Thursday, February 24, 2011

When an original dies

  I'm taking a break from my artwork this time to talk about a true masterpiece. My wife's grandmother passed away on Feb.14th only months form her 100th birthday. I know that the standard response when hearing of someone living that long is "they lived a good long life". Well she lived a life few will ever duplicate. Unfortunately for me I only got to know her after my marriage, her family had the privilege of having a one-of-a-kind original to inspire them their entire life.She did more after turning 60 then most of us will do in a lifetime. She founded a group called Haven after her husband's death to help others deal with grief, today that group helps thousands in their time of need. At 65 she received her degree in fine arts, she became  master weaver and showcased her work all over the world.. For her 80th birthday she decided she had to see the world from a hot air balloon, she went on an archaeological dig, and only her doctors request stopped her from white water rafting. As a child she was called a prodigy and traveled by train to NYC to play piano on the radio. She raised three amazing children, looked after seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. And had more zest for life than any person I've ever met.
  I have had the amazing good fortune to meet Presidential candidates, Academy Award winners, Hall of Famers, Heavyweight Champions, and Grammy award winners. They all pale in comparison to her.
  Today the world is just a little less illuminated because one of it's brightest lights is missing.I will miss her smile, her laugh, her ability to make me feel like anything I said was interesting and important. I am better because I met her, I only hope I can continue on with the same love of life...and chocolate she had.