Thursday, December 30, 2021
Dick, I must say, you've been a hard man to find, and it's been my fault. I've run computer searches to try to contact you, to no avail. Tonight, I'm cleaning out old files, and there's your address in my theatre contact file. Like Roger Shank, whom I'd love to find to say hello to again, I gave it one more search to find you're working on a new script. I'm sure you have an important role in the story; you could never be other than a good guy. You're one of the most genuine men I've ever met. I remember having to watch rehearsal time, so you could be home when you told your wife you would. I always took the blame when I asked everyone to "run it one more time."
I have the portrait you did of me on my rouge's gallery wall, and I have the cards you hand drew of the casts for the plays we did. I've done a few of those myself, director to cast. I liked that it made the card so much more personal. I got that from you. So, even though we may not connect in person again, you have been, and will always with me in spirit. If you want to stop by sometime, do.
I fondly remember my visit with you at your home in upstate NY. One of my warmest and most rewarding memories. Us, painting together; you finished, and I barely had one flower painted. The dog liking me, everyone in the family with open arms, and that thunder storm when the dog came into my room and licked my hand to wake me because he was scared. I felt honored; after all, I wasn't his master. Then, everyone scurrying around shutting shutters. It had that of-the-earth real feeling. Giving people, life filled with love and respect, everyone caring for everyone else. I hope you realise how many of us care for you.
I won't miss you. You're in my memory and my heart, and here, in a sense. I pass that portrait you did of me many times every day. I would wish you "Break a leg" in your new role, but that would be redundant. With your graciousness and talent, the genuineness in your soul, I'm sure the reviews, as they always were, will be stellar. With all my love, Pattric Walker
