The inspiration for this song came from an encounter with a homeless man I met in Georgetown (DC) the summer of 1988 sitting in rush hour traffic on M Street heading home from work. As our eyes met, I realized that I could be in his place, for that matter, most of us are a paycheck or two away from being on the street at any time. I gave him some money that day, but he gave me something much more priceless in return. When I got home, this song's lyrics, melody, title and chords flowed seamlessly together. I have recorded "The Man I Could Be" several times, but this is my favorite rendition. A special thanks to my singing partner, Maryann for adding her haunting harmonies.