In Memory of Kenneth Harper

Kenneth Harper

photo by Janna Fournier

On March 15th, my father, Kenneth passed. His memorial was on March 23rd, 2013.

Always curious, willing to learn, an explorer at heart, he (and I) are now on another journey, not unlike a journey into an unknown wilderness. Words don't travel well in this terrain. Raw emotions, sudden insight, deep gratitude and profound grief, surprise around unexpected corners mixed with pretending my life isn't changed forever. On the wild path, walking the terrain of the unknown, asking the questions that can't be answered in the normal ways — what is alive and what is dead?

Grateful to be blessed with this father, my family of birth, my family, my extended family and friends. I am blessed to be supported and held by so many seen and unseen people and conditions that allow this living — this beauty.

Echos of Mary Oliver's words can be heard...
"Doesn't every thing die at last, and too soon?
Tell me what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?"

For now, the open question is a bit less about doing and more like, "How is it you be in this wild and precious life?"

With tender heartfelt gratitude,

Steven