I have waited a while to try and put my thoughts to words, finding the right ones have proved to be difficult. I have been away from the forum for too long and I, just by chance, checked in and read the very sad news.
I would like to say “I’m sorry and so sad” to you, all of you who have been brought here and touched by Mac’s life. For those who have never met him in person, you have missed out on meeting a truly unique and inspiring individual. From the first time we met I was taken in by his enthusiasm and energy – it was over the top and contagious…. You couldn’t be in a room with him and not feel like the world just sped up.
He was also a very selfless and giving person. At our first meeting, a group of us went back to his place in Rainier and we all chatted for hours. He was fascinated with my car, a Lancia Scorpion, and before I left he told me I needed some trim parts he picked up in England and wouldn’t consider taking anything for them. Yes, I still have those parts. He was like that though. He would give stuff away while his car needed attention, all to continue the cause….
If it weren’t for this website, many of the people I consider my closest friends I would have never met. I’m indebted to him more than he knew.
I, like many here, have personally experienced the same type of loss as Rose and Leslie have. I’m not going to go into details, because that is not important and no two instances are the same and I would not want to suggest that any of us know what they are going through. Please grieve and don’t feel you have to hold anything in or wonder when the pain goes away.
To Rose, I don’t know what to say except you can rest assured that Mac loved you very much. I can’t remember ever having a discussion with him or a forum post where you weren’t mentioned or the topic of the discussion. You appear to have a good network of close friends and coworkers; I believe you will get the support you need to help you through these tough times. Don’t be a stranger and make sure to pop in and post your thoughts and adventures sometime. You are always welcome.
To Leslie, there are no words I can say to comfort you in this time of loss. No parent should have to bury their child. It’s my hope that you have friends to help you out and that you find the strength to continue. If you ever need anything or help, do not hesitate to reach out on this forum. I have no doubt that several people would step forward if you asked. Have comfort in knowing that his vision and enthusiasm will live on with this weird and unique group he helped get together.
We have all lost a great personality and the world is now a little blander. Never forget who it was that brought us all here together.
-John Allen
Tacoma, WA
SeattleX member #25