PAPER TRAILS: An open letter to the Allen family (ArkansasOnline.com)

Video Wednesday on FOX’s American Idol of finalist Kris Allen greeting parents Kim and Neil at their Maumelle home during his recent visit recalled another Maumelle family whose daughter Amy Lee became a star at about the same age. Watching Neil’s tearful, lingering embrace of his sonturned-star, one wonders what changes Kris’ family – a strong and loving one by all accounts – faces. Paper Trails asked John Lee to write an open letter to Neil Allen, and he graciously agreed:
“Dear Neil, It’s been about a year since you and Kimberly brought Kris over to my house to play for me. What a difference a year makes! Kris played a few songs and as you know, we really thought he had the “total package” (talent, originality, musicianship, age, look). He was the best I’d seen in central Arkansas. At the time, he was considering an American Idol audition and it seemed the best option with record companies trying to figure out their place amid new technology. After you left that night, I told my family, “It’s a shame to meet someone I know has all the tools to make it and I can’t do a thing for him.” Imagine how proud we’ve been each Tuesday and Wednesday watching Kris’ continued success. When Amy and Evanescence burst onto the scene in 2003 life got interesting. I received an overwhelming amount of calls and e-mails from relatives, friends, and people I barely remembered. Once the tour began, I thought I worked for Ticketmaster, trying to accommodate all the ticket and back-stage pass requests. People started treating my family differently and thought we were instantly rich. They think you’re on the payroll (be prepared to pick up all restaurant tabs). Amy’s life became a whirlwind. It became hard to go places with her. Through all the excitement, turmoil, tension and euphoria, our family realized the need for normalcy. After all, our daughter was still just a 21-year-old from Maumelle. I’d read an article about Ringo Starr and how his life changed after The Beatles’ first trip to America and he longed to get home to a regular meal with his family. At dinner, he spilled a glass of tea and was surprised at the fuss his family made hurrying to clean it up and make things right. They were treating him like royalty. He was sad to realize things were not going to be the same. After reading that, my family knew normalcy was the one thing we could offer Amy that no one else could. When she comes home she sleeps on the fold-out sofa downstairs, makes her own bed and puts her dishes in the dishwasher. She’s just one of the kids and is treated equally. I really believe your child wouldn’t want it any other way. There has to be a real refuge from the madness. So, to you, Kimberly, Daniel and Katy: Enjoy the ride! But remember – being normal is a beautiful thing. John Lee”
Source: ArkansasOnline.com | Thanks to EvanescenceVille for this find!