In Honor of Gavid Welch

Last night, I sat in my living room, staring at the computer screen, head slightly tilted, as if trying to hear written words speak aloud.
“Our beloved friend and brother Gavin Welch passed away last night. He and his father were in a car accident, and his father is currently in critical condition.
Tonight at 7:30 we will host a prayer service for Gavin and his father Roger in Foundation Hall. Please join us as we remember our dear brother in prayer, sharing stories, and laughter. Prayers for the progress of his soul as well as the healing of his father are welcome.”
Like many others who shared a loving comment in a line of memories, I confirmed my attendance because I would be there in spirit, praying for you and your dad from my home. I set my phone alarm, set the phone back on the end table, turned back to the computer and turned to soft stone.
I barely knew you. I knew you well because you wore your heart in your shining eyes. I miss the chance to get to know you better from your earthly place behind a welcome smile. I cried like everyone else when I heard.
Another bright young star has taken flight.
I didn’t wait for the 7:30pm alarm to remind me to join the assembled group in prayer. Quietly, heavily, I walked to my bedroom and closed the door.
You know that long beautiful prayer for departed souls? I said that one for you while the tears streamed down, while I heard my thoughts like an echo of dominos tumbling on a wood floor. Despite my sadness, I know you are dancing.
For your dad, I continued to weep. For him I said the Long Healing Prayer, intoning name after name for the Divine. Fashioner, Satisfier, Uprooter, Perfecting, Bountiful. Healing for his body but really for what I can only assume to be his broken heart.
I remember meeting you at Bahia and Dan’s wedding reception open house at the Baha’i Center. I felt awkward and clumsy, on the outside of the group assembled on the couch. When you spoke to me from no distance, friendship was a given. All discomfort faded. I can tell this is how you must have been with everyone. Thank you.
I’ve read over what I have written so far and though it’s accurate, there’s too much weight, too much sadness. So I went back and read messages to you from friends. There I was reminded of what I know to be true.
“O SON OF THE SUPREME! I have made death a messenger of joy to thee. Wherefore dost thou grieve? I made the light to shed on thee its splendor. Why dost thou veil thyself therefrom?” – Baha’u’llah
When someone passes, like my Aunt Alma, someone who was sick for years, I don’t linger in grief. I simply smile, close my eyes, pray, then ask them how it’s going in the new digs. I still cry, because separation from a loved one is hard, but I don’t sink like I did last night. But because you were so young and full of delightful energy, because you lived like few do, securely fastened to love and laughter, I forgot.
Peace Gavin, you will be missed.
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