Ralph,
You certainly reaffirmed my oft stated praise of your "way with words". I step out on faith and gladly say that I have cherished our sailing community's love and friendship for each other that has grown over the years on this vessel we all sail called "The Internet". Although Deb and I no longer own a sailboat we feel a lifelong bond with this sailing community. I, especially, lurk without comment as the same topics come and go as the seasons change and as both neophytes and Old Salts exchange ideas and sources for chandlery. I enjoy the comments, marvel at some of the remedies and wonder about some of the tales that I read on the net. As you all talk about your voyages, I sail with you in my soul. Due to serious damage to a rotator cuff, I have been unable to sail at all even as crew. The injury was repaired a month ago and I face several months of physical therapy before I will feel safe to help someone crew. I truly missed sailing and hope to be back aboard in the coming season. However, I am wandering away from my message. Ralph, though we have never seen each other, I claim you as my friend. Without your sage advice and literary humor, there would be a void in my soul. I therefore thank you for that. This season I especially wish for you renewal and discovery. Fair winds, John Meyers ( a man of Christian faith) Pasadena, MD -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ralph E. Ahseln Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 8:18 PM To: {Catalina-Sailnet}; [ 27 Catalina ] Subject: catalina27-talk: The Yearly Solstice Posting Days of Celebration, The Winter Solstice speaks to everyone of us. For those of Faith, reminders of why they believe, For those who hold no deity dear, a look forward to renewal and discovery. It is, A time to affirm that the peaceful pursuit of life is, after all, a very human need. A time for friends and loved ones to share kindnesses and council. To that end .. I say . To you whom I love and who love me in return, ...Thank you for such a Wondrous gift. To you who freely give your precious friendship, ...I could not pass along this way of life without you. To those I have offended, ...I ask your forbearance and forgiveness.. May our better angels and our common interests, Bring us, once again, together. My fervent wish is that you all enjoy this incredible life as much as I have. You have made my Journey... so Very memorable. I thank you. I bless you. May this and all your Holiday Seasons yet to come.. ..Be filled with JOY, HAPPINESS , PEACE and LOVE. Ralph E. Ahseln December 2006
