NativeNYker's Rants, Thoughts & Merde

A Packed Room at Gilbert Henry Stafford NY Memorial

As a child I was always told “never show hurt.  It is private.”  And with those words in mind I attended my old friend Gilbert Henry Stafford’s NY memorial, determined to celebrate rather than say goodbye.  

I cannot lie, it was indeed joyous seeing friendly familiar faces – Steven, Christina, Lincoln, Nic, Rebecca and Savoia to name a few.  I was even glad to see those that were never friends – just dicks in the crowd.  

Even more joyous it was listening to the gathered speakers who eloquently described a man I had many a time observed demonstrating the very traits they now described.  Always ending to the tune of Gilbert being a stylish Gentleman. 

But it still hurt.  It hurt to know that the man who could make you feel like the most important being in a room is now gone.  It hurt to know that an individual who never wished anyone any harm has now been taken.  It hit home to fully realize that a being who could always see something good regardless of circumstance is no longer amongst us.  It leaves a void to know that the man who could appropriate your time, with so much flair, making all else seem trifling, will no longer be there.  The perfect hang-out partner is no longer a call away…

It was hardly a surprise to see a room full of nigh life denizens paying their respect.  It didn’t even surprise me to learn of his facetious desire to found a group to be called G.A.G – whose mission statement would be “Over the Rainbow.” 

 But Gilbert Henry Stafford wasn’t merely over the rainbow, in truth Gilbert transcended the proverbial rainbow and made us all want to make the leap with him. 

 I don’t believe this is goodbye – but simply until we meet again.