Anthony Bourdain 1956-2018 -

* Many years now since this very talented, very HUMAN guy left us … those holes never fill, and he is sorely missed. (This is a form I invented called “Tredicum Plus”. * ~ my brother ... you caught me off guard - of all those who struggle like we do in darkness, with the hideous demons that lurk I was sure the victory was yours - that the knight was astride his steed, steadied - armor shining bright in the sun sword and shield, sharp and enduring ... but alas, it seems the devil wants the final fiendish word … long did I look to you for strength ... a flicker of light to guide me through the murk - the fog of pain and error and fallibility that so often gathers for those of us who feel too deeply - who see sensitivity as more of a curse than a gift … you understood that path quite well - walked it many times as I have … you knew the beasts that scratch at our ankles - those shadowy minions that seek to rake us into hell with every step we take in redemption's course but your light shined so bright! you held it high and proud for so long that I took it for granted - depended on it … and now that light is snuffed the black is all the more oppressive - all the more glaringly heavy and deep ... … and empty … now the path is twisted, obscured ... and without the welcome of your glowing spirit it will henceforth be cluttered with ambiguity and question - each further step, taken in hesitation and doubt … tragedy, pain, sorrow, regret their names matter not - they wreak the same horrid havoc and those ragged, merciless monsters have claimed you … aye, the sun will rise a wee bit colder on the morrow, and life’s flavor is now tinged with bitterness … still, you left behind a torch of humble exuberance and vitality and those of us who know the treacherous paths of life - those darkened 'parts unknown' - will hold it high in your memory and give the devil all he can handle ... of your mischievous smile your twinkling eye and your fierce, fiery heart … Rest In Peace, Tony.