THE WISDOM OF THE BEATLES
Be inspired by the most iconic band of our generation.
Free As a Bird
Legacy work continues long after we're gone.
July 16
From a scratchy cassette demo recorded in John's Dakota apartment came one of the most emotionally powerful moments in Beatles history. Twenty-five years after their breakup, Paul, George, and Ringo gathered to transform John's unfinished fragment into "Free as a Bird."
Rekindling the magic, the surviving Beatles chose to honor rather than recreate the past. They didn't try to replace John or pretend he was still with them. Instead, they built a loving musical foundation around his soaring vocal, creating harmonies that felt like a conversation across dimensions. George's slide guitar, Paul's bass, and Ringo's drums wrapped around John's voice like old friends welcoming him home.
Even Yoko's contribution can’t be understated. Her decision to share John's demo tapes represented a significant act of trust and healing. The Anthology project became more than nostalgia; it was proof that love can transcend loss, that creative partnerships can survive even death when there's enough respect and artistry to bridge the gap.
Every opportunity to honor the past while embracing the present is an opportunity to create magic. "Free as a Bird" reminds us that some of our most meaningful work happens not when we start fresh, but when we find ways to complete what was left unfinished - whether in relationships, projects, or dreams that deserve a second chance.
Today, I will identify something meaningful left incomplete in my life and consider how I might honor it while moving forward.
What unfinished conversation, project, or relationship in your life might benefit from your willingness to build a bridge across time or distance?
Join November's Nostalgia and Gratitude
The Beatles' "In My Life" wasn't just nostalgia. It was strategic memory management. When John cataloged the people and places that shaped him, he demonstrated something profound: organizational memory and authentic appreciation create competitive advantage. This November, we're exploring how gratitude builds relationship capital and strategic nostalgia strengthens teams. From Ringo's systematic thankfulness to Paul's preservation of foundational partnerships, discover how four musicians transformed personal connections into lasting legacy, and how their approach provides a blueprint for building networks that compound over time.
Are you looking for deeper learning? Check out the full post for a 15 minute read.