When the smoke clears

Glimmer of Hope

I remember the day I met her 5 years ago, though those weeks and months were so hazy after darkness had overcome my life once again.  One of the few people who didn't turn away almost demanded that he pick me up on his boat one bleak day and I left my worries on shore, if only for a few hours. It was as if the smoke cleared - Houston handed me a reflection of myself, symbolized in a small hand-carved one-of-a-kind elk bone carving, a gift from Smokey Joe. Her story was beautiful, and she became my symbol of hope for the next few years - she was all I needed to know that one day everything was going to be just fine. 

When I started writing for Po10tial Magazine 16 months ago, I was ecstatic about the opportunity to go out into the community and write profiles on artists, musicians, community-minded individuals and businesses, and charitable events.  Even after the many talks I've had with Smokey, sitting him down for an interview opened my eyes to the real artist. Real....it is rare that you come across someone who is just so real, so down-to-earth, who gives such great advice while sharing life lessons.

The news of Smokey's death was a bit of a shock. Many gathered at the beach yesterday, his "Zen Bar" to pay homage to an icon whose artwork and passion left a lasting impression on so many walks of life. When someone dies, you immediately flash back to the last time you spoke to that person - this makes twice this year. The last Gallery Night I attended, we made our usual visit to the "artist's alley" to see our favorite artists as everyone seems to migrate here. I usually asked Smokey how my pixie necklace was coming along, and this time he let me know she was almost ready to fly, without me even asking. Excitedly I said I would stop by soon. Not soon enough. He even told me after writing the article that I could take a peek into his Willy Wonka factory, his most sacred place on earth (though he may have told others that, I always liked to feel that he meant it just for me;) I can't help but feel some regret.

We learn from the kindness of people like Smokey. The most valuable thing he told me in our interview was that he never kept any of his pieces - they were meant to be shared. His gift of creating extraordinary nuggets of goodness was meant to be treasured by others. He even left his pieces as treasures for people to find in National Parks across the states, priceless extensions of his soul. I find solace in my necklace - I feel strength when I wear her around my neck, though she also reminds me to be humble. The eagle feather earrings he gifted me after writing the article make me feel at peace, knowing the spiritual occurrences we discussed.  

The year of the Water Dragon has been a tumultuous one. This dragon piece captivated me every time I saw it. The year has been spent shedding layers, letting go, and rising from ashes. It's been a bumpy ride, with ups and downs, and events have been charged with a rare intensity. Such as with the passing of our dear friend Smokey. He has opened my eyes to the true meaning of having a gift, the gift to create and share with others.

 Turtle family

 Photo shoot for Po10tial Magazine at the weekly Palafox Market

July 2012

 In his element

Artist's reception at Fused Jewelry featured Smokey

August 2012




Hoping the insomnia will wear off, always turn to writing, thinking of Smokey, inspired to blog again....I could write for hours. And as the smoke clears and the moon is bright, we shall see your smiling face. Sweet dreams, sweet Smokey, thank you for your gift.  Our community thanks you. Until we meet again, spread your wings and fly!  

I believe in miracles too, this one's for you.....