As a pilot myself, really appreciated the observations that one always continues to learn about flying and that flying teaches us about life itself. Mickey Gaynor
Ji ~ You will always be interesting and attractive, however much your body deteriorates. It is impossible for you to be anything but; your mind, storytelling, writing and life experience make you inherently and inevitably interesting and attractive. Big hug and happy 2026 from Baja and from this long time “groupie” who remains and will sustain as one of your biggest fans. Keep writing, keep riding your bike, keep going physically, no one cares if you stumble and fall, you’ll make it into a poignant piece of writing, of that I’m sure.
Love reading this Jeff! And seeing the picture which included David D. Very interesting photos and the pilot's story is amazing, and inspiring. I'm sending love and strength and hope to see you in the months to come!
I do envy you for being able to make new friends, especially later in life so easily. I do not have this skill. Although I’ve only known you for a few months, I want you to know that this version of you is amazing. And I have no doubt, I would have also loved your former version equally, but I am grateful for finding you when I did.
Wonderful writing, Jeff. And so nice to "meet" your pilot friend. My Dad taught flying to WWII pilots in the A6, flew the Berlin Airlift, and was a pilot for TWA, so it all seemed quite familiar. All good wishes for health and happiness in the New Year.
Hi Karin, what an interesting career your dad had, thank you for sharing that - there was an A6 on the airfield where I used to work, it was a daily sighting. So nice to ‘meet’ you.
Same here, Laurel. My Dad ended his flying career doing air rescue in Alaska…where many of the pilots failed to file flight plans and got into serious, sometimes fatal, encounters with sudden weather changes. Many stories!
Thank you, for this and for everything else you bring into this world through love and sheer determination!
Also: please ask Lauren to drop me a line - we'll get her hooked up with a T-6 ride out of Palo Alto when she's next available and in the neighborhood.
Thank you! About to board a northbound plane out of Santiago, but I'll check in when I get to California some time tomorrow.
My original as-Buddhist-as-I-get prayer was, May he be remembered poorly, and soon. But I'm searching for a replacement now that it's become clear that the problem goes so so much farther than just one or two bad actors..
Oh Jeffji. That was a beautiful heartfelt piece. I don’t think any of us can get back to our previous selves … but we must all remember this one is precious … we are all here together. I hope I get to come down and see you again. One of these days xo, Judy
You must know that your writing is inspiring and artful - Thank you! Wishing for health and peace and justice in 2026. Sending a nod (from British Columbia, Canada - not the 51st state) to mutual "old" friends, some of whom date back to the SB News & Review circa1975-80 and others, writers and ethical travellers living in the SF Bay Area.
As a pilot myself, really appreciated the observations that one always continues to learn about flying and that flying teaches us about life itself. Mickey Gaynor
Hi Mickey, it’s lovely to meet a fellow pilot who shares that experience. Thank you!
Ji ~ You will always be interesting and attractive, however much your body deteriorates. It is impossible for you to be anything but; your mind, storytelling, writing and life experience make you inherently and inevitably interesting and attractive. Big hug and happy 2026 from Baja and from this long time “groupie” who remains and will sustain as one of your biggest fans. Keep writing, keep riding your bike, keep going physically, no one cares if you stumble and fall, you’ll make it into a poignant piece of writing, of that I’m sure.
Love reading this Jeff! And seeing the picture which included David D. Very interesting photos and the pilot's story is amazing, and inspiring. I'm sending love and strength and hope to see you in the months to come!
This made me smile ear to ear. Two awesome people I admire coming together. Brilliant read.
I do envy you for being able to make new friends, especially later in life so easily. I do not have this skill. Although I’ve only known you for a few months, I want you to know that this version of you is amazing. And I have no doubt, I would have also loved your former version equally, but I am grateful for finding you when I did.
That's lovely, Julie, thank you so much. Big waves of love to you across the continent!
Glad you got to Sedona, Jeff. Your new friends see more of you than you might perceive. You are still present and listening.
Thank you so much, Jeff, it’s been such a joy to meet and talk with you.
Your closing reflections were especially poignant and beautifully written; an inspiration indeed.
Marvelous post Jeff. Loved the circle--from meeting Laurel, interviewing her, and back to you. Happy new year.
Wonderful writing, Jeff. And so nice to "meet" your pilot friend. My Dad taught flying to WWII pilots in the A6, flew the Berlin Airlift, and was a pilot for TWA, so it all seemed quite familiar. All good wishes for health and happiness in the New Year.
And the same for you, Karin!
Hi Karin, what an interesting career your dad had, thank you for sharing that - there was an A6 on the airfield where I used to work, it was a daily sighting. So nice to ‘meet’ you.
Same here, Laurel. My Dad ended his flying career doing air rescue in Alaska…where many of the pilots failed to file flight plans and got into serious, sometimes fatal, encounters with sudden weather changes. Many stories!
Wow. Many stories for sure!
Thank you, for this and for everything else you bring into this world through love and sheer determination!
Also: please ask Lauren to drop me a line - we'll get her hooked up with a T-6 ride out of Palo Alto when she's next available and in the neighborhood.
Fabulous, and I did. She's so excited! I'll connect you by email. Happy New year, Pablo, and may we live to see the tides turn!
Thank you! About to board a northbound plane out of Santiago, but I'll check in when I get to California some time tomorrow.
My original as-Buddhist-as-I-get prayer was, May he be remembered poorly, and soon. But I'm searching for a replacement now that it's become clear that the problem goes so so much farther than just one or two bad actors..
Pablo! Thank you so much, I’m bouncing off the wall with excitement.
Looking forward to emailing with you.
Loved this article, thanks Jeff! So happy to see Laurel's beautiful writing and pictures resonating more and more widely!
Oh Jeffji. That was a beautiful heartfelt piece. I don’t think any of us can get back to our previous selves … but we must all remember this one is precious … we are all here together. I hope I get to come down and see you again. One of these days xo, Judy
You must know that your writing is inspiring and artful - Thank you! Wishing for health and peace and justice in 2026. Sending a nod (from British Columbia, Canada - not the 51st state) to mutual "old" friends, some of whom date back to the SB News & Review circa1975-80 and others, writers and ethical travellers living in the SF Bay Area.
Beautiful and moving, as always.
Happy new year, Jeffji!
Love you!
So damn real, Jeff.
And, here in my 75th year, so much to relate to in all that you've said here...
Thank you for sharing it all -- I know it's a cliche, but I also know that you know that I mean it.
Warmly,
Brad
Indeed I do. And best of luck with the new Human Banner! You're a noble soul.
Loved all of this. Love you.
Thank you, Joan. Much love to you, too.