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SRF Walrus > Treatment of Members/Monastics > The death of Cliff Kennel
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Pig Ma
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(1/20/02 7:05 pm)
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The death of Cliff Kennel

Remember Dr. Kennel, the one Master had a San Diego temple for so many years with his family? Cliff Kennel was his son, and a teenager when he met Master. Ah, the wonderful stories he told to us at San Diego temple!

I believe he was in his 70's, but his age was hard to tell because of his vibrant outlook and activity level. He got around by bicycle, and lived within his simple means in such a way that showed he was truly rich in life.

Early in January while waiting at a bus stop, a car swerved to avoid hitting another car, and somehow hit Cliff. He was killed instantly. We had a very inspiring service for him at San Diego temple, including a video of him that someone had the foresight to tape about a year ago.

A few months back, I ran into him while going to the temple at lunchtime to meditate, and we had a great talk. I was interested in seeing his original and signed copy of the AY. I mentioned that I had been to A-nanda and had loved their museum, and little by little we ventured on to topics typically "not discussed." He told me I had to be careful who I said these things to, it was like throwing pearls to swine. I laughed and told him I am doing exactly the opposite, and shared with him the kicked out of Sunday school story. He seemed to get a vicarious joy out of it all, and there were many issues that we saw eye to eye on. But I totally understood where he was coming from- he had no desire to rock boats. And he understood my desire to remain harmoniously at SRF while still standing up for what I believed was right.

He throughly enjoyed the telling of the story of my interview with the minister. I'll never forget him asking, "And THEN what did he say?!" with such delight, after I had told Brother that as an individual I would have to do what Master told me, not the SRF organization. Apparently Dr. Kennel wasn't happy with some of the changes that had been made as well, but was not able to reverse the tide.

He had the most beautiful, expressive blue eyes. As I write I see them dancing and laughing with joy.

Edited by: Pig Ma at: 1/20/02 7:06:19 pm

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