June Carter Cash
June Carter was born in Maces Spring, Virginia on June 23, 1929. That's today. She grew up with two sisters, learned to be funny because she couldn't sing much and that made her memorable. She would do these routines that were so funny and people ate it up because she wasn't afraid to look silly. She had created this role where she cold be herself, charming as all, and be accepted.
She grew into a beautiful woman and caught the eye of many men, the most important being the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. And boy, was their love one for the books. The ultimate American love story filled with struggle, strife, and passionate love. I think that's why it's held up so high: because they were both so human. So full of blemish but lived in the fact that they forgiven and loved by the Lord. If you didn't know that they were believers, you're missing out on the best part of their legacy.
I first heard about June when I watched the film, Walk The Line, in 2003. Reese Witherspoon won an Oscar for her portrayal of June Carter. She was amazing and she inspired the creation of Wildwood Fire, a show that I tour around about the marriage of Johnny Cash and June Carter from June's perspective. But that's not the point of why I'm writing this today.
June, I know you're not with us but I can't wait to meet you up in Heaven. I almost had a heart attack (of excitement) when I realized that one day. I know you've been present at every performance of Wildwood Fire that we've done, all 70 of them. You've taught me what it means to be a woman fighting through the world's expectations and singing your song no matter what people think. You've taught me that it's okay to be messy, be transparent, and let people hold me when I desperately want to appear like I have it all together. Most importantly, how to walk the path God has given you with Him beside you, to learn from your mistakes and make darn sure not to make them again. I feel like our hearts know each other and I can't wait to give you a hug. Happy birthday, Junebug.
Love & Prayers,
Lauren xo
Photo Credit: Life Magazine