It's funny, but I always clicked on the threads he started, but seldom did more than just read them and the responses. I just knew that I'd find his thoughts and musings interesting. I clicked on the one he started Tuesday, saying he was headed back to the hospital - and was struck with a bit of a chill at the tone. You see, I'm an oncology nurse with a lot of hospice experience, and something in the way he expressed his feelings that he needed to be in the hospital, sent a silent message to me that he was indeed frightened, but that he had faith that it would be his best hope.
Last night, when I got home and read the thread that he'd passed on, my first thought was shock and I said: "Oh no." out loud. My wife asked me what was wrong and I was tearing up.
I've never met the man. I'd probably engaged him half a dozen times in the years I've participated here, but I can't say I've ever read a word he'd written that wasn't in some way a reflection of a kind soul, a "gentle" man and a big heart.
"Go Rest High, On That Mountain."
Dan
"It's a source of great pride, that when I google my name, I find book titles and not mug shots." Daniel C. Chamberlain
I just now noted about Mickeys passing and was shocked. Had seen his note about having to go back to the hospital but thought it was probably a routine thing. Only had direct contact with him once when I was having problems with the Campfire forums and he helped without complaint.
I caught that too, Dan, when I read his last post. I sure hated to open this one yesterday.
As well as a love for the rifle, Mickey and I shared a common interest in digging in the dirt. Years back I walked him through swapping a worn out Briggs & Stratton engine out for a fresh new Honda, on his Troybilt Roto-Tiller,...sent over copies of the service manual, and exchanged many PMs regarding the job. Subsequently we PM'd back and forth, noodling around on either metal or soil and seed. I never got to meet him, but the depth of affection and friendship that he always responded with just FLOORED me.
I've got a packet of Spaghetti and Butternut Squash seed that he sent over lying on the desk here in front of me,....and will be planting "Mickey's Patch" , this coming Spring.
I think he'd like that mode of remembrance.
GTC
Member, Clan of the Border Rats -- “Sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on or by imbeciles who really mean it.”- Mark Twain
Real sad to here of Mickeys passing.I don't post very often, but read the fire once or twice every day. Always enjoyed reading Mickeys posts, and everything being said about him came through each post he made. Wish I could have met him like many here did, but in a way feel as though I did just reading his posts. May God bless his family at this time.
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much" Teddy Roosevelt
The last time I spoke with him he had mentioned to me that he thought he was near the end. I told him that I would pray that the Lord would be merciful and take him in his sleep. We will meet one sweet day, Mickey.
“No one in hell can ever say I went to Christ and He rejected me.
I believe the same Sakoluvr. May this song promote healing and hope as survivors grieve Mickey's passing. May it provide strength for those who are left to deal with the everyday tasks at home and the care of his "pups".
