I grew up about 1 mile from Paisley Park. My best friend Ann and I were Prince groupies. We would drive by his house almost daily. One time we got the nerve to go right up to the front door and ring the bell! A friend of his answered but then Prince came to the door to talk to us! We were so young and naive, we didn't know what to say to him, we were star struck. He was kind, funny and very down to earth. That was the beginning of a Prince fascination and admiration that would last my lifetime. My suburban high school years would never have been as much fun without Prince. We met him several other times and went to a private birthday party for him. We got to know his bass player, Mark Brown, very well. I love his music, his unique and poetic lyrics, his musical genius. I am so saddened by his passing. It feels like a part of my youth is gone forever. My heart aches. I am also touched by his struggles during life... his short stature really bothered him a lot, he was very self conscious about it. The loss of his son Gregory from Pfeiffers syndrome at only 1 week of age and then a subsequent miscarriage, his difficulty finding lasting love, and then finally the struggle with addiction. He had weaknesses like we all do. But there will never ever be another musician with as much natural talent and showmanship! Prince, I miss you. Thank you for everything you gave to the world. You are an inspiration to all.