Messages About John
These are messages exchanged in condolence with GLIB Sysop, Jon, following the death of his lifemate of 18 years, John Meroney. They begin September 3, 1994 following John's admission to George Washington University Hospital, and end October 23, 1994.
At that time, GLIB was a "BBS" - a dial-up bulletin board system which predated the Internet. It was a text-only system, so these messages are presented here in sequential order, very much as they looked then to those who posted and read these warmly heartfelt thoughts.
Msg#: 2531 *John Meroney*
09/03/94 15:45:59
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: HEALTH
Jon,
I am aware that one's health is the greatest possession one can have,
and with that I have always been very lucky, except some minor accidents and
injuries. May your weekend be a good one nevertheless. And may John recover. My
best wishes go with this message.
If I can be of help to you in any way, please let me know. And it was a
pleasure having you both as guests, it was a good evening.
Hugs and tell John I am thinking of him,
John
Msg#: 2534 *John Meroney*
09/03/94 18:52:26
From: JON
To: JOHN KURTZ (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2531 (HEALTH)
Thanks so much, John. John's feeling a bit better today. We hope it
continues ...
Jon
Msg#: 2627 *John Meroney*
09/04/94 21:25:35
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: NEW SINF107.TXT
Jon,
I'm so sorry to hear about John. Hope he gets everything patched up.
Besides, I don't remember anyone here giving him permission to be ill. :-)
Please tell John I wish him well. If you think there's anything I can do to at
least cheer him up, I'll try.
Phil
Msg#: 2628 *John Meroney*
09/04/94 21:35:30
From: JON
To: M M (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2627 (NEW SINF107.TXT)
Thanks, Phil. 'fraid there's not much any of us can do. This is
pretty much a one-man problem. Probably hospital Tuesday, the way things are
looking.
Jon
Msg#: 2629 *John Meroney*
09/04/94 21:40:06
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2628 (NEW SINF107.TXT)
Jon,
I'm not at all medical. Just how bad is this? Are we likely to (heaven
forbid!) lose John? Is this going to be something not-quite-so-terminal, but a
bitch (pain &/or inconvience) to live with? I hope none of the above - just a
bitch now, but can fully recover.
Phil
Msg#: 2630 *John Meroney*
09/04/94 22:19:41
From: JON
To: M M (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2629 (NEW SINF107.TXT)
Thanks for your concern, my friend.
I don't think we're going to lose him anytime soon, but his long-term
prognosis is not rosy.
John has been an asthmatic most of his life, and has lived on
corticosteroids to keep him breathing for about 20 years. Long-term steroid
therapy usually results in the condition he has, called Cushing's Syndrome. It
gradually ruins most of the body's major organs, and because body tissue
migrates to the abdomen and face, Cushing's victims all have that "moon-faced
pear-shaped" fat-belly look John has.
So far, it has caused removal of the lenses in both eyes due to
steroid-induced cataracts (he has an artificial lens in one and wears a scleral
contact lens in the other). He suffers steroid-induced aseptic necrosis, which
gradually leaches calcium from his bones and has caused deterioration in both
hip joints (which is why he limps and walks with a cane). He's had kidney
stones removed countless times, both by surgery and lithotripsy (high-energy
sonic waves administered under water).
His gall bladder failed two years ago, and has been surgically removed,
which causes increased stress on his pancreas, which failed a year ago, but was
revived via a two-week hospital treatment of IV feeding, to give it a chance to
heal itself. Unfortunately, one cannot live without a pancreas, and it looks
like this may be pancreatitis again, so I suspect another hospital bout.
On the other hand, he suffered a kidney stone attack our last day in
Atlanta a couple weeks ago, but was able to get sufficient pain-killers to fly
home. He's been living in pain for years, but kidney stone pain is
particularly exquisite, and he's been suffering from that now for several
weeks, so it's hard to tell if it's kidney stones, pancreatitis, or both.
And of course the timing is wonderful. He is a pivotal player in the
GLIB renovation we've scheduled for the last week of this month (the LAN is his
design, and I haven't a clue how to install it without him). So things may
tend to fall apart around here, but of course his health is the most important
issue.
We do get weary, but we go on.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 2657 *John Meroney*
09/05/94 06:53:23
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon,
I'm truly sorry to hear he's that bad off, but happy to hear we won't lose
"'Old Wicked" anytime soon. Thank you for sharing his status with me. I
admire John in may ways - including his courage and endurance in being able to
go through all of this. I admire you for being so loyal and caring to John.
Love really is grand!
Phil
Msg#: 2659 *John Meroney*
09/05/94 08:17:55
From: JON
To: M M (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2657 (JOHN)
> Love really is grand!
Yes, the real thing truly is, Phil.
Jon
Msg#: 2747 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 11:15:27
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: JOHN MERONEY
Last evening, we checked my life partner and your "Mrs. Sysop", John
Meroney, into Sibley hospital, The initial diagnosis is pancreas failure, a
potentially life-threatening situation. There is no "cure" for this, but
treatment procedures are often successful, and he pulled though this once
before, however he will need to rely on not only his own inner strength, but
that of others to make it happen.
Personally, I strongly believe in the power of prayer, so should any of
you who share that faith care to mention his name, he can use all the help he
can get.
He is not up to receiving guests or phone calls, however I suspect he
would appreciate something like a card, should you care to send one. They will
probably move him to another room today, so if any of you want it, I'll post
his room number as soon as we discover which one he'll most likely be in for a
while.
Jon
Msg#: 2753 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 10:25:00
From: PADDINGTON BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
JO> Personally, I strongly believe in the power of prayer, so should any
o
JO>you who share that faith care to mention his name, he can use all the help
he
JO>can get.
You know that I share that belief, Jon. Tell the WSM that I'm praying for him,
and for you, during this rough spot.
Take care of yourself, though. Only in that way can you help to take care of
him.
Bless you both.
Msg#: 2758 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 15:34:31
From: JON
To: PADDINGTON BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2753 (JOHN MERONEY)
I'll certainly pass along your caring message, PB.
Hugz
Jon
Msg#: 2762 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 16:13:31
From: LOGAN'S STEED
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon--
My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Give John all my love...
Msg#: 2765 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 16:59:55
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
John and you are in my thoughts, and prayers.
May the healing forces be at John's side.
Msg#: 2767 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 17:09:51
From: JANET HESS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon,
My love and caring and, even, prayers are with you and Ole Wicked. I do
believe that man can come through anything, if that offers any comfort.
Please take care of yourself...you and John mean so much to so many of
us.
Love, Janet
Msg#: 2768 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 17:25:45
From: SUGAR BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon,
You and John can both be assured of many prayers from this end. May
these days find the two of you strengthened by that unique presence of God we
call human friendship. You certainly have it from me. Let me know if there is
anything that I can do to help. I promise to be there!
Love and prayers,
Ed
Msg#: 2773 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 17:56:02
From: SOFT BUTCH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon, Please do post where we can find a wickedly card to send the "wicked one".
In the meantime, he'll just have to do with the good energy we send his, and
your, way.
hugs and the strength of lightening bolts to you both.
Susan
Msg#: 2783 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 19:29:00
From: KEN L
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
You can be assured that my thoughts and prays are with both of you. If you need
any thing at all, don't hesitate to call.
Ken.
Msg#: 2790 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 20:55:35
From: DADDY BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon,
As with all the others here my thoughts and prayers are with you and John.
Take care of yourself, if you need anything just hollar.
I will be there for you too.
Marty
Msg#: 2792 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 21:21:34
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Dear Jon and John,
my prayers are with John, please give him my best greetings and
get-well wishes. I have already placed his name into the prayer book at the
Open Door MCC. And you too, please take good care of yourself,
John
Msg#: 2793 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 21:23:24
From: JON
To: SOFT BUTCH (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2773 (JOHN MERONEY)
> Please do post where we can find a wickedly card to send the "wicked
> one". In the meantime, he'll just have to do with the good energy
> we send his, and your, way.
Susan, and all the others of you who have so kindly posted notes of
best wishes ... please forgive me if I don't thank each of you individually,
and know that I'll print out each of your messages for him.
No visitors or phone calls, please, but his address is:
John W. Meroney
Room 609
Sibley Memorial Hospital
5255 Loughboro Road, N.W.
Washington, DC 20016
Jon
Msg#: 2817 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 23:23:19
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon,
Please tell John we all love him dearly and give our full support in
recovery. It won't be the same around here until he gets back.
Phil
Msg#: 2892 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 06:46:57
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Dearest Jon....
Are thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Much love...
Stevers and Rickie Bear
Msg#: 2896 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 07:23:19
From: JON
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2892 (JOHN MERONEY)
Thank you, Stevers and Rickie.
And to all you others who have expressed your kind good wishes.
I'll pass them all along to John.
Jon
Msg#: 2898 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 08:29:26
From: SHANE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Dear Jon,
You asked :
> Personally, I strongly believe in the power of prayer, so
> should any of you who share that faith care to mention his name, he
> can use all the help he can get.
Presbyterians have a peculiarity that when some one asks for something to
be done at a meeting, that we can make the motion very easily, by saying "So
moved ! "
SO PRAYED !
Prayers, Love, Hugs, and any other thing you and he need !
Ed R
Msg#: 2907 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 09:21:36
From: SPIDER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon, we haven't met yet, just passed a couple of emails..yet you and John and
your work here have had a profound effect on my life when I really needed it.
So my thoughts are with you in this difficult time. Hang in there, guys, and
let us know if we can do anything for ya!
Rich
Msg#: 2910 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 09:39:07
From: GEMEIN SHAFT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Jon, my thoughts are with John and yourself. Be strong, my friend...
Hopefully, Mrs. Sysop will be back to his crabby, wonderful self tout-de-suite.
Michael
Msg#: 2948 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 20:30:53
From: DYNAMIC DADDY 1
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2747 (JOHN MERONEY)
Dear Jon and John,
While we're not on line as often as we once were, we're both saddened
to hear of this news. We hope and pray that John has a speedy recovery process
and will soon again be our ever-watching wicked step mother!
Lots of love to you both (and we miss you two)
John and Joey
Msg#: 2956 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 22:31:58
From: JON
To: DYNAMIC DADDY 1 (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2948 (JOHN MERONEY)
Thanks so much, John. Your good thoughts mean the world to us.
P.S. ... John was in good spirits this evening (nearly threw a young
intern out of his room when he got to be too much of a pest). Afterward we
both chuckled over the imagined image of the wicked grin on John's doctor as he
said to this poor kid "Sure ... you go up to Mr. Meroney's room and do a
complete physical." (As you can imagine, John has a bit of a reputation with
his doctors and the nurses there at Sibley who remember him from his previous
visits).
I took along a printout of all the kind thoughts sent his way here, and
that really brightened his evening. He asked me to thank you all for your
supportive good wishes.
Jon
Msg#: 2957 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 22:56:31
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2956 (JOHN MERONEY)
HAHAHA...your story about John and the intern made me chuckle! Thanks!
Msg#: 2958 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 23:15:34
From: DAVID PHILLIPS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2956 (JOHN MERONEY)
I'm *so* certain that John minds have a reputation at the hospital (much less
anywhere else!....sorry, an old French woman posessed me). My neurosurgeon was
so delighted to see me in the emergency room 8/1 after thirteen years: "I
figured that after all this time you were dead, in a foreign land...or you had
pushed another surgeon into lobotomizing you." And he wonders why, just before
I was put under anesthesia, when he peered at my many scars and said "Looks
like my AAA atlas!" I sniped: "Then you know just where you can go, 'cause you
put most of those lines there!"
It's amazing how utterly bitchy you can be to people who hold your life in
their hands.....Tell John to keep up the good work!
Msg#: 2959 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 23:22:23
From: JON
To: DAVID PHILLIPS (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2958 (JOHN MERONEY)
> It's amazing how utterly bitchy you can be to people who hold your
> life in their hands.....Tell John to keep up the good work!
Ain't that the truth!
Methinks it's a bit of self-preservation at work there ... probably a
remnant of some ancient instinct.
Msg#: 2786 *John Meroney*
09/06/94 20:21:41
From: J M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN MERONEY
My best word in English for you two:
H U G S!
J M
Msg#: 2905 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 09:10:49
From: BULL MOOSE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Dear Jon,
I'm praying for John's recovery, and praying for you to get through this
difficult time.
Msg#: 2912 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 09:53:04
From: JON
To: BULL MOOSE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2905 (JOHN)
Thanks, my friend. He'll get a copy of your good wishes.
Jon
Msg#: 2916 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 10:42:33
From: FURRY ONE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: A LITTLE STORY
Jon,
First of all, I'd like to say that although I don't know either you or John
very well, my prayers do go out to both of you.
However, let me give you this one bit of good news: Jesus bore our sickness so
that we'd never have to be sick again. Healing "IS," in the name of Jesus, and
I, for one will not be moved by circumstances. Lord knows I have
circumstances, but I stay faithful. Please stay faithful in the knowledge that
the Lord heals all who ask in faith.
Hugs and prayers to you and John,
Todd
Msg#: 2925 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 13:42:25
From: JON
To: FURRY ONE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2916 (A LITTLE STORY)
> However, let me give you this one bit of good news: Jesus bore our
> sickness so that we'd never have to be sick again. Healing "IS," in
> the name of Jesus, and I, for one will not be moved by
> circumstances. Lord knows I have circumstances, but I stay
> faithful. Please stay faithful in the knowledge that the Lord heals
> all who ask in faith.
Thanks, Todd.
I know the words you say are timeless, and I do believe them. It
nevertheless helps tremendously now and then to hear reassurrance that they're
still true. We all need a boost of faith now and then. I appreciate your
providing it.
Jon
Msg#: 2951 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 21:22:10
From: DAVID PHILLIPS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: BEST SWISHES
Jon, As you and John face the ordeal that has been placed before you, I wish to
offer my own words and prayers for comfort and strength. Coming off an
unexpected hospital stay myself I know too well how difficult it is to be a
patient, feeling helpless over the well-being of one's own body; and I have
seen the emotional toll paid by my partner.....of course, last Christmas we had
to do a "trial separation" when he was gravely ill with chicken pox for almost
a month, so we've both see both sides of the fence. Yet, through all of my
bouts with surgery and Lee's illness, I have known that there is no better drug
for the patient or the loved one than the best wishes and prayers of close
friends and even people one has never met. Both of you are blessed in this
regard--you have helped make friends who may have never met into family, and
you have earned our unconditional, unending love.
-----
...all day long we have been treated like David M. Phillips
sheep for slaughter--and yet, throughout 23 Fendall Avenue
it all overwhelming victory is ours through Alexandria, VA 22304-6328
The One who loved us. -Romans 8:36-37 (REB) (703) 370-6367
david.phillips@glib.org
Msg#: 2960 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 23:28:47
From: STU BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon,
My thoughts and best wishes are with you two as you endure yet another
of what my mother calls "visiscitudes" of life. Please tell John I'm thinking
of him and wish him a speedy recovery and return to your home. I'm sure he's
giving the nurses an experience that will offset the seriousness of his
hospitalization.
If there's anything I can do to help, let me know!
Stu
Msg#: 2961 *John Meroney*
09/07/94 23:29:53
From: JON
To: STU BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 2960 (JOHN)
Thanks, Stu. I'll certainly pass your good wishes along to John.
Jon
Msg#: 3032 *John Meroney*
09/08/94 22:35:24
From: JEFF MALLORY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: GOOD THOUGHTS AND INCANTATIONS
To both of our dearly beloved Jo(h)n's go my most potent spells for good
health, speedy recovery and happy everafters!!
Jeff
Msg#: 3160 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 06:48:44
From: JON
To: JEFF MALLORY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3032 (GOOD THOUGHTS AND INCANTATIONS)
Thanks so much, Jeff. I'll certainly pass your good wishes along to
John.
Jon
Msg#: 3178 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 14:06:39
From: SEVENTEENTH STREET
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MRS SYSOP
Dear Jon -
Please give John my hugs and best wishes for a speedy recovery!
And hugs to you too!
Craig
Msg#: 3180 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 14:16:55
From: JON
To: SEVENTEENTH STREET (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3178 (MRS SYSOP)
> Please give John my hugs and best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Thanks, Craig. I certainly will.
Jon
Msg#: 3202 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 21:38:55
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED
I'm sorry to announce that due to circumstances beyond our control, all
special GLIB projects planned for the next few weeks have been postponed until
a later date.
This includes the newsletter, the scheduled shutdown/during the last
week of this month, and anything else beyond the barest daily operation of this
BBS.
Until further notice, GLIB will continue uninterrupted, and all new
projects/upgrades/and renovations are on indefinite hold.
Frankly, with John hospitalized, I've simply reached the limit of what
I can handle at this time. Much as I'd simply like to hand over some of these
projects to others, even the minimal direction needed to accomplish them would
require more time than I can spare.
I'll announce the re-schedule of these activities here just as soon as
we can confidently predict the future for more than a few days at a time.
Thank you for your continued loyalty and support, and please forgive
any inconvenience this re-scheduling may cause you.
Best regards
Jon
Sysop, GLIB
Msg#: 3207 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 22:56:15
From: JANET HESS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon, sweetheart,
Seldom would I chose to criticize you, but in this case I think you've
made a mistake: the ONLY special project those of us on GLIB care about at the
moment is the one named John Meroney.
The digital world can to go to hell in a handbasket for a tad if that
eases things at all for you and Ole Wicked.
Love to you both,
Janet
Msg#: 3209 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 00:04:29
From: ED ANDERSEN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon,
for the record, being the shy quiet introspective sought that I am , I would be happy to respond to all of those who for reasons beyond
comprehension, fail to understand the import of your message!!
I wish you the best in keeping your spirits high to aid in the speedy recovery
of your loved spouse!!
May the gods as you know them be with you!!
Ed
Msg#: 3274 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 07:34:15
From: SHANE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Dear Jon,
I always knew that you had your priorites screwed on right !
I like that in a man !
My best wishes and prayers for Johns speedy recovery, and the return of your
lives to normal turmoil.
Ed Ricketts
Msg#: 3275 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 07:56:59
From: RON PIERCE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon, our best to you and John. Please know you are surrounded with a cloud of
love and support from all of us. Don't even think about the BBS or give it a
worry. Could we have a mailing address for John? rp
Msg#: 3278 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 09:04:49
From: EDDIE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon,
I'm not sure what to say - except to echo those who have already told you to
take care of your husband and yourself - and not to worry about GLIB at this
time. I know something about what you are going through - and there is a great
need to preserve yourself physically and mentally, and to devote your
attentions to the person who needs you the most.
GLIB has given me new friends and a vehicle to reach out to others - whether
for light conversation or a debate on the major issues of the day. These
people have helped me to keep myself together and to recognize that while there
is a lot of shit to be dealt with, there are a lot of people out there who care
and will lend a hand - or an ear - when needed.
You aren't alone - and you and John are in my prayers.
Mark
Msg#: 3281 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 10:34:33
From: JON
To: JANET HESS (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3207 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thanks for your good wishes, Janet. I'll certainly pass them along to
John.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 3282 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 10:34:56
From: JON
To: ED ANDERSEN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3209 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thanks, Ed.
Jon
Msg#: 3283 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 10:35:33
From: JON
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3274 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thank you for those good words, Ed.
Much appreciated.
Jon
Msg#: 3297 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 12:55:46
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon...I can't imagine =anyone= complaining about the rescheduling of events.
I hope that John is resting and getting better. I know your energies are
directed in the right area.
Msg#: 3299 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 13:13:32
From: JON
To: KEVIN SCOTT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3297 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thanks, Scott. John got your cards, by the way ... he deeply
appreciated them, and got a chuckle out of the one.
Jon
Msg#: 3300 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 13:33:29
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3299 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
> Thanks, Scott. John got your cards, by the way ... he
> deeply appreciated them, and got a chuckle out of the one.
Oh Oh....I hope he was laughing at the right one!
Msg#: 3301 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 13:47:16
From: WOODSTOCK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon,
Worry not about GLIB and how the rest of us are doing. Give my best to
John and make sure that you leave a little time to take care of *you* too.
Best,
Anne
Msg#: 3302 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 13:48:22
From: JON
To: KEVIN SCOTT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3300 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
> Oh Oh....I hope he was laughing at the right one!
Oh yes indeed. We were deeply touched by your other one. That's what
friends are for.
Jon
Msg#: 3304 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 13:48:54
From: JON
To: WOODSTOCK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3301 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thank you, Anne. Your kind words are much appreciated.
Jon
Msg#: 3400 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 18:16:02
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon, I wish you and John all the best and my prayers are with you both. Take
best of care for you both. Hugs, Pete.
Msg#: 3413 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 21:02:18
From: JON
To: PETER FROEHLICH (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3400 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Thank you, Pete.
Jon
Msg#: 3498 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 12:17:22
From: TECHNO DIVA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3202 (SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONED)
Jon,
I'm sorry to hear that our Wicked Stepmother is in the hospital. I will keep
the both of you in my thoughts, and I certainly hope that this will be a short
stay.
As to the changes being postponed....
What Janet said!!!!
Many hugs,
Bev
Msg#: 3204 *John Meroney*
09/09/94 21:56:45
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED
I'm sorry to have to postpone our scheduled GLIB shutdown during the
last week of this month, as I mentioned earlier here.
Unfortunately, my life mate, John Meroney, is very ill, and I simply
cannot deal with anything more than the barest daily operation of our BBS at
this time. So all upgrades and renovations have been indefinitely postponed.
I'll keep you posted, and let you know of our re-schedule just as soon
as things get somewhat back to normal around here.
Best regards
Jon
Sysop, GLIB
Msg#: 3330 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 22:11:03
From: JOD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3204 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
Jon:
Both you and John are in our thoughts and prayers.
Please don't hesitate to call or let us know if there's anything that we can do
from here.
Your friends at the hub site,
JOD and ROBERT RANDY
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The GayCom Hub Site at gLiTcH (207:1/0)
Msg#: 3357 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 14:26:08
From: FLYING GECKO
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3330 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
All good wishes to you and John.
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The Backroom BBS, New York, NY (718)951-8256 (207:1/1)
Msg#: 3367 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 11:36:12
From: LUCKY ERNIE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3357 (RE: TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> Unfortunately, my life mate, John Meroney, is very
> ill, and I simply cannot deal with anything more than the
> barest daily operation of our BBS at this time.
Sorry to hear that.
Give him a hug from us!
--- Opus-CBCS 1.73a
* Origin: Are you as confused about this as I am? (207:1/12.0)
Msg#: 3369 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 08:35:11
From: JON
To: JOD
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3330 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> Both you and John are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thanks so much, John. Sometimes friendship means everything, doesn't
it?
Best regards
Jon
Msg#: 3370 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 08:35:57
From: JON
To: FLYING GECKO
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3357 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> All good wishes to you and John.
Thank you, good friend. I'll pass your good wishes along to John.
Jon
Msg#: 3371 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 08:36:56
From: JON
To: LUCKY ERNIE
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3367 (RE: TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> Give him a hug from us!
I'll do it! Any reason is a good one . Thanks for your good
wishes.
Jon
Msg#: 3428 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 09:07:49
From: ERIC BLAIR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3371 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
Hi Jon:
I hope that John feels better, soon.
--- FLAME v1.1
* Origin: La messagerie qui a de la gueule: S-TEK (514)597-2409 (207:1/201)
Msg#: 3452 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 23:50:38
From: TOBY SCHNEITER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3428 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> Unfortunately, my life mate, John Meroney, is very ill, and
> I simply cannot deal with anything more than the barest daily
I am terribly sorry to hear of John's illness, luv! Please give him my best,
and my thoughts and prayers are with you both.
luv,
toby
--- TMail v1.31.1
* Origin: AlphaOne Online - 18 line - Chic,Il - 708.827.3619 (207:1/106)
Msg#: 3475 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:14:00
From: JON
To: ERIC BLAIR
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3428 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> I hope that John feels better, soon.
Thank you so very much, Eric.
Things are not looking good. He contracted massive pneumonia night
before last, and spent yesterday in ICU struggling to breathe. But huge doses
of antibiotics seemed to improve things yesterday afternoon and evening ... At
this point I can only hope he made it through the night OK, and that he'll be
soon back to his room so they can treat the problem he went in with.
Your good wishes mean the world to us, my friend.
Jon
Msg#: 3476 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:16:10
From: JON
To: TOBY SCHNEITER
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3452 (TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
> I am terribly sorry to hear of John's illness, luv! Please give him
> my best, and my thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Thank you, Dear Lady. As I mentioned to Eric, things are not going too
well ... but I pray a lot, and we have a bunch of folks pulling for him ...
Jon
Msg#: 3880 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 10:09:04
From: ROBERT SCHLUP
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3476 (RE: TEMPRARY SHUTDOWN POSTPONED)
In our last thrilling episode, Joshua shocked Jon by saying:
Jon, my best wishes and prayers are for both of you. I went through that with
a friend earlier this year so if you need someone to talk to, let me know. I
think you have my phone number.
Please keep us all posted when you have the chance.
--- Blue Wave/Max v2.12
* Origin: GayCom on Denver's Levi/Leather BBS 303-399-4385 (207:1/112)
Msg#: 3273 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 06:40:45
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: HUGS
Dear dear Jon,
hugs, what else can I say,
Love, John
Msg#: 3280 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 10:29:38
From: JON
To: JOHN KURTZ (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3273 (HUGS)
Thank you once again, John.
Much love right back.
Jon
Msg#: 3284 *John Meroney*
09/10/94 10:41:29
From: JON
To: RON PIERCE (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN'S MAILING ADDRESS
> Jon, our best to you and John. Please know you are surrounded with
> a cloud of love and support from all of us. Don't even think about
> the BBS or give it a worry.
Thank you, Ron. Friends sure mean a lot at times like this, don't
they?
> Could we have a mailing address for John?
Of course, Ron. It's:
Mr. John W. Meroney
Room 609
Sibley Memorial Hospital
5255 Loughboro Road N.W.
Washington, DC 20016
Msg#: 3372 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 09:00:21
From: RANDY ANDY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN & GLIB
Jon,
As many others have said, worry not about GLIB. Just take care of John! My
thoughts and prayers are with you both. I have a little story that might cheer
John up a bit.
'In a local hospital not too long ago, one of our patients was giving his nurse
a very difficult time. Nothing she did suited him. One morning, after having
been treated unfairly by this patient, the nurse took revenge.
"OK, Mr. Jones. Roll over it's time for your temperature!" Mr. Jones felt the
thermometer slide in, then the nurse walked away. The nurse did not come back
and Mr. Jones was quite irate to be left lying face down with his butt exposed.
Moments later his physician entered the room.
"Mr. Jones! What kind of joke is this?" exclaimed the doctor. Mr. Jones had no
idea what his doctor was referring to until he looked back over his shoulder.
There sprouting up from the middle of his derierre was a daffodil!'
Actually it's an old joke and I don't really remember how it was told. Just
tell John to be nice to his nurses, or Bull Moose and I will have to have a
"chat" with him!
Hugs,
Jim
Msg#: 3382 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 13:37:31
From: JON
To: RANDY ANDY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3372 (JOHN & GLIB)
Thanks for that cute story, Jim.
I'll certainly pass it along to John when he's a bit more able to get a
chuckle out of it.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 3473 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:07:34
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: RANDY ANDY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3372 (JOHN & GLIB)
> Actually it's an old joke and I don't really remember how it was
> told. Just tell John to be nice to his nurses, or Bull Moose and I
> will have to have a "chat" with him!
Add my nurse Rickie Bear to that list! And we won't bring Daffodills, we'll
bring ROSES!
Hugs....
Stevers
Msg#: 3478 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:21:34
From: SHANE
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3473 (JOHN & GLIB)
Dear Stevers,
You told RANDY ANDY:
> Add my nurse Rickie Bear to that list! And we won't bring
> Daffodills, we'll bring ROSES!
Please remove the thorns ..... FIRST !
Ed
BTW: I heard the story before most of you were born, and it was an Easter lily
in the first version I heard. The patient was an Admiral.
Sheesh, these sailors !
Msg#: 3512 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 17:54:01
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3473 (JOHN & GLIB)
> Daffodills, we'll bring ROSES!
Steve,
Just maybe you should bring the entire Gay Men's Chorus of Washington (or at
least a sampler) for a rousing/intimate serenade to John in the hospital (when
he's well enough to respond appropriately)!
Hugs,
Warren (who last had pan-fried dumplings 5 days ago ... and counting)
Msg#: 3644 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 15:31:49
From: RANDY ANDY
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3478 (JOHN & GLIB)
> BTW: I heard the story before most of you were born, and it was an
> Easter lily in the first version I heard. The patient was an
> Admiral.
Now that you say it I do believe that is how I first heard it also. It was a
long time ago and I dont remember the telling of it very well. Just a picture
in my mind. Thanks for the refresher. If you can remember how the story
actually goes, please let me know. I would like to add it to my repetoire.
Thanks!
Msg#: 3383 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 13:48:28
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE
For those of you who have expressed your love and concern for John, I
just wanted to let you know he was moved into intensive care this morning.
Massive pneumonia complications overnight. His doctors will monitor him
closely for the next few hours ...
Jon
Msg#: 3385 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 13:59:45
From: JANET HESS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Know that he and you are in are thoughts.
Love, Janet
Msg#: 3388 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 14:32:50
From: HOMO ERECTUS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Thinking of and praying for you both.
- Mick
Msg#: 3390 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 14:54:41
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
In our thoughts and prayers......
Msg#: 3395 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 17:49:54
From: SHOWLOVR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Jon: Alan and I are hoping and praying for John along with the rest of the
glibertines! You, too, are in our prayers and hearts!
Msg#: 3405 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 18:30:50
From: BUCKEYE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Know that we are all praying for John's speedy recovery.
Gary
Msg#: 3406 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 18:53:16
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Jon,
I had been holding my breath for an update on John's condition, and am
disappointed that the report can't be a brighter one at this time.
My concerns and well-wishes remain with you both.
Please continue to let us know how John is doing, when you can.
Warm hugs of affection,
Warren
Msg#: 3410 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 20:52:11
From: JON
To: SHOWLOVR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3395 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
> Alan and I are hoping and praying for John along with the rest of
> the glibertines! You, too, are in our prayers and hearts!
Thanks, guys.
I just returned from the hospital. They've got him on some pretty
potent antibiotics, and that's brought his blood oxygen level up and out of
danger ... so we're praying he'll get through the night OK.
We both deeply appreciate your concern and prayers.
Jon
Msg#: 3411 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 20:53:01
From: JON
To: BUCKEYE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3405 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Thanks, Gary. We both appreciate your concern and caring.
Jon
Msg#: 3412 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 20:58:16
From: JON
To: ADVENTURE MAN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3406 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Thanks, Warren, for your good wishes.
John developed massive pneumonia during the night and I arrived this
morning to find him in the MICU (quite a shock, I must tell ya), and they had
already started running some heavy-duty antibiotics. Things have improved so
far today, and his blood oxygen levels are now out of danger, but of course he
isn't ... just yet. Now if they can just get that pneumonia under control,
they can continue to treat him for what he went in there for in the first place
...
He and I deeply appreciate your concern and good wishes, and those of
all the other fine GLIB members here who are pulling for him. He can use a lot
of help at this point ...
Much love
Jon
Msg#: 3477 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:19:50
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3412 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Jon... I have a message for you.
I called Shirley MacLaine, and she contacted DC Bear, Art Deco, Grey Tail,
Jono, Jeff Nylund, Tomcat DC, Upper Westsider and all the others... she reports
the following conversation:
DC BEAR: You mean that wicked old stepmother might be joining our party?
ART DECO: Stop WHINING, Chip. You know she's not ready for us yet. An we're not
ready for HER. Jimmie hasn't whipped up his Cloud Quiche yet for the party!
GREY TAIL: That's Right, Art! I need some heavenly oregano, and they were all
out at the Pearly Gates Gourmet. And you know Wicked Stepma - she'll whack you
with her cane across your bear butt if you serve a quiche without oregano.
DC BEAR: ME! ME! ME! Whap ME across my bear butt.
ALL: SHUT UP, CHIP!
TOMCAT DC: Hey, I have a cane! I don't want that old Wicked Stepmother around
here! Her cane is bigger and longer and thicker than mine!
JEFF NYLUND: Its too crowded up here anyway. I think Wicked Stepmama has to
stay down there for awhile. We just don't have any room! I'm still waiting for
my corner cloud with a window.
DC BEAR: Tell ya what guys, lets go buy old Shirley here a drink at the Hairy
Wings Leather Bar. I don't think we're gonna hafta worry. Here's my plan: we go
tell The Big Boss what havoc that old witch can create, and He'll make sure she
sticks around to pester and harrangue and love and support Jon and all of his
friends. Agreed? OK, lets go! First beer is on me!
ALL: YAY CHIPPER!
End of transmission....
Msg#: 3479 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:29:38
From: JON
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3477 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Sounds good to me, Steve. I appreciate your passing along Shirley's
channel ... I needed a giggle. I pray that John does indeed have a lot of work
yet left to do here ... it seems we've only begun ...
Jon
Msg#: 3480 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:38:23
From: COZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3383 (JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE)
Thoughts and prayers for both of you during this very trying time.
Msg#: 3417 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 22:53:41
From: BIG FOOT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MRS. SYSOP
Jon, You are both in my prayers. May God bless you both. I feel like one of
my family is ill. That's what Glib is, a family. All my hopes and prayers
Charles
Msg#: 3471 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:05:15
From: JON
To: BIG FOOT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3417 (MRS. SYSOP)
Thank you, Charles. At times like these, "family" sure are a comfort.
John is my rock. He's the strong one in the family. This is difficult
...
Jon
Msg#: 3423 *John Meroney*
09/11/94 23:54:34
From: SUGAR BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: BLESSINGS!
Jon,
Don't expend one ounce of worry over our bbs. Things have a way of
taking care of themselves when life sets eminently greater priorities before
us. Just know that we are all with you and Ole Wicked every day with thoughts,
prayers and love coming to both of you abundantly.
If you need anything, just contact me.
Much love and prayers,
Ed
(301) 670-0148
Msg#: 3474 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 07:09:50
From: JON
To: SUGAR BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3423 (BLESSINGS!)
Thank you, Ed.
I deeply appreciate your concern, your prayers, and your good wishes.
If we've managed to earn any stars thus far, I sure hope they'll help
John get through this.
Jon
Msg#: 3503 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 11:32:00
From: PADDINGTON BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SPECIAL PROJECTS POSTPONE
Er - is there anything you need? I'll be there, tomorrow!
Msg#: 3524 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:08:10
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
Dearest GLIB friends ...
This evening at 6:00 pm, your beloved "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate,
John Meroney, died peacefully.
As many of you know, for some 20 years he struggled with physical
handicaps to which many would have surrendered. But not John. His life these
past years was one of constant physical pain.
Without his steadfast support and encouragement, GLIB could never have
happened. John was my rock, the inspiration for whatever good things we may
have done together. He was the business man and I the "techie".
This past week, his body simply could take no more. He was
hospitalized Monday with pancreatic failure, and on Saturday evening he
contracted massive pneumonia. He struggled until this evening, when God, in
his infinite mercy, eased his pain. John was 44.
May God grant this fine man, and my Dearly Beloved John, eternal
comfort and rest.
I loved him with all my heart and soul.
May those of you who also loved him join me in saying goodbye.
You are invited to pay your final respects this coming Thursday and
Friday evenings (September 15th and 16th), from 6 to 9 pm at:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg, Pike
Falls Church, VA 22044
703-532-5161
We're planning a memorial service in the near future at a local church.
With much love to you all
Your Sysop
Jon
Msg#: 3526 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:17:48
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
My dearest friend.....
Words cannot convey what I feel.
I'm devastated.
We love you very much.
Steve and Rick.
Msg#: 3527 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:21:51
From: STU BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
We've all lost someone for whom there are not enough superlative
adjectives. He was beyond "special". We'll all miss him deeply.
Our deepest sympathy to you from both of us....
Stu & Jamie
Msg#: 3528 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:26:50
From: GEMEIN SHAFT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon, I'm so terribly sorry. My thoughts and heart go out to you, dear
man. May John rest in eternal peace.
Michael
Msg#: 3529 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:36:18
From: SPIDER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon, I know I speak for all of us here when I say how sorry we are to hear the
sad news. Know that you remain in our thoughts and prayers. Also know that as
you need help in the coming days, weeks and months (be it emotional support,
help doing errands, GLIB maintenance, etc) we're here for you. GLIB has been a
tremendous source of advice, friendship, romance, intellectual stimulation
(well, maybe a so-so source of intellectual stimulation..grin) and other
helpful resources for thousands of people. Do us the honor of allowing us to
show our gratitude and support of your and jon's work by helping *you* in your
time of need. We're here for you, 24hrs a day, and only a phone call or e-mail
message away...
Rich
Msg#: 3530 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:57:08
From: CALVIN HOBBES
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
There's nothing I can say that hasn't been already been said. My prayers are
with you.
Chuck
Msg#: 3531 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:02:38
From: JEFF MALLORY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
The cats, who read all my GLIB adventures over my shoulder, and I send you our
gentle thoughts for strength and peace and wish Mrs. Sysop god speed and fond
farewell in her new journey.
big hugs and cat licks,
Jeff, Mary and Rachel
Msg#: 3533 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:15:34
From: DAVID PHILLIPS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dearest Jon,
Loss is never an easy thing to bear, especially when it strikes so close to our
hearts and our homes; however, the burden is made lighter with loved ones and
friends to help carry us along...and a faith that reassures us of our eternal
nature.
May our Maker continually bless you with knowing that these gifts are yours,
have been yours, and will continue to be with you until John can welcome you
home again.
>>BIG HUGS<<
Msg#: 3534 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:19:58
From: JANET HESS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
Please know how much I want to say, even if I can't through these
tears. I love you both.
Janet
Msg#: 3537 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:40:11
From: SEVENTEENTH STREET
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dearest Jon,
My heart goes out to you. Please accept my deepest condolences.
With love,
Craig
Msg#: 3539 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 00:15:29
From: BRAHMA BULL
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon --
There is nothing I can add to what has already been said. So I will repeat
Auden's poem, which many people heard recently in "Four Weddings and a
Funeral":
Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.
Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He Is Dead,
Put crˆpe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.
He was my North, my South, My East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;
I thought that love would last for ever: I was wrong.
The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;
For nothing now can ever come to any good.
Msg#: 3540 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 00:16:23
From: SUGAR BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
My dear Jon,
There are no words that can soften the pain of this moment. Ther are
only the extensions of love and presence that we can give. Please know that you
are remembered in a most special way at this moment and in these days. Know
also that I shall keep the eternal rest of John at the very center of my
thoughts and prayers and remembrances at the celebration of the Lord's Supper.
May you and John both know some measure of the companionship of Jesus
who did not shrink from entering into the dark mystery we call human death.
Certainly, you can rely on me for anything and everything that you could need
at this moment. Just call. I will be there....both now and always.
Much love and eternal rest to your beloved John. His presence will
always be with you. May we be present to you both at this precious and most
tender of all moments.
All my love and prayers,
Eddie
xxxooo
Msg#: 3545 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:07:39
From: J M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dear Jon,
In good and bad times, this BBS, *YOUR* BBS has been FAMILY. I
sincerely grieve with you and the rest of the family.
With all my grateful love.
HUGS
Jean-Max
Msg#: 3548 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:14:24
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dear Jon,
with my deepest sympathies to you and the memory of a wonderful friend.
Love and hugs, John
Msg#: 3549 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:32:18
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
So sorry.
Condolences and Bearhugz,
Warren
Msg#: 3553 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 02:02:33
From: TED STROLLO
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon, I haven't met you yet and didn't know John, but I feel your loss deeply
and reach out to you in this difficult time. The grieving process is long and
necessary, and I wish you as little pain as possilbe during this.
Love,
Ted
Msg#: 3554 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 02:45:03
From: BRIAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Beyond this place, beyond this time, Beyond this earth of filth and grime,
There must exist some higher plane;
Why else should man require a brain?
Beyond this world of strife and grief, Where death comes silent as a thief,
There must exist some higher goal;
Why else should man require a soul?
If ours is to be but an animal state, To eat and to sleep and to procreate, All
this is accomplished by instinct alone;
So why were we given a sensitive zone?
Just curb your impatience as years come and go, For we all cannot be the star
of the show;
But, someday, a vital need may appear, And you'll know at that moment why you
are here.
Make use of the best you were given to tend, For another beginning is there at
the end;
And a very great man was prompted to state: "Those also serve who stand and
wait."
I'm so sorry about your loss.
Brian
Msg#: 3556 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 05:15:16
From: KEN L
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you. Anything at all that I can do to help,
just call.
Ken.
Msg#: 3599 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:03:33
From: BUCKEYE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dear Jon,
I was so sorry to hear of John's passing. You have my deepest
sympathies.
Gary
Msg#: 3608 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:56:01
From: COZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
My deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Keith
Msg#: 3609 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:58:22
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon, please accept my deepest symapthy. John died way too young. Best of
wishes to you in this trying time. Hugs, Pete.
Msg#: 3613 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:18:22
From: SHANE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dearest Jon,
My heart goes out to you.
John was a treasure, not just to you, but to all of us GLIBBER's.
May his soul rest on a soft cloud (with a view), and be sure that his
spirit will remain with us.
With deepest sympathy,
Ed Ricketts
Msg#: 3615 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:36:20
From: SOME GUY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
You have my most sincere condolences. John's life has touched all of us, even
those who never met him, through this medium. He cannot be forgotten.
Scott
Msg#: 3621 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:41:50
From: LESBIE GRANNY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
Words cannot express what I am feeling. I feel like I've lost a member of my
family. I will miss the beloved "Wicked Stepmother." My prayers and deepest
sympathy. May his soul rest in peace.
Love,
Ginger
Msg#: 3629 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 10:38:10
From: DEACON MACCUBBIN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
I pray that the pain of your loss -- our loss -- will be eased by the many
wonderful memories John has left behind.
Msg#: 3633 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 12:51:05
From: HOMO ERECTUS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dear Jon -
I offer you my deepest and most sincere condolences.
You remain in my prayers.
- Mick
Msg#: 3656 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 16:29:00
From: MOMMA BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Dearest Jon,
As has been said here by many of your GLIB family, my heart, too, goes
out to you in this difficult time. Please know that you are in my
thoughts and prayers.
With much love and support,
Andrea/Momma Bear
Msg#: 3661 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 17:46:41
From: DYNAMIC DADDY 1
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
We received a call from Larry Alan last evening, 2 mins after you left
this message... (and we are 1,200 miles from all of you) John would have been
proud that all of the work the two of you have accomplished over the years, was
for naught....
We are saddened beyond belief over John's passing. Like so many
others, we loved and argued with him over so many things over the last several
years that the love and arguments have blended into a vision for us... of one
of the finest men that has ever blessed our lives.
We grieve for you terribly... good people should not ever have to
suffer such a loss. But they do on occasion, and it is on those occasions that
such good people find comfort in the knowledge that the wonderful work they
have accomplished (on GLIB for one example> has created an extended family the
size of which would not be understood by the general populace.
May John, after his so many years of suffering, rest peacefully for
eternity. He is in good hands now, and watching over everthing you and the
rest of us are doing.... Let us not screw up, or you KNOW we'll never hear the
end of it from our loving "Wicked Stepmother."
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, dear Jon - - you and John spent
so many years enriching our lives, and right now, we feel pretty damn helpless!
With Great Love and Admiration
John & Joey
(DD1 & DD2)
Msg#: 3680 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 21:46:44
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
I am deeply saddened to learn of John's passing, your loss, and if I may
intrude into your family....our loss. I feel honored to have met John and
been able to share even a small bit of his life. Your GLIB family shares your
pain in this time of sorrow.
May God bless John and keep John.
Your friend,
Scott Winn
Msg#: 3682 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 22:18:27
From: BIG FOOT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon, At times like this, words sometimes do not come easy. You have my deepest
sympathy and prayers. John is now free of the pain and suffering that he bore
so well in his life. He was an example to all of us on how to cope with
adversity. I first met you both when GLIB took the day excursion on Amtrack to
Atlantic City, then again at the New Years's eve party. But, more importantly,
I knew John from his contributions to the GLIB system. Some 4 years ago and
some 4400 calls past, I made my first call to GLIB. In that time GLIB had made
a major difference in my life. You can count on my support and help in keeping
GLIB going. John needs no memorial. No statute need be erected. That which
he was so much a part in creating over the years is the only proper memorial.
Rest in Peace John.
Warm Hugs
Charles
Msg#: 3693 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 09:54:44
From: BROOM GUY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
I, like the many others who have already responded, feel deeply saddened. And
how strange! Here I am feeling very bad for a loss of a person who I've never
met in person, and trying to console a person who I've never met in person. My
only contact with you and John were via GLIB. And yet I'm feeling a loss.
Perhaps this should give you some sense of what you and John have provided to
us. Someone earlier said that no memorial is necessary because of what is
already your legacy. I agree.
With deepest sympathy, Joe
Msg#: 3707 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 13:49:30
From: GOATPAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Sir,
Please accept our condolenses on your loss. Since this disease entered
our lives and took away so many of our friends and lovers, I find myself still
unable to "adjust". Stoic? Yes. Acclimated? NO!
I read a piece by a writer named Primo Levi who interviewed an older woman who
recently lost her husband to cancer after a marriage of nearly 40 years. She
said, "Life is like looking out of a window looking at all the incredibly
wondrously beautiful things. Then a shade is yanked over the window forever."
Best regards,
Stephen Gorman and Ralph Williams
Msg#: 3730 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:30:32
From: JON
To: JANET HESS (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3534 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Janet, I just wanted to tell you this ...
They delivered your wonderful balloon bouquet after John was in much
too much distress to enjoy them, so I found them at the Nurse's Station in the
ICU after we lost him.
I brought them home with me, and as MR Z and I stepped out of the car,
I released the beautiful colored balloons into the sky, one by one, and we
stood and watched them sail up and away in a symbolic gesture of John's spirit.
We were both deeply moved, and it could not have happened without your kind
gift.
Thank you, Dear Lady, for giving me one more way to try to say goodbye
to someone who meant the world to me, and to so many of us.
With much hugs
Jon
Msg#: 3736 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:59:00
From: JON
To: DYNAMIC DADDY 1 (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3661 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Thanks, Guys.
Jon
Msg#: 3738 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:01:21
From: JON
To: BROOM GUY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3693 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Yes, Joe ... methinks we're all experiencing a small bit of magic here.
And one of the major magicians was John. His spell will sustain us for a long
time ...
Jon
Msg#: 3752 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 22:42:00
From: KEN S
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
There are no adequate words, so I shall not attempt to find them.
But please know that we are here,
and that we will remember.
With deepest condolences,
- Ken S
Msg#: 3832 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 16:08:59
From: SKY BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3524 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon,
My job takes me out of town frequently although I do carry my laptop so I can
GLIB on the road. This week is no exception. Monday and Tuesday I was in
Denver; yesterday I arrived in Alburqueqe. This was the first opportunity I've
had to dial into GLIB.
For whatever reason, I got a tremendous sinking feeling when I saw the first
few characters of the GLIB FLASH scroll across my screen. Too frequently there
are messages of another GLIB member passing for whatever reason. John was not
just *another* GLIB member. We all recognize his importance to GLIB and to
you. His absence will leave a void in our GLIB community; he will be missed.
Please accept my sympathy and condolences. I have two more cities to visit
before I return home on September 22. If I were home, I would pay my respects
personally. I will be there in spirit.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and John,
Robert Dogan
Msg#: 4142 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 09:31:06
From: JON
To: KEN S (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3752 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> There are no adequate words, so I shall not attempt to find them.
Ken, and all the literally hundreds of others who have sent me messages
of condolence ... Thank You ... from the depths of my heart, Thank You.
I see in your messages many of you struggling to find words to frame
your emotions ... I've given up on that myself ... as you say, Ken, there just
are none.
But of all the groups of people I've ever known ... of all the
organizations I've been associated with, none other than GLIB has been blessed
with so many kind, compassionate, and loving people who nevertheless tried to
express to me the inexpressable.
To all of you who have taken the time to send me a message of strength,
be it just a few words, poetry, sharing your own experiences with grief, or
longer streams of thought ... I'm reading each and every one, but I simply lack
the emotional ability to answer each. Please understand how very much I
appreciate your kindness, but if you don't get a personal reply, please know
your words touched me and are right this minute helping me to get through what
is without question the most crushing and disabling disaster in my life.
I'm normally a pretty sensible, rational guy who can counsel others in
times of stress and confusion, and I do it pretty well. I've lost others (the
deaths of my dad and mother, broken love affairs) ... But this one ... this
one, folks ... this is just beyond anything I can imagine ... and I don't seem
to be doing a very good job of it.
Jon
Msg#: 4143 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 09:33:32
From: JON
To: SKY BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3832 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Thank you, Robert.
Jon
Msg#: 4156 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 11:26:56
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4142 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon....if I may,
There is no right or wrong, or good or bad, or better or worse...when it comes
to dealing with the loss of someone special. Please don't berate yourself, if
you think that for whatever reason, you aren't "dealing with it".
There aren't many truely good people in this world. But, I have to believe
that you and John (yes...I imagine he is still lurking a bit...) fit that bill.
No need to be hard on yourself.
Msg#: 3525 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 22:11:29
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP"
Dearest GLIB friends ...
This evening at 6:00 pm, your beloved "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate,
John Meroney, died peacefully.
As many of you know, for some 20 years he struggled with physical
handicaps to which many would have surrendered. But not John. His life these
past years was one of constant physical pain.
Without his steadfast support and encouragement, GLIB could never have
happened. John was my rock, the inspiration for whatever good things we may
have done together. He was the business man and I the "techie".
This past week, his body simply could take no more. He was
hospitalized Monday with pancreatic failure, and on Saturday evening he
contracted massive pneumonia. He struggled until this evening, when God, in
his infinite mercy, eased his pain. John was 44.
May God grant this fine man, and my Dearly Beloved John, eternal
comfort and rest.
I loved him with all my heart and soul.
May those of you who also loved him join me in saying goodbye.
You are invited to pay your final respects this coming Thursday and
Friday evenings (September 15th and 16th), from 6 to 9 pm at:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg, Pike
Falls Church, VA 22044
703-532-5161
We're planning a memorial service in the near future at a local church.
With much love to you all
Your Sysop
Jon
Msg#: 3536 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:21:00
From: ZULEIKA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
jon, i was shocked and saddened to read of your loss. you and john have
enriched my and countless others' lives, and i can only hope you may find
peace as you mourn, and know that, whatever good they may do, my thoughts
are with you, as i know, absolutely, so many others are too. i wish i
could do or say something better to help you. if there *is* anything...
i've never met you, nor john, and know part of my loss is for that very
reason; and that it's inestimably less than for the many who did have the
privilege of knowing john. my heart goes out to you, i'm terribly sorry
for your grief.
Msg#: 3538 *John Meroney*
09/12/94 23:44:55
From: LEATHER MAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
My deepest sympathy to you.
John is no longer suffering. For that, we should be grateful. Now we start
the long process of emotional healing. As always, if you need anything...
(Although, I've been through this many times... I'm sure you have a SLEW of
people already lined up to help! :) But, another hand/heart/ear/shoulder can't
hurt!)
Msg#: 3555 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 02:53:51
From: RICH HON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
My deepest sympathies on your loss. I am personally saddened to hear of John's
death.
I was honored to attend two GLIB gatherings that you two held at your home over
the past several years. John could clear 75 people out of a house faster than
anyone else I've ever met...when it came time to shut things down. I knew
right away this was a guy to be admired. :-)
You have alot of people to count on for support...hundreds here on GLIB alone.
Count me as one of them...and don't hesitate to pick up the phone and call on
me if you need anything.
Big hug...Rich.
Msg#: 3602 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:23:33
From: DADDY BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Jon,
You have my deepest sympathy, and my condolences. I am so sorry to hear of
John's death. I had only met him once at a New Years Eve party at your house a
couple of years ago. What a wonderful man he was. I consider myself lucky to
have met him.
If there is any thing you need. Please don't hesitate to call. May God grant
you the strength to get through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Warm hugs and fuzzies
Marty
Msg#: 3603 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:23:47
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: RICH HON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3555 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
cc: Jon
> your home over the past several years. John could clear 75 people
> out of a house faster than anyone else I've ever met...when it came
> time to shut things down. I knew right away this was a guy to be
> admired. :-)
Through my tears, I'm howling with laughter thinking about my favorite Meroney
Moment....
It was, I believe, about 1989. Jon was holding a GLIB bash at his house. (This
was before the days of a regular happy hour). John had made his usual
scrumptious fare. The party was a HUGE smash! Nobody wanted to leave. There was
a crowd of computer geeks looking at the GLIB setup in the basement.
John and I were fussing in the kitchen with plates and stuff. I asked him 'How
do you put up with all of this?' He turned to me, grinned that MALICIOUS grin
of his, and said "just watch me, girlfriend!"
He strode purposefully into the middle of the living room. He bellowed in a
voice louder than even Furry One or I could achieve "How may of you live at
[his home address]." A stunned silence ensued, followed by embarassed hems and
haws and shuffling feet. John continued "Anyone who lives here can stay! The
rest of you... GO HOME!"
I shall cherish this memory always.
Steve
Msg#: 3612 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:14:59
From: JANET HESS
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3603 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Stevers,
Bless you for this story...I too am now both giggling and crying...John
was such a treasure.
Love, Janet
Msg#: 3623 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:51:50
From: RON PIERCE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Jon, I can not think of any word to say that will help. Is there anything I
can do? I am here and will be there if you need me. Ron
Msg#: 3634 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 13:31:55
From: FRANK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Jon,
Please accept my sincerest sympathy in the loss of John. I was absolutely
devastated to learn of his passing. There has been ache in heart all day.
Words cannot express my feeling of loss or the empty feeling I'm experiencing.
I know what I feel is only a small fraction of what you must be feeling. You
and John will be in thoughts and prayers.
I'd thought I'd compose a last letter to John:
Farewell John!
In March of 1989 I joined a wonderful group, a group that would become an
integral part of my life, a group that would become a building block for me to
grow with. That group was GLIB, a new "extended family" for me.
This extended family has been very supportive of me and for me. I've
developed many new friendships, was nurtured for who and what I am and
continued to grow. I became a stronger and better person.
Along the way I met two people, who have been the heart and soul of GLIB,
they being you and Jon Lanimore . I knew the two of you
were special people, people who always give of themselves with nothing expected
in return.
Having gained so much from GLIB, I felt the need to do a little something
extra for GLIB. I've volunteered to help with several small things in the
past. And, earlier this year, I became the Assistant Membership Director for
GLIB. It's been fulfilling to assist GLIB. As a result of my new
responsibilities, I grew closer to you and Jon, becoming more appreciative of
your dedication to and hard for GLIB.
Jon has always been visible with the many activities he performs as the
Sysop. But you John, have been less visible, doing many of the "behind the
scenes" kind of work. As GLIB's Treasurer, you maintained all the financial
records necessary for the GLIB to retain its "non-profit" status. Your latest
task was to move GLIB forward, taking the plunge into the world of LANS. You
knew this would once again greatly improve the services and resources of GLIB.
You always continued your work even when you were sick, because you had strong
convictions to keep GLIB going and to make it the best.
John, you have been an important cornerstone for GLIB. Your charm, your
wit, your support, your humor, and most of all, your love will be missed by
each and everyone who's lives you touched. Your absence from this world has
created a major void, one that will be very difficult to fill.
Farewell John. May you rest in peace.
Love,
Frank
Msg#: 3666 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 18:48:11
From: TOP CUB
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3525 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Jon--
My deepest sympathy to you at this time of your loss. Although I never met
John, I've heard only wonderful things about him through GLIB. My thoughts are
with you.
--Todd
Msg#: 3731 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:37:41
From: JON
To: ZULEIKA (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3536 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Z ... there's something magical about this communications medium we use
here ... you really never need to meet anyone in person to detect the wonder
and beauty they offer. John never met most of our members ... but know that he
loved each of you every much as I do now. GLIB and all of us were very dear to
his heart.
Jon
Msg#: 3732 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:39:09
From: JON
To: RICH HON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3555 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
> your home over the past several years. John could clear 75 people
> out of a house faster than anyone else I've ever met...when it came
> time to shut things down. I knew right away this was a guy to be
> admired. :-)
Oh yes ... John was definitely an administrator ... I depended on him
for so much around here. So very much ...
Jon
Msg#: 3733 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:42:07
From: JON
To: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3603 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
> He strode purposefully into the middle of the living room. He
> bellowed in a voice louder than even Furry One or I could achieve
> "How may of you live at [his home address]." A stunned silence
> ensued, followed by embarassed hems and haws and shuffling feet.
> John continued "Anyone who lives here can stay! The rest of you...
> GO HOME!"
Hahahaha ... oh yes! I had forgotten that. That =was= John. I hope
you or someone else will share that story with us at John's Memorial
Celebration Sunday. We'll all need a good chuckle or two like that about then.
Much hugs
Jon
Msg#: 3735 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:47:42
From: JON
To: FRANK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3634 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
Frank ... you're here right now, as I read this beautiful beautiful
tribute to My Man, and you consoled me as I wept. Thanks for being here.
Sometimes people are just at the right place at the right time. Thanks for
being one of those very special people.
John so much appreciated your loyal assistance here and was every bit
as pleased when you volunteered to directly get involved as I was. You were a
joy to him for the short time he knew you.
Jon
Msg#: 3789 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 07:15:03
From: STEVE CRUTCHFIELD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3733 (WE'VE LOST "MRS.SYSOP")
A postscript to that story...
DC BEAR and ART DECO were standing with me when Jon did that schtick. I can see
Chip and Jim standing there on a cloud, bellowing at John 'WELCOME HOME,' with
John rolling his eyes up and saying 'Oh Lord! Is this the punishment I get for
being the Wicked Stepmother? Having to spend eternity with these two???'
Steve
Msg#: 3544 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:05:21
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: ALL
Subj: JOHN MERONEY ("MRS. SYSOP") [.GIF]
I've pulled the copy of John's photo from GLIB's Mugshotz section out for
attachment here to make it more accessible to those who hadn't met him. The
photo was posted on GLIB on July 15, 1992.
*Enclosed File: JMeroney.GIF
Msg#: 3546 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:10:00
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: ALL
Subj: JOHN MERONEY ("MRS. SYSOP") [.GIF]
I've pulled the copy of John's photo from GLIB's Mugshotz section out for
attachment here to make it more accessible to those who hadn't met him. The
photo was posted on GLIB on July 15, 1992.
*Enclosed File: jmeroney.gif
Msg#: 3550 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:33:00
From: JIM GOLDSCHMIDT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: I'M SORRY
Hi Jon,
I was truly saddened to read about the death of John. I hope all of the
messages you receive from the members of GLIB give you some peace during this
most difficult time.
I remember John very fondly. He was always gracious and kind when I met
him. I remember the first train trip GLIB took to Atlantic City. He graciously
gave up his seat next to you so I could talk to you about GLIB. It seemed he to
recognize that he had to share a small part of you with the rest of us. I
remember the smile and how he said thank you when I left. He didn't know me at
all at that time.
I also remember the hospitality he showed us all when we visited your
home, whether for a party or for stuffing envelopes before Christmas.
I will think of him often as I use this BBS. I wish I could do or say
more.
Jim
Msg#: 3739 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:07:41
From: JON
To: JIM GOLDSCHMIDT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3550 (I'M SORRY)
But Jim ... you have, for so long done so much more than so many other
GLIB members have even considered. You're one of the mainstays of this thing
... GLIB needs you, but more than that ... =I= need you.
Thanks for just "doing your thing" here, without my assistance or
direction ... and for doing it so very well. It means so much.
Jon
Msg#: 3552 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 01:56:18
From: EDWARD JOHNSON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SORROW FOR YOUR LOSS
Dear Jon,
Along with so many others, I feel for you now, and will think of you often in
the days to come. My lover died in July, and GLIB has been a place for me to
come and make new friends, and to fill some of the empty places Shane has left
in my life. I hope you will find some of that comfort here as well.
I sent the following poem to his friends and family:
Lost Beauty hope foresees
In a silenced word
Out of an angel, no longer heard
She sets a sail
Upon the seas
-Roger Giroux
I don’t believe death to be a final ending, not as long as those of us who
remain carry the best of our lost friends and lovers within us. I shall be
forever grateful to Shane for making me part of his life an death, and the pain
is a small price to pay for what John has given you to keep forever.
If I can be of any assistance, please let me know. I wanted to do everything
when Shane died, and some of it was just too much. I know you will have offers
from many close friends, and it will be good for both of you to let them help.
Nonetheless, if, as a relative stranger, I can help in anyway...
Ed Johnson (202) 488-5319
Msg#: 3740 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:11:06
From: JON
To: EDWARD JOHNSON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3552 (SORROW FOR YOUR LOSS)
Ed ... what a wonderful, loving, and sincere message of condolence. I
needed that .
Thank God for the friends GLIB has given me. I could never have made
it this far these past couple days without them. And obviously you are another
one ... perhaps I shall need your help too. But not right now, and not right
here. Your offer makes this easier to bear ...
Perhaps John and Shane will cross paths wherever ... what a wonderful
thought to contemplate. Two wonderful people we will miss for a very long
time.
Jon
Msg#: 3600 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:18:13
From: DRUM MAJOR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY CONDOLENCES
Words alone cannot express my deepest sympathy on your loss. But a quote from
a song might offer some comfort. They are from a song cycle by Peter
McWilliams entitled, "How to Survive the Loss of a Love", and although it deals
mostly with losing a loved one to AIDS, it is appropriate here.
"I shall miss loving you.
I shall miss the joy of your coming
And the pain of your going,
And after a while
I shall miss missing, loving you."
My your partner's memory be for a blessing now and forever.
Mike
Msg#: 3743 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:17:23
From: JON
To: DRUM MAJOR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3600 (MY CONDOLENCES)
> My your partner's memory be for a blessing now and forever.
What a lovely song lyric. Thanks so much for sharing.
John's passing imparts strength to me even now as I write this. He was
an incredibly brave, strong, heroic man. Very few people ever saw him in that
light. He could be brash, caustic, arrogant, and had a cutting wit, and most
folks who knew him argued with him many times (and he usually won the
arguments, because he was right and knew it ). But few appreciated the
pain this soldier of life bore for so many years without so much as a whimper.
Not a word. Never a complaint.
May God grant me that kind of strength someday.
Jon
Msg#: 3606 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:40:35
From: COZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THOUGHTS
Dear Jon,
Words cannot explain how blessed we have been to have had Mrs. Sysop in
our midst. His life, and yours, have touched and effected more than you can
ever imagine. I will continue to keep you in my prayers during this very
trying time. As for John, he is at peace...a brave and brilliant soul...one
whom we are all fortunate to have among us. His works and his power live
on...right here.
Keep up your strength and know that all of us here feel your loss.
With Love and Prayers,
Keith
Msg#: 3744 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:20:43
From: JON
To: COZ (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3606 (THOUGHTS)
> Keep up your strength and know that all of us here feel your
> loss.
Thank you for your very kind message. I deeply appreciate it.
Jon
Msg#: 3607 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 07:53:03
From: JOE BLOW
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHIES
Jon, So sorry to hear about your loss. I had no idea your lover was in such
pain. Am glad he has gone now to a more peaceful place. May all the friends
who admire you and John so much for your selfless contributions to our corner
of the gay world, be your strength now through this difficult time. Sincerely,
Ted P.
Msg#: 3610 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:10:36
From: RICHARD CLARK
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: SYMPATHY
Jon, I'm sorry to hear of the lost. May God give you the strength to remember
all the wonderful times, and to know that his soul is still with you.
If there is anything that we can do to help please let us know and I am quite
serious with that offer.
Msg#: 3746 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:23:45
From: JON
To: RICHARD CLARK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3610 (SYMPATHY)
> Jon, I'm sorry to hear of the lost. May God give you the strength
> to remember all the wonderful times, and to know that his soul is
> still with you.
Thank you, my friend. Fortunately, there are countless good times to
remember, and so few that were not. We were blessed with a relationship unlike
few I have ever heard of. I guess that's what makes this so difficult to deal
with. But with your kind wishes and the support of others here ... we'll cope.
Jon
Msg#: 3616 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:39:42
From: MANMADE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU
Jon I was so sorry to hear bout John Even tho i dont know either of you, during
my time on GLIB I had come to know that there was something very very special
between the two of you and I think it was and IS a real inspiration to other
men trying to maintain a healthy emotional lifestyle and a loving relationship
Even in your loss, you havfe given the rest of us an example of how to love
and how to grieve PLease know that others wll miss John and that others
continue to care very deeply for you and the work the two of you were able to
do on the board GLIB is a living memorial to all that you have done and to all
that the two of you had Our prayers are with you May John rest in peace and in
the knowledge that he was deeplyl loved Hang in there, buddy Im sure the fond
memories will far outlast these sad times George
Msg#: 3747 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:36:44
From: JON
To: MANMADE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3616 (PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU)
Thank you, George, for your very kind message. I was deeply moved by
it.
Yes, I can only hope GLIB will continue to be the kind of quality and
service John so capably helped make it become. We really would not be
exchanging these messages now had it not been for his loving support of my
crazy idea. What a guy ...
Love
Jon
Msg#: 3852 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 20:53:20
From: MANMADE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3747 (PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU)
Keep the Faith G
Msg#: 4152 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:45:11
From: JON
To: MANMADE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3852 (PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU)
> Keep the Faith
I am, my friend. I am.
Jon
Msg#: 3617 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 08:55:53
From: ALEXIS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dearest Jon,
My sympathies and condolences, for your loss. If there is anything I can do,
please feel free to ask. You can reach me during the day at 703.670.6161, or
you can leave a message here, or on my machine 703.329.7896.
In the service,
Fr. Alexis Tancibok
Msg#: 3748 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:41:59
From: JON
To: ALEXIS (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3617 (CONDOLENCES)
Dear Alexis ...
You are one of our Very Special People here, and I so deeply appreciate
your kind words of support. The work you have chosen to pursue must bring you
very close to so many people in pain and need ...
As I said to John's nurse in the ICU where he left us ... "You must be
at least part saint ... how you bear all this suffering day after day is just
so difficult to understand".
And she said ... "Ah yes, but our joy is in the ones we're able to
save. That's what makes it possible."
And so it must be for those like you others so often come to for solace
and blessing. I've discovered that each and every loss like this we endure
makes us just a little stronger for the next one. There really =is= a reason
for all this. It's part of the plan.
Thanks for being your part of that plan.
Love
Jon
Msg#: 3618 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:13:59
From: RICK L
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SYMPATHY
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that people who admire and respect
the two of you are thinking of you now.
Love, Rick
Msg#: 3749 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:44:19
From: JON
To: RICK L (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3618 (SYMPATHY)
> I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that people who admire and
> respect the two of you are thinking of you now.
I do, Rick. I do.
Thank you for being one of those fine and loving people. We need each
other.
Jon
Msg#: 3619 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:16:09
From: ALEX
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: RESPECTS
Dear Jon,
Please accept my sincerest condolences. May god grant you the strength
to make it through this time.
love
Alex
Msg#: 3620 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:34:16
From: PHIL ATTEY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCE
Jon,
On behalf of everyone here at the Campaign Fund, I'd like to extend our deepest
condolences.
On a personal note - though I never met John, knowing you, he must have been a
wonderful man. If there's anything that you need or that I can do, please let
me know.
Love,
Phil
Msg#: 4066 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 16:41:17
From: JON
To: PHIL ATTEY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3620 (CONDOLENCE)
Thank you so very much for your warm condolence, Phil. I needed that.
Jon
Msg#: 3622 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:48:54
From: MIKE MASON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SO SORRY
Jon,
I am so sorry to hear that you lost your life companion. Death is such a
difficult thing to accept. I recently lost a grandfather to whom I was very
close. My prayers go out to you.
My thoughts are with you, Mike Majzel
Msg#: 3625 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 09:58:02
From: ADAM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dear Jon-
I would like you to know that news of the passing of your lover brought me
great sadness. This bulletin board, which together you built up, has helped
more people than you can imagine learn more about so many things, ranging from
the world of the electronic era to the most intimate parts of their human
souls. Even to those of us who have never met you or your lover in person,
your long marriage with him, and your creations together, stand out as a
beacon and example of what it is possible to attain despite all the hurdles
which others (and sometimes we ourselves) may throw in our paths. For far too
many years I lived in a closet and shied away from life itsef, alone, in the
hinterlands, and out of touch. You two gave me the ability to communicate,
feel hope, learn of strength in numbers, and in doing so encouraged me to take
control of my life. I can only say that I dream of sharing a life with a
lover and touching the Souls of as many people in as positive a manner as you
have with your lover.
Please accept my sincerest condolences in your time of pain, and please do not
hesitate to call upon me for any reason to help you through it.
Warmest Regards, Adam Benado
Msg#: 3626 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 10:11:54
From: BANQUO
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHY
Jon,
Allow me to personally express my sympathy at your loss. I have no profound
wisdom to impart, only to say you've got such steadfast support here among the
GLIB crowd, I hope it provides some comfort in this difficult time.
Best wishes, Michael
Msg#: 3628 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 10:29:25
From: ANDREW COILE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR LOSS
Jon,
What can I say? I am *SO* sorry.
If there is anything I can do, please just let me know.
....Andrew
Msg#: 3630 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 11:38:08
From: STALLION
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDELENCES
Dear Jon,
My heart goes out to you for your loss. Though I never met John, for me
everyone who dies of this disease takes another piece of my heart with them. I
have lost many close and dear friends over the past year, and the grief never
seems to end. I wish you all the best and take comfort in your many friends.
Though many condolences sound empty at this time, they are truly meant. All
the best to you at this difficult time. Peter and Martin.
Msg#: 3631 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 11:38:22
From: PRINCESS BEAM
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Dear Jon,
Farm Boy and I send our most sincere sympathy on the loss of your beloved
partner John. May God strengthen and keep you in his care during this
difficult time. We'll remember you both in our prayers.
Jim & Byron
Msg#: 3635 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 13:39:30
From: GRADUAL STUDENT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
I was ddeeply saddened to hear of John's passing. Although I had not met John,
I feel as if I knew him through the GLIB newsletter and through discussions
here on the board. My deepest condolences go out to you, and to his friends
who had the fortune to know him.
You will be in my prayers, Clay
Msg#: 3637 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 14:32:23
From: PADDINGTON BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: PAIN
My dear man!
I grieve with you. Having done what you're doing now, I know that nothing is
real yet. If you need to talk, if you have any needs that I can help fulfill,
please just let me know.
I'd even be glad to bless his body.
I wish I could say more - but there are tears in my eyes, and a lump in my
throat the size of Texas. We're with you, Jon. And John, our beloved Wicked
Step Mother is at rest in the hands of God. We know this.
He will always be with you. Remember that.
Requiem aeternam, dona eum, Domine. Et lux perpetua luceat eum.
God be with you, my dear friend.
Stephe
Msg#: 4088 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 23:35:02
From: JON
To: PADDINGTON BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3637 (PAIN)
> I grieve with you. Having done what you're doing now, I know that
> nothing is real yet. If you need to talk, if you have any needs
> that I can help fulfill, please just let me know.
I'm a level-headed, sensible guy, and I've been able to deal with just
about everything thus far ... the loss of my Dad, my Mom's death, breakup with
two lovers I truly loved ... but this, Stephe ... I'm just not handling this
well at all.
Honest.
I know all the logic ... I know what death is, and I'm not afraid of
it. I believe in Heaven, and I'm certain John is there. I know he's better
off. I know I'll see him again someday. But every time I'm alone and let my
mind work, I howl in agony. Not just quiet weeping, but these elemental animal
screams I just cannot control. I'm trying to stay numb and in crowds,
preferably with loud music.
I'm going to look for some kind of grief counseling Monday. I'm just
not not going to be at all functional otherwise. This cannot continue ... I
fear I'm losing it.
Do you know of a good book on Grief management? I need it desperately.
Jon
Msg#: 3639 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 14:44:02
From: MR Z
To: ALL
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
Jon asked me to tell all of you how much he appreciates all the messages that
have been pouring in. The tremendous outpouring of emotional support is most
deeply appreciated.
At this time, Jon is unable to respond to every message within his normal
"five-minute" turnaround time, but please be assured Jon will read every
message to him and is comforted greatly by your kind words.
B.T.W. It was John Meroney's wish that any memorial service for him might be
amid a "sea of flowers". So if any of you feel moved to send a floral tribute,
please know that's how he wanted to be remembered.
The flowers may be sent to the Everly-Colonial Funeral Home, 6161 Leesburg
Pike, Falls Church, Virginia, (703) 532-5161. The viewings will be held
Thursday and Friday, September the 15th and 16th from 6 to 9 pm.
P.S. Please do not reply to this message. Please direct your condolences to
Jon.
Msg#: 3640 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 14:49:21
From: MR Z
To: ALL
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
Jon asked me to tell all of you how much he appreciates all the messages that
have been pouring in. The tremendous outpouring of emotional support is most
deeply appreciated.
At this time, Jon is unable to respond to every message within his normal
"five-minute" turnaround time, but please be assured Jon will read every
message to him and is comforted greatly by your kind words.
B.T.W. It was John Meroney's wish that any memorial service for him might be
amid a "sea of flowers". So if any of you feel moved to send a floral tribute,
please know that's how he wanted to be remembered.
The flowers may be sent to the Everly-Colonial Funeral Home, 6161 Leesburg
Pike, Falls Church, Virginia, (703) 532-5161. The viewings will be held
Thursday and Friday, September the 15th and 16th from 6 to 9 pm.
P.S. Please do not reply to this message. Please direct your condolences to
Jon.
Msg#: 3642 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 15:20:52
From: TEE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THINKING OF YOU...
John, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I hope that friends
and family bring you comfort and that warm, fond memories help lighten the
loss. Sincerely, Trish
Msg#: 3645 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 15:42:59
From: BART SIMPSON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Sorry to hear about John's passing. 44 is too young. Way too young.
Msg#: 3646 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 15:44:43
From: RANDY ANDY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Dearest Jon,
My most heartfelt sympathies go out to you in your loss of John. Those of us
who care can empathize but none of us will know the true extent of the loss you
are experiencing. I certainly don't have the words but perhaps Kahlil Gibran
may bring you some small amount of comfort:
"For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and melt into
the sun?
And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its
restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?
Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to
climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance."
May peace be with you,
Jim
Msg#: 4090 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 23:43:01
From: JON
To: RANDY ANDY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3646 (JOHN)
Thanks, Jim. Your Gibran passage could not have been more appropriate,
and I deeply appreciate your reminding me of it. I love The Prophet.
As a matter of fact, his passage on pain will be in the bulletin for
tomorrow's Celebration of The Life of John Meroney.
Warm hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4283 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 10:52:02
From: RANDY ANDY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4090 (JOHN)
Jon,
I hope that in time your pain will lessen and not be a burden. For now, know
that there are many of us who are here to hold you up when the pain is too
great. You are cared for by many of us here who are all too willing to help.
Be at peace,
Jim
Msg#: 4323 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 18:15:44
From: JON
To: RANDY ANDY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4283 (JOHN)
Thank you, Jim. I needed that.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 3649 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 16:07:27
From: RUGBY DAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Jon, I join the GLIB family in telling you of my profound sorrow in hearing the
news about John. Know that you and he are in my prayers. Peace be with you, my
friend.--Dan Kaufman
Msg#: 3651 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 16:17:27
From: TRIDENT MARK
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dear Jon, Please allow me to offer my heartfelt condolences on behalf of both
myself and my lover Michael (Trident Michael) on the loss of John. You have
our deepest sympathies. If there is anything that I or Michael might do to
help, please don't hesitate to ask.
With love, Mark adn Michael
Msg#: 3657 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 17:18:27
From: PG
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Jon, my deepest heartfelt sympathy goes out to you in your time of loss, though
I too have never met you or your beloved, I want to express my sadness for your
sudden loss. It is never easy to accept what has happened, but I truly feel he
is in a much better place and is with the Lord and out of pain.
If I can do anything, please let me know. Again my heart goes out to you in
your time of sorrow and loss. My deepest sympathy to you.
Perry (PG)
Msg#: 3659 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 17:28:28
From: DELINK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR LOSS
So very, very sorry to learn of your loss. The work the two of you have done
includes bringing Moumoun and myself together, and for that I shall be ever
grateful. Together, you created a community which has brought together people
who otherwise would never have met. You created a bond between men and women
of the gay and lesbian community where there had been more than a few rifts.
We can never thank you enough, nor can I express well enough how much I feel
for you in your loss. God(dess) bless.
Diana
Msg#: 3662 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 17:52:09
From: DAN WINFIELD
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: RESPECTS
Jon,
I recently found out of the passing of your beloved. I am heartfully sorry for
your loss. If there is anything that I can do please feel free to call at
anytime. I too recently lost a loved one and the pain still rips through me
from time to time. I plan on attending the viewing and the service.
Regards and god's blessings be with you.
Daniel W. Winfield., Jr, H 703.764.9003 W 703.908.7543
Msg#: 3665 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 18:47:27
From: DIGGER DAVE
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
I was so very sorry to hear about Jon's death. You aren't alone. Remember to
reach out when you feel able to. I'm 2x widowed (1981 and 1994); I don't
really know you except as my sysop, but would be more than happy to provide an
electronic or real ear if you need any practical tips or just to talk. Be as
well as you can.
-Digger Dave
Msg#: 4091 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 00:18:56
From: JON
To: DIGGER DAVE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3665 (CONDOLENCES)
> Remember to reach out when you feel able to. I'm 2x widowed (1981
> and 1994); I don't really know you except as my sysop, but would be
How on earth did you bear it twice? How could anyone? Through the
loss of my mother, my father, and two broken love affairs, this is just far
worse than anything I could ever imagine.
Jon
Msg#: 4138 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 08:40:23
From: DIGGER DAVE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4091 (CONDOLENCES)
How did I survive being twice widowed? I'm not sure how, except that I did,
with time ... LOTS and LOTS of time. It truly _is_ the worst thing that can
happen. I just kept going, never could have imagined it would be as bad as it
was, but somehow my plate grew as more and more things filled it up. Thinking
of you.
-Digger Dave
Msg#: 3667 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 19:12:00
From: EDDIE
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Dear Jon,
Love is not all: it is not meat nor drink
Nor slumber nor a roof against the rain;
Nor yet a floating spar to men that sink
And rise and sink and rise and sink again;
Love can not fill the thickened lung with breath,
Nor clean the blood, nor set the fractured bone;
Yet many a man is making friends with death
Even as I speak, for lack of love alone.
Edna St. Vincent Millay
Jon - I read these words a few months ago at the funeral of my father. In
times of loss - especially the loss of a partner in life - it helps to know
that our love is the best of ourselves and the greatest gift that we had to
give. You've given John your love - your gift of yourself - and the two of
you have given much to us who know you only through your works.
No words can take away your pain, or comfort you when emptiness and lonliness
come. Perhaps there is some comfort in knowing you are in the thoughts and
prayers of those who have been touched by your loss - and by your gifts.
May God bless and keep you safe,
Eddie
Msg#: 4092 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 00:22:12
From: JON
To: EDDIE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3667 (JOHN)
> No words can take away your pain, or comfort you when emptiness and
> lonliness come. Perhaps there is some comfort in knowing you are in
> the thoughts and prayers of those who have been touched by your loss
> - and by your gifts.
Yes, Eddie, that knowlede brings great comfort. And thank for quoting
St. Vincent Millay. Those are indeed lovely words.
Jon
Msg#: 3668 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 19:16:07
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon,
I'm deeply saddened to hear of John's passing. We all loved him dearly,
but it's rare to see a love so deep and true as the bond between the two of
you. If there's anything I can do to help you through your time of grief, just
call - even if you just feel a need to talk.
Phil
481-5271
Msg#: 4093 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 00:23:18
From: JON
To: M M (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3668 (JOHN)
Thank you, Phil. Your condolence means the world to me.
Jon
Msg#: 3669 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 19:23:07
From: JANE MORGAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
My deepest condolences to you. I'm sure God granted John the peace he deserved
a half hour before the devil knew he was gone.
Msg#: 4094 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 00:24:12
From: JON
To: JANE MORGAN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3669 (JOHN)
> My deepest condolences to you. I'm sure God granted John the peace
> he deserved a half hour before the devil knew he was gone.
Thank you, Dear Jane, and yes, I susptect you're quite right.
Jon
Msg#: 3670 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 19:26:55
From: NORDIC TRACKER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
I'm sorry to hear about your loss, Jon. I met Mrs. Syop some time ago at a
wonderful New Year's Eve party you had at your house. I'm sorry I didn't know
John better. Take good care of yourself during this difficult time. My
thoughts will be with you. I'm glad John is now at peace. Rob
Msg#: 3672 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 19:56:00
From: H RON SMITH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHY
I am sorry to hear of your lover's death. I am sure it is a very difficult
time for you. May you find peace in your own way during this period of grief.
RS
Msg#: 3673 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 20:14:42
From: JEFF AKBAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: WHEN I MUST LEAVE YOU
When I must leave you for a little while Please do not grieve and shed wild
tears, And hug your sorrow to you through the years, But start out bravely with
a gallant smile And for my sake and in my name Live on and do all things the
same Feed not your loneliness on empty days, But fill each waken hour in useful
ways Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer, and in turn will comfort you
and hold you near, And never, never be afraid to die for I am waiting For you
in the sky
Jon...While I have never met you or Mr. Meroney, my
deepest sympathies go out to you as you grieve your loss. May God watch over
you and keep you. Jonathan (Jeff Akbar)
Msg#: 3676 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 21:39:55
From: KAYE CRADY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Jon,
I know there are no words which are easy to hear in this time of your loss. I
feel I might be able to understand a fraction of what you must feel, having
lost my father a few short weeks ago. I just want you to know that you are in
my thoughts and prayers.
Take care
kaye crady
Msg#: 3684 *John Meroney*
09/13/94 23:58:10
From: SHANE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: IN MEMORY OF MRS. SYSOP
Dear Jon,
We who take so much from this living, breathing creation called GLIB, the
beneficiaries of all the work that you and John Meroney have put in, were
honored beyond expression by the series of messages you posted, sharing the
events of the past week.
First was the message of 09/06/94 11:15:27, Subj: JOHN MERONEY:
> Last evening, we checked my life partner and your "Mrs. Sysop", John
> Meroney, into Sibley hospital, The initial diagnosis is pancreas failure,
> a potentially life-threatening situation.
Next came that of 09/11/94 20:52:11, Subj: JOHN'S IN INTENSIVE CARE:
> I just returned from the hospital. They've got him on some pretty
> potent antibiotics, and that's brought his blood oxygen level up and out of
> danger ... so we're praying he'll get through the night OK.
And then the message of 09/12/94 22:08:10:
> From: JON
> To: ALL
> Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
>
> Dearest GLIB friends ...
>
> This evening at 6:00 pm, your beloved "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate,
> John Meroney, died peacefully.
In private E-mail to me this afternoon, a GLIBBER, who lost his life mate
about two months ago, said:
> I was very sorry to hear about John Meroney. I left Jon a message, and
> would be glad to help out in anyway. I'm sure he has many close friends,
> and there is probably little for me to do. If you know of an organization
> to which I could make a contribution in his name, I could at least do
> that. I don't know that I can go to another funeral...but would still like
> to express my sympathy in some way. If you have any good ideas let me
> know.
I replied to him:
> One way we can memorialize John Meroney is by making a contribution to
> the Upper Westsider Fund in his memory.
I was out for a while, and KEVIN SCOTT called me. He had just learned of
John's passing, and felt that he needed to talk to someone, live by voice. I
mentioned the above exchange to him, and he reminded me of the post from you:
> Msg#:14761 *ODDS 'N ENDS*
> 09/01/94 21:39:28
> From: JON
> To: ALL
> Subj: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
>
> CIVIC-MINDED VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
>
> We are in need of volunteers to chair and serve on the Upper Westsider
> Fund Committee. The fund is administered by our parent organization, CESF,
> and this committee is responsible for raising funds, revitalizing used
> (donated) computer equipment, and helping with distribution and
> installation of this equipment for other qualifying non-profit community
> organizations in our area.
>
> This is a worthwhile program we'd hate to see terminated. We need a
> few energetic movers and shakers to chair this committee and to help keep
> it going immediately. Otherwise, we'll have to end it. If you are
> interested in getting actively involved, please leave an e-mail message
> here on GLIB for John Meroney, or call our GLIB/CESF Voice Mail system at
> 703-379-4568. In either case, be sure to give him a voice phone number
> where he can reach you to chat about it.
>
> We can all be proud of the good work this project has done in the
> past, and we hope it can continue far into the future.
>
> Jon
> President, CESF
> Sysop, GLIB
May I suggest that contributions of either time or money made to the Fund in
John's name, would be an appropriate way of honoring John's memory. This will
serve as a living memorial to him, as well as to the many other GLIBBER's who
"have gone before."
I thought about volunteering when I first read the message, but I put it
off. If you do not already have enough volunteers to keep the Upper Westsider
Fund Committee going, please add my name to the list. It will be harder to
continue, without the direct conversation with John, but that is the usual
price of procrastination.
Sincerely ( and ruefully ) yours,
Ed Ricketts
Msg#: 4095 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 01:04:41
From: JON
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3684 (IN MEMORY OF MRS. SYSOP)
Thank you, Ed.
Jon
Msg#: 3687 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 01:16:26
From: POSEIDON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY THOUGHTS
Dear Jon...I was very sorry to read of your loss. I wish that words held the
power to mend. My thoughts are with you. --Bill
Msg#: 3689 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 02:04:02
From: FANTOM
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: HUGGGS
I know there is not a lot one can say at this point, but I'd like to simply
offer you a big hug. It sounds as if John is love.... and love never truly
dies... it just changes.
Huggggs Dennis
Msg#: 3691 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 09:29:22
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: THANK YOU
Thank you all, for your kind messages of sympathy and support.
As you can see, I haven't read most of them posted during the past day
or two. I just am not able to. I'm in deep grief here, and it's just too
painful at the moment.
But I will. I promise. And even before I do, I must just tell you how
very very much your help and support means to me.
Mr. Z is here and has been for the past two days ... I could not have
gotten through this without him. Other close friends have been in and out and
will be for the next few days, and I can lean on them as I need to.
Love
Jon
Msg#: 3694 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 09:58:26
From: DAVID KEEPNEWS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Jon, I just wanted to add my sincere condolences on your loss. Please know
that both of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
DAVID KEEPNEWS
Msg#: 3696 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 11:55:55
From: TRIBUTE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon, I wanted to express my sorrow at your loss. I haven't been online that
long and don't even know you but was so touched by your lovely tribute to your
man, John. I lost my true love last year at this same time and someone said to
me that it was fitting that my Bruce pass on at the changing of the seasons -
life being renewed ever changing. Bless you these next few days and look to
your friends and family for comfort. Robert (Tribute) from Fla.
Msg#: 3698 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 12:10:09
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN
The Memorial Celebration of John Meroney's life will be this coming
Sunday, September 18th at:
Clarendon United Methodist Church
606 North Irving Street
Arlington, Virginia 22201
Time yet to be determined, but probably late afternoon, early evening.
Please check back here for exact time, or check with us at the funeral home ...
we hope to have that information there tomorrow evening.
Following the celebration service, the ladies of the church will feed
us all in the church Fellowship Hall. This will be lots of the kind of good
home cooking "Mrs. Sysop" would have wanted you to enjoy. Please join us as we
honor and remember a great man.
With love
Jon
P.S. ... Just to reiterate: Friends will be received Thursday and Friday
evenings, September 15th and 16th, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22204
Phone: 703-532-5161
Msg#: 3699 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 12:11:09
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN
The Memorial Celebration of John Meroney's life will be this coming
Sunday, September 18th at:
Clarendon United Methodist Church
606 North Irving Street
Arlington, Virginia 22201
Time yet to be determined, but probably late afternoon, early evening.
Please check back here for exact time, or check with us at the funeral home ...
we hope to have that information there tomorrow evening.
Following the celebration service, the ladies of the church will feed
us all in the church Fellowship Hall. This will be lots of the kind of good
home cooking "Mrs. Sysop" would have wanted you to enjoy. Please join us as we
honor and remember a great man.
With love
Jon
P.S. ... Just to reiterate: Friends will be received Thursday and Friday
evenings, September 15th and 16th, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22204
Phone: 703-532-5161
Msg#: 3751 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 22:15:35
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3699 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
Jon,
it was my honor to have both you and John at my home for dinner six
weeks ago, a wonderful experience, and it left a great feeling of friendship in
my heart.
I wish I could come to John's service on Sunday, but are unable unless
I come by ambulance, because of my foot surgery this Friday at noon. Be assured
that I will pray for John, and will be there with you all in spirit.
And a last minute farewell visit tomorrow evening at the funeral home.
Hugs, John
Msg#: 3767 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 00:43:19
From: JON
To: JOHN KURTZ (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3751 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
John ... please know that your visit to the funeral home tomorrow
evening will be more than a sufficient tribute to John. It's a significant
drive for you, and I will look forward to seeing you.
P.S. ... I sure hope the foot surgery goes well. Not fun.
Jon
Msg#: 3806 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 10:37:42
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3767 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
Isn't it somehow fitting that the Washington Post article on GLIB appeared this
morning? A tribute to everyone who has made GLIB what is it is....
I couldn't read the article without thinking of John, and knowing that without
his active support, insight, and foresight, that GLIB could had never been what
it has become, and that I would had never had the opportunity to meet such a
wonderful man as John Merony.
I shared one of your messages to "ALL" announcing John's passing, with two of
my closest friends. It was the best way I knew of explaining to them the
sorrow and pain that the whole GLIB family feels.
I consider myself very fortunate to be a member of such a great enterprise, and
forever in debt to John for making this possible.
Msg#: 4145 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:07:47
From: JON
To: KEVIN SCOTT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3806 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
> Isn't it somehow fitting that the Washington Post article on GLIB
> appeared this morning? A tribute to everyone who has made GLIB
> what is it is....
Yes, most especially to John.
> I consider myself very fortunate to be a member of such a great
> enterprise, and forever in debt to John for making this possible.
As we stumble along through this life, many people cross our paths.
Some are invisible, but seem to leave just the smallest impression to mark
their having been here. Others are quite easily noticed, if not impossible to
ignore, but seem to leave nothing behind their passage. Still others shake the
earth for better or worse, and it settles down somehow changed forever.
John was a man impossible to ignore who not only improved me, but made
a profoundly positive impact in our community. From an emotionally painful
childhood through a physically painful past 20 years, he grew to leave behind
not just his own brand of curmudgeonly love from a heart full of compassion,
but from his all too brief visit, a world just slightly altered for the better.
You and I can apire to nothing greater.
If this life is only one journey through an eternal quest for
perfection, this time around John must surely have nearly made it.
Jon
Msg#: 4173 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 14:05:23
From: SUGAR BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4145 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
Jon,
Be gentle with yourself. All things in time.......one day and then the
next, and then the next.....with a Power Invisible but Invited.
Love,
Ed
Msg#: 4195 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 20:59:59
From: JON
To: SUGAR BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4173 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
I know, Ed. I know.
The Celebration this evening helped immensely. It was as John would
have wanted it ... beautiful.
Jon
Msg#: 4199 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:07:10
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4195 (MEMORIAL CELEBRATION FOR JOHN)
Jon,
> The Celebration this evening helped immensely. It was as
> John would have wanted it ... beautiful.
So true! It was just like John - first class.
Phil
Msg#: 3716 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 16:43:34
From: KATHERINE DELORENZO
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR LUV
Jon,
I can't tell ya how sorry I am for your -- and our -- loss. I've never met
"Mrs. Sysop" but I know enough about him to understand what a wonderful
"presence" he was behind Glib and as your number one.
Kath
Msg#: 3719 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 16:56:38
From: HOMBRON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon, I only briefly met John about two years ago, but when I heard of his
passing, I was deeply saddened and teary-eyed. This is amazing to me since I
did not really know him, but I guess it's because we've all gotten to know
*you*, electronically, at least, and consequently, John through you. My heart
goes out to you.
Love,
Scott
Msg#: 3734 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:46:51
From: BACTM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN MERONEY
Dear Jon,
What can I say? I have not met you nor have I met John. As a
relatively new GLIB member, i have been received into the community that you
and John built with compassion, love, understanding and solace and I'm
endlessly grateful to you both for providing the access to a community of
lovely people for me.
You are both in my prayers and thoughts. With love from a stranger
whose life you have helped immeasurably i am,
Truly yours,
Tom Noonan
May the good Lord keep and hold you both in the palm of his hand forever in
love.
Msg#: 3737 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 20:59:00
From: TESS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: DEEPEST SYMPATHIES
Jon,
There are no words which can convey the sympathy I have in my heart.
Just know that my thoughts are w/you. And I truly am very sorry.
Msg#: 3742 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:17:10
From: CHARLES RYAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj:
Very sorry to hear the sudden sad news. Best wishes for you in recovering from
this and may peace be with John.
Charles
Msg#: 3750 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 21:55:36
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: EVENTUALLY ...
I hope to someday make it through all the wonderful, kind, loving, and
deeply moving messages of hope and help and love so many of you have posted to
me.
I confess I'm a bit overwhelmed by all of this. I've never ever
experienced quite so much love from quite so many, quite so quickly.
It's tough to read them, but very very necessary to me, and I dearly
thank each of you for your condolences.
Please forgive me if I simply cannot reply to each and every one of
you. I want to ... but I don't think I'll ever be able to do so.
Know that as I read your messages (sometimes fuzzily, through tears), I
am warmed by your love. You're all making this much easier for me. What a
blessing you are for me.
Thank you, dear friends.
Jon
Msg#: 3762 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 23:54:09
From: ALISON PLAYS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3750 (EVENTUALLY ...)
This is the reason that GLIB is #3 in the Boardwatch contest, this is th
reason why I voted for it as the best board - GLIB is a special community.
Glib is a family. GLIB has brought some of us out, helped others gain
confidence in ourselves, helped us find a "home", helped us find a job, helped
us be proud of who we are.
A BBS is strongly influcenced by the people who run it, the sysops set
the atmosphere, you as the technical voice and John as the business wizard
(and he had to be a wizard to be able to offer free access with no file ratios,
no time limits, access to all the areas, internet email and not be relegated to
2400 baud lines - most other bbs's penalize free accounts, 30 minutes a day,
1mg download a day, no internet - hobbles them in some way.)
But somehow - GLIB offers a community, communication, connection and caring.
We've been drawn by you and John into a supportive, family atmosphere. You've
made us feel at home. GLIB is our home and you are "ours" in a way. If only we
could support you in a fraction of the way you've helped many of us.
Its fitting that GLIB is a living memorial to him. And I challenge all of us
to remember that, when we make Glib the #1 Board next year - in honor of John,
who worked so hard to give this to us.
Thank you.
Thank John.
Alison
Msg#: 3853 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 20:56:06
From: PADDINGTON BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3750 (EVENTUALLY ...)
Jon, my dear friend:
If we are 1/132 of the blessing to you that you and John are and have been to
all of us, we're doing well.
We love you. We love John (I refuse to use the past tense!). We're here for
you!
Msg#: 3755 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 23:22:37
From: MOVIEMAN XXX
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHY
I'm afraid that you're not going to feel like mcuh for a year or so. But you
WILL recover and find strength and happiness in your memories of John. I KNOW
this will happen because I've been through every step of it. Just keep busy and
wait for the wround to heal. If you need an understanding shoulder, mine is
always available. Barring a last-minute change of plans, the Broom Lady and I
will be at the funeral home around 6 tomorrow night. Will see you then. Joel
Msg#: 4144 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 09:35:19
From: JON
To: MOVIEMAN XXX (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3755 (MY SYMPATHY)
> Barring a last-minute change of plans, the Broom Lady and I will be
> at the funeral home around 6 tomorrow night. Will see you then. Joel
Only today have I gotten through the messages to yours, Joel. Your
visit to the funeral home helped me a great deal, and I appreciated it
sincerely.
Thank you for your kind words.
Jon
Msg#: 4170 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 13:51:40
From: MOVIEMAN XXX
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4144 (MY SYMPATHY)
Actually, I felt a bit like an intruder among all John's friends. I only saw
him once across your living room and never spoke to him. But I knew about his
through Ralph, and wanted to be there to offer whatever support I could for you
at a difficult time. If you get the blues in the weeks ahead and would like to
go out to dinner or some other diversion, please give me a ring. J.
Msg#: 3757 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 23:36:07
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: CAN I DO ANYTHING?
So very many of you, while expressing your beautiful messages of
condolence, have kindly asked "Is there anything I can do?"
Yes, as a matter of fact there is, and to tell you the truth, the
request is John's.
Most couples discuss death at some point or other, and John expressed
to me two desires, should he go first and I remain. The first was, as he put
it:
"When I'm laid out, I want it to be in a sea of flowers."
As I do, John dearly loved flowers. Flowers of all kinds.
So, what you can do is a very simple thing, but it will mean the world
to me and the rest of us who knew John's wishes ... send flowers.
Send anything from one carnation in a bud vase to however and whatever
your heart and feelings dictate ... but should you care to, please help me
surround John with flowers. That's how he wanted it.
They should be delivered to:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22044
If you have a florist, please use them. If you want to drop off a
bouquet of your own garden flowers, please do. If you don't have a florist,
please feel free to patronize ours, the one handling all John's formal flowers.
They're "The Flower Gallery", and their phone number is: 202-331-1453. Just
tell them your order is for "Mr. Meroney's Funeral", and they'll expertly take
care of it.
What was John's other request? Those of you who attend his Memorial
Celebration on Sunday afternoon will know.
With sincere love and gratitude
Jon
Msg#: 3758 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 23:39:43
From: TONE POEM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Jon,
I am incredibly bad at this sort of thing, so I will just say that I am sorry
and that you and John are in my thoughts.
Byron
Msg#: 3759 *John Meroney*
09/14/94 23:40:10
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO?
So very many of you, while expressing your beautiful messages of
condolence, have kindly asked "Is there anything I can do?"
Yes, as a matter of fact there is, and to tell you the truth, the
request is John's.
Most couples discuss death at some point or other, and John expressed
to me two desires, should he go first and I remain. The first was, as he put
it:
"When I'm laid out, I want it to be in a sea of flowers."
As I do, John dearly loved flowers. Flowers of all kinds.
So, what you can do is a very simple thing, but it will mean the world
to me and the rest of us who knew John's wishes ... send flowers.
Send anything from one carnation in a bud vase to however and whatever
your heart and feelings dictate ... but should you care to, please help me
surround John with flowers. That's how he wanted it.
They should be delivered to:
Everly-Colonial Funeral Home
6161 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22044
If you have a florist, please use them. If you want to drop off a
bouquet of your own garden flowers, please do. If you don't have a florist,
you may choose to patronize ours, the one handling all John's formal flowers.
They're "The Flower Gallery", and their phone number is: 202-331-1453. Just
tell them your order is for "Mr. Meroney's Funeral", and they'll expertly take
care of it.
What was John's other request? Those of you who attend his Memorial
Celebration on Sunday afternoon will know.
With sincere love and gratitude
Jon
Msg#: 3768 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 04:44:08
From: ZRAY
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: PERSEVERANCE
just a note in honor of your late lover and a hope that you will find new
strength. Perseverance is a word that comes to mind. i wish you well in this
trying moment.
Msg#: 3791 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 07:53:11
From: LARRY MILLHOFER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dear Jon,
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. Chronic pancreatitis is such a
devastating disease. You have my deepest sympathy, Larry
Msg#: 3794 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 08:34:15
From: JON
To: LARRY MILLHOFER (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3791 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you so very much for your kindness, Larry.
If only pancreatitis had been John's =only= problem, he might have made
it. He suffered from so many systematic failures, one by one, over the years,
he was truly a living miracle for the last of them.
Oh, God, how I loved that man.
Jon
Msg#: 3801 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 09:39:30
From: FURRY ONE
To: ALL
Subj: ARTICLE ON GLIB
The 9/15/94 issue of the Washington Post has a little blurb in the Style
section on GLIB and its success in the Boardwatch Best BBS Contest. I suggest
you all read it.
Furry
Msg#: 3803 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 10:29:48
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: FURRY ONE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3801 (ARTICLE ON GLIB)
Todd, it's great that GLIB is the first "CyberSurfing" article on page C7 of
today's Washington Post! Jon's quotes are very good. Pete.
Msg#: 3811 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 11:13:56
From: ADVENTURING
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCE
I would like to add my condolences to those expressed by others. Although I do
not know you or John personally, I recognize the tidal force of regret and
sorrow such an absence causes in our lives. May you find peace in the memory of
love you preserve...
-E.
Msg#: 3819 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 12:56:11
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: GLIB ARTICLE IN TODAY'S WASH POST !!
WOW ... GLIB gets headlines in today's Washington Post!
Please turn to page C7 in today's (Thursday, September 15th) Washington
Post Newspaper.
There, you'll see, at the top of the page - "GLIB: Users Are Talking It
Up"
Mrs. Sysop would have been so proud ...
Jon
Msg#: 3827 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 14:30:04
From: ALISON PLAYS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3819 (GLIB ARTICLE IN TODAY'S WASH POST !!)
YAH!
Another thing that I saw in the cybersurf article that I thought was ironic
was the article on the Internet and Sex - GLIB beat the Wash. Post - I posted
the article and some information on the proposed regulations on Decency and
On-line services liabilities yesterday in O&E. To bad the post failed to
spread the REALLY important information content the article it excerpted was
trying to conveny on its subject.
Msg#: 3851 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 20:49:35
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3819 (GLIB ARTICLE IN TODAY'S WASH POST !!)
> Mrs. Sysop would have been so proud ...
Jon, Mrs. Sysop *IS* proud, but is just having a little trouble
communicating it right now. John's pride when pride is proper is immortal.
Always has been - always will be. That was one of the things I love about the
man.
Phil
Msg#: 3830 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 14:45:14
From: RICHARD CLARK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: RELATIONSHIPS
Yes, good relationships are so hard to let go. From what I hear from other
folks you had a wonderful relationship, I'd say it's similar to the 26 years
that Ted and I have had together. VERY FEW bad moments and so many good
moments and I pray that those good moments will always stay with you.
Jon, no need to response, since I know that you are probably very very busy and
there isn't any of us here that would expect you to take from your time when
you have so much more that needs to be done now.
Msg#: 3834 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:01:43
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MINOR GLITCH
Well, into all great plans a glitch or two falls ...
We're definitely doing the Memorial Celebration of John's Life Sunday
afternoon, as announced, but there can be no following reception ...
Seems the women of the church are just not able to get it together on
such short notice (which doesn't surprise me ... we were asking for a lot
there).
We will plan a feed of some kind appropriate to Mrs. Sysop in the near
future ... which will actually give us a chance to do another social thing he
would have been proud of.
BUT PLEASE COME ANYWAY! It should be a marvelous event.
See ya there?
Much Hugz
Jon
Msg#: 3835 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:03:33
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MINOR GLITCH ...
Well, into all great plans a glitch or two falls ...
We're definitely doing the Memorial Celebration of John's Life Sunday
afternoon, as announced, but there can be no following reception ...
Seems the women of the church are just not able to get it together on
such short notice (which doesn't surprise me ... we were asking for a lot
there).
We will plan a feed of some kind appropriate to Mrs. Sysop in the near
future ... which will actually give us a chance to do another social thing he
would have been proud of.
BUT PLEASE COME ANYWAY! It should be a marvelous event.
See ya there?
Much Hugz
Jon
Msg#: 3856 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 21:04:28
From: PADDINGTON BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3835 (MINOR GLITCH ...)
Please repeat the location and time of the Memorial Service.
Msg#: 4153 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:49:15
From: JON
To: PADDINGTON BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3856 (MINOR GLITCH ...)
> Please repeat the location and time of the Memorial Service.
Sunday, September 18th, at 4:00 pm.
Clarendon United Methodist Church
606 North Irving Street
Arlington, Virginia
North Irving turns from Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard). The Church is
six blocks from Arlington Boulevard, at the corner of 6th Street and North
Irving.
Jon
Msg#: 3837 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:09:13
From: BIG FOOT
To: ALL
Subj: DIRECTIONS TO THE MEMORIAL
Dear fellow Glibbers:
I have but one small request. Could someone who lives in rlington and knows
wehre both the Funeral Home and Church are post directions here? I found out
how to get to the Funeral Home by asking my boss. So please start the
directions to both locations begining at 395. Also, if you could include a
landmark that one would pass if one had driven past the location, that would
help too. Some of us who live in MD tend to feel a little lost when driving in
the Old Dominion.
Msg#: 3840 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:27:02
From: KATHERINE DELORENZO
To: BIG FOOT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3837 (DIRECTIONS TO THE MEMORIAL)
Yes, I'd also like instructions on how to get to the memorial service on Friday
via Metro and Bus. If anyone knows off the top of their head, please post.
Kath
Msg#: 3842 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:35:08
From: BIG FOOT
To: KATHERINE DELORENZO (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3840 (DIRECTIONS TO THE MEMORIAL)
WEll, one could always call METRO. That is what I would do if I weren't
driving. STill, the directions should be here.
Msg#: 3847 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 18:20:53
From: BON VIVANT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN MERONEY
My dear dear Jon: I grieve for you with all my heart.
. I just wish I had communicated better with your dear John. I did appreciate
him and am afraid I was clumsy in trying to express it.
. And I recall that on my last visit I overstayed my welcome. I do hope he
forgave me.
. I know you will throw yourself even more into your absorbing pursuits to hold
down the staggering grief.
. I have pre-purchased my own funeral from Everly. They seem like fine people,
and I am more comfortable in knowing that they will make brief and efficient
work of it when my time comes: and that I will have an inconspicuous square
foot of turf at Arlington cemetery. No work whatever for my 5 relatives and
diminishing very few friends. But two doctors tell me separately that that will
likely be circa 2028.
Msg#: 4150 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:29:08
From: JON
To: BON VIVANT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3847 (JOHN MERONEY)
> I just wish I had communicated better with your dear John. I did
> appreciate him and am afraid I was clumsy in trying to express it.
John loved you, dear friend.
> And I recall that on my last visit I overstayed my welcome. I do
> hope he forgave me.
John forgave everything. Long before his death he even forgave the
folks who made his childhood miserable. No grudges accompany John to heaven.
> I have pre-purchased my own funeral from Everly. They seem like fine
What a brilliant idea. I may do the same. With only one potential
problem I'll explain publicly here later when I'm able, things there went
beautifully, and I am pleased with Everly's services.
Best regards
Jon
Msg#: 3857 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 21:43:01
From: MARC C
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting John, from the comments I've read
about him over the years on GLIB he must have been a wonderful person. Words
are always inadequate at a time like this, but I wish to convey my condolences.
Marcus
Msg#: 3858 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 21:54:29
From: DIRK BEACH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: OUR SYMPATHIES
Dearest Jon,
Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of John. Although
we did not know him personally, we share your grief, and wish you well. We
pray for his soul and know that he is at peace in a place where there is no
suffering or sorrow. Look back and remember the good times and the happiness
that he brought to you when you miss him the most. It is not a bad thing to
grieve, but a part of living and knowing that you *CAN* go on doing what John
knew was inportant to you, and to him.
Again, our deepest sympathies to you, and please know that John's name
will be lifted up in praise and thanksgiving by us in our worship service this
sunday. God bless you, and keep you.
Dirk Beach and Bob Barrow
Msg#: 3864 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 22:36:11
From: RED SONJA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Alison Plays advised me of our recent loss, and i do so regret that i will
not be able to pay my respects this weekend--my mother is expecting me for
her birthday. So i am sending Alison and a bunch of marigolds from my
garden in my stead.
i don't think i ever had the pleasure of meeting John in person. However,
i *have* had the pleasure for over a year now of acquainting myself with
his and your handiwork--GLIB, which has so enriched my life beyond
measure. i wouldn't have found my dear Alison and my many GLIB friends
without you!
Nothing beautiful is ever truly lost. He dwells, still, in the city of the
heart, as do we all.
Thanks, John. And thank you, Jon
Yours,
red sonja (Nan Fredman)
Msg#: 4154 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:51:25
From: JON
To: RED SONJA (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3864 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you for your kind and supportive words, Nan. I need them.
Best regards
Jon
Msg#: 3868 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 23:03:35
From: SHANE
To: ALL
Subj: DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMORIAL SVC.
In response to the requests for directions:
TO THE FUNERAL HOME:
BY CAR:
FROM either North or South bound on I-395:
Take the VA Route 7 exit North or West bound for Baileys Crossroads.
This is called King Street at that point, but it becomes Leesburg Pike.
Cross Columbia Pike, and watch for the Everly-Colonial Funeral Home on
the left, just beyond Glen Carlyn Road on the right. If you reach
Seven Corners, you have gone too far.
BY METRO:
East Falls Church Metro Station on the ORANGE Line looks to be the closest,
but is quite some distance away. Bus Routes are not available to me, so I
cannot advise from there. Sycamore/Roosevelt Street goes southeast toward
Seven Corners, and the funeral home is beyond that on the west side of
Leesburg Pike.
TO THE CLARENDON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH :
BY CAR:
From map recon ( I will do a real one Friday during the day,) the directions
to the church are as follows:
FROM Lincoln Memorial/Arlington Memorial Bridge, or Theodore Roosevelt
Bridge:
Go west on US 50, going under two bridges. Take the next exit to the right,
onto 10th Street. Go 10 (or so) blocks, and turn left onto Irving Street.
Clarendon Methodist Church is about 5 blocks ahead, on the left.
BY METRO:
Take the ORANGE Line to Clarendon Metro Station. Irving Street appears to
be
just west of the station. One block (long) to the south of that is 10th
Street. Clarendon Methodist Church is about 5 blocks further, on the left.
Peace, Ed R
Msg#: 3949 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 09:25:19
From: SOFT BUTCH
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3868 (DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMORIAL SVC.)
Thanks, Ed...'appreciate it
Soft Butch
Msg#: 3998 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 21:49:06
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3868 (DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMORIAL SVC.)
Yes...thanks!! we Marylanders get lost in the Land of Virgins real easy!
Msg#: 4002 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 22:50:46
From: SHANE
To: KEVIN SCOTT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3998 (DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMORIAL SVC.)
Dear Scott,
You said to me:
> .... get lost in the Land of Virgins real easy!
Other than the base canrd that there is no such land , do you need
operating instructions ?
< G >
Ed, who oft times feels totally lost ...
Msg#: 4044 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 09:59:35
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: SHANE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4002 (DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMORIAL SVC.)
> Other than the base canrd that there is no such land , do you
> need operating instructions ?
no...only batteries.
Msg#: 3870 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 00:01:52
From: AQUABEARVA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SYMPATHIES
Dear Jon...
I know an e-mail sympathy card looks kinda tacky, but at least it allows
instant reaction.
My deepest sympathies on the passing of your partner. I never knew him, but I
know from what you and others on GLIB have said of him that he must have been a
wonderful person.
Anything I can do for you, let me know...
Dave
Msg#: 3873 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 00:53:23
From: HOT LEGS
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: YOU
Dear Jon, I am most saddened to hear of your recent loss, it is times like this
when I stop to think of how thankful I am for the people who are with me now,
and the times I am permitted to share with them. I will be thinking of you in
my most deepest prayers and know that comfort will somehow come to you in this
time of need. Be strong as I know you will, most sincere thoughts...Joseph
Hancock. If you need to talk to someone, you can call me (202) 547-8126. I'll
be here. ;-)
xoooooooooo
Msg#: 3881 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 02:06:16
From: JOD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
Jon:
This is indeed sad news and I'm at a loss of what to say to properly express
our concerns. Please realize that while we may not be able to comfort you in
person, all of the GayCom sysops are electronically with you during what I can
only imagine to be a most difficult time.
With hugs (and shared tears),
JOD and Robert Randy
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The GayCom Hub Site at gLiTcH (207:1/0)
Msg#: 3884 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 06:08:17
From: ERIC BLAIR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3881 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon:
My deepest sympathies. And as I said, if there is anything that I can do to
help, don't be shy, just ask.
Huggs and *stuff*
Ephraim
--- FLAME v1.1
* Origin: La messagerie qui a de la gueule: S-TEK (514)597-2409 (207:1/201)
Msg#: 3899 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 07:23:20
From: PHIL DERMOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3884 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Our heartfelt sympathy Jon. May your electronic friends here and your friends
there give you the support and strength to get through the pain and sorrow of
your lost.
Phil
--- FLAME v1.1
* Origin: The Gay Blade - Toronto, ON - (905)882-4800 (207:1/202)
Msg#: 3905 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 06:48:27
From: ROBERT SCHLUP
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3899 (RE: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
In our last thrilling episode, Jon shocked Sysop by saying:
Jo> Dearest GLIB friends ...
Jon, You have Mike's and my deepest sympathies. We were sorry and saddened to
read your message this morning.
If there is anything that we can do to help ease this time of transition for
you, please don't hesitate to ask either of us.
Sincerely,
Bob and Mike
--- Blue Wave/Max v2.12
* Origin: GayCom on Denver's Levi/Leather BBS 303-399-4385 (207:1/112)
Msg#: 3907 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 08:10:00
From: FESTUS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3905 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
JO> Monday evening, September 12th, at 6:00 pm, your beloved JO>"Mrs.
Sysop", and my Life Mate, John Meroney, died peacefully.
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you.
God bless Phil
* OLX 2.1 TD * Backup not found: (A)bort (R)etry (P)anic
--- WM v3.11/93-0992
* Origin: Alabama's GayCom Connection - Torch Song BBS (205) 328-1 (207:1/23)
Msg#: 3943 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 12:29:45
From: ROBERT GOSLIN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3907 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> Monday evening, September 12th, at 6:00 pm, your beloved
> "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate, John Meroney, died peacefully.
Sorry to hear that. Our prayers are with you.
Robert
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The Leather Connection, New Orleans, LA (504) 454-0380 (207:1/111)
Msg#: 3944 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 14:54:59
From: LUCKY ERNIE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3943 (RE: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> Monday evening, September 12th, at 6:00 pm, your
> beloved
> "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate, John Meroney, died peacefully. ouch. John
was a terrific guy and I'm proud to have known him. All of us at The Personals
send our sympathies for your loss. Love, J.
--- Opus-CBCS 1.73a
* Origin: Are you as confused about this as I am? (207:1/12.0)
Msg#: 3974 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 15:15:46
From: JON
To: JOD
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3881 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Thank you, JOD, and to all of you fine guys and ladies of GayCom, for
your kind words, prayers, and thoughts.
"With a little help from my friends" (actually quite a lot, as a matter
of fact), I'm getting through it. We finally lined up the bagpiper to march
out of the church and into the distance playing "Amazing Grace" at the end of
the Celebration of John's Life service scheduled for this coming Sunday, I got
the programs printed this afternoon, so maybe I can take a breath (and probably
cry again).
It's times like this one not only wonders how one would survive without
friends, but also the real meaning of the gift the death of a recently departed
friend bestows.
Hugs 'n stuff
Jon
Msg#: 4024 *John Meroney*
09/15/94 17:00:00
From: JOSHUA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3974 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
-=> Quoting Jon to Sysop on 09-13-94 07:19 <=-
Jo> Monday evening, September 12th, at 6:00 pm, your beloved
Jo> "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate, John Meroney, died peacefully.
My lover and I send our deepest sympathies. We hope you are handling your loss
well and that your local friends are there for support. We extend any measure
of help you may need.
... Programmers get overlaid!
--- GEcho 1.00
* Origin: The Lambda Link (512)873-8299 Austin,TX (207:1/109.0)
Msg#: 4037 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 06:16:17
From: PAUL PARKINSON
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4024 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> With much love to you all
> Your Sysop
> Jon
Dearest Jon,
You have the most heartfelt condolences of the Staff of The Back Door BBS. We
hope that your "Mrs. Sysop" finds peace and happiness in whatever world lies
beyond this one.
Paul & Will Parkinson
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The Back Door BBS 414-744-6003 17 lines of fun Milw. Wi (207:1/108)
Msg#: 4106 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 10:44:39
From: TIGER TOM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4037 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> Monday evening, September 12th, at 6:00 pm, your beloved
> "Mrs. Sysop", and my Life Mate, John Meroney, died peacefully.
The co-sysops on The Backroom and I send our deepest sympathies. If you need
anything, please do not hesitate to call.
Tom
--- TMail v1.31.5
* Origin: The Backroom BBS, New York, NY (718)951-8256 (207:1/1)
Msg#: 4139 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 08:45:12
From: JON
To: TIGER TOM
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4106 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
> The co-sysops on The Backroom and I send our deepest sympathies. If
> you need anything, please do not hesitate to call.
Thank you, Tom. Got your flowers. They are lovely, and are being
carried over to the Church for the celebration of John's life this afternoon.
Jon
Msg#: 4596 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 22:06:37
From: BEAR FUZZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4139 (WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP")
Jon...
Even though I may be among the last to send you my heartfelt sympathy and the
very warmest of electronic hugs, I wanted you to know that you and your loss
have been much on my mind, and in my conversations with the Man Upstairs.
:~)
And by the time you read this, you will have already celebrated your loved
one's life in what I'm sure must have been a beautiful service... and you will
already be going about the business of moving your own life forward with fond
remembrance.
Bless you during this time, and always.
Dan
--- WM v3.10/92-0703
* Origin: GAYCOM SysOps-The Big Dog's BBS! (803)769-6131 (207:1/22)
Msg#: 3951 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 09:41:45
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MEMORIAL CELEBRATION IS AT 4:00
Finally ... we've zeroed in on the time of the Memorial Celebration
this coming Sunday for Mrs. Sysop ...
It's 4:00 pm.
Please join us - Clarendon United Methodist Church, call 703-379-4568
for details (voice).
Jon
Msg#: 3952 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 09:42:55
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: MEMORIAL CELEBRATION IS AT 4:00
Finally, we've zeroed in on the time for the Memorial Celebration of
John Meroney's life.
It's Sunday at 4:00 pm, Clarendon United Methodist Church.
Call 703-379-4568 (voice) for further details.
Please join us.
Jon
Msg#: 3955 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 09:52:14
From: SPARTUS
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Jon,
Although I did not know your beloved, I know how difficult it is to loose
someone you are close to.
I wish you all the love and support.
God bless, J. Carr
Msg#: 3969 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 12:48:55
From: TWISTED MISTER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss,I hope you pull through this ok. I
enjoyed the times I've been over to do stuff for glib I always found john fun
to be around as well as yourself and he struck me as being compassionate and
practical.
Twisted Mister
Msg#: 3972 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 14:28:00
From: MOMMA BEAR
To: ALL
Subj: DIRN'S. TO WAKE AND MEMOR
Shane (and any others using the car directions...),
SH> TO THE CLARENDON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH :
SH> FROM Lincoln Memorial/Arlington Memorial Bridge, or Theodore Roosevelt
SH> Bridge:
SH> Go west on US 50, going under two bridges. Take the next exit to the righ
SH> onto 10th Street. Go 10 (or so) blocks, and turn left onto Irving Street
SH> Clarendon Methodist Church is about 5 blocks ahead, on the left.
Yes, this will work, but it may be easier to just take US 50 West (also
known as Arlington Boulevard) all the way to Irving Street directly and
make a right onto Irving.
The streets off of US 50 go in (mostly) alphabetical order so -- GOING
WEST on US 50 -- Irving will be after Garfield and Highland (and before
Jackson). If you see Route 120/Glebe Road, you've gone too far.
(Going this way will put the Church on the Right, by the way.)
Just a thought...
Momma "I LIVE there and still get confused" Bear
Msg#: 3980 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 16:07:18
From: BIG MAC
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: I'M SO SORRY
Jon,
Please accept my sincere condolences and prayers at this difficult time of
loss. Words fail me. I'm so sorry.
Bailey Walker
Msg#: 3982 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 16:31:08
From: FAMILY JEWELS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SO SORRY
Jon,
We were so very sad to hear about John's death. Although we did not know him
personally, we were aware of his suffering throughout the years. Our love and
spirit goes out to you, the one left behind. Although Leslie and I have only
been together for 4 years, we truely believe we will be together for life, and
we cannot fathom losing one another, although it will happen one day.
Les lost her Mom this past Spring to cancer, leaving behind a beloved boyfriend
of 17 years. Seeing him go through the loss only brings us closer to what you
must be feeling. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jon.
We will be attending the Friday night farewell.
Much love and feeling,
Julie & Leslie
Family Jewels & Lesbie Friends
Msg#: 4155 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 11:00:46
From: JON
To: FAMILY JEWELS (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3982 (SO SORRY)
> We will be attending the Friday night farewell.
>
> Much love and feeling,
>
> Julie & Leslie
> Family Jewels & Lesbie Friends
Your visit was a great joy to me, Dear Ladies. Together you brought an
aura of warmth and sunshine to an otherwise difficult time.
Thank you for being there when I very much needed you.
Jon
Msg#: 3991 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 17:28:05
From: MR CORA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES
Jon,
The news of John's death brings a lot of sorrow. We'll all miss him.
You will both be remembered in our prayers. The comming months will be quite
difficult, but your GLIB family will be here for you. If we can do anything to
help, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Hugs, Love and Prayers,
Jim (Cora) & Rod (Bugler)
Msg#: 3995 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 21:27:19
From: BON VIVANT
To: ALL
Subj: BRIEF RE MEM SVCE
In case anyone needs details without calling computerized information, the
memorial services for Mrs. Jon will be at Clarendon United Methodist Church,
606 N. Irving Street in Arlington this Sunday at 4 pm
Msg#: 4003 *John Meroney*
09/16/94 23:27:54
From: TED TAIT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MRS. SYSOP
Dear Jon,
I'm not saying anything that so many others haven't already said about
our feelings for you and John. You both have touched so many lives with GLIB.
It's a living testament to your dedication to each other and the community. My
most sincere condolences. I hope your future brings you much happier times.
Ted
Msg#: 4461 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 14:33:08
From: JON
To: TED TAIT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4003 (MRS. SYSOP)
Thank you, Dear Man. And to all the hundreds of others who sent me the
kindest, most supportive words I've ever in my life received ... and to whom
I'll never ever be able to reply personally ...
Thank you. Thank you so very much.
Jon
Msg#: 4015 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 04:53:15
From: BILL STAR
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: IN MY HEART
Jon -- Sadly, I was not able to be a part of saying goodby to John at the
Funeral Home because I was in New York; and I will be on the Greyhound Bus back
to New York when his memorial service is going on.
But you and he are in my heart. I will be there in spirit even though I can't
be there in person.
Grant Thompson
Msg#: 4040 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 08:23:11
From: JON
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: OUR LOSS
> Dearest Jon: We are saddened to hear of the loss of your Life Mate.
> Please accept our sincerest condolences over your, and indeed,
> GLIB's and GayCom's loss.
Dear Bill, and all GayCom Sysops ... thank you so much for your kind
words and those of all on GayCom. I very much needed them.
We got through John's viewing Thursday and Friday evening with the help
of several hundred GLIB friends, and more flowers than the funeral parlor had
ever seen. So especially appreciated were those from the GayCom Network, and
from individual BBS Sysops. At times like these, dear friends like you folks
can help a fellow make it.
A bagpiper playing "Amazing Grace" will commend John's soul to Heaven
at the end of the "Celebration of the Life of John Meroney" Sunday in a local
church. John was a man hard to say goodbye to, but "... with a little help
from our friends ...", we're doing the best we possibly can.
With much love
Jon
Msg#: 4063 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 15:45:05
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: GETTING TO THE CHURCH ...
Just in case any of you can't figure out how to get to the Clarendon
United Methodist Church for tomorrow's Celebration of The Life of John Meroney:
From Washington:
Take Constitution Avenue past Kennedy Center and Roosevelt Bridge to
Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard).
Turn right at North Irving Street.
Go six blocks to 6th Street.
You're there.
From the Beltway (just the reverse):
Take the Arlington Boulevard (Route 50) exit toward Arlington (NOT
toward Falls Church)
Turn left at North Irving Street.
Go six blocks to 6th Street.
You're there.
Hope to see you all there.
Jon
Msg#: 4065 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 16:33:25
From: HACKJAMMER
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: WHAT CAN ONE SAY...
I just signed on after a considerable absence and read, to my utmost dismay,
your message concerning John Meroney. I am so very, very sorry!! I really don't
know how to express the loss I feel. I never met John and only knew him through
GLIB...his departure for a far better life in eternity is an inestimable loss
to us all. To you, I can't even begin to imagine the magnitude of the loss you
feel, but my prayers, however insignificant, go with you as you learn to
survive, as we all must. God bless both of you from one for whom GLIB has
become an important part of my life. I won't be able to attend the services,
but please know from the bottom of my heart that I am there with you. Regards,
--Jerry
Msg#: 4080 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 19:56:34
From: JAN WADE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dear Jon,
I am very sorry for your loss and my best wishes for healing the pain go out to
you.
I never met John but he was definitely a known force behind GLIB. If there is
any way to fill the gap...please don't hesitate to ask.
Jan Wade
Msg#: 4085 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 22:29:24
From: CAT IN THE HAT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: :(
Jon,
I was so sorry to read about John, yesterday. You are someone I respect a
great deal and it saddens me to see you faced with such a loss. I cannot
imagine what you must be going through. You will face this with strength, I
know. Please let me know if I can help in any way.
Peace -
RON
Msg#: 4086 *John Meroney*
09/17/94 21:56:00
From: ZULEIKA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj:
sorry i can't be there tomorrow, jon. my thoughts & warmest wishes for
your healing are, though. fondly, e.
Msg#: 4162 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 11:46:51
From: JON
To: ZULEIKA (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4086 ()
> sorry i can't be there tomorrow, jon. my thoughts & warmest wishes
> for
> your healing are, though. fondly, e.
Thanks so very much, Z. I deeply appreciate your good wishes.
Jon
Msg#: 4134 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 07:13:42
From: TEDDY TOES
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: OUR SYMPATHY
Dear Jon,
Rodney and I were very saddened to learn of John's passing, and we
share your grief sincerely. Please let us know if we can do anything, and be
assured that our prayers and thoughts are with you. Our dinner together, and
all the other occasions that we shared with you and John were very
inspirational to us, both as couples and for your combined efforts and
unwavering support to GLIB and our community. Be joyous in his final relief,
and in the knowledge that his life was certainly meaningful to all that he
touched. With much love, Tombo McDonald and Rodney Pinion.
+
Msg#: 4147 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 10:14:40
From: JON
To: SEVENTEENTH STREET (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 3821 (FLOWERS)
> It appears that dear Mrs. Sysop's wish will be fulfilled.
Yes, Craig ... "with a little help from our friends", it has been.
I am deeply grateful for that.
Jon
Msg#: 4157 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 09:19:00
From: NORDIC TRACKER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REGRETS FROM DENVER
Jon,
I'm sorry I will be unable to attend today's Celebration for John. If I
weren't in Denver, I'd surely attend. You and the GLIB community are
important to me. If you are able, and only if you are able, please share
some of the Celebration with us far flung Glibbertines who could not attend.
On the occasion of my being in the DC area on business in August, I e-
mailed, hoping you'd be having a stuffing party or some other festive event
during my visit. I was disappointed that my timing wasn't right for that.
I'd been increasingly envious of those who have enjoyed your and John's
company (and John's cooking) for those events. Now, I feel a special
poignancy at an opportunity missed.
Please take special care of yourself in the coming weeks. Allow yourself
whatever feelings you have. Expect that however you feel now, you'll feel
differently later. Expect to progress toward a sense of peace, an easing of
pain, only to find yourself unexpectedly in the pits. Expect an unexpected
sense of relief and inexplicable joy. Expect an unexpected stab of pain and
intense sadness.
My thoughts will be with you as you heal from this sudden loss.
Rob
aka Nordic Tracker
___ Blue Wave/QWK v2.12
Msg#: 4158 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 11:33:14
From: JON
To: NORDIC TRACKER (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4157 (REGRETS FROM DENVER)
Thank you, Rob, for your kind and thoughtful words.
You describe my emotional roller-coaster perfectly. I never dreamed
such primeval howls of grief could come from somewhere deep down within me with
no warning. It is frightening, and surely a remnant of something prehistoric.
But yes, with a little help from my friends, we'll get through this.
Jon
Msg#: 4167 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 13:18:31
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: A TIMELY MESSAGE
** This message was forwarded by JON at 13:09:59 on 09/18/94 **
A few minutes ago I received this message from a visitor.
Of course, we get a lot of messages from visitors, but how very timely
and profound is this one ...
It lifted my spirits considerably, and helps me to realize that life
does indeed go on, especially here on GLIB in a way John Meroney helped create
and sustain.
Jon
[Original Message Follows]
Just taking a moment to say I'm delighted that this service could possibly
exist.
I'll probably have to visit a couple more times, and have to summon up a little
courage to actually join, but, thanks, very much, for making this kind of
service available.
I'm sure it took more than a little courage on your part and I'm sure you've
had more than a few heartaches along the way!
Thanks very much for being around.
Msg#: 4204 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:48:05
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4167 (A TIMELY MESSAGE)
Very timely.
I am "afraid" that not all coincidences, are coincidences....
Msg#: 4174 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 15:05:45
From: CLARK KENT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR LOSS
Jon,
I've been very busy lately and, when I come onto GLIB, I usually try to
escape reality and have a little fun by myself. So, forgive my tardiness in
writing you a message. What I want to say is that I was very, very sorry to
hear of your loss and know how terribly difficult and painful a time it is for
you.
In October 1989, I lost the love of my life, Jeff Nylund, a big Glib
user, and a wonderful human being. Jeff had been sick for some time (not
terribly - fortunately he did not suffer as much as some) but, nevertheless, I
was not reconciled to his death and could never have prepared myself, or even
thought about, such a thing. The pain was overwhelming and beyond any words I
can find to describe it. It was a long time before I could see the world as a
place where I wanted to live.
In the years since Jeff's death, I had one failed long term (4 year)
relationship and recently entered another. In this new (8 months)
relationship, for the first time since Jeff, I feel that I've once again met
someone who I truly love - not need; love. It took a long time. But, now
there is a life after. Jeff is still with me always and my new love took the
wonderful step of taking his picture off of my desk and putting it on top of
the TV with our other family pictures. He shares Jeff's memory with me and I
will always carry that love in my heart. I'm also very close to Jeff's parents
and they are more of a family to me than my own. So, life and its strange
twists has blessed me with many continuing loves (family and intimate) and
memories for all time.
Please forgive me if I seem paternalistic....I just want you to know
that, beyond the pain, there is life again. It surely will never be the same
but it need not be so painful as it seems at times.
You, and your families and friends, have my love and best wishes for
finding understanding and peace.
Sincerely,
Dave Legge
Msg#: 4197 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:04:43
From: JON
To: CLARK KENT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4174 (YOUR LOSS)
> Please forgive me if I seem paternalistic....I just want you
> to know that, beyond the pain, there is life again. It surely will
> never be the same but it need not be so painful as it seems at
> times.
No forgiveness necessary at all, Dave.
As a matter of fact, Jeff Nyland's death left a hole here in GLIB that
has never and will never really be filled. He carved out a place here uniquely
himself, and in the hearts of those who knew him outside GLIB. We miss him
too, yet still.
> You, and your families and friends, have my love and best
> wishes for finding understanding and peace.
I know. This evening's Celebration of his life helped me a great deal,
and I think I'll return to reality soon, but John will live in my heart till it
stops beating.
Thank you for your kind words. I need them.
Jon
Msg#: 4176 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 17:16:27
From: BON VIVANT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
. . .... But this one ... this one, folks ... this is just beyond anything I
can imagine ... and I don't seem to be doing a very good job of it.
You are doing superbly, Jon. You will realize that after a few months
Msg#: 4179 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 17:53:52
From: BON VIVANT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MEMORIAL
So very sorry I missed Memorial Service. It must have been huge.
I don't know why but I need a more intimate sense of memorial, and you can
believe that I celebrated my own memorial for John in the priivacy of my home.
Msg#: 4198 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:06:12
From: JON
To: BON VIVANT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4179 (MEMORIAL)
> I don't know why but I need a more intimate sense of memorial, and
> you can believe that I celebrated my own memorial for John in the
> priivacy of my home.
Thank you, my friend ... I deeply appreciate that.
Jon
Msg#: 4189 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 20:04:36
From: SPIDER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: ONE LAST WORD
Jon,
Felt it would have been out of place for me to speak at the servcie this
afternoon, since I never knew John (don't evben think I ever saw his handle
online). But I wanted to reiterate personally to you something Steve said in
his tribute: how great an impact you and John have had on so many of our lives.
I stumbled onto GLIB at a time when I was cominginto my own as a gay man,
dealing with separation from my wife and kids. The friends I met here have
helpedme in so many ways, from advice to consolation to recipies (g). In the
few short months that I've been here, I've really felt the love and support
that the GLIB family offers with no strings attached.
All of us dreams of making a difference in our time on earth. You and John are
two people who have achieved that goal. Steve was right..John lives on in all
of us who have been touched by his work and yours here on GLIB.
Now that we've met under such sad circumstances, I look forward to seeing you
again under better conditions so I can really get to know the guybehind the
phospers.
In the days ahead, know that we are thinking of you and ready to do whatever we
can to help you out...
Rich
Msg#: 4196 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:04:41
From: ZZBEAR
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: SORRY TO HEAR
Hope you're doing ok.
Msg#: 4200 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 21:18:22
From: JON
To: ZZBEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4196 (SORRY TO HEAR)
> Hope you're doing ok.
Yes, I'm hanging in there. Thank you for caring. I do appreciate it.
Jon
Msg#: 4205 *John Meroney*
09/18/94 22:19:31
From: SPURS FAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Jon,
I just read the news about John. I am very sorry. Though I did not know him
(nor have I met you in person), I want you to know that he will be in my
prayers. May God grant you peace during this tramatic time....
My best wishes,
Bob aka Spurs Fan
Msg#: 4267 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 06:42:57
From: JON
To: SPURS FAN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4205 (MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY)
Thank you, Bob. Your kind words are most appreciated.
Jon
Msg#: 4308 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 15:49:43
From: RICK GARTNER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: IN SYMPATHY
My sincere sympathies to you Jon on the loss of your dear life partner. I'm
sorry I missed The Celebration of Life last evening. I was out of town last
week and arrived back too late to be able to make it.
I was fortunate to have met and talked to John many times, since John was
closely involved with AGLA. Few here have mentioned how big a job John did in
improving Gay Rights in Arlington County. We now have a very supportive County
Board and one week every June is designated Arlington Gay Rights Week. If it
weren't for John, the atmosphere in Arlington might be quite different .
You've got lots of friends here Jon and I hope we can be of comfort to you in
the weeks and months ahead. There's certainly no need for you to have to eat
dinner alone every night. Let us know if there's things we can do to help in
recovering from your grief.
Take care.
Rick
Msg#: 4327 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 18:38:01
From: JON
To: RICK GARTNER (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4308 (IN SYMPATHY)
Thank you, Rick. I deeply appreciate your kind note, and I will indeed
let you know if I need your help in getting through this.
John's work with starting AGLA and getting Virginia's first gay rights
ordinance passed were two of his proudest achievements, and rightly so. Often
those who do some of the earliest groundbreaking work go unknown in later
years, but in John's case, many of us will never forget.
Big hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4320 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 17:46:47
From: JOHN KURTZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: HI
Dear Jon,
hopefully everything is slowing coming back to a slower pace, and
eventually return to normal, but it never can be after the death of a loved
one. Hugs. And it was good to see you again at the funeral home.
M M (Phil) mentioned that alt/sex.stories has kiddie porn in it, I
never did scan it as it is not part of the off-line reader checklist, and did
not know it existed. He said you will dump that one in the next week or so. But
alt/sex.mots is being monitored by me. An excellent message was posted there by
Bruce Garrett re: John Meroney, did you read it? Just yesterday he posted that
message. I notice that Bruce is part of the GLIB family, sounds like a very
nice person. Had written him in the past but never connected him with John and
you and GLIB.
Hugs again, take care, and my foot is healing nicely.
John
Msg#: 4332 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 20:17:43
From: JEFF MALLORY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: A GOOD BYE
Jon,
I thought the service yesterday was moving, meaningful and effective! Don't
know how you arranged the stunning weather (the street to the church was so
very green and sunny on my walk from the Metro), but it was a great touch!
Sometimes there are people you end up knowing more _from_ then _about_, and
John was one of those folks for me. The few contacts I've had with you two (at
GLIB parties and Januarials) have been just fleet peeks into what you two were
about. GLIB, in all its diverse glory, has been the basking glow to which many
gay folk (and myself) have turned many times, to warm ourselves against the
chilly world Out There. Through this mighty space and the fruits (!) of your
loving labors, I've 'met' you and John and come to love and respect the
baaulous duo that's created it.
As so many people said, few human beans have touched so many lives as you two
have.
A HUGE community hug to you,
Jeff
Msg#: 4340 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 21:26:50
From: JON
To: JEFF MALLORY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4332 (A GOOD BYE)
Thank you, Dear Jeff. I so much appreciate your kind words. I need to
hear them, and they help ease what is, quite frankly, the darkest, most painful
time I've ever experienced. This is just disastrous ... but I'm coping, and
each day gets a teeny tiny bit easier.
Much hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4333 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 20:25:54
From: DAVIDC202
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: SORROW
Jon,
I am relatively new to GLIB but have been impressed by the board. I know that
John was a great help an inspiration to make it a great place for all of us. I
want to send you my deepest sympathies. I know that you will feel a great loss
but hope that you will take some comfort in the legacy that the two of you
have built.
Thanks for all of your effort and I hope that you will not hesitate to let us
know how we can make this time easier for you.
Fondly,
David Collins
Msg#: 4336 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 20:53:38
From: STU BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN'S SERVICE
Jon,
We just wanted to let you know that John's service was beautiful. The
preacher was wonderful and open. The letter you found was just the right
words. You're correct: we should all take the time to express such emotions
while we have the chance. And those who stood and shared added to the memories
we'll all carry of John.
Jamie and I must also add that the piper was one of the most moving
touches we've ever heard at a service. The eerie sound of the pipes gently
fading away was probably the most evocative farewell that I've seen. I think
that there was not a single dry eye in the chapel when the sound disappeared.
John would have appreciated the service.
If there's anything you need in the weeks/months ahead, don't hestitate to ask.
Stu and Jamie
Msg#: 4345 *John Meroney*
09/19/94 22:28:51
From: JON
To: STU BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4336 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
> Jamie and I must also add that the piper was one of the most
> moving touches we've ever heard at a service. The eerie sound of
> the pipes gently fading away was probably the most evocative
> farewell that I've seen. I think that there was not a single dry
> eye in the chapel when the sound disappeared.
Stu, I hope you don't mind my forwarding your message to "Odds 'n Ends"
for other to share, because I wanted everyone to know a few things about that
Celebration (especially the one major request John made that I said those who
attended would find out):
As you now know, John and I discussed death and dying many years ago
(as all who love each other should, while they're still young and healthy). He
told me that should he go before I, there were three instructions he wanted me
to carry out:
* He wanted to be laid out in a sea of flowers.
* He didn't want a funeral, he wanted a Celebration of Life.
* He wanted a piper to play "Amazing Grace, How Sweet The Sound" at
that Celebration.
With the help of all our fine GLIB friends, his family, and other
friends of his and mine, he got his sea of flowers.
He got the most joyous Celebration of his life I could muster. I
specifically instructed the organist to give us lots of herald trumpets
(weren't he and that organ fantastic?)
We played "Whenever Forever Comes" by his favorite country singer,
Dolly Parton.
The minister had never met John, but did a tremendous amount of
research and interviewed each of us closest to John to get a sense of his life
(and neither John nor I were members of that church). Somebody commented after
the service that if this guy delivered a eulogy like that about somebody he
didn't know, imagine what he could do for somebody he did!
The letter I found last week in John's underwear drawer was perfect,
and said all I could possibly say about this sweet man. I'm certain John kept
it there for me to find.
And yes, John's piper was fantastic. He is John Spragg, Director of
the Alexandria Pipes and Drums.
So ... all in all, John's funeral and celebration arrangements were
largely his doing. He was an expert administrator, wasn't he?
I'm giving the program for that service to my attorney, with
instructions that when I go, I want it the very same way.
P.S. ... I was so impressed with that church that I'm joining it. I've
looked for an area church in which I could feel comfortable for 20 years. I've
finally found it.
Jon
Msg#: 4422 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 07:58:36
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4345 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
Jon, from Stu's and your descriptions, the service sounds like it was
beautiful! I'm sorry we couldn't make it. I am curious about the letter. is
it something you can share here? If not, perhaps in person sometime. Best
wishes for you. Hugs, Pete.
Msg#: 4427 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 08:15:32
From: JON
To: PETER FROEHLICH (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4422 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
Yes, I'll post it here, Pete. Thanks for asking.
Jon
Msg#: 4483 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 17:36:31
From: M M
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4345 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
Jon,
I have to agree with Stu: The Celebration was wonderful!
About a month ago, I told another GLIBber that if I ever heard another
piper playing Amazing Grace, I'd throw up. Instead, I cried. The piping was
beautiful (the piper too)! The symbolic departure was ever so touching.
Phil
Msg#: 4493 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 19:19:56
From: JON
To: M M (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4483 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
> The piping was beautiful (the piper too)!
Yes, my John appreciated the beauty of that piper (John Spragg -
Director of the Alexandria Pipes and Drums) and his music at Jim Tanner's
funeral in that same church a few months ago. That's when he asked for the
same thing for his funeral. I never dreamed I'd be able to even get the same
piper. Sometimes things just work right.
I intend to tell my attorney I want the same service when I go. It
certainly worked for me.
Jon
Msg#: 4514 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 22:35:37
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4345 (JOHN'S SERVICE)
I can only agree with everythin you said.
I was very impressed with the minister. His voice and being had a very
peaceful, confident sense. I think he's in the right profession :).
The bag pipes still ring in my ears....what a magnificent sound.
Msg#: 4500 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 21:15:16
From: HOLDEN CAULFIELD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Hello Jon,
I have just signed on tonite and was saddened to hear the news of John's
passing.
I have been fortunate in my life thus far in that most of the people that I
love are still on this plane. So, I will not pretend to know the kind of
sorrow you must be feeling now, or offer you any dimestore platitudes about
getting through this, or what the future holds.
I reach out to you to let you know that you are not alone and that your note of
John's passing was beautiful.
The two of you have created a wonderful thing for so many of us. I hope that
this creation is able to give back to you now.
I'll hold you in my thoughts. Don
Msg#: 4502 *John Meroney*
09/20/94 21:38:20
From: JON
To: HOLDEN CAULFIELD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4500 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you, Don, for your kind words. I need to hear them. With "a
little help from my friends", I am getting through this ... takes time, and it
hurts a =lot=, but we'll make it.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4528 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 00:43:06
From: PROFESSOR JONES
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: PRAYERS
Dearest Jon...
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of our beloved John Meroney. He will
be surely missed by us all here at GLIB, but I can only grasp at the hole that
must be felt by you. I have always held the two of you up as examples and role
models whenever conversations about Lesbian and Gay relationships came up,
whether in straight groups or lesbigay groups. Your successful relationship,
and your obvious love for each other, have been an inspiration!
My prayers will remember you fondly.
You, Jon, mean an awful lot to me. Take care...
Love you!
John Strickland
Msg#: 4600 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 07:36:07
From: JON
To: PROFESSOR JONES (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4528 (PRAYERS)
My dear friend, thank you so very much. Your kind words mean the world
to me, and I deeply appreciate them. They make a =really= difficult time just
a bit easier.
Jon
Msg#: 4599 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 07:13:13
From: COZ
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: T.O.Y.
Dear Jon -
No need to reply.....
I just wanted you to know that your are in my thoughts and that daily I
pray for peace for John and solace for you. Having read the article in the
Blade, I am ever more aware of the loss you and we, the citizens of Northern
Virginia, have suffered. John's commitment to social justice and the community
is an example for all of us. It also seems that you two together were one of
those rare combinations that not only have a loving commitment to each other,
but also compliment each other as a team - creating a dynamic which is rarely
matched in this world.
I hope also that we, the extended family of GLIB can offer whatever
little support you need. Some of us (ok me) don't quite know the words, or
don't pick up on signals, so if there's something you need from us, please be
blunt (okay, maybe not a good choice of words, but I hope you get my meaning).
You're one heck of a guy, and I don't even know you ! Carry on...the time will
come to smile again.
Hugs,
Keith
Msg#: 4606 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 08:34:54
From: JON
To: COZ (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4599 (T.O.Y.)
But I will reply Keith ...
We discovered as the years went on, that people tend to have very short
memories, especially of the good things done by others. People seem to
remember perceived wrongs, injustices, and evil, often as vendettas, and often
long after the fact. But we tend to take the good things others do for us and
for our community for granted.
John's obituary was an opportunity to remind folks that he was so much
more than just my lover ... he was somebody who got out there and hustled for
our gay community. Not nearly to the degree that so many of our other gay
activists have done previously, and will do in the future, but in almost
single-handedly getting "sexual orientation" added to the Arlington County
employees Employment Practices regulations, he chipped an important first chink
out of Virginia's notoriously absurd legal homophobia.
In working with me here on GLIB, he made possible the growth and
improvement I could never have accomplished alone had I been bogged down in the
paperwork, bookkeeping, and financial management he simply made magically
happen.
And in small ways, John did loving kindnesses, such as helping ease a
dear neighbor through the last months of his life, by struggling up to his
house on his cane, often through dangerous ice and snow, to feed Jim and change
his linens, and even to take care of and find homes for his cats after he died.
John's life here was a good one, and if what this is all about is
racking up points for eventual entrance to heaven or whatever good place lies
beyond, John certainly did that this time around. We should all strive for his
kind of values in this life.
Thank you for your very kind words of encouragement, Keith. I need to
hear them, as I have from the hundreds of other kind and supportive GLIB
members and other friends. Thank God for friends.
Jon
Msg#: 4604 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 08:15:33
From: JON
To: BEAR FUZZ
Subj: WE'VE LOST "MRS. SYSOP"
> MSGID: 207:1/22 87233B5F
> Jon...
>
> Even though I may be among the last to send you my heartfelt
> sympathy and
> the very warmest of electronic hugs, I wanted you to know that you
> and your
> loss have been much on my mind, and in my conversations with the Man
> Upstairs.
Dan ... I continue to learn about "the Man Upsairs", and everything I
learn tells me that he's in total control of my life. It was John's time, and
painful as it was and is for me ... this is what "The Man" had in mind for us
both. This pain will strengthen me, just as John's and my relationship
strengthened us both. I very much need to hear words of kindness such as
yours, though, for they help me cope in ways I could never do alone.
> Bless you during this time, and always.
I needed that. May God bless you too, my friend.
Much hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4638 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 16:39:17
From: MARY HUNT
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR PARTNER
I read the obituary for your partner, and while I have never met you I had to
add my sympathy, condolences and thanks for all that he was and that you were
together. It is extraordinary to think that this whole network, and all that it
has already and will mean to all of us was created by you two.
My hope is that you are sustained in your loss by the realization that his
spirit lives on every time someone taps one of these keys.
Best wishes and sincere sympathy. Mary E. Hunt
Msg#: 4648 *John Meroney*
09/21/94 18:27:56
From: JON
To: MARY HUNT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4638 (YOUR PARTNER)
Mary ... how very sweet is your message, and how very much I needed to
read it.
Thank you for your kind words. It is indeed comforting to know that
this system is a living memorial for John.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4800 *John Meroney*
09/22/94 23:23:47
From: JONCARL
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Dear Jon,
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your partner. I know it hurts. My father
was buried today after succumbing to a year-long illness. He was very much
loved and will be missed. But I am so happy to know that God has ended his
pain.
I realized today that my memories of him are so full that I have almost no
regrets.
I wish you the same.
My partner, Bob Summersgill, sends his regards also.
Yours, Jon Carl Lewis.
Msg#: 4801 *John Meroney*
09/22/94 23:34:40
From: JON
To: JONCARL (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4800 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you so very much for your kind words, Jon Carl.
Yes, good memories of things wonderfully shared certainly do ease the
pain of loss. But it still does hurt for a while, doesn't it?
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 4810 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 00:41:35
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: THESE MESSAGES
Here, you will find all the messages of hope, condolence, and sympathy
sent to me during this most difficult time in my life.
I've decided to share them all with you, even the private ones, because
I believe they offer inspiration, hope, and courage to us all, and may someday
help the reader get through a similar crisis, as they do for me, even now as I
write this.
I also offer them all to you in profound gratitude for what the People
Of GLIB are to me and to each other. We, you and I, have somehow managed to
surround ourselves with others who represent the finest humanity has to offer.
Folks just don't get any better than GLIB folks, and without them, I most
surely would have never survived our loss of John.
If you find these depressing, please don't read 'em now. Come back
later, and perhaps take them in small doses. But remember that every one of
these messases was from the heart, and were of immeasurable comfort to me.
Should any of you who wrote these messages find the public posting of
yours embarrassing, or you would like me to remove them for any reason at all,
you have but to ask, and I'll do so immediately. My intention here is not to
cause any discomfort for anyone, only to demonstrate the comfort all this
incredible love has given me.
With love
Jon
Msg#: 4812 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 01:08:21
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: FROM THE HEART
The sender of this message asked that we edit it slightly to remove some
references intensely personal to the writer.
Jon,
Today is my forty-sixth birthday. It is immensely humbling to
contemplate that I have been given two years more on earth than was John...and
that I have frittered away so much of that God-given time. It's not, of course,
that I'm a lousy human being or any of that stuff; it's just that I can do and
be so much more than I am. I intend to change that.
And it seems to me that there are worse lessons to be taken from a life
lived as fully and vibrantly as John's.
I left the celebration of John's life today with a sense of renewal:
that indeed it is, for those of us left here, not too late to renew our
commitment to love and work and art and all that we hold dear.
I don't know whether I've mentioned this to you before, but I spent a
chunk of my adult life as an initiated member of an eastern spiritual Order. I
had taken vows of obedience and celibacy, and I loved the woman who was my
Teacher...in our parlance, my Murshida...very deeply. She died some years ago.
I also felt love and devotion and warmth for her sucessor, my Murshid...and I
was devastated when, without explanation, I was removed from the Order. Much of
the time in the many years since my dismissal, I have felt deeply distanced
from The One we all share. Today, for me, that distance dwindled.
For me, that has been an extraordinary gift.
Please know that you are in many prayers and thoughts.
Msg#: 4814 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 01:21:50
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: FROM THE ARLINGTON COUNTY BOARD
Today I received this letter:
Arlington County, Virginia
Office of The County Board
#1 Courthouse Plaza, Suite 300
2100 Clarendon Boulevard
Arlington, Virginia 22201
September 20, 1994
Mr. Jon H. Larimore
(address)
Dear Mr. Larimore;
I am writing on behalf of the County Board to express our deepest
sympathy on John's death. We know that he will be missed by many.
Our sympathy and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Sincerely
(sig)
Mary Margaret Whipple
Chairman
Msg#: 4875 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 11:23:07
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4814 (FROM THE ARLINGTON COUNTY BOARD)
Jon, it's wonderful to see some in public professions acknowledging and
respecting gay relationships. Mary Whipple deserves kudos for extending
sympathies to you. Thanks for sharing this. Hugs, Pete.
Msg#: 4886 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 17:36:15
From: JON
To: PETER FROEHLICH (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4875 (FROM THE ARLINGTON COUNTY BOARD)
> Jon, it's wonderful to see some in public professions acknowledging
> and respecting gay relationships. Mary Whipple deserves kudos for
> extending sympathies to you.
Absolutely.
Jon
Msg#: 4815 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 01:27:13
From: JON
To: RON PIERCE (Rcvd)
Subj: MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTION
> Jon, I wanted to mail it a small contribution in Memory of John, but
> I couldn't find the Box number for glib. Then I tried to make a
> Mastercard contribution and had most of it filled out when the phone
> rang; when I turned back to the screen it was gone, and I don't know
> if the contribution went through or not. If not, please tell me the
> mailing address or where to find it on glib. Sorry, but trying to
> do my glibbing at work these days because of a busy schedule at
> home. Warm hugs, rp
No, Ron ... your charge did not go through.
But you may mail it to:
GLIB
P.O. Box 636
Arlington, VA 22216-0636
Please mark it "John Meroney Memorial".
Thank you, dear man.
P.S. ... I just received your sweet get-well letter you wrote to John
forwarded to me by Sibley Hospital. John never saw it, but I deeply appreciate
your kindness, and I suspect he read it over my shoulder mere minutes ago.
Jon
Msg#: 4873 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 11:06:07
From: RON PIERCE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4815 (MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTION)
Jon, everyone wants to say, I know what you are going through. Of course, no
one does. Pain is overall alike but individually different. I lost Juan last
year but thankfully not to death. It was another kind of suffering. I hope
you know and can "feel" the presence of your many friends during this time.
The Memorial Service was so good that it tempted even me to attend church some
Sunday. No promises.
No response is expected to this message. rp
Msg#: 4885 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 17:35:27
From: JON
To: RON PIERCE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4873 (MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTION)
> The Memorial Service was so good that it tempted even me to attend
> church some Sunday. No promises.
Yes, I know ... as a matter of fact, I think the minister of Clarendon
United Methodist may have snagged me. I'm going to church there Sunday morning
... and we'll see where it goes from there.
Jon
Msg#: 4867 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 09:33:27
From: HIGHER POWERED
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THOUGHTS
Dear Jon,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I can't even imagine the grief and pain
that losing one's life partner would bring... just thinking of losing mine
brings tears to my eyes. But I do believe that there is a Higher Power,
whatever you might understand that to be, that will provide what we need to
learn the lessons that life has to offer us.
Although I have never met you, or your parter John, your work with GLIB has
touched my life and I am so grateful. Know that there is much love being sent
your way.
Higher Powered
Msg#: 4868 *John Meroney*
09/23/94 10:04:20
From: JON
To: HIGHER POWERED (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4867 (THOUGHTS)
Thank you so very much for your kind words. They help ease the very
real pain.
Yes, I agree with you about there being Someone far above our tiny
lives in total control. I submit gratefully and joyfully to that guidance.
Jon
Msg#: 4911 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 02:48:43
From: AQUABEARVA
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: HOW YA DOING?
Jon...
I know e-mail can be such a tacky way to stay in contact sometimes, but this is
the only way I know how to contact you, so please bear with me.
I've been thinking about you a lot the past couple weeks and I continue to keep
you in my thoughts and prayers. I just wanted to check and see how you're
doing... and make sure you're not forgetting to make time FOR YOU in the midst
of everything else.
My friends tell me I would make a great Jewish mother... although I'm neither
Jewish or female. I tend to worry about people I care about... and I've come to
care about you as an electronic friend of sorts.
So... I hope you're okay... and again, if there's anything I can do for you,
let me know.
Love and peace...
Dave
Msg#: 4935 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 11:10:05
From: LIZARD
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN'S MEMORIAL SECTION
I got into the memorial section after I signed on and responded to your
message. First, I downloaded all of the files. Second, I read through as many
of the messages as I could before I could no longer take it. I feel like I am
getting to know more about him in retrospect, which from what I hear, is better
than not having known him at all.
Thanks about the newsgroup.
Question: If one were interested in volunteering with GLIB / CESF how would
they go about that?
Liz
Msg#: 4968 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 14:03:08
From: CHARLES.HILT@BURBANK.COM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: PIMP 3.12, ETC
From charles.hilt@burbank.com Sat Sep 24 10:16:59 1994
Received: from netcomsv.netcom.com by relay1.UU.NET with SMTP
id QQxitd25439; Sat, 24 Sep 1994 10:16:59 -0400
From: charles.hilt@burbank.com
Received: from burbank.com by netcomsv.netcom.com with UUCP (8.6.4/SMI-4.1)
id HAA02890; Sat, 24 Sep 1994 07:13:59 -0700
Received: by burbank.com
id 09SG4003 Sat, 24 Sep 94 06:58:08
Message-ID: <9409240658.09SG400@burbank.com>
Date: Sat, 24 Sep 94 06:58:08
Subject: PIMP 3.12, ETC
To: jon@glib.org
I am sorry to hear of your loss, god bless and keep you.
chilt@burbank.com
Msg#: 4980 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 15:04:16
From: RUB DOWN
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR BELOVED ONE
Jon, even though i do not know you personally, i have emailed with you and i
want to add my personal thoughts and feelings to you in love and prayers. It
is the most difficult passage in life to tear at one's heart, the losss of a
loved one. You know and you cry, you smile and you cry, and the tears flow for
a long long time. on 9/15/89 i lost my very best friend (not lover) and he
died from aids. I loved him dearly. so i truly feel, jon what you are going
through. Take care and rest your weary self in God's hands and let Him lift
you up to fly again like an eagle. Love , Rub down
Msg#: 4985 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 16:02:44
From: JON
To: RUB DOWN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4980 (YOUR BELOVED ONE)
Thank you, dear one, for your kind words of encouragement and
consolation. You do indeed know what this is like, as so many other GLIB
members surely must.
Having lost my mother and father over the yars, I thought I knew what
to expect. But this is ... well ... unlike anything I could ever imagine. I
know the pain will ease ... but it's rough going right now.
With appreciation
Jon
Msg#: 4981 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 15:09:10
From: RUB DOWN
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: YOUR BELOVED ONE, #2
Now i have more time, coming back again, I also wanted to share with you how
beautiful the thoughts are from other glibbers. they all brought back many
memories for me and i sat here with tearful memories, and the little tears just
fell down and softened my cheeks once again. I could not help but sense how
very caring and loving the gay community is, how beautiful gay and lesbian
people are, created with a warmth and love to reach out and touch. How dare
the biggots say otherwise. what other community has gone thru what we have?
take care. rub down..... Randy 9/24/94
Msg#: 4989 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 16:08:02
From: JON
To: RUB DOWN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 4981 (YOUR BELOVED ONE, #2)
> I could not help but sense how very caring and loving
> the gay community is, how beautiful gay and lesbian people are,
> created with a warmth and love to reach out and touch. How dare the
> biggots say otherwise. what other community has gone thru what we
> have? take care. rub down..... Randy 9/24/94
You are so very right, Randy. No other community of people could
possibly be more supportive nor loving. This is proof.
Bigots can say otherwise, because they choose to be ignorant of the
facts. If you purposely remain uninformed, you don't have to understand, care,
nor consider others. A self-satisfied bigot is, unfortunately, a very
comfortable person, at least until (s)he roasts in Hell, as they surely must.
Jon
Msg#: 5021 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 17:34:57
From: TRIDENT MARK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: LOSSES
Dear Jon,
Tonight I sat here reading the contents of the John Meroney Memorial file...
After 4 recycles and a box of tissues I have come to a difficult point in my
own life. I realize that the notes that I have sent you expressing my
condolences at your loss were rather brief and flat. I thought at first that I
was being brief because, having only been on GLIB for a few weeks prior to
John's death, and never having the opportunity to meet either of you, I was a
stranger... or that not having suffered the same kind of loss, what could I
offer. Even being a registered nurse and having substantial experience with
grief counseling didn't seem to offer me the right words to say...
Well, as for being a stranger... your replies to my messages and, by proxy, the
warmth that I have felt in the messages of others makes me realize that GLIB is
a family... who welcomes all new family almost before they arrive.
The real reason, however, is both sad and wonderful...
About a year ago, I lost my partner of 15 years to mental illness... Although
Ralph's physical body remains (now in Florida with his sister), the Ralph that
I knew and loved exists no more. Reading all of the messages of love and
support that you have received has allowed me to cry and grieve for Ralph for
the first time. (It is good that there is a keyboard 'skin' in place or I
would have shorted out my keyboard by now.) I guess that all of my training
did not prepare me for losing someone I loved so deeply this way.
Why am I writing to you with my troubles? Catharses for me, and a heartfelt
tribute to the 'community' that you and John have provided. A community of
Love and Support that certainly would not have been possible without the
dedication and vision that is so apparent.
To you and John and All of GLIB, Thank you. Till later, Mark >:-{)
Msg#: 5049 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 19:40:10
From: SUGAR BEAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THANK YOU!
Jon,
I read thru all the messages in this wonderful section....and not
without many, many tears. Thank you for posting this deeply spiritual memorial
to John. It is a fitting living testimony whose passion of love with you gave
birth to a Child of Blessing, GLIB!
May these messages remind us of what both he and you have brought to
birth in us all. May they further remind us and goad us to continue to bring
that same love to birth in one another....by loving, and caring, and supporting
and bearing with one another's burdens as sisters and brothers.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. As always, I will be there for
you in the coming days, weeks and months.
Love and prayers,
Eddie
xxxooo
Msg#: 5080 *John Meroney*
09/25/94 02:04:07
From: JON
To: SUGAR BEAR (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 5049 (THANK YOU!)
No thanks necessary, of course, Eddie. It was just the natural thing
to do. But I'm so glad you found it inspirational, as I certainly did.
Much love
Jon
Msg#: 5067 *John Meroney*
09/24/94 22:31:47
From: HUTCH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
I do not know you, nor did I know John, but I wish to extend my heartfelt
condolences for your loss. We seem to be losing so many friends and loved ones
in our lives for one reason or another. All we can continue to do is support
each other. Again my sympathy.
Sincerely yours, Albert
Msg#: 5081 *John Meroney*
09/25/94 02:06:39
From: JON
To: HUTCH (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 5067 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you so very much for your kindness, my friend.
I deeply appreciate it ... and it =does= help me get through this.
Best regards
Jon
Msg#: 5212 *John Meroney*
09/25/94 13:19:16
From: ED MICHAELS
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHY
Dear Jon,
I have been out of town and just heard. I'm so sorry. While I did not know
either you or John I did recognize what fine members of our society you are as
evidenced by your dedication to GLIB and all the thoughtful help you've given
to strangers like me. GLIB has been a significant force in helping me to deal
with my life and has led me to much happiness. My prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
-Ed Szrom
Msg#: 5268 *John Meroney*
09/25/94 19:19:11
From: BILL STAR
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THINKING OF YOU
Jon -- Just to let you know I'm thinking of you. The coming months will be
really hard as the reality of John's being gone sinks in. Your friends care for
you.
Love, GRANT
Msg#: 5362 *John Meroney*
09/25/94 23:33:12
From: ADVENTURE MAN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU
Jon,
Just wanted to say that my thoughts and well-wishes remain with you as you
begin to look toward rebuilding your own life from the loss and sorrow you have
just experienced.
Warren
Msg#: 5369 *John Meroney*
09/26/94 00:28:17
From: PETER R
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES ON YOUR LOSS
My sincere condolences on the loss of your lover. He sounds like a very
creative and immaginative person whose spirit and imagination will be missed.
end
Msg#: 5570 *John Meroney*
09/26/94 19:02:35
From: MUSICMAN
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: MY PRAYERS
I have not been on GLIB since July and was shocked to hear this evening of the
loss of your Life Mate. Although I did not know him or have not had the
opportunity to know you, your loss is felt by all of us who have a special love
in our hearts for a special life mate. As a Church Music Director during the
past 23 years, I have played and sang for baptisms, weddings, anniversary
liturgies and funerals. It seems that a musicians life touches the lives of
those from birth to their eternal reward. My consulation to you is that your
life mate no longers suffers pain and illness as he is at the foot of the
throne of Jesus where he has begun a life unlike ours on earth - a life free of
pain and sorrow. I feel that he will always see you and be like a guardian
angel in your life. I too lost a love one several years ago and I have always
felt that whenever I have made a decision, no matter how great or small, I have
always felt his presence and guidance. At first I felt great sorrow and shut
myself away from my friends and church acquaintenances - never went out to
continue my life and then I felt that this is not what my life mate would want
me to do and so I discovered that I was only feeling sorrow for myself and my
loss and really did not realize the release from pain of my life mate and his
completeness in life with Jesus. I do not want to sound like a religious
fanatic but I am a former United Methodist - convert to Catholicism and I will
remember you and your life mate at Mass this weekend. May God grant to you
peace and serentiy in your life and may you always remember the happy memories
in your lifes. May you lift up your eyes until the hills and see Jesus and
your life mate in his glorious splendor.
Prayers, Peace and Love
Ron (Musicman)
Msg#: 6627 *John Meroney*
09/29/94 22:58:31
From: KEVIN SCOTT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6307 (MY PRAYERS)
Jon....I frankly am not sure where this message will lead.....
Reading this SIG (somehow SIG seems so harsh), reminds me of the UPPER
WESTSIDER board. I joined GLIB just as that board was closed down due to UW
death. But, I frequently reread his messages. What lightening bolts of hope,
clear thinking, peace. The messages about John are the closest that I have
read to the UW messages. The two "boards" aren't the same, the message aren't
really similar, but I think its the sense of hope, and love, and caring that
comes thru in both.
I can image that John and Upper Westsider (sorry..i can't recall his name) are
best of friends right now.
The other thought that comes to mind...is.... I went to a memorial service last
weekend where the lover of the deceased asked that we never forget his lover.
That we remember him everyday. Well,,,,I can tell you Jon, that I remember
John everyday. And not just when I "happen" to sign onto GLIB.
No, you don't forget those who truely shape you life. Whenever you feel sad,
really sad, please remember how John shaped so many lives for the better, and
smile and feel so proud.
Msg#: 6652 *John Meroney*
09/29/94 23:52:59
From: JON
To: KEVIN SCOTT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6627 (MY PRAYERS)
Yes, Scott ... until this message base, nothing on a BBS ever touched
me so deeply as did "Survivors", the AIDS support message base David Charnow
("Upper Westsider") operated during the last years of his life. David gave
such miraculous hope and love to so many that we archived every word of his
work over the years in a special place here on GLIB, and it's still available
at QA=*obhi.
There are such people who, by just being who they are, seem to work
wonders. Of course their actions are not entirely theirs, and in all
innocence, they often don't even realize the impact the work they are guided to
do has upon so many. David was one of those people.
> I can image that John and Upper Westsider (sorry..i can't recall his
> name) are best of friends right now.
Yup. You betcha.
> No, you don't forget those who truely shape you life. Whenever you
> feel sad, really sad, please remember how John shaped so many lives
> for the better, and smile and feel so proud.
I will, my friend. I will.
Msg#: 5641 *John Meroney*
09/26/94 22:35:07
From: JACK.RICKARD@BOARDWATCH.COM
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: PIMP 3.12, ETC
From jack.rickard@boardwatch.com Mon Sep 26 21:57:58 1994
Received: from netcomsv.netcom.com by relay2.UU.NET with SMTP
id QQxjch27528; Mon, 26 Sep 1994 21:57:58 -0400
From: jack.rickard@boardwatch.com
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Message-ID: <9409261952.0RWV90L@boardwatch.com>
Organization: Boardwatch Magazine
X-Mailer: TBBS/PIMP v3.14
Date: Mon, 26 Sep 94 19:52:09 MST
Subject: PIMP 3.12, ETC
To: jon@glib.org
Jon:
My sincerest condolences on the loss of your loved one. I did meet him
briefly at ONE BBSCON this past August. I know how devastating such a loss can
be. My prayers are with you.
Jack Rickard
==============================================================================
Jack Rickard, Editor Boardwatch Magazine
jack.rickard@boardwatch.com 8500 W. Bowles Ave. Ste.210
(303)973-6038 voice Littleton, CO 80123
(303)973-3731 fax (303)973-4222 BBS
==============================================================================
Msg#: 5806 *John Meroney*
09/27/94 12:34:09
From: GYM JOCK
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Jon, I was sure I sent a message when I read the news but was unable to find it
listed. Anyway, my prayers and thoughts are with you. Being in a relationship
myself for 19 years, I can't imagine my life without Joe. If there's anything I
can do to help, don't hesitate to call. Steve
Msg#: 5807 *John Meroney*
09/27/94 12:38:54
From: JON
To: GYM JOCK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 5806 (CONDOLENCES)
Thank you so very much for your kind words, Steve. They mean the world
to me, and they do help me get through this.
Love
Jon
Msg#: 5836 *John Meroney*
09/27/94 16:15:39
From: MARY HUNT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MEMORIAL
I have given thought to this and hope that you will in some way convey this to
other people because it is so true. What better way to see the spirit of a
person than this? I think of monuments, books, oil paintings etc. and none have
the vibrancy ofliterally thousands of people living on through one. I certainly
will add this to my writings on things eternal.
By the by, Jonathan Mann, MD of Harvard Med. School (formally of WHO) gave a
brilliant lecture on AIDS and immortality at Harvard Divinity School recently
as "exemption from oblivion." John's legacy more than qualifies. Blessed be.
Gratefully, MEHunt
Msg#: 5847 *John Meroney*
09/27/94 17:04:30
From: JON
To: MARY HUNT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 5836 (MEMORIAL)
> I have given thought to this and hope that you will in some way
> convey this to other people because it is so true. What better way
> to see the spirit of a person than this? I think of monuments,
> books, oil paintings etc. and none have the vibrancy ofliterally
> thousands of people living on through one. I certainly will add this
> to my writings on things eternal.
Thank you, Mary. Through tears, I must agree. This is the best this
humble soul can offer his departed spirit. I can only hope he somehow knows,
and that through this medium, others may be able to share the power and
strength of John's passing that I feel daily.
> By the by, Jonathan Mann, MD of Harvard Med. School (formally of
> WHO) gave a brilliant lecture on AIDS and immortality at Harvard
> Divinity School recently as "exemption from oblivion." John's legacy
> more than qualifies. Blessed be.
I hope so. I hope so ...
Love
Jon
Msg#: 5887 *John Meroney*
09/27/94 20:17:56
From: JEFF MALLORY
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: HOW R U?
Hey!
Hope yer keepin' busy and gettin' out and about some! I think about you (of
course!) every time I log on, and hope the dust is startin' to settle down.
I finally read through John's memorial section this evening.... it was a lot
like watching the video clips of Kennedy's autocade in Dallas or the lift off
of the Challenger.... you know how very sadly it ends, but you're pulled
through the events again, neverthless. I've only met you two a coupla times,
but then I'd never met Kennedy or the Challenger astronauts, but it didn't make
them any less personally important to me, 'cause they were people of great
influence on me. The same is true with John (and you!): much of my enjoyable
life in DC has been related to/resulting from GLIB and I view John's passing of
signifcant stature because what he accomplished has had so much to do with me.
The dark, silent time afterwards is kinda hard for a while, with so much
missing. But please remember you are frequently in the thoughts of all of us,
and while that can't make up for the lack, we hope it can give you some measure
of strength and support.
Peace,
Jeff and the cats
Msg#: 6190 *John Meroney*
09/28/94 17:23:40
From: JON
To: JEFF MALLORY (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 5887 (HOW R U?)
> Hey!
>
> Hope yer keepin' busy and gettin' out and about some! I think about
> you (of course!) every time I log on, and hope the dust is startin'
> to settle down.
Thanks, Jeff. Yes, I'm coping. Falling apart now and then (stared
into the bathroom mirror yesterday morning and watched someone who looked like
me covered in shaving cream crying like a baby), but managing to at least
impersonate some semblance of "normal", whatever that is.
My friends are helping to keep me sane. Without them, methinks I'd
probably just crawl into a fetal position in a corner somewhere and slowly
disappear like a movie fadeout. This is truly tough.
> ... influence on me. The same is true with John (and you!): much of my
> enjoyable life in DC has been related to/resulting from GLIB and I
> view John's passing of signifcant stature because what he
> accomplished has had so much to do with me.
Yeah ... and for so many others too.
Last evening, I invited the lover of a neighbor who died a few months
ago (and who my John helped get through the last year of his life) out to
dinner and the Arlington Gay/Lesbian Alliance candidates forum. James Fisher,
the moderator, did a touching tribute to John, telling the assembled group of
his work in the community and with the Arlington County Board. And Mary
Margaret Whipple, Board Chair, also mentioned John and how very much she
enjoyed working with him. He touched a lot of our lives in ways most don't
even know about.
> The dark, silent time afterwards is kinda hard for a while, with so
> much missing. But please remember you are frequently in the thoughts
> of all of us, and while that can't make up for the lack, we hope it
> can give you some measure of strength and support.
I know, Jeff. I know. Basically, I'm coping OK ... if I can just get
a grip on this crippling loneliness, I can handle it.
Thank you sincerely for your good words and thoughts.
Jon
Msg#: 6104 *John Meroney*
09/28/94 12:33:11
From: GRADSTU
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: SAD NEWS
Jon,
I have been thinking of what to say to you after learning of your great loss.
I only met John once at the annual mailing party and he was a delightful
person. What can one say to ease the pain? I can only offer my deepest
sympathy and my support when needed.
Warm regards,
Greg
Msg#: 6145 *John Meroney*
09/28/94 13:25:42
From: JON
To: GRADSTU (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6104 (SAD NEWS)
Thank you, Greg.
I'm still in serious grief, but your message touched me deeply and is a
great source of reassurance as I try to go on without John.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 6184 *John Meroney*
09/28/94 16:52:04
From: ROBBIE
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: BEST WISHES
Dear Jon,
Just a note to leave my Condolenses (Spelling) in your loss! Even though
being in Vegas and not being able to go to the memorial service, know my
thoughts and prayers are with you! Last May I lost a very dear Friend to KS and
general body failure. I still miss him dearly and still can't believe he is
gone. But my faith in a higher being makes me believe he is in a better place.
I'll just go on soing my bit to help fight this menace to society and keep
praying there will be an end to it! Take Care..... Rob
Msg#: 6188 *John Meroney*
09/28/94 17:10:10
From: JON
To: ROBBIE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6184 (BEST WISHES)
Thank you so very much for your kind words, Rob.
Yes indeed, as you so well know, the loss of a dear friend can be just
the worst. I'm coping, and slightly better each day, but still not doing all
that well. Your message helps a lot.
John was fortunate that his death came quickly, and he didn't suffer
the lingering pain so many diseases (such as those invited by AIDS) impose.
His deteriorating health was due to asthma medications he'd necessarily taken
for the past 20 years to keep breathing, and which ultimately ruined his immune
system much as AIDS does.
My John and I both had living wills that stipulated we did not wish to
be sustained by machinery beyond any reasonable recovery, so when his time came
I tearfully granted him that last wish (as I hope someone will when my own
comes).
Death with dignity is the very finest last gift we can give a loved
one.
Thank you again for your kindness
Jon
Msg#:26398 *John Meroney*
10/21/94 21:39:30
From: ROBBIE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6188 (BEST WISHES)
Hi Jon,
Your so welcomed and am always to happy to help another!! I hope when the
time comes, there will be others there for me....See I met and am in a
Relationship with someone who has HIV. I won't let that stand in the way of
caring for another. I'm sure if I wasn't a Nurse, being with someone with HIV
would probably scare me and make me run the other way. Even as a Nurse I get
nearvous at times and wonder if I do know everything and being safe is enough!
But you do what you can!
Anyway Jon, Good Luck and keep in touch!!
HUGZ...Rob
Msg#: 6637 *John Meroney*
09/29/94 23:39:27
From: MARK GOODWIN
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: MARK HERE.
Regrets, John,
Lost my lover last year. Sorry to hear about Jon. Richie pretty much went when
he wanted to, But I didn't want to let him go. Sorry I wasn't here when it was
more timely, but I was going through one of those periodic "It's hitting me
now" periods, and thinking about Richie, and being alone. I wasn't on-line.
Think well of Jon (as I know you do). Think well of yourself. I don't
neccesarily know where you're at, right now, but I've been there.
God bless,
Mark
Msg#: 6654 *John Meroney*
09/29/94 23:59:16
From: JON
To: MARK GOODWIN (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6637 (MARK HERE.)
Thanks so much, Mark.
Yes, it is incredibly difficult to let a loved one go. We're all very
selfish when it comes to the love we've become accustomed to. It takes a great
deal of introspection to realize when such a loving release of the other
partner is crucial to his or her progress toward whatever destiny awaits us.
> Think well of Jon (as I know you do). Think well of yourself. I
> don't neccesarily know where you're at, right now, but I've been
> there.
I know you have, Mark, and I know your pain.
> God bless,
And may He bless you and bless Richie in return.
Jon
Msg#: 6657 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 00:09:11
From: MARK GOODWIN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6654 (MARK HERE.)
Thanks, Jon. I thought to come in for you, and there you are for me. Thanks...
& take a little for yourself.
Mark
Msg#: 6793 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 12:04:07
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: THE MEANING OF THE DREAM
As many of you know, there are hundreds of GLIB members who have been
kindly supportive of me during these past few weeks, and a few who have been
especially so.
I've been corresponding with several such special friends during the past
couple days about a number of things, and I just wanted to share this
particular message with you all. I've edited out some things personal to the
other person and irrelevant to why I want you to read it.
I've heard of others having experienced what follows here, and I simply
want you to know that it =does= most definitely happen, but that I lack the
words to tell you how important it was to me, and if you can simply accept it,
how important something similar may someday be to you too.
-----------------
Msg#:38012 *E-MAIL*
09/30/94 11:01:32
From: JON
To: [A DEAR FRIEND]
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# ----- (A MESSAGE FROM MY HEART AND SOUL)
> I've been thinking of you a lot, and hoping that I didn't upset
> you with what I've told you.
You didn't. What you did was give me a chance to evaluate my own
belief system and strengthen it by passing it along.
> "... My heart is reaching out for more. Escaping
> from the dark led by the light of heart. I am FREE!"
Yes, John =is= free.
I must tell you though, that until last evening I didn't know that, and
it troubled me deeply. But last evening a dear friend of John's who was only a
passing acquaintance of mine clarified it. This is what happened:
Several nights ago (I've forgotten which night), I had a very vivid
dream. Having talked with others about this, I recognized it as "The
Nightmare" which in various forms often comes to survivors.
I had fallen asleep reading, and in my dream, I had also fallen asleep
reading. John often taught late classes and came home late, after I had turned
in (or had fallen asleep reading). So, in my dream, as I had so many times
before, I heard him on the back porch. I then heard him unlock the back door,
close it, relock it, and rattle around downstairs. I called down to him "Hi
honey, welcome home" as I so often had. But he didn't answer. That wasn't too
unusual, because with the refrigerator running in the kitchen and so forth, it
was sometimes difficult to shout from one floor to another. So I decided to go
down and give him a big hug.
As I got to the foot of the stairs, I looked across the living room
into the dining room, and saw him sitting in his shirtsleeves and suspenders in
a chair just inside the dining room. The dining room chandelier is on a
dimmer, and he sat now in the warm glow of the light dimmed as we often left it
during the night. Oddly, the chair in which he sat was placed in a spot we had
=never= placed a chair before. He had moved one of the dining room chairs into
this unusual location just inside and to the right of the dining room archway,
and had hung his suit jacket over another chair at the end of the table nearby.
I called across the room to him, "Hi hon ... how'd it go?" But he didn't
answer.
I could only see him from a kind of rear-left angle and could not see his
face. I walked into the dimly-lighted room and was touched to find him asleep,
with his head down on his chest. I immediately felt so sorry for this poor man
who worked so very hard despite the fact that he hurt so much all the time. He
must have been extremely tired, sat down for a moment, and immediately dozed
off. I was tempted to just let him sleep there, but knew I should wake him and
get him to bed. So I said "Wake up honey, let's go to bed". But he didn't
respond. I called his name louder and louder, but he didn't move. Then, as I
was about to touch him and shake him awake, in a split second I was struck with
the horrifying knowledge that My John was ... peacefully ... gone. Not just
there asleep, but dead, and that I must not, in fact could not, touch him.
I was panic-stricken and awoke howling in agony, with the deepest, most
soul-penetrating sense of sadness I have ever experienced. Not grief ...
profound sadness.
I've been in agony ever since, until last evening, because I wanted to
believe there was some kind of message in that dream, but I could not figure
out for the life of me what it was. I asked several other people, but nobody
seemed to have a clue. I knew the dream sprung from one of three sources:
* John's soul was trying to tell me something (but Dear God, what??)
* God was trying to tell me something (but what?)
* The dream was simply my own tortured soul trying to repair itself,
and there was really no message there.
Then yesterday, I called Mason Carl, an artist friend of John's who was
at the Celebration of John's Life. Mason was one of only two people
specifically listed in John's will, (the other was his sister), and I wanted to
get together with him to give him the few things John wanted him to have. I
never really knew Mason, despite the fact that his and John's friendship went
back to long before I ever knew John.
Mason took me to a local Japanese restaurant (the first time I'd ever
eaten Japanese food - and it was wonderful). We came home for coffee and
cookies, and to get out the things of John's Mason was to have, and while we
continued to talk about John (as we had all evening), Mason casually mentioned
that he considered himself to be clairvoyant. So I decided to tell him about
this dream.
We sat in the dining room, arm's reach from where John had appeared to
me in that dream, and he tightly held both my hands and looked into my teary
eyes as I recounted it to him. And when I was done, he was silent for a
moment. Then he said:
"It's all so very clear, Jon. This was indeed your message of love
from John. He was showing you in the only way he could communicate to you,
that he is now at peace in a different place. Realize ... the chair in which
he sat was "in a different place", and finished with his work, he rested
comfortably in his shirt sleeves, peacefully asleep. He was telling you that
he is done with his work here, has moved on, and wherever his soul is now, it's
at peace and free of all the pain he suffered for so long. Your beloved John
is home again."
I still miss my John, and I always will. But I don't hurt for him
anymore.
Jon
Msg#: 6822 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 14:38:28
From: PETER FROEHLICH
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6793 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Jon, thanks very much for posting the meaning of the dream. It is a wonderful
story and helps me put the day-to-day angers of politics in a useful
perspective. While there are many things we can all get angry about, it is
nice to see the simpleness of day-to-day life routines that are so much more
meaningful. John's friend had great insight in interpreting your dream. I,
too, would not have been able to interpret it. It is wonderful some people can
interpret dreams in such a positive light. Take care. Hugs, Pete.
Msg#: 6876 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 20:14:57
From: SPIDER
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6793 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Jon,
Thanks for posting all these messages. Sad tho they are to read, it is also
impossible to come away from them without feeling the warmth of all the love
behind them.
Mind if I throw in mytwo cents on the meaning of the dream? I agree with
mason's basic message, but also thinkit significant that in the dream, as in
real life, a part of John was/is still with you. As you pick up the pieces and
move on with your life (and I am sure it will not be easy..) Johns presence
will still be with you influencing all you do. You'll find yourself thinking
"John would have loved this" or "If John could only have seen me in *this*
mes.." or "What would John have done in this situation?" And even though he's
gone to a better place, his spirt remains with you until you join him again.
From what I've learned about John through these messages, thats a pretty
incredible gift you've been left. And all of us here have a piece of John too,
because his legacy live on through our keyboards.
Hang in there, and know we're here foryou!
Rich
Msg#:19713 *John Meroney*
10/18/94 23:37:16
From: BULWARK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6793 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Jon, I'm first of all saddened greatly by the fact I never got to meet John in
person. I've been reading these tributes, little by little, basking in the
warmth of their love and support, as you have bee doing, too, by your postings.
I lost the love of my life over 12 years ago, to cancer. In some ways I was
more fortunate than you, in that I knew I had to say goodbye, this was an
irrevocable process, with a pretty well defined time table. Not so for you and
John, unfortunately. I was most deeply moved by your telling, and explaining,
the dream. I didn't have such an experience, but can, on occaision, "conjure
up" Gene's image, in my mind. I look to it as I did to him in life, and found
the hope and confidence to carry on. I'm SO pleased that John chose to "come
home" as he did, and that he did, in fact, tell you just exactly how he felt
about you - YOU are where it was all at, for him. You are his "home" for all
eternity. I downloaded John's picture. This man is "where it's all at," as far
as I'm concerned. Just looking at that graphic is enough to tell me you carry
in you heart, a real love, and that your pain and loss is all too real. Bless
you, and John's memory. The love you shared, and keep in your heart will heal
you. I'm reminded of a line from The Dybbuk, by S. Ansky Rappaport: "Why, from
the highest heights, to the deepest depths, has the soul fallen? ...The fall,
within itself, contains the resurrection!"
Please, Jon, hang in there. Time and love will heal. You have the love, now all
you need is the time. Love and hugs, Fred
Msg#:19755 *John Meroney*
10/19/94 00:20:10
From: JON
To: BULWARK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 19713 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Fred, I so much appreciate your wonderful message.
There for a while a week or so ago, I thought I was dealing with all
this pretty well. Then, today, I had one of the worst days in weeks. Probably
as bad as the first couple after John died. Had to close my office door and
cry a couple times ... cried in the car on the way home, and again as I chatted
with Ken L later when he came by to see how I was doing.
I never said "goodbye" to John in so many words, I never had the
chance. But I don't regret that ... we told each other we loved each other at
least once a day for 18 years. And I believe our separation is only temporary
... we =will= meet again, and we =will= know each other, and we =will= share a
greater joy together than ever we did in the past. He's waiting ... now all I
have to do is get through the many years of my own future, then make it to
wherever he is when my time comes to hold him in my arms again. I have no
greater certainty, and no joy could surpass it.
Knowing you've made it after losing your beloved those many years ago
gives me great strength. I need that.
I think I mentioned this in an earlier message, but the thought returns
to me every now and then that ... each person who leaves us in this world
passes on to we who survive a massive power by their mere passage. It happens
automatically ... we are stronger for each person we have loved and helped to
move on to a higher place. Then when our own time comes, we've sufficient
strength and understanding to deal with it. What is the meaning and purpose of
death? That alone could be sufficient reason.
The John you see in that picture is the John I loved so totally. The
John we who knew him these past few years beheld was neither so youthful nor
slim, but every bit as handsome. His medication prematurely aged him far
beyond his years, and he hated that. In feigned jest, he often asked me if I
still loved this fat guy on a cane with the huge belly, bow legs, and moon face
Cushing's Syndrome had created. I knew his question was in fact, partially
serious, because when he looked in the mirror, he saw a totally different
person than my loving eyes beheld. He saw an aging crippled man. I saw the
person I loved with all my heart. I told him every time that I honestly still
loved this man who first "chased me till I caught him", that he was still
absolutely gorgeous to me, and that no change in his appearance could ever
diminish my love for him. I know he believed me, for it was the truth.
> Please, Jon, hang in there. Time and love will heal. You have the
> love, now all you need is the time. Love and hugs, Fred
I am, Fred. Working at it. And I trust what you say is true. I so
fervently hope so.
Jon
Msg#:21954 *John Meroney*
10/19/94 22:14:31
From: BULWARK
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 19755 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Jon, I still find moments when my eyes fill with tears at my loss, and I
cherish each one. They tell me I still have Gene's love with me, and that it
transcends time and space. Your dream was John's way of saying "I love you,"
since it was you he came home to, and rested comfortably, knowing you were
near.
I lost my mother at Easter time, 5 years ago. That Mayday, May 1, was a Sunday.
I was just beginning to wake up, when I felt a presence like a hand on my right
shoulder (sleeping on my left side.) I immediately "awoke" and knew it was
Mother, without a doubt. I guess we spoke silently, maybe it was telepathy, or
some other spiritual form oc communication. I said, "Mother, it's you! I'm so
glad." All I could sense from her was a great outpouring of sorrow, as of dread
of what was to be, as well as sorrow in parting. I told her, "Don't be sad, you
have a wonderful opportunity now to explore the universe. There's so much to
see and do, now that you're free." Then she left me, releasing her hand, and I
drifted back to sleep for another hour or so - I had just looked at the clock
out of one eye before she "arrived."
John, don't panic if you have another dream like that - welcome it, and cherish
it. It can only be more love from John, coming your way.
Fred
Msg#:22119 *John Meroney*
10/19/94 23:20:57
From: JON
To: BULWARK (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 21954 (THE MEANING OF THE DREAM)
Fred, thank you so very much for sharing that beautiful experience with
me. I =knew= those things happen to others, and I also knew they had to be as
beautiful and life-altering as mine was. You've given me new insights into all
this.
Jon
Msg#: 6819 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 14:19:02
From: DOCTOR DEE
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon:
I just finished reading your touching message about Jon. Many years ago, when
I lost my twin sister, I was tortured by a recurring dream about seeing her on
the street. She did not recognize me and did not communicate. I was relieved
when they finally stopped after several years, but never understood the
significance. Thank you for putting it into perspective after all these years.
I did, however, want to share a thought with you that a dear friend gave me
when I was grieving over the loss of a colleague and friend. They said:
"I never knew Joyce, but it is clear to me that you as well as many others here
loved her deeply and held her in high esteem. Undoubtedly, you feel cheated
having someone so close to you taken from you. You have no right to feel
cheated. You had the great pleasure of knowing and caring for a wonderful
person. I, on the other hand, never had the privilege of knowing this person
that so many now mourn. I have a right to feel cheated. You should be
thankful for the great gift of friendship this person gave you for the time you
had it. You will always have that to remember. I will have nothing."
I have kept this over the years. It serves as a constant reminder of the great
value we should place on the friendship others share with us as we travel
through this life.
I know the pain you feel. Save this thought and, perhaps, in time to come, you
can think of your life with John and feel nothing but joy for the enrichment
you gained.
Michael
Msg#: 6824 *John Meroney*
09/30/94 14:45:48
From: JON
To: DOCTOR DEE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 6819 (JOHN)
Michael ... I deeply appreciate your kind words and insights. They do
help, believe me.
Jon
Msg#: 7084 *John Meroney*
10/01/94 14:27:17
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: FINALLY ...
Well, I've finally mustered the strength to type in the lyrics to
"Whenever Forever Comes" ... the song we played at John's Celebration. Dolly
Parton wrote it, and she and Collin Raye sing it on her album "Slow Dancing
With The Moon". If you weren't there at the Celebration, be prepared when you
hear it ... it'll grab ya.
This is also now in John's files section.
Much love
Jon
Whenever Forever Comes
ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ
Written by Dolly Parton
Whenever forever comes, when darkness shall hide the sun
I'll still be shining with love for you
When glory bells chime, my love will ring true
Heaven and earth shall pass away but my love will be yours always.
Whenever forever comes when all things are said and done
I'll still be feeling the same way I do
I'll be there for you, and still wanting you
God gave you to me, and me to you
And you will still be the one whenever forever comes.
We'll float on a cloud through eternity
You'll gather the stars, you'll give them to me
I'll give you the moon, and we'll replace the sun
Whenever forever comes, whenever forever comes.
What would I have ever done had I not had you to love?
You've given me more than I ever dreamed
Loving you more every day, so it seems
Greater than all other loves I have seen
Its essence will linger on whenever forever comes.
(c) Velvet Apple Music (BMI)
All rights reserved
Msg#: 7087 *John Meroney*
10/01/94 14:31:57
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: AND THE POEM ...
Ric Latham, my first love ... who read this beautiful poem at John's
Celebration, mailed this copy to me which just arrived today.
Ric chose this himself as a tribute to John. I could not have done
better.
Its author is anonymous.
"Anyway"
ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ
People are unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered. Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of ulterior motives. Do good
anyway.
If you are successful, you win false friends and true enemies. Succeed
anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top togs. Fight for some underdogs
anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you help them. Help people
anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
Msg#: 7324 *John Meroney*
10/02/94 13:42:37
From: MARY HUNT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: ONWARD
All good wishes as you move on from this loss. I am quite sure that the
"exemption from oblivion" is real in this case. MEHunt
Msg#: 7345 *John Meroney*
10/02/94 16:02:50
From: JIM RUSSELL
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: CONDOLENCES
Jon, Please accept my condolences for your loss of your life-mate, John. I was
sorry to hear of his passing.
.
...............................Jim
Msg#: 7365 *John Meroney*
10/02/94 19:10:44
From: JON
To: JIM RUSSELL (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 7345 (CONDOLENCES)
Thanks so much, Jim. I sincerely appreciate your kind words.
Best regards
Jon
Msg#: 7411 *John Meroney*
10/02/94 21:33:12
From: JON
To: ALL
Subj: CONDOLENCES
This is a slightly edited message from Tom Lawford (I edited out Tom's
personal address).
Jon, I hadnt checked into GLIB for 2 months, but was hard hit to learn
that your life parter had passed away. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
I recall coming to your (both of you) house with my life partner of 25
years who died 6 months ago. It was about 1988 when we came. We had a
delightful time at the barbeque, met all the GLIB biggies like Stu Bear, etc.
I never get the opportunity to say so, but I am very appreciative for all
of the energy and time you have poured into GLIB. It has national prominence,
and I think far outshines the Backroom of NYC. I realize that to keep and
expand this gem, it simply must occupy 200% of your life. I am very grateful
for the existence of GLIB - it is like a fixed constellation. I havent used it
much for the past year due to settling estate of my other half, job pressures,
but if GLIB were to vanish, I would feel like the Rock of Gibraltar had been
cancelled.
Re your personal loss, hang in there. For me, it was a feeling of free
fall for a few months, hugging the pictures I had left each night before
turning out the lights. Then you realize that you have to reinvent yourself.
I went off on a 3 month travel binge -
going to visit friends in I hadnt seen in 10 years in Seattle, Bangor, Ft
Lauderdale, Chicago. ....I'm sorry for your loss .....
If you ever pass through the Ballston subway stop, I live in the condo
directly over it. Ring my condo at the Altavista, and I will invite you up to
warm your hands over my 486chip with a cup of coffee or stronger. Hold tight,
and again, I'm sorry for your loss.
Best regards
Tom
Msg#: 7418 *John Meroney*
10/02/94 22:22:49
From: JON
To: TOM LAWFORD (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 7411 (CONDOLENCES)
> Jon, I hadnt checked into GLIB for 2 months, but was hard hit
> to learn that your life parter had passed away. Please accept my
> deepest sympathies.
Tom, thank you so very much for the kind of message that truly helps me
get through the darkest part of my life.
> I recall coming to your (both of you) house with my life
> partner of 25 years who died 6 months ago. It was about 1988 when
> we came. We had a delightful time at the barbeque, met all the
> GLIB biggies like Stu Bear, etc.
Having lost your beloved of 25 years such a short time ago, you do know
how I feel, and I can only hope you have indeed begun to see the joy of living
again, as I surely must someday.
I'd been through the loss of my dad, then my mom, but =nothing= really
prepared me for the loss of John ... the man who was essentially the other 50%
of me.
For a week I felt like I was walking around in somebody else's body. I
got through John's viewing and the celebration of his life ceremony purely on
"It's SHOW TIME ... You're ON!" energy.
Even now, three weeks later, I still fall apart a couple times a day
with no warning. I try to immerse myself in loud music and large crowds in the
evenings when I would otherwise be alone, because being here by myself in the
home John and I created together during the evenings when we'd normally be
having dinner and enjoying just being near each other, is simply pure
unadulterated hell. I keep thinking I hear him walking around and I want to
call upstairs to him from here at the GLIB terminal when I read something funny
or moving because I know he'd get a kick out of it ... but then I'm stunned to
realize that he's NOT HERE, and what's worse, he never will be again ... I
can't share that fun or insight with him ever again.
I keep catching myself saying "we" instead of "I", and talking about
John in the present tense.
As you so well know, Tom, that's really TOUGH to deal with.
> I never get the opportunity to say so, but I am very
> appreciative for all of the energy and time you have poured into
> GLIB. It has national prominence, and I think far outshines the
> Backroom of NYC. I realize that to keep and expand this gem, it
> simply must occupy 200% of your life. I am very grateful for the
> existence of GLIB - it is like a fixed constellation. I havent used
> it much for the past year due to settling estate of my other half,
> job pressures, but if GLIB were to vanish, I would feel like the
> Rock of Gibraltar had been cancelled.
As you've no-doubt gathered, GLIB was my idea, but without the loyal
and steadfast support of my John Meroney, I probably would never have had the
courage or stamina to carry it through all these years. He was here beside me
when I needed him.
I must tell you that GLIB was a major burden for John. He jokingly
called GLIB my "mistress", but many times he seriously wanted me to spend more
time with him than GLIB would allow. His steadfast support of "my mistress"
nevertheless kept me at it here. As most folks who've lost a love do, I regret
not spending every second of my waking hours with John, foresaking virtually
=everything= else.
But you know what? I suspect John always knew he'd have to leave me
here (in fact, I seem to recall his telling me that a couple years ago), and he
knew all along that without something like GLIB to keep me sane these past few
weeks, I'd honestly have never survived his loss ... I'd be a nut case in a
rubber room somewhere.
Even in death, methinks he knew what was best for me.
> Re your personal loss, hang in there. For me, it was a feeling
> of free fall for a few months, hugging the pictures I had left each
> night before turning out the lights. Then you realize that you
> have to reinvent yourself. I went off on a 3 month travel binge -
> going to visit friends in I hadnt seen in 10 years in Seattle,
> Bangor, Ft Lauderdale, Chicago. ....I'm sorry for your loss .....
Yes, I guess I'd like to "reinvent myself" too ... but I haven't the
faintest clue how to go about that. The person I am now is the person John and
I created during the past 18 years, and I'm honestly pretty comfortable with
me. I thought of taking a cruise ... or checking into a monastery (an idea
that frankly still holds a lot of appeal ... I must look into that), but I
cannot run from grief ... it will follow me wherever I go, so I must simply try
to come to terms with it. Travel alone really holds no attraction for me at
all. (Come to think of it, absolutely =nothing= alone holds much appeal) ...
But the fact that you've made it, Tom, as have most other folks who've
lost half their soul, tells me that so of course will I.
> If you ever pass through the Ballston subway stop, I live in
> the condo directly over it. Ring my condo at the Altavista, and I
> will invite you up to warm your hands over my 486chip with a cup of
> coffee or stronger. Hold tight, and again, I'm sorry for your
> loss.
Thanks, my friend.
Jon
Msg#: 7654 *John Meroney*
10/03/94 20:06:18
From: TENORE
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Dear Jon,
Please accept my deepest sympathies at the passing of your life mate. In my
usual style, I haven't been on GLIB in a while. I was quite startled by the
GLIBFLASH that I just saw.
I hope you are doing well and that you have time to talk to your family here.
Under ordinary circumstances, I'm sure you put in many more hours running GLIB
than you can spend online.
My thoughts are with you.
Your friend,
Leon
Msg#: 7718 *John Meroney*
10/04/94 01:35:38
From: JON
To: TENORE (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 7654 (JOHN)
Thanks so very much for your kind words, Leon. I appreciate them very
much ... they help to get through this ...
Jon
Msg#: 9044 *John Meroney*
10/08/94 11:04:31
From: ALASKAN FOX
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: DEEP SORROW
Jon....
I haven't been logging in a frequently as I would like... and so I was
greatly distressed to see the message of John's passing.
There are no words that I know to express the sadness I feel. I wish I could
tell you that "things will get better" or some such. But I realize that there
is no way I can imagine the depth of your pain. If I were in your shoes, I
would be howling in anguish....
I do, however, want you to know that I care about you and hope that in time
the pain of being separated from your life-mate will ease. If you need
anything... a chance to talk, laugh, cry and a warm shoulder to lean on....
please feel free to contact me. I would do anything I could to help .....
The time will come... when you and your sweetie will be together again. And
our "Wicked Step-Mother" will ALWAYS live on in our hearts and memories!
Love,
Kitt
Msg#: 9064 *John Meroney*
10/08/94 12:39:05
From: JON
To: ALASKAN FOX (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 9044 (DEEP SORROW)
> The time will come ... when you and your sweetie will be together
> again. And our "Wicked Step-Mother" will ALWAYS live on in our hearts and
> memories!
Thank you, Kitt, for your kindness. Yes, I know what you say is true
... he will certainly live in my heart forever. Nobody in my entire life has
ever made such a difference in =me= as John did. I often told him that, I will
always be grateful for his enriching my life, and I yearn for the day when I
can tell him so once again.
Thank you for another opportunity to talk about him. That's the most
effective way for me to deal with his loss.
Hugs
Jon
Msg#: 9734 *John Meroney*
10/09/94 20:14:37
From: CYCLE MAN
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
Jon: I haven't been on the board lately so only read tonight of your loss.
Although I didn't know John and have never met you, my heart goes out to you in
this hard time. Both of you have had widespread influence through GLIB. I
hope that you will be energized rather than discouraged, in carrying forward
the work you began with John. He will be watching, and encouraging you to
continue. Peace and Love.
Msg#: 9746 *John Meroney*
10/09/94 20:35:12
From: JON
To: CYCLE MAN
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 9734 (JOHN)
> began with John. He will be watching, and encouraging you to
> continue. Peace and Love.
You are so right, and I fully intend to continue doing what he and I
both wanted GLIB to become.
Thanks so much for your kind words.
Jon
Msg#:13445 *John Meroney*
10/13/94 20:29:17
From: BON VIVANT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: MEMORIAL
I have spent two sessions reading John's memorial. The volume and diversity is
striking but your patience and systematic response to almost every message is
nothing less than stupendous. It's hard to believe that you could have humanly
managed such intercommunication during that sad, sad period.
I had not been logging on to Glib during the month prior to the tragedy, so
missed most of the long siege.
One thing stands out. It would be a huge job, but all this should be distilled
and published as a --book--
Any ideas?
Msg#:13663 *John Meroney*
10/13/94 22:58:20
From: JON
To: BON VIVANT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 13445 (MEMORIAL)
My friend ... reading those wonderful messages of sympathetic support
and responding to them was about the only thing that kept me connected to the
real world for a couple weeks. Without GLIB and the people here who wrote
those messages, I'd have probably been bouncing off the walls in a rubber room
somewhere.
John always "tolerated" GLIB because it took me away from him more than
he would have liked. But he knew it was a necessary part of my life, and thus
it became a part of his too, because he loved me.
He always knew he would leave us before I did. In fact he told me that
early on in our relationship, and gave me the opportunity to back out of it
because he was afraid he would someday become a burden for me. By then, of
course, I was hopelessly in love with the man and would have joyfully carried
him on my back through eternity if that had ever become necessary. But God
intervened before his health ever got that bad, and saved John the anguish of
being the burden he would have so hated to be.
We've published many messages in the past from GLIB members telling us
how very much GLIB has meant to them ... how it has changed their lives ... how
it has kept them from seriously dangerous decisions ... how they have met the
person of their dreams here ... how they thought they were the only
gay/lesbian/bi person in the world before they signed onto GLIB ... generally
the kind of heartbreaking and heartwarming stories you'd initially think could
not possibly be true because they are so emotionally dramatic ... something out
of a soap opera.
But I'm here to tell you that not GLIB itself, but the =people= who
=are= GLIB have literally kept me together during the past month. I don't
think I could have survived this nearly as well and perhaps not at all without
the warm, human empathy I've received here. Yes, I created GLIB with John's
help, but without you and all the other wonderful and very special people here,
GLIB would have merely remained a piece of software running on an impersonal
piece of hardware. The warmth of human love and compassion often shines
through here, and I am eternally grateful for that.
Several years ago, we archived and posted for future reading all the
messages from The Upper Westsider message base called "Survivors". I will soon
do the same with the John Meroney Memorial message base, and it will be
available here forever as an inspiration to others who lose their loved ones.
We plan to then convert that section into one memorializing =all= GLIB
members we have lost, as a living memorial to them all. In that way, these
messages =will= become a book ... an electronic book readable in exactly the
way and in the environment they were created.
Best regards
Jon
Msg#:15199 *John Meroney*
10/15/94 14:02:34
From: BON VIVANT
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 13663 (MEMORIAL)
I see your point and greatly admire your life's work and life's love - as I am
sure do all Glibbers.
My only point about a book was that a really good writer (perhaps even 'Cozy
Writer") could sift through those many yards of linear stuff and convert it
into a true novel of two men who created such an unparalleled worldwide
community, with chapters on how Glib developed and how its creators nurtured it
to become the extraordinary phenomenon it is.
A hardback true novel of this sort would make good reading for everybody,
including the majority who have no modem. Also - think of the royalties.
Msg#:15215 *John Meroney*
10/15/94 14:49:56
From: JON
To: BON VIVANT (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 15199 (MEMORIAL)
> everybody, including the majority who have no modem. Also - think
> of the royalties.
Hehehe ... well, maybe so.
Unfortunately, I can only recall Upper Westsider's unfortunate efforts
at doing something similar with his messages from the "Survivors" SIG. He
searched unsuccessfully for the last six months of his life to find a
publisher, and never found one. I don't think I'm up to that kind of
disappointment just yet .
Jon
Msg#:20944 *John Meroney*
10/19/94 12:27:51
From: HIGHER POWERED
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: LOVE
Dear Jon,
Just wanted you to know that you are still in my thoughts and prayers as you
continue on lifes path without your partner. Sometimes after the rush of the
immediate loss we forget that the pain is still powerful for you day to day. I
wish I could take the pain away for you, but I believe that without the pain we
wouldn't truely know the joy that was brought to us by the one we lost.
Sending you love and warm energy.
Love, Higher Powered
Msg#:20986 *John Meroney*
10/19/94 13:13:02
From: JON
To: HIGHER POWERED (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 20944 (LOVE)
Thanks for your hugs in words, my friend.
Yeah ... the beat goes on ... some days are good and some are dreadful
... but I guess they get less dreadful with time.
Somebody told me yesterday that we have to get through an entire cycle
of holidays before it ever begins to ease up. I guess that's true. John died
the weekend of our 18th anniversary. Perhaps by our 19th, I'll be coping a bit
better.
Much love
Jon
Msg#:25478 *John Meroney*
10/21/94 08:50:50
From: JON
To: JIM SEVERN
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 25461 (THE PASSING OF YOUR PARTNER LAST MONTH.)
Thanks so much for your kind words, Jim.
> Again, our condolences and hopes that your are beginning to rebound from
> the loss now that some time has passed. Love, Jim Caumo and Paul Witte.
Only barely, Jim. Things are still extremely difficult for me.
I don't know how deeply you and Paul love, but if it is anything like
the blessed love John and I shared for 18 years, when one of you moves on, be
prepared to be absolutely devastated for quite some time. Seems like the
deeper in love and more committed a couple is to each other, the more terrible
the loss is. There is most definitely a price to pay for love, but I can
honestly tell you that even had I known John's loss would be ten times more
horrendous to me than it is, I'd have loved him with all my heart anyway, and
would do it again in a heartbeat. He changed my life so much for the better.
I will be eternally grateful for his having "chased me until I caught him".
One loving word in return ... be kind to each other, and love each day
as though it were your last. Someday it will be, and you want no regrets. I
have none, and I don't know how I would have been able to bear this if there
had been anything I had ever denied John or anything we'd ever wanted to do
together that we hadn't done. Do it now. Take the trip now. Buy the house
now. Say "I Love You" now. Make every day together count. It will mean even
more to you when memories are all one of you has left.
With much love
Jon
Msg#:25610 *John Meroney*
10/21/94 10:28:56
From: DEACON MACCUBBIN
To: JON (Rcvd)
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 25478 (THE PASSING OF YOUR PARTNER LAST MONTH.)
RE: Live and love "each day as though it were your last. Someday it will be..."
Wonderful words to live by. Thanks for the reminder.
Msg#:27800 *John Meroney*
10/22/94 18:11:05
From: TALL IMAGE
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: MY SYMPATHIES TO YOU.
I just came back from Texas this past weekend while attending the
funeral of my grandmother. This past summer I have also said good-bye to two
friends who also succumbed to illness.
My heart goes out to you for your loss. Please remember one thing that
I use in my daily life as did my grandmother and friends.
Life comes one day at a time. Everyday can be beautiful if we just
make it so.
We can make it so.
From a 'Tall Image'. With love and always...
Msg#:28539 *John Meroney*
10/23/94 09:46:06
From: JON
To: TALL IMAGE
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 27800 (MY SYMPATHIES TO YOU.)
Thank you, Dear Heart, for your kind words of wisdom. I am very much
living a day at a time ... it's the only way to make it work for me right now
... and I appreciate your support and understanding. My sincerest sympathy to
you too ... I know how difficult the loss of a dear loved one can be, and when
several others leave us in a short time ... how very much more we grieve.
I reflect back all your kindness, my friend.
Jon
Msg#:29541 *John Meroney*
10/23/94 21:46:26
From: ANNIE LENNOX
To: SYSOP (Rcvd)
Subj: JOHN
I am sorry to hear about your life mate's death. I took a moment to read your
text about his life and how much love you both shared. From your text, I can
only imagine the love and bonding between the two of you. Though his life was
plagued with illness, he was blessed with love.
Alice.
Msg#:29544 *John Meroney*
10/23/94 21:55:47
From: JON
To: ANNIE LENNOX
Subj: REPLY TO MSG# 29541 (JOHN)
Yes, Annie, the life John and I shared blessed both of us with love
beyond my words to describe. I can only wish that depth of love for you and
for everyone with a capacity to respond in kind. They say the pain of loss is
directly proportional to the depth one loves. I suspect I could testify to the
truth of that, but I'd joyfully do it again in a heartbeat.
Simply sharing the minor details of your life with someone else is this
world's greatest joy. One doesn't realize how wonderful folding laundry
together or shopping together, or simply lying beside each other reading can
possibly be ... until forced to do those simple things alone. They're the pits
alone, believe me ...
Much hugs
Jon
-=0=-
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