Sarah Wood with Dewey's Memorial Plaque in WinginaSarah's opening Remarks:
"Where to begin…
There seems so much to say, but find words difficult to express the loss, but even more so what we gained from this man, Dewey, a friend who will always be in our hearts.
The kindred spirit we all share through our connection to this festival and therefore, Dewey, continues to be a bond representing the most tremendous blessing in my life, and Dewey’s too. It is the blessing of friendship which I have come to realize now more than ever is an extension of God’s love for us.
I have a poem I’d like to share which I know is a challenge from Dewey, but also an assurance from God that life is worth celebrating!"
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A Poem was then read by Sarah:
Now that I am gone,
Remember me with smiles and laughter,
And if you need to cry,
Cry with your brother or sister
Who walks beside you in grief,
And when you need me,
Put your arms around anyone
And give them what you need to give me,
There are so many who need so much,
I want to leave you something-
Something much better than
words or sounds.
Look for me in the people I've known
Or helped in some special way,
Let me live in your heart
As well as in your mind,
You can love me most
By letting your love reach out to
our loved ones,
By embracing them and living in their love,
Love does not die, people do,
So, when all that is left of me is love,
Give me away as best you can.
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A story to remember Dewey by was then read:
Today I am thirsty for moonshine and hungry for pork BBQ. Today my feet yearn for the flowing waters of the James. Today I know things will never be the same.
Today my heart is broken. If it is true that I think of Dewey as my best friend, then it is also true that I am one of VERY many who feels so closely kin to him. Dewey had quality frieinds and we who love him testify to his quality. If ever I think the pain of loss is too great, if I cannot continue on... then perhaps I might borrow some of Dewey's colossal strength to carry on; hoping that in my daily life I may be stronger (more inclined to take a chance, laugh, make a new friend, say "I can do that") than I was before-learning from Dewey the art of gentile kindness.
So pole on down the river our dear friend. The deeper waters are waiting. As we sit on the bank in stillnes observing your wake, we understand that just as you leave a piece of yourself behind in all of us, a part of us is traveliing on with you as well. Safe journeys - we'll see you soon!
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