My studiomate, Michael, died some time this morning, after I left for work.
I went to see him in the hospital yesterday evening. For all the deaths in my life, this is the first time I have sat with someone so very close to death. Michael was an even six foot tall, and looking at his face last night, and what bit of his shoulders and arms came out from under the covers, I would say that he was at best eighty pounds…
I was hit with a wall of force when I saw him. I had almost nothing to say during my visit; I was that overwhelmed by his approaching death, but I held his hand the entire time I was there. I couldn’t not touch him; it was that important to do so.
Michael is my oldest friend in KCMO. I met him some time about 1998 or so while I was still living in Phoenix. He had been visiting family there. He was my confidant, my framer and preparator, my collaborator, my patron and among the dearest of my friends…
Speedy travels, Michael. You are loved and missed…
gryphon's hole 