Gold In A Friend

Jake Messerli, one of Bill Drake's close friends, was asked to say something at Bill's Memorial Service. After a brief preface, he chose to read from Bill's writings.

Gold in a Friend

"…Never underestimate the power of your actions with people. With one small gesture, you can change a person's life. For better or for worse, God puts us all in each other's lives to Impact each another in some way. These, we, are His Lesson.

Look for Godliness in each other. Gold is always there…"

Friend

The sense beyond words of feeling safe, of comfort in his presence
- that is a friend

Not having to worry about what you say, just being yourself and speaking your piece
 - that is a friend

Just pouring out your soul in unmeasured words knowing that your friend hears you
 - that is a friend

Knowing that your faithful friend will keep your essence and let pass the rest
- that is a friend

Calling you " Ol'AngryMan, again, I see"
- an inside joke from the past

Then on his simple knowing smile your burning anger turns to laughter
- that is a friend

When the cold of your broken heart speaks its melancholy, he holds your heart in warm hands
- that is a friend

Words do poor justice to the peace, the serenity,
                        the strength, and the warm comfort of a friend.

Treat this sacred Gift of Friend with honor, as he does you.
                                 Joy is His name. He is your Friend.

This last reading tells of Bill's love for his ranch and nature.

Islands of Self

We preserve little pockets of nature
as parks in our urban centers
large expanses of nature in our national parks
because of the magic we feel in their presence.

It reminds us of our smallness
calls us back to the deeper, quieter part of ourSelves.

When we honor nature by being respectful in its Presence,
we honor the mystery and wild beauty of our origin.

In our trips to the mountains and beaches
we find islands of our original Self
there to resonate with Source or Presence.