08-23-23 How do you measure loss
The problem with moving away from a tight community like Salt Spring Island, where I lived for 15 years, is that I don’t always get the news that I wish I knew, in a timely manner. Today I was stunned to see a post of a picture of the flag lowered over Mouat’s, the community central, with an accompanying message that it was in honour of Woody Scott. I was immediately overcome, fighting the urge to vomit, which is my deep feels reaction. Upon reaching out to a mutual friend, I learned that he had had a long and terrible battle with Cancer. I suspect people thought I knew that, and that it was less of a shock to many. There are many who had a far deeper relationship with him, the flag being lowered speaks to his place in the community. My reaction to the news speaks to the place he held in my heart and my history. Woody was a very good, loving and kind man. We played ball together and socialized during my time on the island. He was always ready with a big hug and even bigger smile. I have so many fond memories, but one of my favourites that I share on occasion was when we went to a ball tournament off island. Another of our players was nicknamed Nummy and when we all went to hit the hay at the end of the night it seemed neither of the guys had brought a tent. I was all set up, so of course, they crashed with me which led to the night I slept between Woody and Nummy, lucky girl. It is hard to speak to the hole someone leaves in your life, but it is always as big as the space they filled when they were in it. I loved you and will miss you, dear Woody. I am glad your battle is over.
triumphgal 