Who says silence is golden? Well, let me rephrase those thoughts! I’m here sitting in the quiet of nature, and the birds are in rare form shouting, “spring, spring, spring!” The idea of silence has a whole new meaning! But, honestly, what amazing sounds intertwine with wind blowing and the rustle of squirrels and chipmunks scurrying everywhere. Those wonderful sounds of life, yes life and the renewal of spring….the cycle…begins all over again, and again and again.
I would be remiss in not mentioning that humans, too, like all of nature, express delight in the sounds of music reflecting spring. Just to name a few of those wonderful compositions: Rite of Spring, The Lark Ascending, Flight of the Bumble Bees, and The Four Seasons…just to name a few. They’re all wonderful works, worth relistening or if you have never listened, you owe it to yourself. All of these wonderful classical compositions are worth listening to just like the birds.
I just had the privilege to be part of a “memorial” service for one of my oldest friends, Tracy Rosten. Let me make a note, there was no “blood” family/relatives in this room. It was a room of all these folks whom Tracy created as her “family” her entire life. I was touched by how every single person in the room had a story of how she touched their lives, in ways only Tracy could do. Trust me, there were many moments where you could pee your pants, or cry, from these unbelievable stories! Tracy’s life was musical theater, so needless to say, there were many colorful folks there to entertain as well to share stories galore. It was a whole day affair, true to Tracy’s dramatic theater life. Of course, as with all Roses, there are going to be a few thorns. Nonetheless, she maintained friendships for 20/30 and 50 years! I’d say that’s a pretty good record.
However, what affected me the most was someone saying, “Tracy gave us a masterclass in dying”. Tracy had pancreatic cancer, and when you visited her, she laughed, flirted with everyone who came in the room, talked about her birds (hum- I mentioned birds earlier), rode up and down the elevator laughing, all while visiting everyone in the entire rehab place! She shouted out what a wonderful life she had! Someone who had been in pain for 15 years, who died penniless but had riches of love in all those she touched. Her created family took unbelievable care of her, she wanted for nothing, all bills, wills, and care-place were all taken care of. I can tell you in my world, she was more cared for than so many “families” of blood I’ve met in my work. Many are never around or only present when the money or reading of the wills comes out. If you don’t believe me, go visit some homes for the aging. They are all alone and yes, they still have families! Tracy showed what real richness looks like, my friends.
I am always amazed how death/grief forged us to look within and opened the door for us to realize what is truly, truly important. Myself and all that witnessed Tracy truly felt in our heart that the most important constant in our lives is love. Noting that love continues when our loved ones make the transition into the non-physical spiritual world for us and for them. I have no doubt she knew this, and she shared this wisdom with us.
Happy Spring, Easter, and Passover for all those who celebrate this month. I will be in the City of Angels, LA, and other California places in April. You can see my full calendar of events and appearances here.
Love to everyone, don’t forget to smell the flowers. 🌸
Warmly,
Suzane
