BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Alice
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 10:28 AM

Andrés, my brief visits to the Mudcat forum lately made me miss the opportunity to telephone when you were in the US. My heartfelt wishes for a quick recovery of your health. I am sure your family will bring you strength and life. We all move through time and bear the loss of our loved ones, and there is no greater pain than grieving. As your sons will bring you comfort, know that you also have a friend in Montana.

Alice

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 09:42 AM

I am glad to hear that you are home and safe. Kidney stones can be dealt with with diet, rest and a little less stress. Lord knows, you have had your share.

Live one day at a time. Lean on your family and friends when you need to. And look forward to watching your sons grow into good men. They have an extraordinary example to follow in their father.

Mary

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: bbc
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 09:36 AM

I'm so glad to hear of the love & closeness in your family. Surely, this will help you all. And I'm glad you're safely home. Watch those medical problems & take life as a gift from God, one day at a time.

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 06:59 AM

As Happy a New Year as you can have - and keep on singing.

I just now opened a book about vaqueros and gauchos and such ("Lost Cowboys" by the singer Hank Wangford), and the first lines I saw were from from a roughish English version of Martin Fierro:

And now begins the saddest part
Of my tale of trouble and grief,
Although the whole of my life, God knows
Has been nothing more than a chain of woes
Yet the suffering soul that sings its dole
In singing finds relief.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 02:59 AM

We have been very worried about you and it is good to see you back here! I am very sorry we didn't get together but I'll tell you later about all of that. I too have something (quite silly) for you and we'll work all that stuff out later as well. For now, just take the best care of yourself and hold onto those great feelings you got from Mariano. Bless you my friend, you've had a great burden to carry.

Pat

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 12:35 AM

Andres, my friend, it is so good to hear from you and to know that you are safe, at home, again! It was wonderful to visit with you.

It sounds as though this was a very important trip for you and for Mariano. Stay well and rest...you deserve it as does your body.:-)

luvyakat & rog

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 04 Jan 03 - 12:03 AM

Well, I'm back at home. Talking a lot about our visit (one parent physically, one parent spiritually). I arrived this morning after two days of sleeping in buses and airport and planes because of a very tight schedule complicated by the awful combination of arrivals and departures. Got sick in the flight, suffering a horrible pain that seemed to be originated in my poor liver. After immediate attention on board and at the Air Force Hospital in Buenos Aires Intl.Airport and my own medical care system, I was diagnosed (at first) kidney calculus (stones) and sent home to take a break until Monday when I'll have to go through many other tests. Heart, liver, panchreas are ok. The problem is in the right kidney. I ate moderately and the pain is gone for the moment. Ok, some day, somehow, my age had to become evident, but this is not the important story.

Very important things happened in this trip. Mariano was eagerly waiting for me. I've found him very solidly decided to come back to work in Argentina, and much more, to do it close to his father and brothers, and to honor the memory of his mother whom he loves a lot more than I could imagine. I haven't seen Mariano in such a deep sorrow. He wants to care for me and his brothers, to work together again, to keep a family as his mother would have liked. As he talked to me, I was hearing his mothers' spell, with the same words, as if she was dictating to him, and this amazed me very much.

My son is intact, has matured a lot, and his words have helped me to foresee a life after my life, and a time after the time has ended. Because I know that my life as I knew it, has come to an end, and the light as I've seen it, went off. But there will be another life and other lights sustained by three beloved boys, and I can't just shut my eyes off and ignore them. This I learnt from them and from my generous Graciela.


Many people called me during my stay. I've had the pleasure of talking with Catspaw, Karen, Katlaughing and Roger, and many others from the Mudcat and other friends in the USA. Thanks to all, I so much needed to talk, and to cry, and to smile.

I could not meet Catspaw and family in person, because we were located very far away from each other, and the public transportation by bus and trains had an awful schedule for those little towns I was visiting (Wilwood and Leesburg, Florida) but I could talk to them, and I am so glad I could hear their voices and receive so warm welcomes ! There is a lot more to share with all of you. I'll post tomorrow and the following days.

Spaw, I had carried with me a CD of Argentinean music to give you, but as you know, I am emotionally unstable, and forgot it completely to at least send it to you. Please PM me your address so I can send it by mail from here.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Peter T.
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 10:31 PM

Don't base your views of Mudcatters on having met me, Andres. Don't be afraid or apprehensive. They are really quite normal, except for catspaw, and hmmm.... where was I?
yours, Peter T.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 20 Dec 02 - 07:37 PM

Everything ok to contact Spaw as soon as I arrive. We could meet on Dec 24 in some place still not defined, but I'm convinced that we will meet, and will embrace all of the Mudcat people in his person.

God bless you all
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: katlaughing
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 12:33 PM

I sure hope that can happen, Pat. I cannot think of a better person for Andres to get to be with than yourself, and Karen, of course.

Andres, again, thank you for letting us be a prt of all of this, sad though it may be. We are the better for having known Graciela and you and I look forward to your continued sharing, esp. when you have that grandbaby.

Best of luck getting together, guys.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: catspaw49
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 11:52 AM

I have just sent Andres another PM. We have a time that we might possibly meet in Miami when he arrives, but we will be leaving before he returns. I'm hoping we can work it out as it would be a true pleasure for me to meet this wonderful man. Keep your fingers crossed!

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Amos
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:53 AM

Escamillo,

I do hope you and Catspaw get together. He's as good an ambassador as the Cat could want, and you know we are all sending you ongoing waves of support and corragio as you find your way through this strange sad time.

Fondest regards,

Amos

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 10:50 AM

I keep re-reading all your posts and can't find an expression to give thanks to all for your solidarity. Next Monday 23 I'll be arriving to Miami to visit my oldest son, and will try to meet Catspaw and family, who will be on vacation nearby, and possibly transmit my gratitude to all in a hug to that admirable man.

I wish you were able to see the smile in the face of my dear Graciela when I read for her all the messages of love and prayers when she was still fighting against the disease. She was grateful too, and always amazed at receiveing so many messages of good wishes. This was so comforting for her in her last days !

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Kim C
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 11:38 AM

I am a little late myself.... I am so sorry to read about this. I just lost a friend to cancer last week. Perhaps Graciela and Sheila are in some fine sunny place, having tea, and talking about their family and friends.

Hugs to you.

KFC

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 09:28 AM

Andrés,

I've only just seen this message.

I am truely sorry for your troubles and sad news, I hope that our best wishes and regards for you and yours go a little way towards a small bit of comfort.

I'd like to pass on my deepest sympathies, and to tell you that I firmly believe loved ones never leave you - they will always be with you in spirit until you meet again.

I lost my grandma two years ago, which has been a loss most hard to live with - she was like a second parent to me. I feel like she is often around, and still chat away to her when I think of her.

And... your sons will always need you Andrés - no matter how old they are! The same goes for your grandchild.

All the best Andrés - take care.

Ella

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 13 Dec 02 - 09:19 AM

Beautiful song, McGrath. Some day when my sons don't need me, I'll be free too. Thanks, my friends.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 09:38 PM

I've only just opened this thread. All my best thoughts to you, and your family, Andres, in your trouble.

Here's a song I wrote when my wife's mother died, and I sang it after my brother died last year too. (And he was born in Argentina.)

Now you've left us behind and you've gone on your way,
over the edge of the world.
You left without warning with so much to say.
Are you just round the corner, or far far away?
Well, goodbye, and I hope I might see you some day,
over the edge of the world.
Now you've gone where nobody can find you,
over the edge of the world.
To follow a star, like the wise men of old,
to search for a treasure, far richer than gold,
and to find a great secret, can never be told,
over the edge of the world.

I'm watching and waiting and trying hard to see
over the edge of the world.
Now your prison is opened, and now you are free,
and that's how I always have known it must be.
And maybe now somewhere you're waiting for me,
over the edge of the world.
Now you've gone where nobody can find you,
over the edge of the world.
To follow a star, like the wise men of old,
to search for a treasure, far richer than gold,
and to find a great secret, can never be told,
over the edge of the world.

Graciela - that's a lovely name.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: wysiwyg
Date: 11 Dec 02 - 08:26 PM

Abrazos, amigo.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Allan C.
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 10:44 PM

Andres, I am at a loss as to how to express my deep sorrow for your loss. I will be performing at a show in a day or two. I will sing a special song in rememberance of Graciela.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 10:31 PM

Sharon, this grandchild is being brought by my second son Javier (age 26). Regarding my tribute, you could bet that anything I can say is not enough to express my love and respect for this woman, the purest soul I have ever met.

Smallpiper, I want to beleive it is for a short time. I can't wait for the moment I'll meet her again. In the meantime, I have to comply my promise to care for our boys. After that, I'll be free.

A big hug for all of you.
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: smallpiper
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 10:13 PM

May the lord bless you and keep you all the days of your life
I am sorry for your loss but believe it is only for a short time
Blessed be

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: SharonA
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 03:59 PM

Andrés, please let me add my deepest sympathy for your loss. One more thought is going up for Graciela, and one more hug is going out to you, from me. Your tribute to her is absolutely beautiful. I, too, am glad to read that you'll be with family this Christmas. Is it the son in Florida who is the father of your grandchild-to-be?

I'll be keeping you and yours in thought as you remember and celebrate the precious time you've shared with Graciela and with all your loved ones.

Take care,
Sharon

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: fat B****rd
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 02:33 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my condolences.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 12:15 AM

Amos, if that's not a reason for the Aqua/Tangerine 6th Mudcat CD, then I don't what would be!*bg*

Andres, it will be wonderful to hear you and I know your love of Graciela will shine through and make it that much more meaningful. I am so glad to hear you will be with your oldest son in Florida for Christmas.

Much love,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Amos
Date: 10 Dec 02 - 12:00 AM

Escamillio:

If you have occasion to come West, I would be honored to meet you and offer you a place to stay should you need one.


A

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 09:42 PM

I am planning a visit to my oldest son in Orlando, Florida to share these Christmas with him. If someone from Miami or Orlando would like to meet me, please tell me to arrange something between December 23 and January 2. The only one I've ever met is Peter T. who gave me the pleasure of his visit in Buenos Aires in 1999, and I would like to see someone else.

As soon as I can settle down my emotions a little, I'll record for you all that Amazing Grace which opened for me the doors of the Wagnerian Association some time ago. I'll do it in memoriam of the wonderful woman who enlightened my life and spread out her love to many others for 30 years.

Again, you are all in my heart, which is now Graciela's heart too.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Wesley S
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 01:38 PM

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll keep you and your family { esp your new grandchild } in my thoughts and prayers this season. Take care of yourself - Wesley

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Micca
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 12:05 PM

Andres, I have only just caught up after being away for the w/e.
My deepest sympathies to you and your boys, we hold you in our hearts and in the Light.. Thank you for sharing her with us, yours in sadness in the present, in hope for the future, Micca

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: GUEST,bbc at work
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 11:52 AM

Andres,

I am so sorry to be reading this thread belatedly. Your message brought tears to my eyes--the combination of your loss & Graciela's release from pain. I am so thankful for your faith. God will sustain you through this time & you will see your sweet wife again! I will be lifting you in prayer.

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: sian, west wales
Date: 09 Dec 02 - 04:31 AM

Some thoughts lie too deep for words. Peace be with you, and yours.

sian

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 03:03 PM

Andres, don't worry about the grieving- it needs to happen and we are all holding you in our hearts at this time. There will be time for joy and memories soon, and they will both help and keep the tears flowing. You are cared for here in this place, and we are grateful for your presence. Blessings on you and your family.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Marion
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 02:31 PM

I'm so sorry, Andres. God be with you all.

Marion

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: alanabit
Date: 08 Dec 02 - 02:11 PM

Just to add that I'm thinking and feeling the same way as everyone else on this thread. I hope better days are on their way to you soon and that the memories of better days will always be with you. Alan.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Helen
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 11:09 PM

Love and hugs, from Helen.

As Don Meixner said, you will probably feel Graciela's presence at times. She has not left you and your family. She has gone to a different place, that is all.

The poem we read at my mother's funeral is a good reminder of this, and I think about it whenever I start feeling sad about my mother being gone from here.

Helen

Death is Nothing At All

                I have slipped away into the next room...
                I am I, and you are you,
                Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.

                Call me by my old familiar name,
                Speak to me in the easy way you always used.
                Put no difference into your tone,
                Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow,
                Laugh as we always laughed
                At the little jokes we enjoyed together.
                Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.

                Let my name be ever the household word
                That it always was.
                Let it be spoken without effect,
                Without the ghost of a shadow on it.
                Life means all that it ever meant -
                It is the same as it ever was;
                There is absolute unbroken continuity.
                What is death but a negligible accident?
                Why should I be out of mind
                Because I am out of sight?

                I am but waiting for you.
                For an interval, somewhere very near
                Just around the corner...
                All is well.

Henry Scott Holland
A Canon of St Paul's Cathedral

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 10:35 PM

Take your time, Andres and take care of yourself and your family. We will be here, through the sorrow and the joy, and we are the better for it and for your sharing with us.

Blessed Be,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Haruo
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 07:30 PM

God bless you, Andrés.

Haruo

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 06:06 PM

As soon as I can recover a little, I will try to change this sorrow of everyone of you, my friends, for a joyful smile, when I tell you how happy persons she has made of us, how generously she cared for all of us, and what kind of undeserved blessing I have had these last 30 years. That will be better than this sadness.

A big hug for all of you
Andrés

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 03:46 PM

Andres,
I am sorry. Look for for Graciela in your coming grandchild. And celebrate her life. I will keep you in my prayers.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Maryrrf
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 03:00 PM

Andres, I can only echo what has been said here. I have been holding Graciela and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I'm glad you have your children and (soon) your grandchild to give you comfort and hope.
Un abrazo,
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Morticia
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 01:56 PM

I am so sorry Andres, please know that you and your family are in my thoughts

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Escamillo
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 01:45 PM

Back at home, already left her body in a peaceful place, I'm in the company of Javier and Andrés, and talked with Mariano who is in th U.S., now facing the sad business of setting some order in the house, not sure what to do with everything.

I received this poem from a friend in the U.S., it is very moving and I think it's good to keep it in mind when our loved ones have to leave. The only difference with my wife's case is that she did never have one lonely minute, much less a lonely night.

Thanks my friends, un abrazo,
Andrés

May I go now?
Do you think the time is right?
May I say good-bye to pain-filled days,
And endless lonely nights?
I've lived my life and done my best,
An example tried to be,
So can I take that step beyond,
And set my spirit free?

I did not want to go at first,
I fought with all my might,
But, something seems to draw me now,
To a warm and loving light.
I want to go-I really do-
It's difficult to stay-
But I will try as best I can,
To live just one more day,
To give you time, to care for me,
And share your love and fears,
I know you're sad and are afraid
Because I see your tears.

I'll not be far- I promise that-
And hope you will always know,
That my spirit will be
Close to you, wherever you may go.

Thank you so- for loving me-
You know- I love you too.
That is why it's hard to say good-bye,
And end this life with you.

So- hold me now, just one more time.
And let me hear you say,
Because you care so much for me,
You will let me go today!

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Peter T.
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 11:52 AM

Oh Andres, I am so sorry, I am sorry I did not have time to meet your wife when we met. You have been so terribly burdened, you are in my thoughts and prayers. As a poet once said: "We meet in the valley of the survivors and embrace, we know things we would give everything not to know, we see things in the other's eyes, and are humbled."

yours ever, Peter

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Dave Swan
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 11:31 AM

A song has been sung for Graciela, and for you.

D

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Alice
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 11:25 AM

AMAZING GRACE sung for Graciela.
Andrés, there are no words to say how sorry I am that your
Beloved Graciela was taken by this disease. I know she lives in
your heart, but it it is so hard to lose her touch.
Take care of yourself.
Love to you and your family.

Alice

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Amos
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 10:45 AM

Andres:

My condolences.

Keep breathing, keep looking, keep seeig what is there,.

I know it ain't easy.

A

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Hollowfox
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 10:40 AM

I'm so sorry to hear this news. It's small comfort to think that someone so beloved doesn't hurt anymore, when you miss her so, but I hope it helps. You and she have my prayers now, and a candle when I get home from work tonight. Take care, Mary

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 10:24 AM

Andres, how are you doing, today? We burnt a candle for you all last night and sang from our hearts. Thinking of you much, dear one.

kat

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: C-flat
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 08:15 AM

I can only add my deepest sympathy to the thoughts expressed here.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: Hrothgar
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 02:57 AM

My heart weeps for you.

Subject: RE: BS: A song and a prayer for Graciela
From: GUEST,Mickey191
Date: 07 Dec 02 - 01:45 AM

Andres, I am so sorry for your loss.If there is any comfort in words my friend, think on this: Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy. Eskimo Legend.