Arthur Hedges with his grandson Andy

Our cowboy-songster friend Andy Hedges lost his grandfather, his Zanzan, last night, and this tribute by Andy’s wife, Alissa, moved me deeply. There is no greater comfort than being in the presence of a truly loving spirit. May we all find such generosity and ability to love in our hearts.

Married for over 76 years to the same woman. Not just married, but truly in love, smitten. He said she was perfect, and you knew by the way his voice cracked when he said it that he meant it.

When his family was gathered, he would bless the meal. In prayer, this grown man would pray the most sincere prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving. He often had to stop in the middle of these prayers and regain composure.

He would take every one of my newborn babies in his lap and rock to them and sing to them. “I love you, a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around your neck.” Unashamed baby talk from one of the biggest most manly men I knew….

Somehow he managed to make everyone who stepped into his home feel truly loved and valued. He told me he loved me every time he saw me and I believed him. I wasn’t born into his family, but I felt like one of his own….