SENSE OF ONENESS

Re Robert Hilburn’s “Grateful Dead, Dylan: Ending on a High Note,” July 28:

Although I can call myself only a part-time Deadhead, I always leave their shows feeling that a deep, vital current in me, flowing from the roots, is refreshed and renewed. This goes for the colorful, spontaneous campground/parking lot scene, as well as the music itself. It’s all a very fulfilling, spiritual, tribal experience, and I feel once again we all are one. This isn’t just ‘60s lingo; this runs deep in all of us.

And for all you conservatives out there, look at it this way: It’s free-market capitalism at its purest, as well as the “traditional values” of caring, sharing and tolerance. Really, how many places can one see American flags side by side with peace symbols and psychedelic art and dress, and perhaps even true religion, all in one benevolent amalgam?

Happy trails!

J. ALAN ROSENSTEIN

Laguna Beach