as sounds brilliant for sure! Yes, can sure understand and relate to the 'Thank God for computers' sentiment expressed too!!!!

It's certainly a good thing to read of another person's views and perspective on what happened in Elvis' life specially from a lady such
as yourself who knew him personally, of course.

Was reading about an article about someone else who had written a book regarding the 'Colonel' (Parker) and Elvis. Thought he was pretty harsh on both sides but this writer (whose name I can't recall just now) certainly seemed to be more in Elvis' favour than against.

I guess you know what I'm gonna ask next, right? I apologise if I'm anticipating anything in your forthcoming book in advance, but were you able to form any impression of Colonel Parker, at all, that you are able to speak of? If it is in your book though, please feel free to just ask me to read it when it comes out first?!!!!! And sorry to ask SO many questions of you too!!!!

Kind regards, Sue

[Wanda June Hill]

Howdy, DID I develope an opinion....does spring bring baby rabbits! Yeah-and it is evident in the book. I was amazed that when the Col. died there was but a tiny mention about a 2 1/2 inch by 3 inch article, no picture in one of the largest newspapers circulation wise, in California. Buried on the 5th page. I wouldn't have even noticed it if a friend had not called it to my attention.

The Col. was interested in Elvis for one reason-he had a winning ticket, a claim to fame for finding the "ticket" and a sure fire attention getter from the get go. He did a lot of things to help speed up the process and then when he had him at the top, he hung him up in all those stupid movies, kept him in control using those early fears and hardships and his love for his parents and desire to keep them safe, in a home they wouldn't have to give up and the life style he wanted them to have. He was willing to do anything to improve their circumstances and his own
he was an innocnet 19 year old, shy and fearfully insecure, aware of his lack in social skills and that he was from the "wrong side of the tracks" but he had a burning desire to better his and his families lives. He said, "There wasn't anything I wouldn't do to keep my folks in a better circumstance than they'd had their whole lives. An' I could do it, so i did what i had to do-the rest is just what followed that." Col. T. used, abused, sold out and then threatened and subdued Elvis with words and also, i believe drugs when Elvis resisted in the 70's. It's in the book, but people will have to read it and decide for themselves what happened-I don't have cut in stone facts, but i had people who were there and saw things tell me what they saw and heard was not right-they didn't like it but couldn't do anything to prevent it. And they just kept hoping Elvis would pass out so they could put him in the hospital where he belonged-on that last tour. I believe them, I saw Elvis, know what he said and didn't say- and after all those years, it was pretty easy to read between his "lines" and get some truth. What ever, Col. got his just deserts I'm sure, I just want Elvis to be able to "speak his mind" and hope this book lets those who read it, understand and apprecaite the man who was Elvis as well as the entertainer. I think they will-people who have read some of the drafts say, boy, better have a box of kleenx when you sit down with this book-you will need it. I just thought it was me-I cry pretty often writing and editing it-but guess not. It has it's sad moments, but it is also inspiring and uplifting and there is a lot of Elvis in it-funny, cute and very Elvis all the way. It's sort of him telling his story-and that's how it should be. Though, i do have my opinions here and there-and it's not sugar coated. I can't wait to have somebody reading it who isn't a big fan, but liked him singing, etc: and who wants to know more-then i'll know if the book was worth struggling over, crying over or not. I didn't intend to write a tearjerker, but can't help it if his life had some low spots-he went on, did the best he could and was willing to do more-if he could, we all can. And he never once gave up his faith in God and human beings-. Thanks for you interest Sue, it helps me very much when people are interested and intelligent thinking people. Wanda

[Rainbow Light]

Hi there or, even better, hi y'all!

Much appreciate your honesty and sincerity in telling it like it was, no fancy sugar coating and such a balanced view of Elvis as a human being. I understand that, even in relating the sad incidents of Elvis' life, you want to give people (especially, as you say, those who like his singing but are not fans as such) a deeper and more meaningful look at Elvis rather than any kind of wish for sensationalism like certain books I COULD mention but won't!

I do wish you success and luck with your book and do hope it will reach a larger audience who will give due consideration to what you have to say about Elvis, that it will prove thought-provoking for them. All the very best for this and I will look forward to reading this also.

Elvis was shy and innocent as you mention and even as late as the Seventies concerts, sense quite a bit of insecurity in his nature though that is natural within his profession I would imagine. His is a kind of 'rags to riches' story - the American Dream and where he had reached to in public image terms: a superstar. Seems in many ways the Colonel played to Elvis' insecurity and shyness, also that he liked to have some kind of control over Elvis' career including the formula movies in the 60's.

Different circumstances and his health/happiness permitting, I wish Elvis had had the chance to do better films, worldwide tours etc. With his talent he could have been able to do so much that would have brought him fulfillment within his chosen career.

However, it was not to be and yet Elvis remained a great man to the end. Love him so very much specially seeing how much he gave in that last show but can't watch it, just too heartbreaking knowing how ill he must have been. There was a clip from one of the last concerts where he was singing "Unchained Melody" while sat at the piano with Charlie Hodge at his side. When Elvis smiled at the end of that performance, somehow that one thing saved it from being too sad to see.

There are so many great memories of this man and he has brought so much happiness, help and comfort and friendships to my life it's somehow measureless, you know? My particular special DVD is the "That's The Way It Is", Special Edition they brought out a few years ago. Loved the original too but had a fair bit extra footage in and was absolutely brilliant. Remains a favorite to this day as it brings us so much of what I imagine to be the real Elvis, the real man, including many of his more playful moments, love it!!

I couldn't write a book or least don't think so and don't have the personal experience, obviously, as you do.

Yet I do write poems or tributes on Elvis when I'm inspired to do so. Wrote one under the title of "The Brightest Star In The Sky" some time ago and wanted to share it with the Forum so have 'planted' it in the 'Sweet Inspiration' section. Wanted to try and put this to music but don't have much music knowledge. Did try and learn guitar some time back but think it's safe to say Scotty Moore, James Burton and co. don't need to lose any sleep over it!!!!

Thanks again, Wanda, for relating your thoughts on this one.

Peace to you,

Sue

[Lighthouseseeker]

Hi Wanda.
thank you for writing all those..and I will look forward to read this book.I agree what you said.Many people think I'm nuts( well probably I am)for thinkin him much more than an entertainer..Sure I never met him, I was ten years old and hundreds of miles away when we lost him but if you listen with your heart,you can hear his real story,at least can get more closer to it..Elvis can tell so much with less talk to people who really know and want to listen..so I feel awfully bad for such a great talent,a unique human being misunderstood by some and they didn't let him use his whole capacity and I think he kinda blew up as a result..For me including that man called Col and many others are simply criminals.If everyone could realise what a big ,one and only chance we missed because of those who kept him from using and giving all he had, then they would've cry for years.I will be recommending everyone I know to read your book.Thanks again for sharing your memories with us .
Zey

[Lighthouseseeker]

All these things almost gives me a heart attack each time I think about it..I feel so helpless and there's no way to bring back the years..even his Army duty was a part of the scenario I believe..to slow him down to keep him away from changing the world in his way, giving hope to gain the spiritual freedom for each person without using violence (that was the way he used to enlighten the narrow minded racist people to accept black music at least)unfortunately, years after people gave the credits of freedom movements to some other entertainers such as Dylan and others which was totally wrong since he faced the hardest part and opened all the doors for them to get in..Those qualities made him dangerous.. but there was a bigger problem..his ways was a natural revolution that was done without being aggresive,arrogant or without using any other violent way.. he made this with his inborne wisdom and endless love and true belief so to stop him they needed more intelligent plans and that took a while..I know I sound like a paranoid freak but with each passing year,more piece of the puzzle comes to light.Hope I don't bother you much friends..

[maia]

Profound insights Lighthousekeeper! Er...not that it really matters I suppose, but are you a "he" or a "she"?

[Guest]

I am a "she"..and 39

[Lighthouseseeker]

oops!! I forgot to log in again..well as above,39 and she..

[Rainbow Light]

Hi lighthouseseeker

I do understand how you feel in what you say about Elvis and there are many things about Elvis' life that could've, would've and should've been different and if they had, he may have had more personal career fulfilment. You say you feel helpless in the light of what happened and that there's no way to bring back the years.

However, with Elvls being the sweet and beautiful soul that he was, I believe that he would not want you to feel this way. Please consider that there were so many happy times for him too and he was able to share these with his true friends such as Wanda and also family, Priscilla and his precious princess, Lisa Marie. Also that he loved his fans and gave them so much including of himself which is the sign of a true entertainer.

There was so much good in his life and let's face it, how much worse would it have been if Elvis had never been born, had never existed. If there had not been this wonderful man who has entertained and thrilled us all with his voice, talent, charisma and beautiful soul spirit.
I'm telling you, I don't even wanna 'go there'!!!!


Regards to all,

Sue

[miracle]

Hey, there u go Sue
That's what I tried to say in a previous mail topic Elvis drawings, but I'm not that good in formulating in English.
Your words are mine...
If Elvis was not born we never knew the beautiful spirit he is and who is there for us in time of need.
Like today.

Much loving thoughts to everyone from me
Nikki

[Lighthouseseeker]

HI SUE AND NIKKI AND EVERYONE..
I SURE KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN AND THAT'S WHY I'M UPSET FOR THE THINGS WENT WRONG FOR HIM.YES HE WAS THE ONE WHO GAVE AND I FEEL I OWE HIM A LOT SINCE I KNOW HOW HE CHANGED THINGS TO BETTER IN MY LIFE AS HE'S DONE FOR TOO MANY OTHERS... FRIENDS, THANK YOU FOR WRITING, IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO TALK TO FRIENDS WHO UNDERSTAND..