David was a frequent contributor to This American Life. He died a couple of weeks ago. I have been surprised by how hard this has hit me. I'm at a loss to explain it. The only thing I can think of is that he was a part of the live event I attended a few months ago. I could go on about that whole thing again, but I won't. Let's just say it was a marvelous night. I so infrequently do things just for me to make me smile, things that I love with a passion. But I did it that one rainy (also something I love) night. It made my soul indescribably happy.
The bit David did was about having cancer. Cancer is a subject, especially at the time, that is all too familiar. It was sweet and funny and very moving. Here is his piece.
It certainly made me cry at the time. He was such a part of my magical night in a very poignant way. He has such a way of delivering his tales in his distinctive voice. Seeing him that night bonded me to him, I guess. The piece seemed to end on a hopeful note. He was once again dancing. And then to hear he... wasn't. That was hard.
This American Life has a way of reaching me in ways and places that nothing else does. Just hearing bits of music they use in other venues or settings instantly brings deep emotion to my very gut recalling the emotions of the stories they enhance.
Here are two of my other favorite Rakoff pieces.
Occupancy may be revoked without notice
Speak now or forever hold your peace
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