Interview With Xavier Thiebaud

 

 By Bixyl Shuftan

 

Addition: Two videos added to near the bottom

Xavier Thiebaud is a man who has seen and done much in Second Life. Way back, he was one of the avatars on the Beta Grid before the virtual world officially opened. He's also been involved in theater and co-founded the "A-List," a popular group for clubs and others to announce events. But after a long Second Life, Xavier recently announced in the A List that he will be departing in September. I recently met up with him, and we talked for a while.

Getting to his home, we greeted on another, then the interview began.

Bixyl: To begin with, describe what you do here in Second Life.

 

Xavier: (laughs) I wear many hats and I am seen in various roles. I am the owner and founder of 'The A List!', which is a community of SL's finest from all walks of life, Artist and Fashion and Live Music and Cultural Arts such as Opera and Ballet and Theater, pretty much the things that makes up Second Life, Arts and Entertainment. 

 

Over the years I've also have used my influence to help guide the direction of the culture within Second Life. So I can be seen as a politician in a way.  I have also helped make people famous, get noticed. I've also have put on huge special events, like my Farewell party.
 

I am an Ambassador, gate keeper, face of Second Life I can also be considered as equivalent of a Hollywood  movie or music producer. When my late girlfriend was alive, we were also into philanthropy, nurturing young up and coming artist and talent.

Over the years I've had average citizens tell me they have never heard of me. And I smile and say "that's the point.' My goal was never to be famous, but to help others achieve fame. I name drop and say those house hold names you know, I have known for many years. And my rolodex is vast, all across Second Life. They call me friend. That's good enough for me.

Bixyl: Sounds like you've done quite a bit. How did you find out about Second Life?

 

Xavier: Oh my. Have you ever heard of The Sims? ... Me and my friends came from The Sims Online back in 2002 and 2003. We were the Beta's, (the) founders of Second Life itself.

Xavier then invited to take me somewhere. We both ended up going to Plum (132/52/33), where there was a three-panel wall with names. This was The Beta Contributor Wall.

Xavier: Bixyl, this is where everything began. I get a little misty eye when I come here. Many of these names were my friends. I've lost touch with them. Almost no one even knows this is here. I doubt the new Lindens do either.

 

Oh we were a crazy wild bunch, professors and artists and hackers and dreamers like me. A motley crue of misfits.

Bixyl: What date did you drop in, and how did your first days go?

 

Xavier: I can't say exactly as Xavier is my 4th incarnation. I lost all the others, I did not take it as seriously then as I do now. I would never of dreamed I would of still been here, after 20 years. (noticable pause) Oh, my, GOD!  IT'S BEEN OVER 20 YEARS!

 

Bixyl : Guess time flies when you're having fun *grins* How did those early days go?

Xavier: Well, people made things for the pure joy of creation. We had a true sense of community,  friendship. "Hey look I made a T shirt. Here want one?" "I made a new thingamagig. Here have one." Now it's all about money.

 

We had hackers and mafia wars and a Shadow Government. Did you know Anonymous was originally formed here? 

 

Bixyl: No, and I don't recall anyone saying it was.

Xavier: Yes it was. People don't know or won't say. Like I said, I know all the secrets long forgotten. It got so bad. They attacked Linden Labs. Linden Labs was being hacked. It was insane in the early days. You had to know how to defend yourself. I always managed to remain neutral despite keeping a high profile.

Bixyl: What did people have to defend themselves from besides hackers?

Xavier: Well we used to have huds or shields. Some were so strong they were banned.

Bixyl:  Sounds like there were a number of fights. What were these Mafia Wars and Shadow Government?

Xavier:Oh it got brutal. Shadow government was well. Griefers who griefed griefers or players who played outside the rules of the TOS, enforcing vigilante justice."

 

We then teleported to another spot. This was at Kirkby (130/164/24). In front of us was a wall with a number of spheres with names over them. Some were familiar such as Luskwood and the Ivory Tower. Others were not, such as the Kentucky Fried Engineering Bucket and the Skyline Graveyard. 

Xavier:This is the Wall of History. Did you know much of the mainland is role modeled and named after California, well specifically northern California, and the water the San Francisco Bay and the names of areas in northern California?

Bixyl: I can't say that I did, though it makes lots of sense.

 

Xavier: My SL Aunt, Heather Goodlife, was the creator of the original waves of Second Life.  I was gonna take you there next and Philips Hill and a few more iconic places.

 

Bixyl would you like your own Phil Linden Collectable Avatar?
 

Bixyl: Certainly, thank you. And yes you can, I do take plenty of pictures. ... Got it and thank you. I'm sure many long-timers remember the jokes about his appearance
 

Xavier: Amazing the things one collects over the years.

We then went to another place, Natoma, and the Ivory Tower or Primitives. Xavier was happy to see it wasn't forgotten with the people around, including one pony who approached us. We had a short conversation before it was time to head out.

 

Xavier took me to another place in Natoma, at (60/204/40). This was the location of the oldest complex object on Second Life, "The Man" statue.

Xavier: Did you know about this?

Bixyl:  I most certainly do
 

Xavier: Good going

Our next stop was in the Teal sim, at (190/59/21). 

We were at the Particle Labratory.

Xavier:  And here?
 

Bixyl:  It's been a long time since I was last here. But yes, I've heard of the Particle Labratory. How would you describe it to those who are new?

Xavier:  I am so old and jaded I rarely belileve anyone is new.  This is a place of learning, how to make things happen. (It) all begins with 1 prim. Script this prim, it moves. Texture the prim, it begins to move and take action.

 

Xavier would take me to one more place, one I had been to earlier in my time in SL, had sadly closed, and was reopened a few years later by Linden Lab. We were at (58,204,24)

 

Xavier: Welcome to The Lost Gardens Of Apollo. Dane was a friend of mine.

Bixyl: Thank you, it's good to be here.

 

Xavier: He shared his dreams with us. He designed it to inspire imagination and creativity and romance and love and magic. Whenever I get tired of things, I come here. (It) reminds me of the magic of SL.

 

That sculpture is by STARAX, the Michael Angelo of Second Life, 100% prims. Pure talent. He once said 'you must torture the prims into submission.' To own one is rare. To display one is luxury. Soo many prims.

 

Xavier thought about the two of us riding a vehicle, but something went wrong. Instead he just looked around.

Xavier:  This is the oldest sim in Second Life. The Lindens now preserve it as a part of our history. Go to midnight. Amazing isn't it.

Bixyl:  Yes it is
 

Xavier:  STARAX did a series of Angels and Demons. Here we see a Demon killing Angels. Very powerful piece.
 

He would teleport us to another part of the Lost Gardens, one that had some spots for couples not far away.

Xavier:  You can see how this place is great for romance
 

Bixyl:  Yes I do
 

Xavier:  Dane loved Second Life. This is Second Life, the magic ... are you still in Midnight?
 

Bixyl:  Yes I am, and I see the aurora.
 

Xavier:  Did you know Raftwet? My partner. We met in 2007, dated ten years, in real life. She passed away in 2017, nearly ten years after we met in SL.
 

Bixyl:  I've heard of her, and I'm sorry
 

Xavier:  Grease and Gemma were her friends. 

 

So love does happen in Second Life. Soo many say SL is SL and real-life is real-life. But we have feelings. It's a farce to think we can insulate ourselves from love. I have so many beautiful memories Bixyl. I would not trade anything for it, not even in real-life. This right here does not exist in RL
 

Here is a tip from an old Avi such as me my friend. When the grid gets a bit much and you think about leaving, remember what brought you here in the first place, then return here, to this very spot. Look over this panarama view, and remember my words.

Live your Second Life on your own terms. No one can tell you how to be. Do what fufills you, and try not to get caught up in the crazy stuff, like clubs and shopping, etc. 

 

Exploration is the true destination.  I am well traveled, and even I have not seen every sim. It's impossible, like counting the stars at night. That is what kept me in Second Life for so long.

And the beautiful wonderful people I met along the way, people from all over the world. Soo many cultures, languages, ways of seeing things. If you are a citizens of Second Life, you are a world traveler, without even knowing it.
 

I will miss this beautiful crazy Alice in wonderland with a blend of Dali and LSD dreamland.

 

Bixyl: You've mentioned earlier that you yourself are departing. Are those reasons private?
 

Xavier:  Oh, well, yes and no. Something happened in real-life. But this is off the record. My friends in Second Life know, but not the public.

He would explain his story

 

Xavier: It's when I had my realization my time in Second Life was up.

 

Simply put, I've done more than anyone ever has. So I am leaving on a high note. I've contributed my entire life to Second Life. Now it's time for me to live in real-life, in a tropical paradise, living 'la vida loca.' Many have said I will come back, or return as an Alt. My true friends, they know I am leaving and with their blessings. Their unselfish love tell me 'go live your life.'
 

I am healthy and happy. My real-life is a blessing. I've also had a beautiful Second Life as well.  I have no regrets
 

Bixyl: So besides living in a nice tropical place, what will you do now?
 

Xavier:  Maybe go work as a consultant in virtual reality. Perhaps talk to the Lindens. Who better than me. In a metaphorical kind of way, would be like me entering the spirit realm and influencing things from another level. That's a beautiful way to end this. (smile) I love Second Life.

Bixyl: Certainly an interesting way to end this ... I take it the A List and other things of yours will go on?
 

Xavier:  Ava Jhamin is the sole owner now. She's been the owner since Raftwet passed and I took time off from grieving. Second Life felt so empty then. I couldn't bare to be here. Now I leave out of joy and happiness, not out of sadness.

Bixyl: You've certainly spoken a lot. Did you have anything else to add?

Xavier: We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of the dreams. 

 

You know, I had an experience rarely experienced by others because I came with people I already knew. I was never a noob. 

Bixyl: I guess one more question, how much longer will you be around?

 

Xavier: My rez is Aug 15th, but I plan on staying for a few more weeks,  and eventually just fade away, later not log in,  eventually uninstall the viewer. Once that happens, there is no going back. 

 

The End.  

Bixyl: Well, thank you for your time, and if there's anything else you wanted to add, let me know.

Xavier: Quite a ride down memory lane wasn't it? I got a little emotional. I am happy with what we said and did, it was honest, heartfelt, and words from an old avatar, sort of like speaking to a person a hundred years old and listening to them tell stories, baring witness to history itself.

I mean it was an honor for me to do what I did, to care witness. Back then, it was a barren wasteland. We had nothing, NOTHING. No trees, water was still, it was kinda boring. And after all that, all I ever learned to do is this ... *shows you my heart* This I made, there. it plays a melody, La vie en rose. So yes, I am an old romantic. Ha ha. Aside from that, all I ca do is rezz a box. I never had the patience to build, But I managed to build an entire community. So I am quite proud of that. No one else has done that. Too many petty rivaleies, jelously bickering, I pulled people together. 

 

Xavier then showed me this video.

Xavier:  *shows you a video of my Raftwet*  I asked a friend of mine, a Jazz musician, to sing for me on Valentines Day. I practically had to put a hit out on someone to get him to play just for me in a crowd of less than 10 people present, and I have had real-life broadway singers perform for me and Opera singers. So yes i've had a privileged SL

Our 5th anniversary on Valentines Day.  If I were the King of Second Life she undoubtedly was it's Queen. She wore her crown so lightly. We would go to a ballroom, dressed up. She gets a special invite not in any group by some underground DJ to a party. Then we show up. It's some downtown scene, a dark alley. We walk in, looking like our car broke down on the wrong side of town, the guest looking at us like as if  'do they belong here?' And they see the owner of the club and DJ give us hugs. So yeah we did. That's the magic of Second Life.

I just wish people could see SL the way I do, not take it for granted or get stuck in doing the same ole stuff, like clubs, or shopping. Maybe more will see a glance of it, exploring. If I had a message, it would be to explore. And also to tip venues more than 50 Lindens, the teirs are expensive. I never even got into why we have a tip based culture, but no point in that. Takes it into a whole different direction.
See these are the things only a few people like me know why, or remember.

Bixyl: Thank you for your time, and whereever your journey takes you, may it be a good one.

A few days later, Xavier would hold the last showing of his rendition of "The Little Prince" in Second Life, followed by a good-bye party. 

Gemma Cleanslate would later catch up to him and ask for the name of his Beta account. He answered, "My Beta name? My last name was either Goodlife or Livingston. I didn't take it seriously then."

 

And so, Xavier's Second Life journey is winding down after over 20 years. Hopefully whatever he does next, it will go well,

Bixyl Shuftan

Survivors of Suicide Closes, Impact Mental Health Opens

 By Bixyl Shuftan

On Saturday October 23, the Survivors of Suicide, probably the best known depression support group in Second Life, had it's last meeting. It was a week before in which it's leader and owner of it's sim, Sebastien Bouevier, announced that the group would soon be closing. Sebastien cited a need to focus more on real-life and no one else stepping forward whom could run the group for long.

The meeting started at 3 SL time. The various people there thanked the others for helping them through difficult times, some telling detailed stories. There were also a few lines in group chat. Among them, "... we are just starting a new chapter, not closing the book."

Sebastien himself would only speak near the end:

"Hearing all your stories tonight has been very touching, and has really hit home just how much of a difference SOS has made to so many lives over the past 13 years. I hope you will continue to be there for each other and keep the spirit of SOS going for years to come. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be a part of this. I love you all."

The meeting ended at 4PM, and people began to slowly leave, some TPing out, others getting one last look at the island. Shortly after came the dreading DING! and screen shaking signaling a sim restart countdown. But logging back on, I was in a different sim, and was unable to teleport back to the Survivors of Suicide sim. It was closed. I was also no longer able to check the group for any chat messages. 

While the Survivors of Suicide group may be gone, another was started to take it's place: Impact Mental Health by Kitten Stratten-Jaks (Kitten Meridoc). 

We know this is a sad time for many of you, but we'd like to extend a heartfelt welcome to all of our new members.

This week, the focus is on SOS and saying goodbye and so Impact may be quieter than we expect it to become. We're also working on populating the group, so please have a little patience.

In the mean time, keep an eye out for notices about our opening day! We're really excited to show you what we're putting together for you guys.

Welcome to Impact our new warriors.

The group soon had a location, on Urban Dream, and an opening event was planned for Sunday October 24.

Join us for the Grand Opening of Impact Mental Health; a Peer Support group right here in Second Life. Offering Information, Mentoring, Group Chat and Support Meetings throughout the week. Come visit our brand new location. The Impact Community are here and we're listening.

The event, hosted by Sherridon Mercury,  was scheduled to start at Noon SL time. But people were arriving early. Dropping by, I was complemented about my appearance. She confirmed about the group being created in response to the closing of the SoS, "we wanted to give the people some support and some familiarity after that news." 

We were next to the main building. Besides Kitten and Sherridon, there were six mentors as group staff. Sherridon was greeting people, "Hello and welcome to all those just joining us, we will be kicking off our celebrations with a liver performance from Ugly Bill at the top of the hour! In the meantime, feel free to get acquainted with our new land and new organization!."

Eventually, Noon approached, and people were invited to head to the dance area in a nearby part of the sim. "Ugly Bill" soon got on stage and started performing while the audience danced away.  "We're so thrilled to have you here at the grand opening of Impact Mental Health!" people were told as they arrived.

Besides that many were at the party, the Impact group chat also saw a lot of chatter that day. Some would talk about their real-life issues. Others would say they were happy and relieved there was still a mental health support group for them.

There are also other mental health support groups around in Second Life. And someone messaged me in IM that she was starting still another. So for those who know where to look, mental health support groups are still around.

It's been spoken before that the only thing that's constant is that there is change. And in a virtual world, even more so. A valued mental health support group has closed after thirteen years. But in it's place, a new one has arisen, one that has had a good start.

Bixyl Shuftan
 

Haley Salomon's Memorial Service

By Bixyl Shuftan

On Sunday May 7 at 3PM, there was a memorial service for Haley Salomon. Information about her was hard to come by, a couple articles around 2008, notably one from Second Edition that dubbed her "The Princess of Green" as she had a love of green clothes and lived in a green castle. I was later told she was one of the founding members of the Relay for Life's Relay Wizards for Spunky team, an avid Tiny Empires player, a regular at Lauren Live and a close friend of the comedian, a big Star Trek fan who had a replica of the starship bridge, "In real life she was a casting agent and had a masters degree in theater."

While she had stayed out of the limelight, obviously she continued to make and maintain friendships. There were a number of people present, such as Tiny Empires creator Ultralite Soleil, Any1 Gynoid, Lauren Weyland, Holocluck Henly, Crap Mariner, Explorer Dastardly, and DrFran Babcock, who informed the Newser of the memorial service. There were a few pictures up of the lady in green.

Much of the service was done in Voice, so not all of it could be made into notes. While there was sadness in the air, "There is love, we have for each other," there was still an effort at humor, "First class shopper." "Yeah again someone who isn't mute with noise in their place." "Please turn off cellphones." Lauren was elbowed, "Tell a joke!" Someone responded, "I don't have to tell a joke, I AM a joke."

Someone noticed a "Team Fox" kiosk around, and was told it was for the Creations for Parkinsons group and fundraiser.DrFran Babcock was the first to speak, "Haley met her husband Sam in Boston. She gave up her career for him, although he was older than she. His world got smaller, and she stayed with him, shepherding his career. She had a Master's Degree in theater. She was a private person. "I loved her," says Orchid. I wish there was more we could do. I want to think about Haley."

Magnus Broday was next, "I should like to say something," and made a speech in voice. Someone passed around a Kaddish HUD. There was a poem read. They talked about Haley being a regular at the Lauren Live comedy show, "I would be very mean to anyone who sat in Haley's seat (laughter)," Any1 told the group, "Haley was very shocked at how aggressive I was about her territory." Buttermilk Panacek commented, "She took me to that (laughter)." Any1 went on, "Haley believed she could talk sense to anyone... I was ready to get violent with (laughter)."

White Queen (queen.bluestar) had the following poem:

Second life friendships are an ever changing stream of loves. Love
for your best girl friend….. love for your queendom and for your partner.
love for your relay team ,for your many many best friends.
the . loss…… is like a empty stage with the scenery
still there. …… as friends fall in love …..get married .
AS REAL LIFE RAMPS UP
in good and bad ways …….
they fade away and my second life is
never the same
I AM happy for them but will miss them always
.this is dedicated to the ones that stay ..they are the jewels in my
CROWN

Thank you for sharing that Queen," spoke Orchid Jameson. Several other people also complemented her. "Hounoured she asked me to read them on voice," she answered.

RandyAllways commented, "I would like to say something................ Energy can not be created or destroyed as an electronic Avatar, Haley will go on forever. Passing thru distant galaxies, Forever." Holocluck Henly commented, "The Kadish is a reminder of The Lord that he has his greater plan. And to remember and respect. There is no actual mention of death or mourning." Explorer (explorer.dastardly) commented, "It's the renewal of life." Any1 was in tears, "I am crying hard now." She described herself as having a broken heart.

Shmoo Snook commented, "I would just like to say that I'm not the most agreeable person, but the only thing I ever disagreed with Haley about was ABBA." Ivy Lane commented, "We do not have rez rights here so if anyone wants the folder with the heart or any of the frames with all her photos in them feel free to IM Phil or I." Queen responded, "Of course NOW I am still going to send her links to green hair and green skirts and tops...because I always am on the lookout for good one's as I whisk round the store" Ivy continued,

"Haley was always there. It's hard to think of her not there (sad)." DrFran added, "Haley was beloved." Lauren commented, "She traded in her Mesh skin for a Mesh soul." RandyAllways added, "Second Life as an eletronic medium makes all our Avatars immortal."

Phil Metalhead commented, "I don't have a whole lot to say, but I can say that in my 14 years here in Second Life, there has never been anyone like Haley, and I don't think there ever will be. She was a wonderful friend, and always positive and helpful." Lauren responded, "Hey.....all of Haley friends are like 'no one else'." ArminaX Saiman (arminasx.saiman) spoke, "I will certainly miss her a lot. I liked to make her laugh as often as I could, but in the past while that’s been challenging. We always had ridiculous long discussions had about things important and not, but I will always remember the laughs. That’s what I will remember the most, like if ufo's do exist."

Quarlo Quandry spoke of a Tiny Empires moment, "I can only speak for my own self -- but last time I got offered to change to someone else in TE, they offered me 20 million gold -- I turned them down -- as long as there is Green, I am in it and none other." Explorer commented, "tears we shed are golden tears of love, for every tear we shed the loved one feel the love."

Ultralite Soleil told everyone, "When I first met Haley I thought she was Shawna's little sister or something. Always together they were. I always liked to see Haley and I will miss her. Rest assured she will remain in Tiny Empires just as she is now, whether her avatar and land still exists or not."

DrFran agreed to do the Kaddish., speaking the following, "Yitgadal V'yitkadash Sh'mei Rabbah (Amen). [May His great Name grow exalted and sanctified] B'alma De'v'ra Ch'reutei Vayamlich Malchutei. [in the world He created as He willed, May He give reign to His kingship] B'chayeichon Uv'yomeichon Uv'chayei d'Chol Beit Yisrael. [In your lifetimes and in your days, and in the lifetimes of the whole House of Israel] B'agala Uv'zman Kariv V'imru Amen (Amen) [Swiftly and soon, and say Amen] Y'hei Sh'mei Rabbah M'vorach L'olam Ul'olmei Olmaya. [May His great Name be blessed forever and ever] Yitbarach V'yishtabach V'yitpa'ar V'yitnasei. [Blessed, praised, glorified, exalted, extolled] V'yit'hadar V'yit'alleh V'yit'hallal Sh'mei D'Kudsha Brich Hu (Amen). [Mighty, upraised, and lauded be the Name of the Holy One Blessed be He] L'eileh Min Kol Birchata V'shirata. [Beyond any blessing and song] Tushb'chata V'nechemata D'amiran B'olma V'imru Amen (Amen). [Praise and consolation that are uttered in the world, and say Amen] Y'hei Sh'lama Rabba Min Sh'maya V'chayyim Tovim.  [May there be abundant peace from Heaven and good life] Aleinu V'al Kol Yisrael V'imru Amen (Amen). [Upon us and upon all Israel, and say Amen] Oseh Shalom Be'm'romav, Hu Ya'aseh Shalom. [He Who makes peace in His heavens, may He make peace] Aleinu V'al Kol Yisrael V'imru Amen (Amen). [Upon us and upon all Israel, and say Amen]

Shmoo commented, "As we say in Yiddish, oif simchahs. May we gather for happy occasions." Explorer responded, "To life Haley, forever in my heart. Amen shmoo, only joys." Anh Lycia added, "She was always the fiercest fighter in your corner, no matter what." Hacker Jannings stated, "She was my oldest friend in SL - I will miss her greatly." Xo (xochitl.ninetails) spoke, "Adios amiga Haley." RandyAllways added, "Aloha, Till we meet again."

Holocluck gave the lyrics of a song.

I have a dream, a song to sing
To help me cope with anything
If you see the wonder of a fairy tale
You can take the future even if you fail
I believe in angels
Something good in everything I see
I believe in angels
When I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream

I have a dream, a fantasy
To help me through reality
And my destination makes it worth the while
Pushing through the darkness still another mile
I believe in angels
Something good in everything I see
I believe in angels
When I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream

I have a dream, a song to sing
To help me cope with anything
If you see the wonder of a fairy tale
You can take the future even if you fail
I believe in angels
Something good in everything I see
I believe in angels
When I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream

Ivy Lane also had this to say, "I had a bad relationship, who hasn't had one of those in SL? Haley listened to me cry, never once did she criticise me but constantly she told me that I was not happy , that life should not be this way that I could find happiness if I learn to seek out things that made me smile and laugh, becuase of her consistant sweet gentle support I left that man, and met the love of my life and every day I laugh and smile at least one time or more and Phil and I share the friendship of Haley. ... Brick and Blue: Family may not like each other. But, they teach us how to love deeply. Haley knew how to teach people to love. She was loved by many, many people - even the ones that did not necessarily like her, they loved her nonetheless."

After this, people began leaving, "Time to crash a Relay event." "Good night everyone - thank you for a beautiful memorial." "Good night everyone. It is wonderful to know that HALEY touched so many lives all over SL." "She touched all of us and more, many are gone and not even in world anymore we contacted some people from the early days that we know in FL." "I have been blessed to meet so many great people from here in FL, I went to the SLCC a few times, I drove to Missouri to meet Bob, I met Phil and Sallyanned in Cali, would have met Haley....... but she said no (sad)." Some asked how to get to her land, then were told her castle would be up a little longer.

And so, the friends of one departed resident had given their goodbyes.

Special thanks to DrFran Babcock

Bixyl Shuftan

Yoga Teacher Pramiil Magne Leaves Second Life

By Grease Coakes

He’s been my Guru for almost two years and due to his real life and request of his wife Kira, Pramiil Magne has left his Brahma Yoga class here in Second Life. Speaking for myself it’s going to be hard for me as I enjoyed coming to his meditation classes. His meditation technique and how far I have advanced in his class has made a large impact in my self-esteem and I’m less angry. Guru is a Sanskrit term for "teacher" or "master", especially in Indian religions.


You might remember that I wrote an article about him last year about what his class is all about. Lots of people, and me included, were sad to see him go. My friends in the BY class said various things about him leaving Second Life."

Aldaida, "Just would be nice if he could both stay and be happy, but we can't have everything we want."

Linux, who goes by his spiritual name, Divyamurti which means "The expression of the divine,” had this to say: “I like his information.”

StJohn Noyes over the phone had this to say about Pramiil our guru.

“That he was very committed to building and he was kind and was happy to give us love and attention in leading us in meditation. In addition to that he built spiritual connections between himself and hi students. He was educated and always knew the answer to spiritual questions. Pramiil has been a Guru for the past 30 years or so he had lots of knowledge to share.”

St John’s girlfriend Eyll Tripsa had this to say about Pramiil who has been a long time student of his teachings.

Eyll Tripsa, "For me Guruji was like a father figure. He guided me in Spiritualty. He has changed my view on life. And that helped me enormously in daily life."

My Guru has been helpful with helping with anger issues with myself and also Time of Sand who had this to say as a newcomer to the class.

TimeofSand, "He will be missed a lot."

Tiggy Scholessinger a furry who I invited to BY class who came to his class once had this to say about Pramiil, “It was a pleasure meeting him and it was a nice experience to meditate with him. I felt relaxed and really good about myself.”


When I got the quote from Eyll, she was telling me that she and her boyfriend StJohn were planning classes. She told me that Baba asked Eyll and St John to continue to organize times for everyone to meditate together. Baba Anandamurti a Guru that is no longer on earth, but he is a Guru that is very connected to Brahma asked Eyll and StJohn to start organizing classes right away.

People are welcome to meditate with me and my friends. Sadly due to real life, Pramiil can no longer be in Second Life to guide us spiritually. However with his teachings, I still have a strong connection to Brahma. And Pramiil did say ...

Pramiil Magne, "You are great Grease you have come such a long way (smile)."

Grease Coakes, "Thanks Guruji, but I’m sure I still have a while to go yet."

Pramiil Magne, "(smile) Yes, but you will get there very soon just keeping moving forward spiritually."

I’m not exactly sure what he meant by my next level of spiritualty is, but I’m sure it can only improve my soul and my real life person. Pramiil is still alive in real life and he said he will come watch over us when we meditate. He had this to say

Grease Coakes, "Namaste Guruji were you in my meditation before?"

Pramiil Magne, "Yes I was just there (smile)."

His avatar left us in Second Life, but he’s still thinking about our pixel avatars and the people behind them. That’s a lot of devotion and I’m happy that Pramiil Magne was and still is my Guru.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Airtol%20Hill/166/82/58

Grease Coakes

Kev Sweetwater's Burn2 Memorial Service

Last week, the man behind the avatar Kev Sweetwater was found to have passed away in real life. Kev was best known for his role in Burn2, the team sent out a notice announcing his passing, and that they would be planning a memorial service on Saturday May 19th at 6PM. The event would be held at Deep Hole, and pictures of Kev were requested.

Arriving a little after 6PM on Saturday, the sim was full of people. At times there were more than fifty present. Most were of the Burn2 Community, but there were others. Kev was also a role-player at the Tombstone Wild-West RP, so many others from there were also present and paying their respects. Among those present was Dusty Udal, the former Dusty Linden. There was also Wizard Gynoid, artist Claudia222 Jewell, Dudarling Supermarine, Fearchar "Buck" Enoch, M2Danger Ranger, DollEyes Barbosa, Rails Bailey, whom I was told was one of the first Burners, and of course Gemma Cleanslate. Also there was Charlotte Martinsyde, whom had only recently partnered with Kev.

A tent had been set up for the occasion. With it's colorful top, it certainly didn't look like it was for a funeral. But underneath were various pictures of Kev Sweetwater, including a few of his real life self.

For almost two hours, people shared various stories about Dev. Je was described as having once made it to the Burning Man festival, which Burn2 is based on, which someone responded, "Another good lesson. Don't put off your bucket list more than necessary." Dusty Udal commented, "Well, I for one will never be able to make fresh eggnog without thinking of Kev. … We had an eggnog appreciation club going." They also joked about antics in Second Life involving using burn animations on oneself, and Kev using a fire extinguisher on them. One commented of a pinkish vehicle that looked vaguely like an open mouth, "Of all the things Kev built, the Clam Licker car is still my favorite." "I remember when he was building that thing, kept trying to run me over with it. Nothing quite like turning your camera and seeing that coming for you."

"(laughter) I was Away From Keyboard one night we were trying to set roads, and when I came back Kev had lowered the sim underwater, and left." "He asked me to have his babies, as a joke …" "I blasted him clear across the sim with a kamehameha." One cammed over to the memorial gallery, "I'm looking at this one pic and it's tearing me up, with the t-shirt saying 'NO MOAR PRIMZ 4YU!' " "I made that shirt for him, the front read 'Prim Dictator.' " "My first burn that I got to be a builder, Kev came over and was trying to join my parcel to an empty one. He was so tired, I think it took 3 cups of coffee before he got it." "The first time I met Kev, we talked for almost 6 hours. He could hold a conversation about anything, and always make it seem interesting."

"I won't ever forget the day he showed up in my box, telling me how much Charlotte meant to him, gushing, pouring out his soul." "That sounds like Kev." "I was captivated on how one man could express his being about Charlotte. That's when I knew he had found his love."

Emcee Widget, "So this guy walks into the DMV, and Gypsy and I are talking to everyone. We don't know anybody yet. We are talking about how DMV works and how we work together. And this guys like, 'Well this is pretty cool. I am an Okay builder, but I love to help people. I love Burning Man' he says. And I tell him, 'Find a team to work with.' And this guy starts working with everyone. This is how I met Kev."

Iskye Silverweb, "I knew Kev before BURN - at VWBPE, the first speaker at the conference needed to be introduced. And Phelan Corrimal was supposed to do the intro but wasn't there. I was that speaker's coach/helper/mentor, and so Gentle Heron said, if you do the intro, I'll voice (I'm deaf, so I only do text). And I was standing on the bridge kind of scared. And Kev in his little TV body stood on the other end of that bridge and IM'd to me, 'you can do it, go.' Gentle prompted and I thankfully finished the intro and got back off and Kev's 'good girl!' kind of surprised me but it was nice encouragement."

Katelin Rexen, "Even though he was a busy guy, he still was able to stop and talk say hello. And when I was sick and down in the dumps, when my physical pain was at it's worst, he would always try to cheer me up or ask how I was feeling. That was kind of guy he was, cared for his friends. … Kev, you will never be forgotten as so many here tonight remember the wonderful and caring man you truely were."
"This was nice. Thank you all for letting me stay a while … It's a very touching gathering. I never got to meet Kev, but I know he is well loved and missed …"

After the talk of Kev and some bacon jokes, someone got some virtual glasses of brandy, and passed them around, "… raising our glasses to Kev, cheers." "Cheers!" "He certainly gave of himself for all of us." "Yes, wherever you are now Kev, this is for you."

As 7:30 PM approached, people began taking places near the temple, which had been reconstructed for this special occasion, "I need to be up and close to toss Kev's Ranger hat in." "I never got this close to the other burns, and well, this one is special. So bolt me to the ground, please." "Please remove unnecessary HUDS and attachments." For a while, only the torchlike censers inside burned. Then white smoke was seen coming from the bottom, then the temple became ablaze. "It's beautiful, especially against the night sky." "I don't think I've seen a temple burn so beautiful and bright before now."


People were invited to leave messages in the temple, and many did, some including, "We will never forget you. You will always be part of our souls, part of our lives." "I'm sorry I took you for granted. I'm sorry I didn't thank you for all the work you do. I'm sorry I didn't tell you how special you are." "Kev I will miss seeing you in Amiville and at the SL Birthdays. Godspeed!" "Gone but not forgotten. You will always be part of us." "My darling husband, I love you, forever and always … Charlotte." As the the temple burned, the messages were released in poetic form.

Other messages were spoken by those attending as the flames lit up the memorial grounds, "Celebration of a life lived well in Second Life, and real life." "This is for you KEV!" "Yeah, burn for Kev!" "God bless you, Brother." "You will always be my Brother, Kev!" "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.""Rest in peace my friend, 'til we meet again!" "Go in peace and love, little brother. And save me a seat!" "God speed, you wacky son of a bitch." "Hope someone calls me that when I go." "Love you always, my darling."

Eventually, the fire began to burn itself out. And finally the flames were gone. There was only a few blackened timbers standing up, and burnt debris and ashes on the ground. "The best I've seen in Second Life." "Just Awesome." "This is a celebration of life! We can applaud this awesomeness!" "This is the latest I have been in Second Life in about four years." "Thank you so much whoever did this." "It was a wonderful tribute." "Awesome burn, go with the flames." "Good bye Kev, safe journey." "Thank you everyone for being here and making this happen. Don't take anyone for granted. If someone is special to you, tell them." "I'm sure Kev's in 3rd Life looking down on us and smiling."

Over time people gradually got up and left the sim, the number remaining becoming fewer and fewer, until all were gone. But the memories of what took place remained.

Anyone wishing to leave a message on Kev's account feed here: https://my.secondlife.com/kev.sweetwater . He also had a Flickr account: http://www.flickr.com/photos/59196052@N05/

"Nobody dies as long as they are remembered."

Bixyl Shuftan

Goodbye Perri, Hopefully Only For Now

A little sad news from the HV Community sim, where I make my home on the Grid. One of my neighbors, Perri Prinz, has made a name for herself as a DJ in Second Life, in my opinion one of the best in her selection of 60 and 70s music. She would play at Cutlass, Club Zero Gravity, and other clubs. With her partner RECoyote Mindes, she also owned a club of her own, the Green Meadows Club, which friends also called Perri's Xanadu. Her music got her many fans, and her gentle manner a number of friends. And of course there was her partner RECoyote.

Outside of Second Life, Perri, or "Hunny Bunny" as she sometimes calls herself, was also known as a writer. She wrote the chapters for Spectral Shadows, a long series of stories that mixed themes such as time travel, Fantasy, and Science Fiction, going back for many years. A teleporter at Xanadu would take one to a gallery of Spectral Shadows Illustrations. She would also put some thoughts in a Livejournal, which went across a number of subjects, such as music.

Her latest Livejournal post however was a sad one.

Perri suffered from health problems in real life, and as much as she loved her friends and playing her music, the technical glitches could sometimes just be too much, requiring her to take occasional breaks to rest up. Running her club had proven to be a bundle of nerves, so friends from the FCA club alliance, including myself, had recently been helping her to try to get Green Meadows/Xanadu up and running again.

Unfortunately, one event she had spent hours preparing for happened to occur right on the very day the Grid was hit with its "Unscheduled Maintenance." Not only was getting online difficult, but nothing seemed to work, notably her music stream. It was then she felt there was nothing better to do but leave the Grid for good, saying goodbye to her friends who managed to show up despite the glitches that day.

Since then, Perri's gotten a number of messages from friends and well wishers.  And she responded she might return after an extended hiatus to heal, "REC and my friends … I'm missing them already. … I hate the thought of never being with … the others again. … We'll see what happens. I just pulled the plug. I didn't throw out the computer." Perri's Livejournal entry and responses can be found here: http://symphonic-rp.livejournal.com/203000.html .

As for Club Green Meadows, events there have come to a close, at least for now. It's possible later on the FCA club alliance will try to get the club running again with others playing the music Perri was noted for.

Goodbye our friend, at least for now,

Bixyl Shuftan

*Addition* Perri did come back a few days after this was written.