Altered States

Many years ago, I became infatuated with psychedelic patterns and colors. I adored Peter Max, The Beatles, Richard Avedon, and Pucci. Paisley prints, the brighter the better, Marimekko fabrics, and other "Love Child" art satisfied my young imagination.

I happened upon this candle the other day after a mishap with the plumbing for our heating system left part of our basement covered in rusty water. Found in a box marked "Mel's Office," this incredible candle emerged.

This was a gift from an old friend named Flo. I rarely have burned it, for it's very special to me. It is a piece of art that I cannot bring myself to "use up."

Flo understood how much "color" meant to me, and partnered up to paint a hallway bright aqua, a dining room a yellow and orange Mediterranean masterpiece, and a purple kitchen with silver swirls. She had the "color" bug as well, and from what I hear, is still painting up a storm in Chicago.

A simple candle...maybe. For me, it's a piece of history, and a reminder that there are some people that we can never forget, for they leave an indelible mark in our lives.

Another tattoo on my soul.