Tribute to Kyle
Kyle's Words From An
Essay
"You know it won’t always be easy. I know what you’re going through,
and life is constantly throwing us reminders that we are human, and we hurt,
and make mistakes. The faster you can overcome the sad and troublesome times
in life the more you will enjoy the happy and memorable ones."
Hiking Manastash by Kyle Jefferies
As we approach the summit the trees begin to thin out until we find ourselves at the ragged fringe of the old man's blanket. A thin zigzagging trail will lead us to his lap, our destination. Moki races ahead as we sigh and muster the last of our strength in order to finish the climb. We begin slowly up the final pitch, conserving our strength, but as we get closer and feel the end within our grasp we push and strain and grunt like a mother giving birth to her child. At last we stand heaving together looking back from where we have come; we admire the careening landscape as if we were the proud parents of the entire valley.
"C'mon...let's go." She leaves me doubled over, still trying to catch my breath, and heads toward Moki, who is investigating a shrine of rocks and rubble. A lone fencepost rising from the rockpile holds a weathered wreath above its head. I join them.
Among the rocks there is an old army tin that holds a book of names and dates; hikers use it to record their success with wordy entries or simple signatures. I am inspired:
Bathing under a cold shower of snow we slip and slide down the path. Unlike the steep crisscrossing trail that led us to the top, our course downhill is a gentle curve traversing the arm of the old man's chair. Our conversation trips and skis with us down the icy mountain. We talk about plans for the future and memories of the past, things we have done and things we have yet to do. She and I, we are companions: satisfied, snug, and sanguine. Moki too.
"Celestial Gazing"
When you step on to your porch on a midsummer’s night and happen to gaze
upward, be leery of falling into a celestial trance. The quadrillions of tiny
spots of light, varying in size and intensity, have awed earthlings since the
dawn of time. The stars, as we put it, have so many useful answers and so many
unanswered question. They help us to find our direction when lost far from home.
They serve as a navigator’s headlights in troublesome waters. For some
they tell the future, and for others, they are reminders of the past. They are
a mystery to all.
"When I Must Leave You"
When I must leave you for
a little while
Please do not grieve and
shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow to you
through the years
But start out bravely with
a gallant smile;
And for my sake and in my
name live on and do all things
the same, Feed not your loneliness
on empty days,
But fill each waking hour
in useful ways,
Reach out your hand in comfort
and in cheer
And I in turn will comfort you
and hold you near;
And never, never be
afraid to die,
For I am waiting for
you in the sky!
Kyle's Ashes
Kyle, we scatter your ashes back to the earth from which all life has come. You can mingle with the flowing water, stir with the breezy air and night sky, and nestle in the rich brown warmth of the earth itself.
First, in the canyon where you spent many happy times with Liz and your family and friends. Let the walls of the canyon guide you on your journey over and around the earth.
Second, on the ridge where you spent time gazing at the valley below, the distant peaks, and stars in the evening sky. Let this view remind you of your home and act as a compass giving you direction for your travels.
Third, on Mt. Stuart where you achieved goals, and touched the sky. Let this height remind you of the awesome nature you have returned to.
Fourth, in the Pacific Ocean on a beach much like the one where you breathed your last, where you frolicked in the sandy pools as a toddler and thrilled at the discoveries of shell, sand dollar, and tide pool creatures. Let the sound of the waves remind you of the endless time you have for your travels.
Fifth, and finally on Mission Ridge where you tumbled in the snow, glided over the runs, jumped and spun in the air like magic on your board. Let the white softness remove any restlessness and give you peace on your journeys.
You are a part of the nature you loved. We, your family, friends, loved ones, can come to any of these places and many others on this earth and feel your presence among us. Our memories of being with you in these places will comfort us, and our knowledge that you are now a part of all nature will strengthen us in our lives and our journeys through place and time.
Taps
Day is done, gone the sun,
from the hills, from the sky.
All is well, safely
rest, safely rest, all is well.
Fading light dims
the sight, and a star gems the sky,
Gleaming bright from
afar, drawing nigh, falls the night.
Dear one, rest!