Some days carry the weight of both sadness and hope, creating a tapestry of emotions that define our human experience. On this first day of spring, I'm celebrating my son Timothy Patrick Walsh's birthday while navigating the raw grief of his recent passing just 18 days ago. The sunshine illuminating the Northern California foothills outside my studio window mirrors the way Timothy's memory continues to shine brightly in my life.

Timothy possessed extraordinary artistic talent—a family trait that runs through generations. While I express myself through pencil drawings, he chose tattoos as his canvas, each marking telling part of his story. His infectious laugh still echoes in my memory, a sound that could fill any room with genuine joy. Today's podcast honors his rock and roll spirit by playing a rare 1987 promotional copy of Guns N' Roses' "Welcome to the Jungle"—a fitting tribute to a young man whose potential was immense but whose journey ended too soon.

Yesterday brought meaningful connections at a Presbyterian church in Fair Oaks, where I spoke to a singles group celebrating St. Patrick's Day. The warmth of community provided temporary respite from grief, reminding me how human connection sustains us during difficult times. Learning to balance loss with living represents one of life's greatest challenges, yet finding moments of gratitude amid grief remains essential to healing.

The podcast also celebrates mentorship through sharing Scott Robinson's journey from curious learner to capable radio host. After eighteen months of training, Scott successfully hosted the final two hours of my radio show—an achievement worth recognizing in an industry where pathways to becoming a talk show host have nearly disappeared.

As spring brings renewal to the world around us, this episode explores how we can honor memories while still embracing life's continuing journey. Whether you're experiencing grief or supporting someone through theirs, I hope these reflections offer comfort and perspective on finding light even during our darkest moments.