More Beautiful Now

Dear Carly:

I'm a longtime fan and finally had a chance to see you perform, at the Apollo Theater on December 17th. I'd always found you beautiful but I must say, the camera captures only a glimmer of the radiance that shines from you in person. I was most affected by your song "Forgive" - I'd never heard it before, but I ordered the CD immediately upon returning home so I can listen to it as often as I like.

Now to the question. The song that Ben and Sally sang for you - I think it was called "More Beautiful Now" - is it available as a recording? Are the lyrics available anywhere? I want to hold on to my memories of that night but that piece of it is fading fast. I'll never forget how beautiful your children looked standing on stage together singing that song for you, but I'd like to remember the song and lyrics too.

Carla Bashford - St. Petersburg, FL

Dear Carla,
Its a song that John Forte wrote for me. Ben has been perfoming it in his concerts.
The lyrics are : (And I'm so delighted you came and appreciated the concert.)

Tell me a story angel, of your confessions
Of your obsessions with this life
They all expect you to find them
But don't pretend to care
So put some wind in your hair
If you like
You're more beautiful now than you've ever been
You've ridden from afar on your hidden star and back again

You dance your dance in grateful sadness
Through liquid storms
And climbed your hill
You're more than a woman, more than a song
More than the reason I carry on
Even still

You're more beautiful now than you've ever been
You've ridden from afar on your hidden star
And back again
You've ridden from afar on your hidden star
And back again

Love, Carly - 12/28/04

Primetime Live - John Forte'

Since last night's Primetime Live segment aired, Carly has received numerous letters like the ones below. If you were also moved by Carly and John's story, please drop a line to ABC to thank them for producing a segment that served to enhance public awareness about the injustice of mandatory minimum sentencing. Email Primetime Live

I watched the segment tonight on Prime Time Live and did not know you were trying to change the mandatory minimum sentencing. I have a boyfriend that has been in for 10 years and waits for the day this ridiculous sentencing gets changed. I found out about FAMM and he has told me about the Blakely vs Washington cases or should I say US vs Washington in general. Do you see this getting changed so that so many who have been given these outrageous sentences may get out soon? I would love to get you input in this matter. Jewels - New Port Richey/FL

Carly,
I just watched Primetime and I am sickened, and saddened, over the sentence which John Forte was given. While I believe he should pay for what he did, 14 years of this young man's life behind bars is ridiculous. My question is..what can WE do? Our justice system needs some major revamping and I would like to do something to help this young man out. Please post something here in case there are others (I hope) who want to help to. It's time John gets released to do something right-which is helping out young kids headed down the wrong path. Debbie - NYC

Carly,
I just watched the special on Primetime and agree very much with you the injustices on mandatory sentencing. I myself have never been arrested or convicted of a crime, yet it has come close to home. If the law would evaluate each case as they should and take those indivduals to rehabilitate and help in reforming others I think the world could and would be a better place. I believe John forte is a very fortunate person to have you and your son Ben as his friend and 'family'. Hopefully, you being the great person you are, will help bring light to the injustice that takes place everyday.

I am a very passionate person and would be more than happy to assist you with speaking loud and being heard. Should you have any suggestions or pointers in how I can be of assistance, please advise me. I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday! Sincerely, Melody Sue - Lancaster, Pa

Love you, your music.
Been where Forte is.
Did my minimum plus some.
Yes, the killers get out first.
What happened to the girls he recruited?

Doug N. - Ft.Lauderdale, FL

Carly, I saw the program tonight about your "adopted" son and his prison sentence. My own son, who just turned 27, was sentenced to life in prison this past May on a drug charge. I have sent letters to all of the supreme court justices in regard to the mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines, asking that they revoke them. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Marsha Williams - Pekin, IL

Hi Carly:
I just saw your segment on PrimeTime. I just want to thank you for what you are doing. My brother-in-law Mark is in the same situation as John..he also received 14 years...and 14 years does not fit the crime for a short bout of stupidity in ones lifetime. I just wish the courts would recognize how much Mandatory Minimums are hurting the families of our country.

So..just keep up the good work and letting ALL our voices be heard. I appreciate it. Merry Christmas...and hopefully in a few years (with any luck)..We will have the BEST Christmas ever with our loved ones home-where they should be. Allison Clock - Charlevoix, MI

PS...I can't believe the judge asked you for an autograph..I don't know what I would have done if I were in your shoes....