Faraway Looks

In summers, in our backyard, I would often see my Dad sitting in the shade staring off into the distance.  He was in his late 60's going on 70's and as always a cigarette and the ever present can of beer in his hand.  I never knew what he was thinking but now as I find my self in that same age I have begun to understand the far off look.  It was a look of understanding of human limitations and his particular "Appointment in Samara".

Today has not be a good day and I find myself with what I assume was that same far off look. I am not sure but I know that it felt like I had that look.  Whatever the look on this face it was there from the shock at the news of the death of Philip Seymour Hoffman. 

Phillip Seymour Hoffman

He was a kind of everyday guy with extraordinary talent.  As another actor observed he was a "sweet, funny & humble man".  Just several days ago Maximillian Schell died.  Most recently jazz musicians George Duke, Donald Byrd, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Marian McPartland, Chico Hamilton and Jim Hall.  Pete Seeger left us alone with our troubles and will not sing again in order to ward off our fears.  If you notice those names they are artists and "God Help Us" we so very much need as many artists as we can get. 

Our loss is great and vexes my mind.  I, like my dad, now stare off into the distance.