It took me an entire day to try to get to terms with your loss, Petter. It’s late now, and I still haven’t managed. Because how could I? And rather I should say, how could we all? You danced around life, carefree and happy, and around you, we were always shining. Your bright light was immense, warm and inviting. You supported me and this surf project every step of the way, and man, the bomba cap suits you.
You threw your great energy around in many places, and elevated the energy of each room you jumped into. You had a unique gift, a true people’s person. And your photography was art. It’s impossible not to smile when I think about you, even as a tear rolls down my face.
I can’t believe we got to cross paths in life. Your feedback, love and support was so crucial in the early days of Bomba Surf Magazine. Friday ended up being our last dance at POPP, and I am forever grateful we managed that. I don’t think you ever missed my birthday gatherings, and I am so pleased to reciprocate that, especially since yours always involved your insane baking skills. Pizza on the beach, bread on my roof, and joy wherever we found ourselves… even crashing down on your shoulder down south! You still got up and laughed about it, you wonderful man.
What you did with our friends ManaTapu was extraordinary, and dancing without you will not be easy. Where did you get so much energy from? I am sure we’ve got a sprinkle of your fairy dust, and may we always take that energy into the next song.
Last Friday, we discussed my next project, and your nod of approval, immense feedback and “I’m in” lifted me. Doing that without you present will not be easy, but I know you’ll love it. I think you’re one of the people on this planet that truly gets me, and gets it. You get it bro, you get what life is about, and that we’re the same souls. We said we’d hoop more and more together, as I still owe you that rematch, and today, in your honour, I drained some threes as the rain wiped my tears in Pembroke. You’d have been proud. As you are of “Little Lebron” as you nicknamed my son, ready especially to elevate the little ones in life.
It’s been a rough day, non-stop crying. Some tears of utter sorrow, and many of utter joy. Bring on the next time we meet. I miss you already.
Happy. That’s the one word I’ll treasure when thinking about you, P man. See you on the dancefloor, at the beach, on the court, at sea and everywhere in between soon, amigo.
All my love
Mark
