I really thought he cared about the fams. I loved it that he let us
into his home and played music for us. I loved it that he took us to
the movies when his air conditioning broke and it was too hot to dance
all night. I loved it when he sent club members the boxed set of 4
cds. I loved it that I got to purchase tickets to concerts for the
good seats before anyone else. I bragged about his generosity, but
then that all changed last summer.

I finally had a "come to Jesus" moment during the Purple Olympics in
MPLS. When he asked his fams to stand in the humid heat, on one of
the hottest days of the year to purchase one ticket, it really became
clear to me. It wasn't about love. It wasn't even about money. I
felt it was cruel. It was like he was standing in air conditioning,
looking over the many hot, ready for heat stroke bodies and saying to
himself, "Look what I can make them do for me". And even though I
hear the concert was awesome, it wasn't worth my health to get a
ticket for it. That was my choice and I have the utmost respect for
those who toughed it out. I know of some who had serious health
problems (like me) who took the risk, but I just couldn't do it.

I have been a fam since the 80's. I will always be a fam and buy his
music, but a little piece of my heart was crushed that day when
reality set in. So, this mess isn't much of a stretch for me.

I still love him and love his music, but I have a better understanding
of my place as a fam.