Chris Whiting and I have for years shared our pics and texts of the spectacular sunrises we get here in Ogden Valley. We both enjoyed them so much and enjoyed sharing with someone else who was up early enough to be watching one of nature’s light shows. Yesterday he passed in the early morning. At about that time I was looking out my window at all the snow on the ground and piled up to the point that it was about all you could see, and the snow filled oak and maple trees. Gradually it lit up to a wonderful glow as a vehicle passed by with its lights on. I was in awe at the simple beauty of the colors, shadows and white of the view as it unveiled with the passing of the lights. I took notice of that simple beauty. I now realize it was one more beautiful view of nature that he wanted me to see. It was too early for the sunrise. But it happened.
I believe the visual was enhanced because I visited with Chris the night before his passing. We had some great chats and recalled memories. A thoughtful gentleman even at the very end. The next morning, I delivered special homemade food treats to his supportive family and friends. Unbeknownst to me at the time he had passed just prior. About the same time as my lit-up snow and light show. I think it was Chris saying goodbye but reminding me don’t forget the beauty of nature.
As I drove home, I had a strong sense of what was going on with words spoken by Che as I handed her my offerings. Fragments of thoughts kept going through my head. None complete but feelings rising and quickly passing to the next one, having lost my ability to focus and concentrate knowing the inevitable. Not knowing for sure it already was. As I looked around the Valley, I understood Chris was one of our Valley Spirts. There are many spirits in our Valley. One of the reasons we all enjoy living here so much. More good spirits than bad and he was one of the good ones, possibly the best.
I will always remember him and his good spirit. We all need to do the same and try to keep that good spirit, emulate it, and keep the bad ones away so we can still love this place long into the future. All who knew Chris certainly will see the good spirits.
Gone, but the spirit not forgotten. Goodbye, dear friend. I will think of you when I see all these sunrises.