Fake record cover from Andy Statman
andy statman, “Flatbush Waltz,”
from, Flatbush waltz, 1980
Today we have a double header. This is a second entry, as I am inserting this piece as an electromagnetic Shiva in memory of the passing of my dear friend Linda’s father, Jerry Freedman. There could be many appropriate pieces of music to honor his presence in our world, but this devotional piece by Mr. Statman, drawing from the soothing, artistic influences of Judaica, seems on the mark. Linda could probably keep you going for weeks with stories chronicling his generosity, optimism and love for everyone in his path. Especially those regaling his good works in the appliance store he owned for the bulk of his adult life in Revere, MA. This waltz is intended as a resting place of remembrance for the gifts he left to his family, friends and hundreds of strangers. Amazing to think of the expansive reach of his impact on people over the odyssey of his 96 years. Deep grief is appropriate. Wonder, as we meditate about his great life, is expected. So at times of enormous loss such as this, I like to think, as Willie Nelson put it in a song title, written in memory of Merle Haggard, “He Won’t Ever Be Gone.”