Dear Gables, This is the letter I wish I had written to Ed before he died. I do hope one of you is able to get this through your iphones, since there is no decent email in Pebble Beach and read it at the memorial service. Here is what I sent Eric through email: July 31, 2013 Dear Ed, This is the letter I should have written months ago. I sit here in the Netherlands, listening to the band outside my window play Brubeck’s Take Five, and it reminds me of the many times I heard jazz wafting through the air at your house. What a light, yet intricately crafted and optimistic sound, it was, one that mimics your style in so many ways. Actually, when I think about it, my first memorable moment with you involved music. Do you recall? It was New Year’s Eve 1979 in Luxembourg. My first black tie event. A New Year’s celebration at the Marine Armory hosted by the US Embassy. We had been listening to the radio prior to leaving and Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood” was playing. You talked about its historical mark as the triumphant song of victory, a youthful pride and a big band sound. I told you it reminded me of my ineptitude at dancing when every- one else seemed to be able to swing. You gave me a few lessons at the house before we left. The cocktails made it seem easy. When we arrived at the huge hall in which the New Year’s Eve party was held, we barely had time to shake a few hands and the band started to play. Do you recall? It was Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood.” You were a few people over and you turned and smiled and came to ask me to dance. Not aware that the huge hall would diminish my confidence I could dance, and not initially aware we would be the only ones out there on the dance floor, I nonchalantly ventured out, following your lead. The cocktails at home probably helped that nonchalance a bit. But as we sauntered into the cavernous dance floor, I realized hundreds of eyes were watching us. We were the only ones brave enough to sashay forward on the first song. I froze. You smiled and put out your hands and whispered in my ear, “it doesn’t matter how good or bad we are my dear, as long as we enjoy ourselves.” I can still hear you saying those words. I followed you, and though you were a wonderful lead, and though I made a complete fool of myself, you made me realize it didn’t matter. And to this day I still can’t dance the swing, but I enjoy trying anyway. And when I hear Glenn Miller, I think of that night. And though I would give anything to have one more lesson on the dance floor with you, I will always fondly recall that evening. It was the light, intricately crafted and optimistic touch you had; the encouragement and support, never overbearing.. It was just right for a daughter in law to be. I thank you for being there with that supportive response as life has progressed. It is one of the many memories with you and Laverne I will always cherish. I hope somehow, someway, you hear this. Love, Jennifer
Posted on: Sat, 03 Aug 2013 14:17:20 +0000
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