Friday, April 20, 2012

42 years: a book of changes






















"In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit." (Albert Schweitzer -- philosopher, physician, musician, Nobel laureate)

Today is four years since Richard died. His spirit continues to bring light to my spirit.

The double self-portrait was set up using a camera self-timer by Richard. Midway through 1970, the year he was in Vietnam, we spent 4th of July week on Oahu.

Half of Richard's ashes were scattered near El Granada Jetty at Half Moon Bay, California, where he used to surf, and near where we met as 17 year olds in 1966. I looked for some music that he might like to hear, and then it occurred to me that he might like to hear the ocean. The other half of his ashes is buried at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine, California.

His spirit is everywhere. A kindred spirit to Levon Helm.

6 comments:

bev said...

The sound of the ocean seems just right.

Unknown said...

am, This is a beautiful post. In fact, I couldn't even read it without sipping a gorgeous glass of wine. A glass of wine made the moment seem even more special. Such a gorgeous picture of you. I am so glad that Richard remains as a fond memory in your heart and seems that he always shall. x x x

Anonymous said...

A beautiful remembrance, AM.

Anonymous said...

all respect for your commitment to keeping the light. kjm

am said...

Thank you, blog friends, for being part of this day with me.

Keara said...

Such a haunting photo. It gives me a greater appreciation of who Richard was and why you have continued to love him all these years. It's nice to see the two of you being happy together.