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You are here: Home / Absent Friends / Good Thoughts for Schlemazel: An Ongoing Series of Posts

Good Thoughts for Schlemazel: An Ongoing Series of Posts

by Adam L Silverman|  January 25, 20198:30 am| 155 Comments

This post is in: Absent Friends, Open Threads

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Today we inaugurate a new, ongoing series of posts: Good thoughts and well wishes for Schlemazel. This way his niece can aggregate the comments and read them to him at his and her convenience. I’m sure it will also be okay if you throw in some good thoughts for efgoldman and the occasional fuckem in his honor, but I’m funny that way.

So let me kick this off: we’re keeping good thoughts for Schlemazel and his family. Also, for efgoldman.

FUCKEM!

Not so open, stay on topic, thread!

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Previous Post: « Friday Indictments Open Thread: Roger Stone Has Been Arrested
Next Post: Breaking: Flight Delays – Staffing Issues »

Reader Interactions

155Comments

  1. 1.

    Steeplejack

    January 25, 2019 at 8:33 am

    For Schlemazel:

    Van Morrison, ”Into the Mystic.”

    Jefferson Airplane, ”Embryonic Journey.”

    Brother, we are of an age. I have enjoyed reading and commenting with you here, and you are in my prayers. Peace to you, your niece Laura and your family.

  2. 2.

    Mustang Bobby

    January 25, 2019 at 8:38 am

    I hold you in the Light.

  3. 3.

    Baud

    January 25, 2019 at 8:38 am

    Hi Schlemazel. It’s Baud. I just wanted to assure you that we are going to get the Asshole-in-Chief. Don’t you worry about that. Focus on yourself right now. Peace.

  4. 4.

    schrodingers_cat

    January 25, 2019 at 8:41 am

    @Baud: What Baud said.
    Schlemazel another one of Ustad Rashid Khan’s forays in Hindi Films.
    From My name is Khan
    Allah hi Reham (Allah is Mercy)

  5. 5.

    Dorothy A. Winsor

    January 25, 2019 at 8:45 am

    Schlemazel, thought you’d appreciate knowing that Roger Stone has been arrested and John Podesta is tweeting that it’s “Roger’s turn in the barrel.” We’ll gloat a little extra in your honor.

  6. 6.

    Yarrow

    January 25, 2019 at 8:47 am

    Schlemazel, we are thinking of you. I know you’d love knowing that Roger Stone has been arrested. The traitors will pay. You can rest easy knowing that. We miss you and are thinking of you. Wishing you comfort and peace.

  7. 7.

    zhena gogolia

    January 25, 2019 at 8:51 am

    Dear Schlemazel, Maybe you would like this song, “How Sad, How Lovely,” by Connie Converse, sung by Chris White. We’re thinking of you all the time.

    youtube.com/watch?v=KmPg7NTutZM

  8. 8.

    GregB

    January 25, 2019 at 8:54 am

    Hey Schlemazel. Thanks for sharing this corner of the world with all of us.

  9. 9.

    Cheryl Rofer

    January 25, 2019 at 8:57 am

    Hi Schlemazel – Greetings! Today is a good day for the country, with Roger Stone arrested. Love, joy, and peace to you.

  10. 10.

    raven

    January 25, 2019 at 8:58 am

    Do not go gentle into that good night,
    Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
    Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

  11. 11.

    JeanneT

    January 25, 2019 at 8:59 am

    Hey, Schlemazel. I’m mostly a lurker on BJ but have read many of your posts and am thinking of you this morning. I hope your care will include some foot massage and music – my husband said that made a really good combo with pain relievers he was on a few years back. Wishing you the least pain and the most comfort!

  12. 12.

    OzarkHillbilly

    January 25, 2019 at 9:02 am

    When great trees fall,
    rocks on distant hills shudder,
    lions hunker down
    in tall grasses,
    and even elephants
    lumber after safety.

    When great trees fall
    in forests,
    small things recoil into silence,
    their senses
    eroded beyond fear.

    When great souls die,
    the air around us becomes
    light, rare, sterile.
    We breathe, briefly.
    Our eyes, briefly,
    see with
    a hurtful clarity.
    Our memory, suddenly sharpened,
    examines,
    gnaws on kind words
    unsaid,
    promised walks
    never taken.

    Great souls die and
    our reality, bound to
    them, takes leave of us.
    Our souls,
    dependent upon their
    nurture,
    now shrink, wizened.
    Our minds, formed
    and informed by their
    radiance,
    fall away.
    We are not so much maddened
    as reduced to the unutterable ignorance
    of dark, cold
    caves.

    And when great souls die,
    after a period peace blooms,
    slowly and always
    irregularly. Spaces fill
    with a kind of
    soothing electric vibration.
    Our senses, restored, never
    to be the same, whisper to us.
    They existed. They existed.
    We can be. Be and be
    better. For they existed.”

    ― Maya Angelou

  13. 13.

    MomSense

    January 25, 2019 at 9:02 am

    Good morning, Schlemazel! With the news of the pre dawn arrest of Roger Stone – unpaid FBI Agents in full gear no less- we are giddy Jackals. We are all thinking of you and wish you were live with us to celebrate.

    I hope you are not feeling any discomfort today and that you are in the company of those dear to you. We miss you and we are all thinking of you and sending you hugs.

  14. 14.

    Emma

    January 25, 2019 at 9:04 am

    Be happy knowing we’re kicking their butts. And if the worst (for us) should come to pass, grab the Director by the halo and ask him what the heck kind of a movie he’s making. At the very least, get the scriptwriters fired.

  15. 15.

    Amir Khalid

    January 25, 2019 at 9:04 am

    Peace and comfort to Schlemazel and efg. And of course may they rejoice in the good news re Roger Stone.

  16. 16.

    geg6

    January 25, 2019 at 9:05 am

    Schlemazel, my friend, I know it will give you a small pleasure to know that Roger Stone has been arrested and that Steve Bannon might be next (seems he’s mentioned in the Stone indictment). I am sending all of my good thoughts your way and am thinking about you all the time. Raven, above at #10, has my own sentiments exactly.

  17. 17.

    Cermet

    January 25, 2019 at 9:06 am

    Best wishes! All the Jackals here are behind you! The news of late demonstrates that sometimes, the impossible isn’t impossible after all!

  18. 18.

    hedgehog mobile

    January 25, 2019 at 9:09 am

    Good morning Schemazel. We got Stone. We will get the rest. Peace and light to you.

  19. 19.

    dmsilev

    January 25, 2019 at 9:09 am

    Best wishes! We’re thinking of you and your family.

  20. 20.

    RedDirtGirl

    January 25, 2019 at 9:10 am

    Best wishes from another of the jackaltariat. Your voice here is missed!

  21. 21.

    HeleninEire

    January 25, 2019 at 9:11 am

    Think of you often, Schlemazel. It’s so bizarre how this world works now. We feel we know people we’ve never met. Well, we have met, I suppose. Just through words.

    Be well. Be safe. Be comfortable.

  22. 22.

    tokyocali (formerly tokyo expat)

    January 25, 2019 at 9:14 am

    Shlemazel, I am also delurking to let you know that all the way over here in Tokyo, I am sending good thoughts out to the universe that they may reach wherever you may be.

    efgoldman, I miss your crotchety posts that never fail to get to the heart of the matter.

    As an American abroad, I am tired of constantly apologizing for Trump or receiving sympathy when others learn my nationality. Let’s wrap this up and bring sanity back to our government. Now, slipping back into lurkdom.

  23. 23.

    Betty Cracker

    January 25, 2019 at 9:14 am

    Sending warm thoughts from Florida your way, my friend. I will cherish the excellent biscotti recipes you shared and think of you when I make them at future Drunken Aunties Cookie Nights.

  24. 24.

    Haroldo

    January 25, 2019 at 9:14 am

    Again, I wish you comfort, Schlemazel.

    And rehab for efgoldman.

    Fuckem, indeed.

  25. 25.

    Cheryl from Maryland

    January 25, 2019 at 9:15 am

    Dearest Schlemazel — I feel internet friends are the best friends. They are the ones you choose, not the ones just from work or school or your neighborhood. I like to think you are my friend.

  26. 26.

    thalarctosMaritimus

    January 25, 2019 at 9:17 am

    Schlemazel, we miss you lots. We’ll be raising glasses to you Sunday evening in Seattle. Love to you.

  27. 27.

    laura

    January 25, 2019 at 9:17 am

    Dear Schlemazel, Grace and Peace to you and those who love you.
    youtu.be/CFsbAuX9P4w

  28. 28.

    JPL

    January 25, 2019 at 9:18 am

    Schlemazel You have added so much to balloon juice and we are better because of you. I hope that you can celebrate the Stone news, because I feel it could be the beginning of the last chapter in the trump administration.

  29. 29.

    Mai Naem mobile

    January 25, 2019 at 9:19 am

    Hi Schlemazel. Hope Laura treats you to a mugshot of Roger Stone without his hair piece . Sending positive thoughts over the intertubes to you. Hope the nurses are keeping you comfortable. (((())))

  30. 30.

    A Ghost To Most

    January 25, 2019 at 9:21 am

    Fare well, and be comfortable. We will persist.

  31. 31.

    gbbalto

    January 25, 2019 at 9:29 am

    Schlemazel –
    I have always enjoyed your comments. My best wishes to you and your family.
    Laura –
    Thanks for thinking of us and taking the time and trouble to update us at this fraught time.

  32. 32.

    Villago Delenda Est

    January 25, 2019 at 9:30 am

    I wish so much that Schlemazel and efgoldman could be with us here to celebrate the news of Roger Stone being arrested.

  33. 33.

    Nicole

    January 25, 2019 at 9:31 am

    Hi, Laura- please let Schlemazel know that A) I’ve been reading some of his comments on past posts and am reminded of what a smart, thoughtful commenter he is and that B) every time I see his screen name I get an earworm of the Laverne & Shirley theme song, so thanks, thanks a lot for that.

  34. 34.

    Ghost of Joe Lieblings Dog

    January 25, 2019 at 9:34 am

    Hi Schlemazel,

    You’re one of the people whose comments I’ve always looked forward to reading here, and I’ve often thought I’d enjoy knowing you … maybe I do, in another timeline. I miss ‘seeing you’ here. Keeping you in my thoughts, as so many are.

    With kind regards,
    — Dog, etc.

  35. 35.

    spudgun

    January 25, 2019 at 9:34 am

    Good morning, Schlemazel – i hope you are having a good day, with lots of rest and peace and comfort and family. I’ve been thinking of you every day since John’s post and sending you hopeful, shiny, fluffy vibes.

  36. 36.

    The Midnight Lurker

    January 25, 2019 at 9:36 am

    Good luck, gentlemen. I’ll light a candle.

  37. 37.

    Frankensteinbeck

    January 25, 2019 at 9:38 am

    Schlemazel, I admit, I have the opposite advice of everyone else. Spend the time you have thinking about those you love and those who love you, rather than hate. That includes us here, all trying to give you happiness one way or the other.

  38. 38.

    donnah

    January 25, 2019 at 9:38 am

    Schlemazel, Sending warmth and comfort to you. May all of our positive and loving thoughts bring you the sense of community and love you need.

  39. 39.

    NotMax

    January 25, 2019 at 9:42 am

    Stay frosty, dude.

  40. 40.

    raven

    January 25, 2019 at 9:42 am

    The FBI showed up with a locked and loaded SWAT Teaming the dead of night!

  41. 41.

    Sandia Blanca

    January 25, 2019 at 9:45 am

    Another infrequent commenter here to add my best wishes for Schlemazel and efgoldman. This little community is richer because of you. I agree with @Cheryl from Maryland that friends we choose are indeed the best. Peace and comfort to you both.

  42. 42.

    WaterGirl

    January 25, 2019 at 9:45 am

    Schlemazel, you are missed already. If my own tears are any indication, I’m pretty sure there is an entire river of tears being shed for you by all your friends here.

    I do have one bone to pick with you, though. Laura said you always razz the people you like best. I always thought we were buds, but you were always super nice to me, so maybe you I was wrong? :-)

    Love and hugs to you, Schlemazel, and everyone who loves you.

  43. 43.

    Brachiator

    January 25, 2019 at 9:47 am

    Peace to Schlemazel and efgoldman

  44. 44.

    Barbara

    January 25, 2019 at 9:48 am

    Schlemazel, When my brother was in the hospital battling something similar last August, this board helped me identify music videos — movies, concerts, documentaries — for the kind of music my brother loved, as in Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers, and we spent a lot of time listening and reminiscing. Please have someone let us know if there is something similar that we could do for you to keep you thinking positive thoughts and reliving happy moments and memories. As always, fingers crossed and wishing you the best.

  45. 45.

    Le Comte de Monte Cristo, fka Edmund Dantes

    January 25, 2019 at 9:49 am

    Peace and comfort to you, friend.

  46. 46.

    gbbalto

    January 25, 2019 at 9:50 am

    efgoldman – Best wishes and hope that rehab is going well.

  47. 47.

    Patricia Kayden

    January 25, 2019 at 9:53 am

    Sending warm vibes and good thoughts in the direction of Schlemazel and efgoldman. Hoping for the best. Both of you are dearly missed.

  48. 48.

    la caterina

    January 25, 2019 at 9:57 am

    Schlemazel, i’ve always loved your nym and enjoyed your comments. Reading you and the other Juicers is a highlight of my day. You’ve gotten me through some tough times. I hope you’re enjoying today’s indictment. Thinking of you fondly and wishing you peace.

  49. 49.

    Dog Mom

    January 25, 2019 at 9:58 am

    Schlemazel, I mostly lurk here – not quick or clever enough most of the time to get in on the commenting action. I have appreciated your contributions and was always heartened by the fact that you and others here have been kind, sane and humane in our turbulent political times – with shared a sense of humor and perspective!

    I wish you peace and comfort at this time. I hope that you are able to enjoy happy moments with your loved ones where time stands still and worries don’t intrude. Strength and peace to your niece, Laura and a thank you for giving us the chance to pass our thoughts along.

  50. 50.

    Ohio Mom

    January 25, 2019 at 10:01 am

    Schlemazel, hope you are basking in the love that surrounds you. Have no regrets, you lived exactly as you should have. You gave us the gift of your presence and we are so grateful to have had you in our lives.

    EFG: Hope you feel and are inspired by the love that surrounds you as well. Every time I get discouraged by the news, I hear your voice (actually pixels) reminding us how long Watergate took and counseling patience. It helps. You continue to make a difference.

  51. 51.

    NobodySpecial

    January 25, 2019 at 10:02 am

    Schlemazel, you’re a real mensch. Best wishes.

    EDIT – Oh, and efgoldman? Good luck to you as well, miss your angry self both here and at LGM.

  52. 52.

    TaMara (HFG)

    January 25, 2019 at 10:03 am

    SchlemazeI, hope all the love and good wishes coming from our little blog corner brightens your days. Sending you good vibes and thoughts.

  53. 53.

    O. Felix Culpa

    January 25, 2019 at 10:04 am

    Dear Schlemazel, it seems that all the best words have already been taken by the jackaltariat. We rejoice in the latest arrest news of another trumpelstiltskin, we celebrate the resolve of Miss Nancy, and we miss you. Sending you love from New Mexico.

  54. 54.

    Bookeater (formerly JosieJ)

    January 25, 2019 at 10:05 am

    Schlemazel, you don’t know me: I mostly lurk here. But, without knowing it, you and the rest of the jackals entertained and inspired me through my own health issues last year. I ended up receiving a heart transplant after years of suffering through Stage IV heart failure. This place, including your contributions, allowed me to focus on something besides my symptoms and the uncertainty of whether I’d be transplanted in time. Certainly, my lengthy hospital stay would have been much more boring without it and you. For obvious reasons, I believe in miracles. I hope there’s one in store for you. I wish love, peace and strength to you and your family.

  55. 55.

    tobie

    January 25, 2019 at 10:06 am

    When I first came to this blog years ago, the regulars were you, raven, omnes, and efgoldman. It really is that unsentimental, grizzled, smart and at the same time very humane attitude that has made this my favorite blog. Sending you and your niece Laura and efgoldman all good wishes for peace and comfort.

  56. 56.

    Yarrow

    January 25, 2019 at 10:06 am

    An aside, Adam (or another FPer) can you let niece Laura know about this new thread and that there could be other new threads? She may not know to look for it. I have posted a link to this thread at the end of that now old thread that John posted a few days ago in case she’s still looking there.

  57. 57.

    The Dangerman

    January 25, 2019 at 10:08 am

    I’m reasonably sure this is the first time I have ever posted Rest In Eternal Peace and Fuckem in the same post.

  58. 58.

    cope

    January 25, 2019 at 10:11 am

    Schlemazel, I don’t know you and all I know about you is what I have gleaned from your posts here at BJ. What I have inferred is that we are of the same generation. I’m 68 million years old and together, we have experienced the big events that shaped this planet since the middle of the last century. I don’t think any other age cohort will ever live through a history like you and I have. If I could choose any period of human history during which to live my life, it would be the one we shared. We lucked out. Lives lived through a 3 inch screen just aren’t the same are they?

    Anyway, I feel reasonably healthy right now but look out at my life through a gauzy filter of knowing that in a moment, it could/will all turn to shit because of what some doctor tells me. Seeing somebody experience that moment resonates. It’s a note that rings in all of us. John Donne may have written that any man’s death diminishes us but the converse side of that coin is that any man’s life enriches us.

    All the best to you and yours. Hold Laura tight, she’s a good one.

  59. 59.

    Matt McIrvin

    January 25, 2019 at 10:11 am

    Best wishes for Schlemazel and efgoldman. We’re all thinking of you

  60. 60.

    rikyrah

    January 25, 2019 at 10:12 am

    Hi Schlemazel.
    Just wishing you positive thoughts. And, a suggestion for Ravel’s Bolero. It’s hypnotic and calming for me.

  61. 61.

    FelonyGovt

    January 25, 2019 at 10:12 am

    Schlemazel, wishing you peace, comfort, love and light. We miss you here. Thanks to niece Laura.

  62. 62.

    eric

    January 25, 2019 at 10:16 am

    Schlemazel, our corner of the world is a far better place having shared in your presence. Peace and holding you and yours in the light.

  63. 63.

    debit

    January 25, 2019 at 10:18 am

    You are in my thoughts, Schlemazel. Peace and love to you and your family.

  64. 64.

    glory b

    January 25, 2019 at 10:25 am

    Hugs, best wishes and love from one of the angry black lady jackals.

  65. 65.

    Joy in FL

    January 25, 2019 at 10:26 am

    May you have what you need.

  66. 66.

    TomatoQueen

    January 25, 2019 at 10:26 am

    Good morning Schlemazel, cold and sunny here in northern Virginia, where we share in the general rejoicement over this morning’s news. The scouring of the Shire takes some patience and strong character, both qualities you have exemplified. I hope you have a peaceful day.
    With a cheery fuckem to efgoldman.

  67. 67.

    Leto

    January 25, 2019 at 10:28 am

    Schlemazel, nothing but love, peace, and positive thoughts for you and your family. I always enjoyed reading your comments and will forever appreciate the kind words you said during my own travails. We’re all thinking of you and wish you the most comfort possible.

  68. 68.

    The Midnight Lurker

    January 25, 2019 at 10:29 am

    I know it’s off thread… but the FAA just shut down flights into La Guardia.

    Newark and Philly are next.

  69. 69.

    The Moar You Know

    January 25, 2019 at 10:34 am

    I’m reasonably sure this is the first time I have ever posted Rest In Eternal Peace and Fuckem in the same post.

    @The Dangerman: I’m kind of aspiring towards it as a mindset.

    Schlemazel, fly hard.

  70. 70.

    Gelfling 545

    January 25, 2019 at 10:34 am

    Wishing you a comfortable and peaceful day.

  71. 71.

    Elizabelle

    January 25, 2019 at 10:34 am

    Hello there Schlemazel. And hello Laura. Sending you best jackal wishes from Richmond, VA. And yes, smiling to learn Roger Stone had a memorable Friday morning. Pre-dawn yet. Bring it on!

    Doug J alluded to this Rolling Stones song in a post he did yesterday, fundraising for furloughed employees. Loved hearing it again, and it leads to some other good and not heard in a long time songs. No idea if you’re a Stones fan but, if not, no time like the present to start, right?

    Rolling Stones. Salt of the Earth. Youtube video.

    This video has lots of B&W photos of 20th century (and 19th century) working folks. Brits mostly, but some of the pics are from Chicago, it seems.

    Happy Friday. Will check back in with you later. Bright sunshine here today.

  72. 72.

    WaterGirl

    January 25, 2019 at 10:37 am

    @Yarrow: Laura originally made contact with Cole. I just sent Cole an email asking if he can reach out to Laura by email and let her know that we will be having new morning posts for Schlemazel every day for awhile.

  73. 73.

    Nelle

    January 25, 2019 at 10:38 am

    Hello Schlemazol and Laura from cold Kansas. I’m mostly a lurker but no that, even unspoken and unknown, have been and will be holding you in my thought for peace. I know that for each one who comments there are others silently thinking of you.

  74. 74.

    AM in NC

    January 25, 2019 at 10:41 am

    Long time reader and infrequent poster here. Just wanted Schlemazel and efg know I’m keeping you in my thoughts and sending love your way.

    Plus doing little gleeful dances for you in honor of Ratfucker Stone’s arrest!

  75. 75.

    cintibud

    January 25, 2019 at 10:51 am

    Schlemazel, I don’t post much but always appreciate your comments. My thoughts are with you.

  76. 76.

    jacy

    January 25, 2019 at 10:53 am

    Schlemazel — you and yours are in our thoughts. Take comfort in the small things, whatever those small things may be. Rest easy.

  77. 77.

    The Thin Black Duke

    January 25, 2019 at 10:58 am

    Blessings to you, Schlemazel.

  78. 78.

    scuffletuffle

    January 25, 2019 at 10:58 am

    Thinking of you often and wishing you comfort and peace.

  79. 79.

    Aleta

    January 25, 2019 at 10:59 am

    Hi Schlemazel,

    I remember what you wrote about loving Halloween.

    Somehow it’s sort of a classic in my mind about celebrating Halloween as a grownup parent, as an adult who still celebrates the happiness of the holiday.

    Thinking of you this morning and sending love and light to you and your family.

    -A

    (I may remember it wrong, but it wasn’t some story about an outlandish adventure, I just remember it as full of happiness. )

  80. 80.

    scav

    January 25, 2019 at 11:01 am

    Schlemazel and team Schlemazel. The best of my morning bletch! is in your honor.

  81. 81.

    Mike R

    January 25, 2019 at 11:06 am

    Don’t give up we are all in your corner, you are remembered and appreciated.

  82. 82.

    Mnemosyne

    January 25, 2019 at 11:07 am

    Schlemazel, you’ve beaten the odds many times before, so I am not giving up hope that you will be back here with us, but if you’re tired of the fight and you’re ready to let go, you can go knowing that we jackals love you and will miss you just as much as we miss General Stuck. We will continue to talk about what a great guy you are and trade funny stories about the things you said. You may be gone from among us, but you will not be forgotten.

  83. 83.

    trollhattan

    January 25, 2019 at 11:09 am

    Blessings, Schlemazel, on your journey. Know peace. Best wishes also to your family.

  84. 84.

    Phylllis

    January 25, 2019 at 11:11 am

    Lifting you up Schlemazel. You are much and well-loved here.

  85. 85.

    delk

    January 25, 2019 at 11:14 am

    Schlemazel- Sending you warm thoughts on a very cold day. Your nym always made me smile.

  86. 86.

    opiejeanne

    January 25, 2019 at 11:15 am

    Warm wishes to both Schlemazel and efgoldman from just outside Seattle where it’s just a little chilly at 38 this morning.
    You are both a great part of this jackalatariat* and we are all thinking of you. Wishing you comfort and peace and to efgoldman a hearty fuckem, but you both can be included, if you like.

    *autocorrect does not approve of jackalatariat but offers no alternate spelling.

  87. 87.

    Sloane Ranger

    January 25, 2019 at 11:20 am

    Good thoughts towards Schlemazel and efg from Brexit hit Britain. Take heart. No matter how fucked up the US seems, the UK can match you and, sometimes, outdo you!

  88. 88.

    dexwood

    January 25, 2019 at 11:21 am

    Schlemazel and efgoldman – another New Mexican here thinking of you. Peace, strength, comfort, and love.

  89. 89.

    C Stars

    January 25, 2019 at 11:23 am

    Schlemazel, you once laughed at a dumb joke I made, and it made my day.

  90. 90.

    Tom Levenson

    January 25, 2019 at 11:24 am

    Every good thought from the Great Court at the British Museum. To Schlemazel: May the cats and jackals in the Egyptian galleries watch over you. To EF Goldman: fuckem.

  91. 91.

    Doc Sardonic

    January 25, 2019 at 11:26 am

    Mostly a lurker here, but your wit, wisdom and insight always brought a smile. May the road always rise to meet you, the wind be at your back and the sun shine warmly on your face.

  92. 92.

    Bex

    January 25, 2019 at 11:26 am

    Glad I’ve gotten to know you over the years. Grace and peace, friend.

  93. 93.

    SFAW

    January 25, 2019 at 11:27 am

    Hey Schlemazel — missing you, and hoping the Roger Stone arrest brightens your day and gives you strength. Keep fighting!

  94. 94.

    MoxieM

    January 25, 2019 at 11:27 am

    Schlemazel & efgoldman: from suddenly frosty Western MA, this Masshole sends her warmest wishes for comfort, strength and fortitude. May you feel the compassion and love that surrounds you from every corner here. You are in our hearts.

  95. 95.

    'Niques

    January 25, 2019 at 11:29 am

    Sending hugs and warm wishes . . . thank you for your brilliance.

  96. 96.

    SFBayAreaGal

    January 25, 2019 at 11:37 am

    Hi Schlemazel, all my love and hugs to you and your beautiful niece Laura.

  97. 97.

    MazeDancer

    January 25, 2019 at 11:49 am

    Sending you so much Light.

    May your Mind and Spirit be riding the waves of golden memories, surrounded in smiles.

  98. 98.

    banditqueen

    January 25, 2019 at 11:51 am

    Hello Sclemazel-you have your memories and create more memories, thank you for that:

    FROM far, from eve and morning
    And yon twelve-winded sky,
    The stuff of life to knit me
    Blew hither: here am I.
    Now—for a breath I tarry
    Nor yet disperse apart—
    Take my hand quick and tell me,
    What have you in your heart.
    Speak now, and I will answer;
    How shall I help you, say;
    Ere to the wind’s twelve quarters
    I take my endless way.
    — Housman

    Peace and comfort to you and all you hold close.

  99. 99.

    MisterForkbeard

    January 25, 2019 at 12:04 pm

    For Schlemazel:

    I’ve never met you in person, but you always struck me as exactly the kind of irascible dmart dude I treasure in my best friends. You are and have been a fantastic commenter, someone I can rely on the make me think or laugh in equal measure. And very occasionally, get pissed off at.

    That’s the best. You’re the best.

  100. 100.

    banditqueen

    January 25, 2019 at 12:05 pm

    efgoldman–keep the f-u-c-k-e-m keys ready to go–the chorus getting louder every day.

  101. 101.

    ProfDamatu

    January 25, 2019 at 12:05 pm

    I’m mostly a lurker, but I’ve always loved reading your posts, Schlemazel! You’re in my thoughts.

  102. 102.

    dww44

    January 25, 2019 at 12:05 pm

    @cope: Thanks for that. As one who has already passed your marker, I’m so very aware that my previously taken for granted good health can disappear in the twinkling of an eye.. Wishing Schlemazel and efgoldman peace and light and a continuing good fight against the ravages of the night.

  103. 103.

    feebog

    January 25, 2019 at 12:12 pm

    Schlemazel; no links or poems from me. Just a thank you for all you have contributed to BJ and my sincere hope you will be back at the keyboard in the near future.

  104. 104.

    satby

    January 25, 2019 at 12:15 pm

    Love to you from your buddy satby.

  105. 105.

    Paul W.

    January 25, 2019 at 12:23 pm

    HI Schlemazel, you don’t know me but as a part of this community I am pulling for you even in the face of what is surely a horrible prognosis. Get well, and at the least I hope you find yourself surrounded by your loved ones.

  106. 106.

    Miss Bianca

    January 25, 2019 at 1:22 pm

    Schlemazel and efg, we miss you and wish you well. Reading thru’ the comments here and laughing at how our words of comfort seem to be consisting of, “don’t worry, we’ll nail Roger Stone and the rest of the bastards yet!” Only on Balloon Juice!

  107. 107.

    Ben Cisco

    January 25, 2019 at 1:44 pm

    Schlemazel. Ben Cisco here. I persist in hoping for a good outcome for you. You’ve brought a lot to this blog and through it, to the people here. Your story isn’t over yet. Fight on.

  108. 108.

    Mandarama

    January 25, 2019 at 1:52 pm

    Thinking of you, Schlemazel and loved ones! Warm and healing thoughts to you, along with the great schadenfreude of the day. <3

  109. 109.

    polyorchnid octopunch

    January 25, 2019 at 2:00 pm

    I mostly lurk rather than blab, but I’ve always enjoyed the acerbic wit of Schlemazel and efgoldman. You two guys are major contributors to the zeitgeist here, and all the best to you.

  110. 110.

    piratedan

    January 25, 2019 at 2:12 pm

    just remember the great words of one of our most notable fictional heroes….

    – no matter where you go, there you are…..

    Buckaroo Banzai

  111. 111.

    Rileys Enabler

    January 25, 2019 at 2:39 pm

    Holding you and your family in white light. May peace and love surround you all. Thank you for being a strong (and sometimes very funny) voice on the internet over these years of darkness and despair.

  112. 112.

    Laura Too

    January 25, 2019 at 3:10 pm

    I only have a few moments for an update to all of you most wonderful people. I am sorry to break the news that his all to brief life is over. I thank each and everyone of you for the kind, funny, snarky beautiful comments. I have to believe that he heard Roger Stone was arrested but ducked out before he heard his orangeness for a final time. And OzarkHillbilly – do you have any idea how long that amount of fucks takes to read??? I think the poem I will save for his memorial. I will update more later, but know he is at peace and he went out knowing you all loved him dearly.

  113. 113.

    Gravenstone

    January 25, 2019 at 3:38 pm

    @Laura Too: Laura, I am so sorry for your and your family’s loss. I can only hope that Schlemazel found comfort in our shared thoughts and words and that his final days were as painless as possible.

  114. 114.

    Mrs. D. Ranged in AZ

    January 25, 2019 at 3:43 pm

    @Laura Too: I’m so sorry for your loss and our hearts go out to you. Thank you for conveying our community’s love to him during his final days. Many blessings on you and yours.

  115. 115.

    dexwood

    January 25, 2019 at 3:44 pm

    @Laura Too:
    Deep regrets. Will raise a glass in his memory. Thank you, Laura.

  116. 116.

    chopper

    January 25, 2019 at 3:51 pm

    @Laura Too:

    oh, god fucking dammit. SHIT.

  117. 117.

    zhena gogolia

    January 25, 2019 at 3:52 pm

    @Laura Too:

    Oh, dear, I am so sorry. He will be sorely missed. Thank you so much for keeping us informed. I am so sad.

  118. 118.

    Mary G

    January 25, 2019 at 3:52 pm

    @Laura Too: So grateful to you for keeping us updated. Condolences to you and his real life family from his pixel-based clan.

    ETA: if there is a charity in lieu of flowers, I hope you will let us know which one(s). If not, I will add a bit to my recurring donation to the American Cancer Society in honor of my dad. And fuck cancer.

  119. 119.

    Betty Cracker

    January 25, 2019 at 3:53 pm

    @Laura Too: I’m sorry. He was one of the good guys. It’s so generous of you to think of us and keep us informed. Know that you’re in our thoughts during this difficult time.

  120. 120.

    Elizabelle

    January 25, 2019 at 3:54 pm

    @Laura Too: I am so sorry.

    Thank you for bringing comfort to Schlemazel, and to us. For being a bridge.

    We will miss him. All the best to you and his family and friends. Bit of a shock for everyone. It seemed to happen so fast.

    I hope you will visit with us from time to time, as you like.

  121. 121.

    raven

    January 25, 2019 at 3:54 pm

    RIP Brother and thanks Laura.

  122. 122.

    The Dangerman

    January 25, 2019 at 3:56 pm

    Deepest condolences and I, too, will raise a glass for him tonight.

  123. 123.

    Gex

    January 25, 2019 at 3:57 pm

    @Laura Too: He will be sorely missed. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.

  124. 124.

    OzarkHillbilly

    January 25, 2019 at 4:03 pm

    Damn.

  125. 125.

    Yarrow

    January 25, 2019 at 4:06 pm

    @Laura Too: Oh, I’m so sorry to hear the news. Deepest condolences to you and the rest of his family. We will be thinking of you all in the coming days.

  126. 126.

    SFBayAreaGal

    January 25, 2019 at 4:08 pm

    Laura, my deepest sympathy and condolences to you and and your family for your loss of beloved Schlemazel. Thank you for sharing our posts of love to him. My heart goes out to you and his family.

    I will miss him.

  127. 127.

    CarolDuhart2

    January 25, 2019 at 4:09 pm

    Peace and light to you and yours. And deep condolences as well.

  128. 128.

    eclare

    January 25, 2019 at 4:17 pm

    I’m so sorry. Thank you so much for keeping us updated.

  129. 129.

    Ruckus

    January 25, 2019 at 4:17 pm

    @Laura Too:
    I can only hope that he is now at peace and that everyone there is as well.
    I’d bet I can speak for everyone that he will be missed and that he made the world a better place.
    Thank you for joining us and keeping us up to date.

  130. 130.

    Haroldo

    January 25, 2019 at 4:18 pm

    I’m sorry, Laura. RIP, Schlemazel.

  131. 131.

    Jackie

    January 25, 2019 at 4:25 pm

    I’m so sorry for you and your family’s loss. And, our loss, too. May he be at peace.

  132. 132.

    Ohio Mom

    January 25, 2019 at 4:26 pm

    Fly away above all the pain Schlemazel.

    Condolences to you Laura, and the rest of the Schlemazel family and clan. Will there be an obituary or memory page you can send us a link to?

  133. 133.

    banditqueen

    January 25, 2019 at 4:27 pm

    @Laura Too: May peace, love, and light surround you and your family, and guide Schlemazel ever onward.

  134. 134.

    Suzanne

    January 25, 2019 at 4:30 pm

    RIP, jackal. I hope Schlemazel left us knowing that he was an invaluable part of the finest community on the entire series of tubes. Best wishes.

    Many condolences to Laura Too and the entire Schlemazel family. Much peace.

  135. 135.

    cckids

    January 25, 2019 at 4:30 pm

    @Laura Too: We’re all so sorry to hear this. Peaceful journey to Schlemazel and to all your family. May a brighter dawn meet you.

  136. 136.

    laura

    January 25, 2019 at 4:30 pm

    I wish you Grace and Peace Laura Too, and thank you for helping Schlemazel know how much he was adored.

  137. 137.

    BlueGirlFromWyo

    January 25, 2019 at 4:32 pm

    I hope his last moments were free of pain and we’re all glad he knew he was loved. Thank you, Laura.

  138. 138.

    WaterGirl

    January 25, 2019 at 4:36 pm

    @Laura Too: Oh, Laura, I am so sad for you and the family. I want to second the two beautiful things that Ohio Mom wrote earlier today:

    Have no regrets, you lived exactly as you should have. Fly away above all the pain, Schlemazel.

  139. 139.

    Elizabelle

    January 25, 2019 at 4:43 pm

    BJ will have a further post about Schlemazel at some point this evening. Betty and Adam report it is in the works.

    Godspeed, Schlemazel.

  140. 140.

    Cheryl from Maryland

    January 25, 2019 at 4:48 pm

    Thanks to Schlemazel for being a part of our lives, and thanks to Laura for her efforts in comforting him and us jackals.

  141. 141.

    JeanneT

    January 25, 2019 at 4:54 pm

    Goodbye, good jackal. We’ll miss you here. My sympathy to Laura and the rest of Schlemazel’s family.

  142. 142.

    The Fat Kate Middleton

    January 25, 2019 at 5:02 pm

    Goodbye, dear Schlemazel. You were part of the good I always look for in this world. You will be so missed.

  143. 143.

    zhena gogolia

    January 25, 2019 at 5:34 pm

    I was just looking at his photographs of clouds of dragonflies.

  144. 144.

    WaterGirl

    January 25, 2019 at 5:41 pm

    @Elizabelle: And Cole!

  145. 145.

    pat

    January 25, 2019 at 5:42 pm

    @zhena gogolia:

    His photographs of clouds and dragonflies……

    Where could one find those?

  146. 146.

    debbie

    January 25, 2019 at 5:58 pm

    @Laura Too:

    This is the saddest news I have read in a very long time, sadder even than the fucking 2016 election. Peace to all of you.

  147. 147.

    zhena gogolia

    January 25, 2019 at 6:00 pm

    @pat:

    It’s clouds OF dragonflies in MN —

    balloon-juice.com/2018/05/30/on-the-road-and-in-your-backyard-157/

  148. 148.

    debbie

    January 25, 2019 at 6:06 pm

    @Aleta:

    I have no idea what Schlemazel looked like, but I do have an indelible picture in my mind of him chasing little kids down his street and forcing candy on them.

  149. 149.

    NeenerNeener

    January 25, 2019 at 6:06 pm

    Oh damn. I’m just catching up on today’s posts and I saw this. I’m so sorry, @Laura Too:

  150. 150.

    pat

    January 25, 2019 at 6:08 pm

    .@zhena gogolia:
    Thank you.

  151. 151.

    SWMBO

    January 25, 2019 at 6:25 pm

    @Laura Too: Peace and comfort to all. I am crying over someone I have never met but miss terribly already. Thank you for your kindness in letting us know. If there is a donation fund to defray expenses, please let John Cold or one of the other front pagers know. It was an honor to know him. RIP

  152. 152.

    MomSense

    January 25, 2019 at 6:56 pm

    @Laura Too:

    Oh Laura I’m so sorry. We join your family in mourning our friend Schlemazel. Please convey our condolences to your family and let us know if he has a favorite charity that we can donate to in his memory. Big hugs,Laura.

  153. 153.

    SiubhanDuinne

    January 25, 2019 at 7:01 pm

    @Laura Too:

    Sobs.

    May Uncle Schlemazel rest in the peace that sometimes eluded him during his earthly time

    Bless you, thank you, and I hope you won’t be a stranger.

  154. 154.

    spudgun

    January 25, 2019 at 7:08 pm

    @Laura Too: Laura, so sorry…I’m at work crying in front of my computer…

    I’m so glad he went peacefully and knew how much we cared about him. Wishing you and your family much peace and comfort. Thank you so much for taking time out of what must have been a very painful time to keep us updated.

    Schlemazel, you will be missed.

  155. 155.

    O. Felix Culpa

    January 25, 2019 at 7:26 pm

    @Laura Too: Thank you for letting us know. We virtual friends of Schlemazel share your grief and remember him with love.

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