THE WISDOM OF THE BEATLES
Be inspired by the most iconic band of our generation.
Calico Skies
Love means staying through storms
February 23
Skies can be stormy or peaceful and we can learn from both. Paul wrote this acoustic ballad during a power outage in Arizona, composing by candlelight with just his guitar. It appeared on "Flaming Pie," dedicated to Linda as she battled cancer. The song promises protection and devotion through whatever weather may come.
Knowing that time together may be limited shapes every moment differently. There's urgency beneath the song's gentleness, the awareness that storms don't announce their duration. Paul was already facing the possibility of losing Linda, which gave every shared moment sacred significance.
Intimacy means embracing both peaceful and stormy skies. The song's promise acknowledges that calico skies, those mixed moments of light and dark, define most of life. Paul wasn't promising to prevent Linda's suffering but to remain present through it.
Every committed relationship eventually faces trials that test whether our promises are genuine. This song emerged from Paul's understanding that real love remains when circumstances turn frightening. Staying present when someone we love suffers requires a different kind of courage than celebrating together during easy times.
Songs are Paul’s love language. This song symbolized his active promise to be with Linda during her illness. The most meaningful vow we can make is to weather those storms together.
Today, I will identify one person going through difficulty and find a concrete way to stay present with them.
Who in your life is facing storms right now? How might showing up consistently communicate love more powerfully than any words could?
Join February's Silly Love Songs
When Paul defended "Silly Love Songs" in 1976, asking critics "What's wrong with that?" he was championing authentic connection in a world increasingly comfortable with cynical detachment. That simple question produced more than a chart-topper, it revealed how The Beatles understood that genuine relationships drive both personal fulfillment and professional success. Throughout February, we'll explore how their wisdom about love and partnerships provides actionable frameworks for leaders navigating team dynamics, strategic alliances, and meaningful connections in every area of life.
Are you looking for deeper learning? Check out the full post for a 15 minute read.