Aloha Sparky

To laugh often and much

To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others: To leave the world a bit better, whether a healthy child, a garden patch or redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded- RW Emerson

Sparky aka John Breeskin passed on or like a meteor falling spreading his photons beyond. His legacy lives on. Sparky faced his death with great wonder and preparation. He was a humorist, healer,  scholar, shaman, mystic and brilliant being.  I visited him just a few weeks ago. I was amazed by all the books he was reading. It was no accident that we both were reading a new biography on Alexander Humbolt.  

Sparky was one the most curious, mischievous and stimulating person I have ever met.  He was one of the few people who truly understood me and we shared many similar interests.

Sparky profoundly changed me.  He got me out of the macro and into the micro mind set.  His tales and wisdom involve me in every fiber of my being.  At the end of Sparky's life I participated in both his individual and group therapy.  Also, I got to visit him as a friend sharing our personal observations and endeavors.  I was involved in various trips, workshops and even an online ethics class with him at the Takoma Park Library.  I took Sparky to the VA hospital for a check up.  Every encounter with this amazing man was a rich and engaging experience

Sparky loved to engage, investigate and explore.  His humor and wisdom came in many forms.  For example his teaching philosophy he termed  "sustained ambiguity."

Just four years ago meeting Sparky I sensed his time was limited.  Thanks for your guidance Sparky of looking at life from the micro perspective. For countless years before I suffered deeply worrying about the macro.  All those events  outside my control once caused me tremendous despair and anxiety.

Life is a constant reminder that all things come and go.  The word Aloha means both hello and goodbye.  Aloha Sparky, for I will see you in my dreams.  His spirit has been recycled back into the cosmos in new forms of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.  Sparky shines down on us high above with a smile and a laugh.

Tell me, I'll forget.  Show me, I'll remember.  Involve me,  I'll understand- Chinese proverb from Sparky's web site.