Please take a moment to send well wishes to Arun's Family (thank you)

I have closed comments on this post as I'm asking you to please go here instead. (And please apprise others.)

A valued member within our community, and treasured friend of mine, Arun Rajagopal, lost his mum this week and our hearts and prayers go out to him and his family. We have compiled a site right here for you to leave some comforting words, a prayer, a poem and even a donation.

To be sure, the only thing that Arun has asked for is that we keep him in our prayers.

Thank you for doing just that ;-).

And now a few words for my friend: Arun, you are high in my thoughts, heavy on my heart and within my prayers. I've told you this during happier times but I wish to underscore it now: your dedication and kindness just floor me. They also give me hope about the purity and goodness that exists in every corner of this world (and this community).

Even though you may be located a world away, your tireless, exhaustive work for the Age of Conversation book, Blogger Social and all other initiatives that you are the first in line to take upon your strong shoulders, always makes me feel like you're right "here".

I am better for knowing you and I only wish I had a magic wand. Alas, I only have words...but your words have lifted me on many occasions...so I hope these give you and yours even a moment of comfort.

PS: Readers, to see even an inkling of the mammoth work and community promotion that Arun has done, just go to this post. And I do so love that picture of him with his "pet" monkey up there (the monkey actually belongs to his friend, and, yes, it's a real monkey...and truly my favorite picture of him).