A friend of mine died yesterday–a man I hardly knew and liked immensely. His name was James. Maybe some of you knew him too, from this forum. Many years ago I sold him one of my very nice Burke low whistles, and from that time on we became friends. He’d write me these wonderfully creative emails that talked about all aspects of life, certainly including playing the whistle. He was so full of life, and so kind and curious, too. As an astrologer, I happen to know that this period (right now–the month of June) is just a hugely potent turning-point kind of time. Indeed, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few rather startling shifts occur very, very soon. I guess James passing was one of them. I find comfort in knowing that, one way or another, the dear man’s beautiful music and beautiful soul are free to resonate in the wind forever, now. I’ll miss you James!
My condolences. Loosing friends is one of the sadder parts of life.
John
I’m sorry to hear about your loss. You may well be long past it in Texas, but here on the wet coast, we’ve suddenly shuddered into the first burst of early summer. With so much life around it can be a cruel season to grieve. Bereavement feels even more isolating and disjoint than usual, at least in my experience. It’d be a lot easier if we were all gathered like the Kennedys around an open grave under cold November drizzle.
And of course, now I’m trying to recall which member you’re talking about. I can picture a regular poster who had another login but signed his posts ‘James’ [ or perhaps -james]. I think. Damned if I can recall the login. If I’m thinking about the right person, you’re right; he was most excellent company, even virtually.
Emrys, what was his username here on the board?
His email was sunmusing@aol.com and I wonder if he used this in the forum too.
Oh dear. That was our member A-Musing. Very sorry to hear of this. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Sorry to hear about A-musing. My sympathy on your loss, Emrys.
He was a fellow low whistler, and a gentle soul who just seemed to enjoy making music to hear the tones of his low whistles and where they could take him-something I share as well, and talked about with him via email on occasion.
Yes, James will be missed. When I pick up the low whistle to play, I will think of him in the tones and timbres. Thank you for what you’ve given us here, James! Blessings and condolences to your family and friends.
I remember A-musing. He was always nice. I’ll play a song on the pennywhistle in his honor and to lighten your grief.
It has really been very nice to be able to come here and share my sadness about James’s passing with the only people I know who would have known him and care. Thank you, good folks, for remembering him with me.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush.
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
A shock to hear; it seems like only yesterday he was posting, but now that I think of it he had been lately not present on the boards, and so must have been ailing. RIP, A-Musing.
Very nice thoughts there.
Condolences to James’ family & friends. 