Another departure

Studio construction is going well, and despite a potential delay of windows, it continues apace, still looking like completion around April. With framing and sheathing pretty much done, and electrical and plumbing roughed-in, we are beginning to get a stronger sense of the spaces, how we’ll organize them, and what working in them will look like. While the building appears compact from the outside, the interior feels quite spacious.

This fall’s nomadic tendencies continued up until last week with being present for the departure from this earth of my mother. At the close of nearly every visit we shared since 1979, when I “left home” (as the saying goes), I was doing the departing. This time, it was her turn and in no uncertain terms. May her travels be safe and blessed. Wherever she is, no one will go hungry.

I had hoped to play an improvisation during the funeral Mass, however this was prohibited. I was informed: “The church does not allow music played in the church that is not on their official list and provided by their music coordinator.” I understand that this is in keeping with the preference for focusing on the liturgy, which rests on releasing the deceased to heaven (eulogies are also generally not allowed). At the same time, these rules seem un-Christ-like, and in a number of ways.

Nevertheless, here is a meditation for my mom, Joesphine Cvopa, who slipped out on November 18:

Thanks again for reading. Feel free to send questions or topics you might like to hear about from me.

Peace, Love, and Art,
Ralph
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Ralph Manak
Raking Light Studio
Austin TX
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