Alta Bates Nitty Gritty

I've tried to start this entry twice already and keep leaving my words unposted. They do not adequately reflect what I would like to say. I heard about John before I met him. My husband Tony worked with him at Christopher's and not having previous experience as a cook was thankful to have a friend in the kitchen. Tony had mentioned that he felt like he had a little brother at work but that the rolls were often reversed as he found himself in the roll of student and this younger "kid" in the roll of his teacher. John had such a generous soul. He was always quick to offer help- I can't quite remember the situation but I was without a car and he offered up his.. Not knowing at the time what his car meant to him I jumped at the offer. The car was a bit of a beast to drive and I let him know- John quickly put me back in my place smirking that he knew he should not have let a girl drive it. I understood then that he had let me take off with his "baby" against his better judgment just because he wanted my life to be a bit easier...he was like that- We have many gifts in our home from John and he is on my mind often. I see him standing in his kitchen, cooking the Christmas dinner for his family- always the critic, saying how something could be better- but really, the meal was divine. He was excited to share his life and to invite us into his family. How refreshing to come across such openness. What a gift to Tony and me to be included in his circle. Much love to you John- you are in our thoughts...

The significant thing about John is, that he showed us how to live, to live in the present. John was a teacher camouflaged in a youthful body, he taught with "Silence". He fought a valient battle to stay in his body of flesh for those that he loved. He did not panic, and at least to me, he showed a way to release from the body and wordly concerns. He gave me the gift of his presence from the other side, from a place of freedom and unity.
His being is missed at one level, but at another, he is in my heart and at any time I can access gifts from him. Love is a choice and life is a choice!!!