Emptybottle.org: An End To Pain

I don't know how to say this - Rick's family members have authorized me to say it, but I don't know how.

Rick's gone.

About 6 hours ago, as I understand it, the hospital in Melbourne asked Rick's parents for permission to 'let him go'.

I don't know what to say. We loved you, Rick. We love you still.

You loved this world with a fierce, beautiful, kind-hearted passion, and now you've left it, and we are left to grieve, and care for each other, as much as you cared for us.

I love you, my brother. Thank you for everything you gave me.

Goodbye.

About This Post

What is this? Why am I here? What does it mean? Where should I go now?

Well, this is a post to the personal website Emptybottle.org. It was posted by your genial host stavrosthewonderchicken on October 24, 2002, and is titled An End To Pain. It was published to the categories: Emergency. In any of those places you might well find other similar things that will bring you Super Double Happiness.

Note: Super Double Happiness is not guaranteed. Void where prohibited by local regulation.

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The previous entry on the site is No News, and the next one is Stories.

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Comments: You got fingers, right?

139 Comments | 8 Trackbacks

1
michele said

I'm so sorry. I've been following Rick's story here since it happened and this news has really saddened me. You have shown incredible strength in writing about this almost every day. Thank you for sharing Rick with us. You have my sympathy.

October 24, 2002 7:32 AM
2
Shelley Powers said

I am so sorry. To all of you, Rick's friends and family, I am so sorry.

October 24, 2002 7:46 AM
3
steve said

I'm so sorry, Chris, and all those who knew Rick in person rather than felt they knew him through this site.

October 24, 2002 7:48 AM
4
ColdChef said

My thoughts are with you and with Rick's family. I'm not normally a praying man, but I'll say a few quiet words and hope it helps. Peace be with you.

October 24, 2002 7:49 AM
5
romakimmy said

Words fail me. Stav, my sincere condolences, both to you and Rick's family.

October 24, 2002 7:50 AM
6
Tish said

I'm sorry for your loss. I'm holding you and Rick's family and friends in my thoughts.

October 24, 2002 7:51 AM
7
tizzie said

Oh, Chris! My heart breaks for you. All of us wish we could help. Please know that, and take care.

October 24, 2002 7:55 AM
8
anna said

chris, forgive me if this comes out as babble, but i'm just gonna wing it. first, i just want to say thank you for sharing this experience with all of us. personally, the way you've opened yourself up in this space and shared every little bit of fear and hope... it's just really touched me. it's made me think about what i'd do were i in your position, and i honestly don't know if i could have been as strong as you've been. your outpouring of support towards rick and his family really exemplifies the human spirit. no matter how bad the news was, you held out hope that rick would pull through. your descriptions of him had me convinced that he'd make it, and my shock at reading this news cannot be properly expressed. thank you for humanising this terrible situation. i didn't know anyone who was in bali, nor did i know anyone at the WTC or various other sites around the world that have experienced tragedy recently. the news just makes these types of things seem so cold and distant, and you really drove it all home. thank you for having the fortitude to do it. i can only begin to imagine how difficult that must be. in closing, i'll simply say this. obviously rick was an incredibly special person to you and many others. he's become special to me (and perhaps some of your other posters) as well. i send my deepest condolences, my sympathies, and my love to you and everyone else rick touched during his time on this earth. peace be with you, brother.

October 24, 2002 8:10 AM
9
Halley said

There is really nothing we can say to such loss, except that our hearts and prayers are with you today and with Rick's family over the next few difficult days, weeks, months, and of course, with Rick in a place of no time, no pain, no sorrow, only love.

October 24, 2002 8:11 AM
10
aine42 said

Oh, Stav. I'm so sorry to hear the news. I was really hoping things would improve for Rick. My heart goes out to you, the rest of his friends and his family. You'll all be in my thoughts.

October 24, 2002 8:26 AM
11
paul said

I'm sorry. :-( I can probably say nothing to make you feel any better right now, but you're in my thoughts.

October 24, 2002 8:36 AM
12
Ufez said

Peace, love, and calmness Stav. Thank you for sharing this difficult time with us. I hope you can remain positive once the storm settles.

October 24, 2002 8:38 AM
13
merlin said

This is completely heart-breaking. I'm so sorry.

October 24, 2002 8:39 AM
14
Jacob Levy said

Stavros Thank you for sharing your friend's fight for life, and his unfortunate death. Rick and his family are in our prayers.

October 24, 2002 8:42 AM
15
Dorothea Salo said

I'm terribly sorry, Chris. Please take care of yourself, and/or find someone to take care of you, for a while. You did as much as you could for your friend Rick, and I do not doubt you will do more for him and his circle of friends and family. Just please don't forget to do for yourself too, okay?

October 24, 2002 8:43 AM
16
jpoulos said

There are no words. Stay strong. Please.

October 24, 2002 8:50 AM
17
gary turner said

Peace.

October 24, 2002 8:52 AM
18
dong resin said

I don't think you could have put it any better than with the Henry Miller quote up front. Also, you've inspired a sense of loss for Rick in people like me who have never met him. No mean feat, that.

October 24, 2002 8:58 AM
19
elaine said

everything that everybody else said...I am so sorry for your loss.

October 24, 2002 9:08 AM
20
Noah said

ditto all the above. I'm so sorry.

October 24, 2002 9:21 AM
21
Rob said

My sympathy. { Stav }

October 24, 2002 9:34 AM
22
Kathy said

I do not know Rick, however I have been following his story and I am so sorry for all of Rick's family and friends. I am sure it is so difficult to try and comprehend WHY. There are no answers or reasons that can possibly justify what happened to Rick and all of the other victims of this horrible terrorist attack, and what is still happening in this world today. This type of tragedy brings it all home, and makes one realize how precious and fleeting human life really is. May peace be with his family and friends.

October 24, 2002 9:36 AM
23
Frank said

Chris, I'm sorry for the loss of your friend. Please convey my sympathy to Rick's family as well. I'm crying here for your tragic loss.

October 24, 2002 9:40 AM
24
Senn said

I'm so sorry, Chris. Peace be with you, and with Rick's family and friends.

October 24, 2002 9:43 AM
25
Dave A said

I'm so sorry for your loss. {stav}

October 24, 2002 9:43 AM
26
Tom Shugart said

These things are incomprehensible. I'm so sorry for your loss. Chris, you've served the memory of Rick very admirably. Without you, he would be just another statistic to most of us.

October 24, 2002 9:44 AM
27
FARRAGO said

My thoughts are with you and Rick's family. Sorry. Peace.

October 24, 2002 9:44 AM
28
Ryan said

I'm very sorry.

October 24, 2002 9:44 AM
29
Hanson Hosein said

My deepest sympathies to friends and family of Rick Gleason. I've witnessed firsthand the awful consequences of terrorism in other parts of the world, and I'm sorry that Rick was one of the victims. I also apologize for using this forum to reach out to friends of Rick in the Vancouver area. But I'm doing a story about who he was for CBC Television News this evening, and would look forward to speaking to anyone who'd like to share any memories or thoughts about him. Please feel free to contact me if you're interested. My cellphone is 1-250-212-4101. Thank you. Hanson Hosein

October 24, 2002 9:47 AM
30
Glenn Page said

My heart, thoughts and prayers are out to anyone who knew Rick. Peace be with all. Blessed Be.

October 24, 2002 9:50 AM
31
Shari said

Chris - I am so sorry about your loss. I can imagine how awful you feel, just by knowing how awful I feel and multiplying it hundreds of times. My heart is with you and I need you to know it.. All my love to you Stav. Shari

October 24, 2002 9:52 AM
32
Laura said

I was just leaving my weekly Yoga class, after having shared Rick's story with my friends there, when I heard the news on the radio. I went right back to tell them, because his story touched even them. I didn't know him as well as his friends in Vancouver - just through visits to his good friend here in Toronto, Dave Donais - but Rick was one of the people in my life journey, who I will never forget and will always remember with a smile. I can see his smiling face clearly now, although it's been years since I actually had the pleasure. I hope that means his spirit is still here and at peace now. My most heartfelt condolences go to his family and to his friends who were fortunate to know him better than I did. Laura.

October 24, 2002 10:16 AM
33
matteo said

I'm so sorry Chris

October 24, 2002 10:19 AM
34
starvingartist said

My condolences, Stav.

October 24, 2002 10:21 AM
35
aquarion said

There are no words to say. Thank you for sharing this. Sympathy to both you and Rick's other friends and also his family. Peace.

October 24, 2002 10:23 AM
36
Wendel said

Don't know what to say... Rick was my former colleague and friend before he left for Bali. Used to joke with him that he was the high school buddy I never had. Now this tragedy. Just want to say thanks for all the good times Rick, and my deepest condolences to the family.

October 24, 2002 10:25 AM
37
connie said

Stav, I lost a friend earlier this year. I know all too well how hard this must be for you. There aren't any words for something like this. I just wish there was something I could say to make this better. There isn't. Bless you for sharing this with us and for the privilege of allowing us to grieve with you.

October 24, 2002 10:26 AM
38
yhbc said

God bless, Chris. I'm so sorry.

October 24, 2002 10:29 AM
39
kafkaesque said

Be strong, Stavros. Find the place in yourself where part of your friend lives, and know that you'll always have it. {stav}

October 24, 2002 10:29 AM
40
ginz said

Hugs for Rick's family and all his friends. I'm very sorry.

October 24, 2002 10:37 AM
41
Rowena said

Rick, I'll always remember you as the CANADIAN who would perpetually practice his Spanish with me....always trying to recall the Spanish word for almost anything and everything...not that I'm good with the language...we just both new enough to get by say, in MEXICO ...Vaya con Dios, mi amigo....

October 24, 2002 10:48 AM
42
kokogiak said

Damn damn damn. Dammit. Stav, thanks so much for sharing this with us. It's moved many of us more than you may think, and hopefully personalized world events even more (a painful but necessary thing). I feel like this should be a somber display of solidarity and sorrow, but dammit I'm more pissed off than I am sad. This is completely sad and unfair - but in the face of that, do stay strong Stav. You've shown your strengths so far, stay with them.

October 24, 2002 10:50 AM
43
Eeksy-Peeksy said

Look to his family.

October 24, 2002 10:58 AM
44
eyeballkid said

I'm sorry stav. There's more I'd like to say, but kokogiak expresses what's on my mind pretty well.

October 24, 2002 11:00 AM
45
dana said

I want to echo the sentiments above, a thousandfold. I'm so sorry.

October 24, 2002 11:02 AM
46
Mike said

My heart goes out to Rick, his family, and friends. The majority of us did not know Rick but this story has touched us all. Thank you very much for sharing Rick's story with everyone. Mike Montreal

October 24, 2002 11:06 AM
47
AKMA said

The more said, the less adequate. The wounds of Bali injure us all around the world. Rick’s death diminishes all of us, too. We’ll be holding on tight for you, Chris—for Rick and his family and friends.

October 24, 2002 11:10 AM
48
Mike Golby said

We're with you now, Chris, and we'll be here whenever you need us. Peace, my friend, to you and Rick's family.

October 24, 2002 11:13 AM
49
Graham said

Oh, Chris, I'm so sorry. I couldn't think of anything to say here for the last week, and now I'm even more lost and fumbly. Be well; as well as any of us can.

October 24, 2002 11:18 AM
50
gak said

My deepest condolences. You made Rick come alive through your updates and I had hoped that he'd pull through in the end. I caught the CBC announcement and was dismayed to read that he passed on. My heart goes out to you and Rick's family, along with the other families of those who disappeared in one of the places in the world that I found to be the most peaceful. May they all find peace.

October 24, 2002 11:25 AM
51
tom said

This is the more painful for coming from one celebrates life as much as you, about a fellow who clearly shared that very quality with you. Don't change.

October 24, 2002 11:26 AM
52
ashbury/aaron said

Chris, you've shown the heart of gold that beats within you. To all of Rick's friends and family, you have my sincerest apologies.

October 24, 2002 11:29 AM
53
Gen said

Chris, Peace be with you and Rick's family in your time of loss, From a grieving NYC, Gen

October 24, 2002 11:39 AM
54
Evan Izer said

Godspeed to your friend, and my condolences to you, Chris. May peace prevail on earth.

October 24, 2002 11:46 AM
55
Thomcatspike said

Condolences to All of Rick's Family and Friends.

October 24, 2002 11:49 AM
56
readymade said

I have no words that haven't already said, but you have my sincerest condolences. Stay strong for youself and Rick's family.

October 24, 2002 11:55 AM
57
condour said

deepest sympathies for you, and Rick's family and friends. peace.

October 24, 2002 11:57 AM
58
Morag said

The last time I saw Rick was Sept 6th. We were saying goodbye in the usual farewell tradition for colleagues by "hoisting a few beers" with him on his last day of work here in Vancouver. Little did we imagine that that would be the last time we'd hear from him. As with some of the others who have left messages, I have my memories of his wit and wisdom.. There were his favourite snack offerings of "rickbits" or experimental butterscotch bars with rainbow icing, his witty puns, his hockey mania, and his uncanny ability to make work feel like play. There is no making sense of his death other than to know that his legacy will serve as a reminder that we need to value life and live it to its fullest, sharing it with others, which is exactly what he did. I'm greatful to have known him.

October 24, 2002 11:59 AM
59
Denise Howell said

Agony and anguish. I am so sorry for your loss, that of all of Rick's family and friends, the world's.

October 24, 2002 12:08 PM
60
Jonathon Delacour said

Chris, my deepest sympathy for Rick's family and friends and sincere thanks to you for all your efforts on Rick's behalf.

October 24, 2002 12:09 PM
61
marc said

shit. stuck for words again. you're in my thoughts, Chris. Take care.

October 24, 2002 12:16 PM
62
marekj said

sorry

October 24, 2002 12:19 PM
63
Aaron said

Go in Peace Rick It is now 6.15am. Audrey rang me with the news at 8.30pm last night. I have tried to sleep on it and it was not a good night. I saw Rick at 10.30am and I was encouraged, I felt positive. They tried everything but it wasn't enough. He died with his parents at his bedside. I will send a small gift to the nurses and Doctors at the hospital today to show our appreciation for what they did for Rick. I know they will be as devastated as the rest of us. Rick will be cremated here and his ashes taken back to Canada. He will have a formal funeral in Whitehorse. Thank you for letting me in to this community of friends. Chris you have done a great job. Thank you all.

October 24, 2002 12:30 PM
64
Wayne said

So you had to go in the end Rick! I was sure I would see you again and laugh at your goofy antics after another "tour of duty" spreading your mirth around the world to yet more people who would be lucky enough to get to know you. I'm crying now but it's mixed with laughter for your overwhelming good nature. I miss you already, we were meant to know each other,thank you! You're still with me I know.My heart breaks for your family, my love and strength for them.

October 24, 2002 12:38 PM
65
Roanna (not Gleason) said

I am so very, very sorry. {{{HUGS}}}

October 24, 2002 12:49 PM
66
T. Barclay said

My prayers are with the Gleason Family and friends. Tears, Idle Tears Tears, idle tears, I know not what they mean, Tears from the depth of some divine despair Rise in the heart, and gather to the eyes, In looking on the happy Autumn-fields, And thinking of the days that are no more. Fresh as the first beam glittering on a sail, That brings our friends up from the underworld, Sad as the last which reddens over one That sinks with all we love below the verge; So sad, so fresh, the days that are no more. Ah, sad and strange as in dark summer dawns The earliest pipe of half-awakened birds To dying ears, when unto dying eyes The casement slowly grows a glimmering square; So sad, so strange, the days that are no more. Dear as remembered kisses after death, And sweet as those by hopeless fancy feigned On lips that are for others; deep as love, Deep as first love, and wild with all regret; O Death in Life, the days that are no more Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809â1892)

October 24, 2002 1:13 PM
67
Jess said

Stav, my deepest condolences to you and all of Rick's family and friends. Thank you for sharing your memories with us.

October 24, 2002 1:43 PM
68
Skip said

It was a privelege to have known you, Rick. I wish so much that we'd had more time together but in the end, you gave me the opportunity to be close to you over the last few days and you could never have given me any more than that. Love to you all; Audrey, Dick, Rick's family and friends. Rick was far away from many of you but he couldn't have asked for any more love or support. It has been overwhelming to see so much goodness flow from so many human beings. Rick has brought us all together and has forever enriched our lives. Love you Rick

October 24, 2002 2:11 PM
69
dg said

Chris, my condolences go to you as well as Rick's family and friends. I did not know Rick except through you (and I donât really know you except through these pages and MetaFilter), but I feel incredibly sad â so many people have fought so hard to save him. An end to pain, though, as you said. For Rick at least.

October 24, 2002 2:28 PM
70
Anil said

Chris, I'm sorry for your loss, and for his family's loss. You've done an admirable job of reflecting the positive presence he had in life by sharing part of his story with us.

October 24, 2002 2:35 PM
71
max said

From the picture you painted of your friend Rick, he seemed like an amazing guy, a person anyone would be lucky to call a friend. What happened is unfair, terribly unfair, and my heart goes out to you.

October 24, 2002 2:47 PM
72
Oliver said

Stavros, I'm very sorry to hear this.

October 24, 2002 2:50 PM
73
Aaron said

I have just sent a Thank You package to Rick's medical team at The Alfred. It's card reads "Thank you on behalf of Rick's friends around the world" I know they did everything they could, they spared no expense or equipment. Only yesterday they were flying in a special bed for Rick from Interstate.

October 24, 2002 2:50 PM
74
vacapinta said

Su Shi (A.D. 1037 - 1101) Written in Jun-chou Last year I saw you off Outside the YÃ¼-hang gate Snow flew like catkins This year's spring spent Catkins fly like snow You're still not back When there's wine, I raise the shade, invite the moon -- Only wind and dew penetrate the screen -- The moon prefers a pair of swallows, nesting Its clear bright beams Rest on their painted eaves -- Be well, Chris. I'm sorry.

October 24, 2002 2:58 PM
75
whatnot said

Stories like Rick's help us understand the human toll in the wake of senseless violence. Thank you for all that you are doing. Take care of yourself, too, okay?

October 24, 2002 3:31 PM
76
Adam Greenfield said

chris/stavros - I'm so sorry. I have no eloquence, just sorrow and more sorrow and impotent rage. Condolences to you, to Rick's family, and to everyone else moved by his passage across this little sphere we share. Strength and love from Tokyo, a.

October 24, 2002 4:26 PM
77
Kopi said

Chris/Stavros: I'm not sure what to say, except you and Rick's family are in my thoughts. My condolences.

October 24, 2002 5:11 PM
78
andrea said

I'm really sorry. I just read it on Australia's ABC News and came here to offer my condolences.

October 24, 2002 5:14 PM
79
quagga said

jeremias 33:6--behold i will close their wounds and give them health, and I will cure them: and i will reveal to them the prayer of peace and truth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ may the peace of the Lord be with you in this time of separation. God bless you all.

October 24, 2002 5:44 PM
80
revmom said

For Chris and for Rick's family and friends: People all over the world mourn for one son lost needlessly in a senseless, violent act. You have friends who have waited with you, read the email updates that were forwarded, prayed for you, hoped with you. We will continue to care for you as you mourn the loss of your child, brother and friend.

October 24, 2002 5:47 PM
81
Sue said

I am so sorry to hear the news, and would like to offer my condolences to all of you who knew Rick.

October 24, 2002 6:05 PM
82
Tom said

I'm so sorry to hear this, Stavros. My condolences to you, and to his friends and family.

October 24, 2002 6:19 PM
83
Mary said

I've been reading your postings each day, hoping against hope that your friend would make it. When I read your post today, I could not just take it in. Words fail to convey my feelings - I feel just very sad and sorry. I, too, hope that you and all those who cared for Rick will have the support and love you need now as you go on.

October 24, 2002 6:27 PM
84
Janet Kagan said

Rick was deeply loving and deeply loved. He shines through your words, stavros, and our hearts go out to Audrey and to Dick, to Rick's sisters and brothers, to all his friends. To all of you who knew Rick in life---Please keep that deep love of his shining through for each other...because the world needs it more than ever today. Rick, some days or years from now I'll meet someone I've never met and I'll see that deep love shining through and I'll know I've met a friend of a friend of a friend of yours---and that I've met you in spirit. Go in peace and thank you for your rich legacy of love.

October 24, 2002 6:28 PM
85
lia said

I'm so sorry to read about your friend, Chris. My thoughts are with his friends and family -- thank you so much for taking the time to share some of your memories of Rick with the rest of us.

October 24, 2002 6:31 PM
86
pardon me said

I can't add much, but I am terribly, terribly sorry. Stav, thanks for letting so many people get to know your friend, and for putting a human face on unspeakable tragedy.

October 24, 2002 6:43 PM
87
jonmc said

Chris, that's just horrible man. My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to you and Rick's family. If there's anything I can do let me know.

October 24, 2002 6:50 PM
88
tj craddock said

Chris, I'm deeply sorry for your loss.

October 24, 2002 7:02 PM
89
Heather said

Thank you Chris for the updates on our dear cousin Rick. He was loved my so many people all over the world. He wil be missed. God bless you and Australia. My heart and prayers go out to all who knew Rick. You are our angel Rick. We love you

October 24, 2002 7:11 PM
90
stuandgravy said

Deepest condolences. You have made this horror real.

October 24, 2002 7:23 PM
91
bearman said

Rick, you've touched so many of us. Goodbye, old friend.

October 24, 2002 7:36 PM
92
KevinSkomsvold said

It's so tough to come up with the right words. There are none, really. My condolences Chris.

October 24, 2002 7:48 PM
93
sean [marquis] said

my heart aches. it is an inexcusable loss the world has suffered. love and peace.

October 24, 2002 7:50 PM
94
Kelly said

I don't know Rick, but have heard of his story from a friend. Many blessings of comfort and healing to his family and loved ones at this time. I'm sorry for your loss. Peace.

October 24, 2002 8:06 PM
95
Hanson Hosein said

Thanks to everyone who responded to my request for memories of Rick. I was amazed at how loved he was, how everyone considered him their best friend. Most of you will see this as inadequate, but given the 2 minutes we have to do a story, it's what I was able to put together. I hope in some way, it helps transmit to others what kind of person Rick was. If you have a fast connection, click on the TV camera icon to watch the story that ran this evening on CBC News in Alberta, British Columbia and the Territories. http://vancouver.cbc.ca/template/servlet/View?filename=bc_gleason021023

October 24, 2002 8:36 PM
96
jrochest said

Starvos -- I must just say I am so sorry. I was listening to CBC radio this morning, and they gave the number of dead as X number of Australians, and one Canadian. Since I knew that the only Canadian wounded in the bombing was your friend, I was concerned about him immediatedly. I am so sorry. You tried so hard to save him, and I'm sure he fought so hard to live. My thoughts are with you, and with his family.

October 24, 2002 8:59 PM
97
shauna said

so sorry... my thoughts are with you and all his family and friends...

October 24, 2002 9:16 PM
98
simon and xtelle said

So sad and sorry. Thanks for all the work you did keeping us informed Chris. Can't say much more right now.

October 24, 2002 9:22 PM
99
Tarrama said

I am so sad for you Stavros and for Rick's family and friends, that I ache inside. My condolences to you all.

October 24, 2002 10:00 PM
100
Morrie said

Stavros. The tears return mate. I saw mention of Rick's death in one of the Sydney paper's this morning and my heart went to to his family, yourself and his friends. Cherish the memories, and honour him always.

October 24, 2002 10:14 PM
101
ashes aka Shane said

I miss him already. Condelences to Ricks Family and his worldwide network of friends. A heartfelt thank you to Chris for devoting your site to this ordeal, I'm sure it wasn't the easiest topic to cover.

October 24, 2002 10:54 PM
102
Anne said

Chris, Bless you for all you have done through this site. It is and will continue to be a comfort to Rick's family and friends. Our prayers go out to Rick's immediate and extended family, in the Yukon, B.C. and Alberta. His death has marked his friends and family, but it has also touched acquaintances and strangers around the world. This death is a loss in so many ways, and your site eloquently expresses both the gift of his life and the depth of loss. May we all turn our hearts towards peace, in honour of Rick's life and passing.

October 24, 2002 10:57 PM
103
dhupa said

My whole family has been following your story on WBS. You and your friend's family are in our thoughts and prayers. Honor your friend's life with all the loving memories you have of him. ((((((hugs)))

October 24, 2002 11:25 PM
104
Kathy said

I have just stumbled upon this site whilst looking for information on the recent deaths of some of the Bali victims. I have been following Rick's story in the Melbourne papers (I live just near the Alfred) and I am so sorry that he didn't make it. All Australians are devastated by the horror of the last fortnight and my family is upset for your loss. May he be scattered over the beautiful Canadian landscape so his soul lives forever. All Australia is grieving with you.

October 24, 2002 11:27 PM
105
Cynthia said

Hello, I am the nurse who rang the Alfred Hospital on learning there was a Canadian man gravely injured there. I wanted to see if his family had arrived yet and if they hadn't I was going to the Alfred to see if they would let me sit with Rick. I was born in Ontario, Canada and moved to Australia in 1995 permanently. I just felt compelled to make sure a fellow countryman was not lying alone in a hospital bed in a foriegn land. I'm so so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. My heart felt condolences to his family and friends -- all those who loved him. Cynthia

October 24, 2002 11:45 PM
106
Rebecca said

The first time I met Rick, I was envious of the stories he had to tell about the places he'd been. Since then I've moved to England and done a fair amount of travelling. The last time I saw Rick was during a trip home in June this year at Simon's house. We had some drinks and talked about the places we'd been. When I heard that he'd been injured in Bali, I couldn't believe it. It seemed, as it must have seemed to everyone, that I'd just seen him and he was fine! I had hope that he would pull through and imagined that the next time I saw him, he would have an incredible story to tell. Another life experience to share. I'm glad I had the chance to get to know Rick. I'll never forget his goofiness, and the "Jamie Oliver" routine from that June afternoon he and Simon did... and his one word of Dutch: "Gemeubileerd" (Furnished). Six months or so in Amsterdam for that ;-) He will be missed.

October 24, 2002 11:51 PM
107
crasspastor said

Tonight in Seattle, the fog horns wail. Little boats must make way for the new arrivals of global detritus that will pepper our shelves for the upcoming holiday season. Little boats, the pleasure seekers, must make way for the backhoe of currency that digs up the certainty of death and splays it out atop the fertile top-soil of life. Death has visited the moment of fruitful interaction among humans, who at long last, enjoy life and experience the planet Earth in a nightclub full of fellow earthlings. Alas, that age did not last long enough, unless we hop to it soon. The foghorns tonight reminded me of one thing: Foghorns are there because intrinsically, humanity wills to avoid destruction, annihilation. How does this translate in the lessons we are being taught circa 2002 CE? Condolences. . .

October 25, 2002 12:10 AM
108
Jonathan Claydon said

Clicking on the CBC website news item, and seeing the name 'Rick Gleason' ripped back sixteen years in a frightening second to that friendly up-beat guy who had known at UBC and travelled with me to Paris to learn French in 1985. My sincerest condolances to Rick's family and friends. Unbelievable, tragic, terrible.

October 25, 2002 2:00 AM
109
dan said

Words fail. I offer my humblest condolences to all who knew Rick. {stav}

October 25, 2002 2:31 AM
110
Andrea Hamann said

My heart is heavy and aching for a someone I never knew. I am so so sorry. To Chris, to all Rick's family and friends I send my condolences and love. He must have been a wonderful person.

October 25, 2002 2:51 AM
111
rob [i_cola] said

So sorry to hear this terrible news Chris.

October 25, 2002 4:01 AM
112
John_son said

So sorry stav. My deepest condolances to you and Rick's family .

October 25, 2002 4:46 AM
113
Cheryl said

Words fail me. Deepest sympathy for all who were touched by this latest Terrorist Attack. As an Aussie Gal I felt kind of sheltered by what happened Sept 11; and now it's at our door step it's far too daunting. Life was never meant to be easy, but we weren't meant to lose our loved ones in this manner. Rick will live on forever in the minds and the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Peace and Love to all

October 25, 2002 5:25 AM
114
racheal said

i wish i knew the words to say but all the things that come to mind seem trivial, just words on a screen... i wish i could put my arms around you and hug you till all is right. i wish i could say a million things and do countless others but then i realize that all i really have to offer, is a shoulder to cry on and ears to listen if you need any. hugs

October 25, 2002 6:06 AM
115
Jay said

My deepest condolences to you and Rick's family and friends.

October 25, 2002 6:27 AM
116
brittney said

in my thoughts

October 25, 2002 7:19 AM
117
BirdD0g said

Sweet tears! the awful language, eloquent Of infinite affection; far too big For words. âRobert Pollok My condolences, Stavros.

October 25, 2002 7:31 AM
118
sp dinsmoor said

I would like to offer my condolences. Thank you for having the strength to share this story with the world.

October 25, 2002 8:06 AM
119
jamie (Rick's older brother) said

Thank-you all so, so much.

October 25, 2002 8:25 AM
120
maxwells said

So sorry, Chris. Our thoughts here are with you these dark days. Thanks for sharing/blogging this... it's sure a lot more personal than the CBC reports. - John, Kelly, James

October 25, 2002 9:37 AM
121
simon and xtelle and emma and jasper said

Know that we love you Rick. And we miss you. I have no doubt we will think of you often in the years left in our lives and we will cry and hopefully laugh sometimes too. Because if you could see us now, and you probably can, you know we need a good laugh. Be happy where you are. Be happy my friend. Love Simon Xtelle Emma Jasper

October 25, 2002 9:47 AM
122
simon and xtelle and emma and jasper said

Know that we love you Rick. And we miss you horribly. I have no doubt we will think of you often in the years left in our lives and we will cry and hopefully laugh sometimes too. Because if you could see us now, and you probably can, you know we need a good laugh. Be happy where you are. Be happy good friend. Love Simon Xtelle Emma Jasper

October 25, 2002 9:49 AM
123
Tom Grimm said

I just want to let you know, that while I've just recently learned of Rick, our little group has been heartsick over the violence that has overtaken our friends and family in Bali. We are including Rick and his family and friends in our prayer vigil. We pray that God's love and comfort be with you all.

October 25, 2002 12:07 PM
124
cory said

Chris, I'm terribly sorry your loss. You'll be in my prayers; I'll tell Rick about how you all feel, but I'm sure he already knows, and is watching over you and his family right now. God bless.

October 25, 2002 12:17 PM
125
famajac said

Chris, I can't say how sorry I am that such senseless violence has cost the world another great human being. Small comfort to be reminded from reading the outpouring of support on this site that there are many, many more great human beings out there. As long as we all stick together, the evil in the world won't win. My deepest sympathies to you, to bearman and to all Rick's family and friends in this time of loss.

October 25, 2002 12:55 PM
126
Lee said

God Bless all of you, Ricks friends, who have supported him and his family,this past while. I have had a grieving day , like never before, in my life, for my dear stepson. I loved him as did his dear parents, brothers and sisters, and all of you, and will never forget him, there will never be another Rick. We all loved you Rick, rest in peace! Lee

October 25, 2002 2:15 PM
127
Michael Duff said

God I'm so sorry.

October 25, 2002 3:25 PM
128
Mike Sanders said

Chris - My condolences on the loss of your friend.

October 25, 2002 4:04 PM
129
Dave said

My thoughts are with you at this painful time. Dave Melbourne, Australia

October 25, 2002 4:20 PM
130
Xtelle said

Rick, Late September, you left us on the porch after the Cigar night and waved good-bye to us: "See you in two months!". It was the Classic Rick au-revoir! We won't wait for your postcard from Bali; we won't wait for your postcard from Melbourne... but we will wait to meet with you again in another life. I'm not religious you know and I can't accept your death; I know you are living another great life right now, you are making people crack up at your jokes the same way I was cracking up at yours even though I couldn't always understand them with my French culture. You taught us a lot about ourselves in the last few days Rick. We all grew up from this tragedy and never another bomb will hit without your face and your spirit to come back to us. Je t'aime tellement Rick, On se reverra... Christelle

October 25, 2002 6:28 PM
131
john and edna rumboldt said

our condolences go out to dick gleason his family and all rick"s friends

October 25, 2002 7:53 PM
132
Rory said

I was late to the news yesterday, and seeing the 100+ comments didn't know what to add to everyone else's words. As well as sending condolences to all of Rick's family and friends, I just wanted to say thank you, Chris, for celebrating his life. Even for those of us who didn't know Rick and who know you only as a wonderchicken on the screen, your updates these past two weeks have been an example to all of us of friendship at its finest. And that means a lot.

October 26, 2002 12:39 AM
133
Kanga said

My Thoughts and Prayers to Ricks Family, Friends etc, On this Sad Occassion. And to all those who lost loved ones and friends in the Horrific Bali Bombings:( Im An Aussie, and my Heartfelt Condolences to Ricks family and Friends, and many others here in Australia and elswehere who have lost loved ones etc in this Atrocity:(

October 26, 2002 1:04 AM
134
gavin domitter said

I am so sorry to hear of this dreadful loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and friends.

October 26, 2002 4:39 PM
135
Ed said

Chris: Very sorry to hear about this. Thoughts are with you and all who knew Rick.

October 28, 2002 7:07 AM
136
ian said

Ah Love! could you and I with Him conspire To grasp this sorry Scheme of Things entire, Would not we shatter it to bits--and then Re-mold it nearer to the Heart's Desire! Rubiyat of Omar Khayyam. Best wishes, sympathies.

October 28, 2002 10:54 PM
137
somethingotherthan said

I heard the news today, oh boy . . . Deepest sympathies. ((stav))

October 29, 2002 8:05 PM
138
Richard said

I've been out of the blog loop a few days and the first click on my roll brought me to this sad news. I'm not surprised. Death has been creeping around my neighborhood the last week or so but that is another story. . . I'm sorry for your loss.

October 29, 2002 10:54 PM
139
Aby said

Such sad news - please pass on my condolences to Dick Gleason & the rest of the Gleason family on their loss. I met Mr. Gleason in Melbourne last week, & chatted to him for a while about Rick, he sounded like such an amazing person, and I can't even begin to imagine what his family must feel at the moment. My thoughts & prayers are with them.

October 30, 2002 3:15 AM

Listed below are links to weblogs that reference An End To Pain:

Terrible news from Kung Fu Grippe
Chris' latest news on his friend, Rick, is unbelievably sad to me--especially after watching the gut-wrenching story unfold over the last 10 days or so. [Read More]

Good-bye Rick from Burningbird
Rick, I didn't know you except through Chris, and I deeply regret that now I'll never have a chance to know you, because you're gone. You were only 39 years old. My deepest sympathies to Rick Gleason's family and [Read More]

A loss for words from OnePotMealzilla
... [Read More]

suffering no longer. from eggnog publications
with all the insanity still going on in the world, it helps to humanize one part of what's been going [Read More]

Rick Gleason from johnwb.com
Rick Gleason was one of the hundreds of people seriously injured, though not immediately killed, in the October 12th nightclub bombing in Bali, Indonesia. I didn't know Rick, nor do I know Chris Kovacs, Rick's friend who has been a conduit of informati... [Read More]

Bali Bombing from NadaBlog ~~~ It's Blogtastical!™
Update: Rick lost his life. Although I didn't know him, I know people who are just like him. Not much [Read More]