"And Rise into the Light..."

If you're reading this, I've got to thank you for doing so, especially if it's not your first time here. However, I've come here today to tell you I've made a decision to shut down Wading in the Velvet C. indefinitely. It may not be forever, but I can't say right now. I appreciate the attention and encouragement I've received from returning readers, especially ones culled from recent endorsement by YEMblog. Without going into too much detail, I need to cultivate significant detachment from this project, for the sake of my serenity and sobriety.

I invite you to enjoy the archives in the next few days. Soon, though, I'll be password-protecting the blog. To create psychological distance, I need to make it unavailable for public consumption, reduce the temptation to write in it, and urge myself to explore other creative avenues.

NB: This development brings nothing to bear on my feelings for Phish. It has more to do with my own personal standards and goals than the band and its music. 2009 was one of the most amazing years of my life, with Phish a prime element of joy. This blog has been a major part of my journey, in creativity and sober recovery, as influenced and enriched by Phish. But that journey is now diverting. The timing is right.

I'll be back on the train when Phish returns this summer. A road this long may take its turns, but does not simply end. Until then, I bid you a Happy New Year. Thanks for reading. And I'll close with lyrics I find apropos... 

Phish -- "Gone"

Running from yourself

Come back from the dead

All those sleepless nights

All that pain

I'm sorry you're gone

But you're gone.

When hope is nearly lost

You'll finally do what's right

Stop bleeding from your head anymore

The devil has you down

So turn around

And rise into the light

Running from yourself

(Spinning got you here)

Come back from the dead

(And there's no sun left in your eyes)

All those sleepless nights

All that pain

(You looked right through me)

I'm sorry you're gone

But you're gone

(Left alone sleeping)

When hope is nearly lost

(Gave with all your strength)

You'll finally do what's right

(Spoke with your eyes closed)

Stop bleeding from your head anymore

(I saw you dreaming like a child)

The devil has you down

(Cross the river with your friends)

So turn around

And rise into the light.

-- Party Time, 2009