Remembered

Today, a memorial service was given to remember and honor a man who lived in a park nearby for nearly 30 years, and died there. To some, he was thought of as a homeless man. But what we were reminded of today by Bill's brother was that he was not homeless. He chose to live in a home made of trees, grass, with no walls, or rooftop. Bill's father was there, and said, "I was so afraid that no one would remember Bill." But much to his surprise, about 100 people came to give tribute to Bill. And while it was mentioned that he was schizophrenic and bi-polar, although it was mentioned that he drank a lot, to self medicate, greater attributes were given. He was: intelligent, well read, artistic, very caring, deeply spiritual, kind, gentle, and a lover of Star Wars, calling himself Darth Vader. He loved music, would give blessings to those who expressed care for him with the words, "Vaya con Dios!" He gave hugs, and kisses, even while dancing back and forth, on the boulevard.

Bill was part Native American, and so his life was lived in areas throughout the foothills. He tried to live with his family but was not able to maintain living in a home. He taught us all many lessons. He taught us compassion, he taught us that although Bill was mentally ill, he was a son, a brother, a cousin, a friend. He taught us many things through his intellect. He blessed us with his artistic prowess and creativity.

But while Bill's family were afraid no one would remember Bill. Over 100 people came to honor him. Stories were told, tears were shed, the word was proclaimed, but more than anything, Bill was remembered, and Bill will be remembered, for a very long time.


"We Remember Them" By, Rabbi Simcha Kling


"At the rising of the sun and it's going down we remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the still of winter, we remember them.
At the opening of the buds and the rebirth of spring, we remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of summer, we remember them.
When we are lost and sick at heart, we remember them.
When we have decisions that are difficult to make, we remember them.
When we have achievements that are based on theirs, we remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us, as we remember them."