This has been a difficult month. Not long after the passing of my beloved grandmother, I received a call this week that my good friend Jillian “Jey” Edwards had passed. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have never lost a friend in this way before.

Jillian, who I fondly referred to as “Buttercup”, was 31… an age too young for such as talented, kind-hearted individual to leave this world. She was beautiful beyond words, kind to people and animals alike, and wanted to give so much to this world. One way she gave was with her music, writing deeply inspired guitar melodies and lyrics; and skillfully reciting them in song. She was an adept musician, massage therapist, rock climber, cook, and a budding swing dancer. She put all of her soul into her friendships, as can be attested to by all the people who felt her gravity and were attracted into her life. As this world is full of balance, there was a dark side to her bright persona. Jillian suffered greatly from a debilitating disorder that would cause her emotional suffering at times beyond what any average human could possibly imagine. She was courageous in battling for the stability and normality that most people unknowingly take for granted. During her bad times and good times alike, she and I would exchange music and song lyrics that had some special meaning to each of us. The night before her passing, I unwittingly emailed her the ColdPlay song Lost! in the hope that she would find some deep meaning and enjoyment in it, as I have. Little did I know how apropos it would turn out to be. Rest in peace, Buttercup.

Lost! by Coldplay

(more…)