I never do this.
I mean, THIS this. I don’t just write and send.
I draft, I edit, I think, I edit and write some more, then maybe, after a week, I send.
But this weekend is different. It’s a turnaround. And I wanted to engage all of you who have signed up here as subscribers.
First: My friend Chris’ Dad died on Saturday morning. He was 85 and in failing health. I got to have dinner with Chris on Friday night (he’s also a subscriber), and learned the news the following morning. I’d love it if everyone here sent condolences to Chris and his family, wife Lucy and two sons, who have now lost their grandfather (comments below are open). I’m reminded my own mother died on a Friday night in May (2008) and the morning I learned the news (from my father, also now passed) it was a brilliant blue-sky May day.
I can only hope to be so lucky that my life ends on such a sweet May day. I hope you’re doing well my friend and glad you’re taking care of your mother right now.
My sadness about Chris’ father is interspersed with some joy: delightful moments this weekend out and about in the world. And a lovely gift from another Substack subscriber and friend in the form of artwork. I love it!
In future posts I’ll be able to adorn the chosen theme with dividers designed by Jo Petroni! They are gorgeous and I’m to the moon happy. For Daytalking, playful otters will fill the scene…
And when delving into the mysteries of Nightwalking, we’ve more choices to break up the text (good Lord I love this twisted branch)…
Or…
Which could be Stargazing or Nightwalking and so reminds me of the French artist (Lionel Koechlin—lovely stuff!) who designed Genesis’ Duke LP in 1980… I am so grateful to Jo and happy to share this with you and have it augment the writing that is to come. And yes, Jo, let’s talk about what “home” means soon. I found some of it while on the street today:
Meanwhile I’m drafting a long-form piece on social media and a surprise metaphor/analogy to go with it, aiming to publish before I head down to see my friend Dan in Florida at month’s end.
Really, that’s it.
Just wanted to share the news and keep the fires burning.
Best, MM
...when heart is open. *Van Morrison if you need to do some keening https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NiIEJ4UB1A