This month saw what would have been Bradley's 59th Birthday. Happy Birthday, friend!
Unlike Mr. Smith (and, evidently, some National Geographic readers of late), I happen to have precious little interest in the supernatural, but even I might have to admit that it sometimes feels as if he never left us.
The pleasure was all mine. I have indeed kept it up, in my own peculiar fashion. It may not bear much resemblance to the aesthetics of previous eras, nor would perhaps even some of my contemporaries think much of it. But it's not up to them. I prefer to think that some of my best work always lies ahead, not far behind in some distant era. Isn't that what the word "progressive" is supposed to mean?
After all (and this is one of my very own expressions), "life is chiefly for the living."
So here's a big fat bowl for you, buddy! You were amazing, and I will always honor your memory for the gifts you shared so eagerly and without any assurance of recompense. They were extraordinary. We would do well to follow your example. But clearly our task has only begun.
These are dark times. There are no easy answers. We know we're up against practically impossible odds. But why give up? Merely because the end for each of us is already known, should we allow ourselves to become the instruments of our oppressors? Let us rather continue to strive with renewed vigor for a world that is more supportive, inclusive and humane. If we fail, we have no one to blame but ourselves.
Keep it up!
P.S. Happy birthday to my late grandparents as well, one of whom happens to share a birthday with the late Bradley Smith :)
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