November 30, 2022 There are no birds. Richard Shelton, the man who reached out to me in a very dark place, is gone. After many days at his bedside, now I find comfort in his poetry. Because, in the end, all you become are words. The wife’s favorite Dick Shelton poem is “The Hole,” which he read at the graduation ceremony for her master’s degree so many years ago. It is about an excavation in his yard, a hole that “moves with great care and precision between the stars.” In his book of what he calls “incomplete fictions,”
Beautiful. Thank you. Made me cry. This morning imagining the countless ways that Dick touched hearts and souls in his long lifetime, his many students. I am so grateful to be among those who knew Dick as teacher, friend, supporter. Thank you Ken for being at his side. I am sorry for your loss. So much love from here to the higher place where Dick's spirit now resides.
"arms raised like the semaphore saguaros surrounding him. He admonishes the young stones to remain" thank you for this gorgeous writing and most thoughtful sentiments about your friend. What a moving piece of writing, and inspirational for us.
Yes, the Stones. Richard Shelton taught me--with this poem---that all rocks are alive. It is always this way in my writing. Thank you, Richard, for so much, Janice
This a beautiful tribute to a man who came into your life when he was most needed and the beautiful friendship that was manifested. His memory is a blessing for you and all of us. <3
The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher
Beautiful. Thank you. Made me cry. This morning imagining the countless ways that Dick touched hearts and souls in his long lifetime, his many students. I am so grateful to be among those who knew Dick as teacher, friend, supporter. Thank you Ken for being at his side. I am sorry for your loss. So much love from here to the higher place where Dick's spirit now resides.
"arms raised like the semaphore saguaros surrounding him. He admonishes the young stones to remain" thank you for this gorgeous writing and most thoughtful sentiments about your friend. What a moving piece of writing, and inspirational for us.
Rare is the man who really knows stones.
Yes, the Stones. Richard Shelton taught me--with this poem---that all rocks are alive. It is always this way in my writing. Thank you, Richard, for so much, Janice
I don’t think I have ever thanked you for sharing the Walking Rain reviews with me years ago- it’s how I was introduced to Richard Shelton. Thank you!
This a beautiful tribute to a man who came into your life when he was most needed and the beautiful friendship that was manifested. His memory is a blessing for you and all of us. <3
Beautiful,, Ken. Your friendship to him was such a gift. Thank you for tending to him and sharing all those good stories.
How lucky you were. How lucky we are.
Thank you.
So sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing his words.