ONE LAST TALK    By John Braheny

While our beloved friend Mandi was still lucid I had one last talk with her. She said “I don’t want to go. I have too much to do yet.” This would probably be how we’ll all feel facing our end. I offered her some perspective that I hoped would make it easier for her.“Mandi, what’s happening is that you got spoiled. You’ve lived a life that most people in this world could only dream about. You got to live your life not only creating music that moved those who heard it, but to help many, many others do the same. You got to live your life surrounded by love — by friends who would go out of their way to help you because they knew you would do it for them or you had already helped them. You gave them warm companionship and a sympathetic ear when they needed it. You ALWAYS made them laugh. You encouraged their musical dreams. You had a wonderful husband in Jerry who loved you more than anything and encouraged everything you did. So though it’s a sad time for you and all of us who love you, you can justly feel that you’ve made a valuable contribution in your very rich life. It’s truly something to celebrate. So don’t feel sad about the time you don’t have. Be joyful for the time you did have.”She said, “You know, you’re right.” And I think that, despite her sadness, she got past it for a moment. I also think that in her last few days the procession of friends coming to tell her goodbye, recall their stories with her, play music for her and to express their love made it easier for her to let go. Thank you all for that!

And I add this now. Mandi, knowing you’ll hear this too.Len Chandler and I personally thank you for the thousands of hours you contributed to the Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase. I won’t forget the many times we watched the sun come up putting the LASS monthly Musepaper to bed in time to race to the printer. Thousands of songwriters can thank you for creating the system for our 22 Songwriters Expos that insured that as many writers as possible got heard. And every year you organized the volunteers, “Mandi’s Expo Elves” to get it done. You were always a vital, creative and tireless part of our team and an unparalleled evangelist for LASS.You inspired everyone with 3 pinball marathons and world records. (Mandi’s take on this tells you a lot about who she is:http://mandimartinmusic.com/blog/pinball-marathon-wrap-up/). I got to be part of your “crew” all 3 times.For 38 years I got to share your love and friendship. I’ve been privileged to have been part of so many aspects of your life and both JoAnn and I have cherished your friendship, love and laughter more than you’ll know.

And so I end this blog by saying this…. MANDI… I Love You…You touched my life in many ways, a few of which I just got a few days ago…I will keep on keeping and use you as a role model of how to live with Passion, Truth & Dignity.   You have returned to a place of peace and found a new home, I promise to use my gifts and find a great home for Pinocchio… xoxo

LOVE, LIGHT & CELEBRATION…