Archive for July 29, 2008

Denessa Smith: Born again

I found out late yesterday that Denessa Smith had passed into the Summerland. I was heartbroken by this news.

Denessa was the founder of the Tempest Smith Foundation, a foundation in memory of her daughter that combats intolerance towards Pagan young people. I blogged about meeting Denessa here.

I only met Denessa the one time, about a year and a half ago. It would be presumptuous to call her friend. But I was deeply moved by her and will never forget her. She was a true hero. She faced down the death of her young daughter and brought good from it.

I’m crying as I write this. She was a light and a force that I cannot believe is gone from this world. And I cannot bear to imagine being as brave as she was.

May she be born again to those who loved her, and know them, and remember, and love them again. May she and Tempest be born again together and love each other again in the next life.

Blessed be.

Tuesday Trivia: Quotes of the ’70s

I might as well continue the theme through to the end.

1. Everyone has the right to make an ass out of themselves. You just can’t let the world judge you too much.
Hint: Another quote: “Kings died, kingdoms fell. I don’t regret the kingdoms – what sense in borders and nations and patriotism? But I miss the kings.”
Solved by Evn (comment #16).

2. It’s hard for me to take your despair very seriously, Doctor. You obviously enjoy it so much.
Hint: The doctor she’s speaking to was nominated for an Oscar for this role; his fourth and final nomination. (Of four nominations, he had one win.)
Solved by Melville (comment #12).

3. 1st Man: You’re not supposed to eat pickles. It’s high sodium.
2nd Man: I spit out the sodium.
Solved by George (comment #8).

4. You still don’t understand what you’re dealing with, do you? Perfect organism. Its structural perfection is matched only by its hostility.
Solved by Evn (comment #1).

5. I’ve never kissed a member of the clergy before. Would it be a sin?
Solved by Hazel (comment #7).

6. Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie?
Solved by Evn (comment #3).

7. Now listen to me you benighted muckers. We’re going to teach you soldiering. The world’s noblest profession. When we’re done with you, you’ll be able to slaughter your enemies like civilized men.
Solved by Hazel (comment #7).