Dear Mom,

I know he was an imperfect man and not a good partner for you, and I didn’t spend much time with him. Yet, I was shocked and saddened by Eric’s passing. Maybe because he dared to be different and forged his own path, despite the public criticism and estrangement from his family.  Maybe because I’m also reflecting on my own journey and role in this world. In reality, you have to be pretty abnormal NOT to be upset by what’s going on politically, environmentally and economically, especially in the last few years.  I sensed his self-centeredness, but I also remembered his ability to tap different parts of you—your creativity, entrepreneurial gifts, awareness about the environment–which few others have done.

He seemed to be a go-getter in his own way, perhaps too much in his own way. His “radical” vision was in part, shared by others in the “permaculture” and farmtech/organic community and his contributions seemed worthwhile, especially in that context. It is a movement that is respected and gaining globally. Others apparently knew him better. I read the heartfelt and admiring comments about the news of his passing from other farmers. Apparently, he was highly respected for his technical ingenuity and walking the talk.

I searched his name and found a few websites that featured his work, inventions and recent entries, including a haunting, final one which described his illness and attempted self-treatment in detail. It’s tragic that he died in a hospital in China right before he was scheduled to visit his family in California for Thanksgiving. I’m not sure if his family was aware of his contributions or activities in the organic farming community so maybe they will appreciate this letter, too.

Love,

Natalie