About Me

My photo
Artists who paints in oil en plein aire. Member of the three member Plein Aire Cottage Artists. Members: Mary Rose Holmes, Violetta Chandler and Helen Tilston

Saturday, July 11, 2015

Gone Too Soon

Thatched home photo Helen tilston

Born in a thatched house in the west of Ireland to two loving parents, three brothers and three sisters. My sandbox was the Atlantic Ocean, just a few summersaults from our front door.
Learning to read, my sister Philomena's mystery stories, at five years of age, presented me with a love of literature, poetry, drama and music.  I am told I, annoyingly, read aloud, in my treble voice, the Sunday newspapers.    Music and love was in our hearts.

I bade  farewell to my siblings on May 23rd and have joined my parents, sister Philomena and ancestors, hopefully, in heaven.  Slán agus beannacht  Thomas Glynn, Dublin, Ireland.  Now I hand you over to my sister Helen:

Thomas Glynn


Our handsome, young brother is missed more than he will ever know.   A poet and bard I would like to share a poem he wrote when he was sixteen years old.
           

My Life   
by: Thomas Glynn

 Within my life

 I weave my colours

 My thread is long enough

 Between my life and death there are no boundaries

 Nor is there an edge to Space
Photo Helen Tilstn


Thomas presented me with this poem"Wind" when I first immigrated to the New World.

Youghal, Photo Helen Tilston


WIND for my beautiful sister Helen

 Will the Wind be wild enough,
To clear our warm worn ways,
And bring to life and light,
Some young green off-spring,
Or will my words be withered
In your winter
And my song be torn to tears
In the wailing wind               ......Thomas Glynn 5A

Celtic Cross -Photo: Helen tilston


 Thomas was also a talented amateur actor and singer.  In 1988,  RTE held a contest for Ireland's Worst Singer.   Thomas on his way down Grafton Street in Dublin, stepped into a phone booth, rang RTE and sang, completely off key "I did it my way"   He won two tickets to Michael Jackson's concert in Cork City.

 I will leave you with Michael Jackson singing Gone Too Soon








Posted by at

62 comments:

  1. Salty Pumpkin StudioJuly 11, 2015 at 4:27 AM

    Sympathy for you loss
    His poems are lovely, lots of heart there.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 11, 2015 at 6:29 AM

      Thank you Maywyn,
      His heart was enormous and he was full of kindness and generosity.
      Being our youngest he was our baby.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  2. KukkaiselämääJuly 11, 2015 at 4:54 AM

    I'm so sorry for your younger, talented brother, Helen he wrote beautiful poems. Hugs,
    Satu

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 11, 2015 at 6:27 AM

      Many thanks Satu for your kind condolences.
      Helenx

      Delete
  3. Jacqueline @ HOMEJuly 11, 2015 at 5:15 AM

    Oh Helen …… I have few words. Such a handsome and talented brother and to have gone so young and your sisters too. You must have such fond memories and how fortunate to have had them in your life. Will be thinking of you today. XXXX

    ReplyDelete
  4. helen tilstonJuly 11, 2015 at 6:31 AM

    Jackqueline, thank you very much for your kind words. You sum it up beautifully when you say how fortunate we were to have him and my sister in our lives. He left us with a barrel of laughter which is sustaining us.
    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete
  5. Jackie and Joel SmithJuly 11, 2015 at 6:46 AM

    I never missed having brothers and sisters as an only child but as I get older and watch the deep, rich relationships that friends have with their siblings, I believe I may have missed something. So sorry to read of your brother's passing. Hugs to you Helen xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 11, 2015 at 11:32 AM

      Hello Jackie,
      There was never a dull moment growing up in our large family. Each member is so unique and original which makes for a lot of joy.
      We miss Thomas greatly. Thanks for stopping by.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  6. Dumbwit TellherJuly 11, 2015 at 6:58 AM

    Helen - your heart must ache & your soul feel like it's missing a big piece with the loss of your much loved & cherished Thomas.
    What a talented man who obviously loved, laughed, & lived each day with gusto. We are so fortunate to have such people in our lives, but your family were the lucky ones to call him brother, & son. My heart goes out to you & your whole family. Much love. xox

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:44 PM

      Hello Deborah,
      What you say is so true about Thomas. We cherished him and his wit, humour and goodness. He could maintain a straight face while all rolled around in laughter. He was a true gentleman who left an impact on all who knew him. I find comfort in your beautiful words Deborah and consider myself lucky to also know you.

      Helenxx

      Delete
  7. donna bakerJuly 11, 2015 at 7:09 AM

    Helen, my condolences to you and Thomas. How sad. But, what wonderful memories of childhood you have that I'm sure Thomas felt the same.

    ReplyDelete
  8. KarenaJuly 11, 2015 at 7:53 AM

    Helen I am so very sorry for your loss. Your brother sounds like such an amazing and talented man!

    xoxo
    Karena
    The Arts by Karena
    Stems Soiree

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:45 PM

      Hello Karena,

      I am grateful for your kind words about Thomas. He was one in a million.
      Fond wishes
      Helenxx

      Delete
  9. RosemaryJuly 11, 2015 at 7:58 AM

    Dear Helen - I share your grief at the sad loss of your talented brother - unexpectedly, I too lost my younger brother in March this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:47 PM

      Hello Rosemary,
      How sad for you, too, losing your younger brother this past March. I hope the pain has eased somewhat for you. Nothing prepares us for such tragedy.
      Wishing you a pleasant week
      Helen xx

      Delete
  10. MiseJuly 11, 2015 at 8:27 AM

    Many good wishes to you and your family now, Helen. Your brother surely shared your gift for thoughtful happiness and I can imagine what a bond the whole gang of you had in the cottage and in the wide world of surrounding fields.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:51 PM

      Dear Mise,

      Your good wishes and beautiful words will be treasured. Our fields and ocean were but a short boat trip from your little paradise. We could have whistled across or sent one of the lazy seals with a message.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  11. LynneJuly 11, 2015 at 8:34 AM

    Sad for the loss of your beloved brother . . . and other family members.
    I have fond memories of the West of Ireland where we have had the joy of living in an Irish cottage belonging to friends of ours. Up in the hills overlooking Bantry Bay, there have been many hikes and treasured moments. We can't wait to return again . . .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:53 PM

      Hello Lynne,
      Thanks you for your message,

      Bantry is a beautiful spot and I hope your plans allow you to return again soon and relive the memories
      Helen xx

      Delete
  12. Louise @ INGREDIENTSJuly 11, 2015 at 10:17 AM

    Dear Helen, I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful poem. Wishing you and your family all the best.
    xo Louise

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 12, 2015 at 2:54 PM

      Hello Louise

      Your kind words mean a lot to us. Thomas had so many talents and I am fortunate to have inherited his library which is a treasure.

      Wishing you a delightful week
      Helenx

      Delete
  13. ~Lavender Dreamer~July 11, 2015 at 6:12 PM

    I am very saddened by your loss to my friend. It just makes us think that life will never be the same when we lose someone that close to us. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. Sweet hugs, Diane

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:01 AM

      Thank you Diane for your prayers and good wishes. He was one in a 350 million. His presence lingers with us in the arts.
      Wishing you a joyful week. Stay cool
      Helen xx

      Delete
  14. Hilary Melton-ButcherJuly 12, 2015 at 12:41 AM

    Dear Helen - how very sad ... my thoughts to you at this time. This is a beautiful post for your brother ... Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:02 AM

      Hello Hilary,
      Thank you for your kind comments. We are still mourning his passing. We were blessed to have such a special brother.
      Fond wishes and I hope you are in good health
      Helenx

      Delete
  15. PatriciaJuly 12, 2015 at 3:17 AM

    Dear Helen, I am so sad to hear of your loss, the loss of a sibling will be keenly felt. What a wonderful legacy he has left in verse - you are are talented family, and your tribute is so touching. xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:04 AM

      Hello Patricia,
      How kind of you to say such words. Thomas was blessed in so many artistic ways and he loved literature, films and music of all genres. He was a fountain of knowledge which we shall miss.
      Wishing you a great week
      Helen xx

      Delete
  16. vicki archerJuly 12, 2015 at 1:19 PM

    So, so very sorry Helen... Thinking of you ... xv

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:05 AM

      Hello Vicki
      How kind of you to stop by and bring your condolences. We very much appreciate it.
      Fond wishes for a great week
      Helenx

      Delete
  17. PoppyJuly 12, 2015 at 2:38 PM

    Dearest Helen,

    So very sad today, to hear of your beloved brother's passing. His words and witty ways are surely a precious presence in your family's heart and soul.

    Thinking of you, my friend.

    xx
    Poppy

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:11 AM

      Hello Poppy,
      Indeed witty is a good word to describe Thomas. We shall miss how he made us laugh, unexpectedly. He was also a gentleman of the highest order. I have been thinking of you and sending best wishes to you.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  18. JenJuly 13, 2015 at 1:36 AM

    Dear Helen,
    I am so sorry for your loss. You have written a beautiful tribute to him, given us a glimpse of who he truly was. xo Jen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:11 AM

      Hello Jen.
      Thomas left us with so much material and stories, we could write a book He was very special, talented and unique. Thanks for your kind words
      Helen xx

      Delete
  19. Jenny WoolfJuly 13, 2015 at 1:39 AM

    I am so sorry to hear of the death of your handsome and talented brother. His poems are wonderful.

    ReplyDelete
  20. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 5:12 AM

    Hello Jenny,

    Thomas was a great poet and could write effortlessly. Thanks for your kind words
    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete
  21. SumanJuly 13, 2015 at 5:56 AM

    Dear Helen,
    I'm so sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful tribute to a beautiful soul.
    Thank you for sharing the wonderful poems.

    Thinking of you.

    Suman

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 6:30 AM

      Hello Suman,
      So pleased a great writer like you likes my bother's poetry. Your kind words are greatly appreciated. I hope life is being wonderful to you in your beautiful part of the world.
      Helenx

      Delete
  22. UnknownJuly 13, 2015 at 9:38 AM

    Dear Helen, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. A beautiful tribute to your brother, a talented poet. Sharon

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 1:02 PM

      Thank you Sharon for your kindness.
      Much appreciated
      Helen xx

      Delete
  23. MadeliefJuly 13, 2015 at 11:20 AM

    Dear Helen,

    So sorry to read of the loss of your dear brother. What a handsome and talented man he was. Wishing you lots of strenght!

    Thinking of you and sending a virtual hug.

    Much love,

    Madelief x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 1:04 PM

      Dear Madelief,
      Thank you for your kind words. He was handsome, talented and a gentleman and loved and respected by many. He is being sadly missed by all of us. Sending you fond wishes and have a wonderful holiday.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  24. MrsLittleJeansJuly 13, 2015 at 12:39 PM

    Such incredibly beautiful poetry, I am very sad for your loss. Thinking of you a lot...much love, Mona

    ReplyDelete
  25. helen tilstonJuly 13, 2015 at 1:05 PM

    Hello Mona,
    Thank you very much for reading my brother's poetry. Writing was effortless to him. Sending you fond wishes. I hope life is well with you. I miss your posts
    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete
  26. BonnieJuly 14, 2015 at 9:12 AM

    Helen, A beautiful tribute. I am so sorry for your loss. I am holding you in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sharing your brother's poetry. Hugs, Bonnie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 14, 2015 at 1:43 PM

      Thank you Bonnie for your words of comfort. I hope this finds you well.
      Fond wishes
      Helenx

      Delete
  27. Things and ThoughtsJuly 18, 2015 at 9:08 AM

    I feel sorry to be late here, dearest Helen...So terribly sorry to hear such bad news. A real gentleman, kind, tender, beloved by so many. You was and must still be proud of him.He is alive inside of you, of you all. My sweetest thoughts are with you Helen. I 'll be thinking of you,
    Olympia

    ReplyDelete
  28. Woodside ParkJuly 23, 2015 at 8:54 AM

    Dear Helen,
    I've been away in Maine, and just returned to DC. I am very sorry to read about your brother, Thomas. Thank you for sharing such beautiful words. This is a poignant tribute. Sincerest condolences to you and your family.
    Lots of love,
    L

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 26, 2015 at 12:16 PM

      Dear Loi,
      Thank you for your kind thoughts and words of condolence.
      Thomas is greatly missed by all of us. We had his "Month's Mind" mass a few weeks ago and some dear friends travelled from afar to be with us.
      Wishing you a delightful summer. Helen xx

      Delete
  29. Sunflowers With SmilesJuly 24, 2015 at 2:01 PM

    Helen, so sorry for your loss of your brother, Thomas. Thanks for sharing his poetry too. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Thanks for stopping by my blog too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 26, 2015 at 12:17 PM

      Your kind words are greatly appreciated. I wish you a delightful week
      Helen x

      Delete
  30. DeniseinVAJuly 24, 2015 at 5:43 PM

    Hello Dear Helen, a sad loss for you and please know I send you my deepest condolences and a heartfelt hug.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonJuly 26, 2015 at 12:18 PM

      How kind of you to send this sweet message. I very much appreciate your thoughtfulness.

      Helen xx

      Delete
  31. JaneJuly 24, 2015 at 6:39 PM

    I was so saddened to read of the loss of your beautiful brother, Helen. His poetry is so expressive and he sounds such a fun person. What amazing memories you must have of him. Special wishes to you, Janexx

    ReplyDelete
  32. helen tilstonJuly 26, 2015 at 12:20 PM

    Hello Jane

    Yes Thomas was a sweetheart and was loved by many. He certainly made us laugh and was always interesting and enjoyed life to the fullest. He was an avid reader and you would have loved him
    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete
  33. Sam Hoffer / My Carolina KitchenJuly 29, 2015 at 2:51 PM

    Helen, I've been away and just realized that you lost your brother. My heart goes out to you. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
    Sam

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonAugust 1, 2015 at 4:22 PM

      Hello Sam, Welcome home. Thank you for your kind wishes. It has been a tough few months. The love and prayers from friends has helped very much.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  34. SirdAugust 3, 2015 at 10:28 AM

    Helen, beautiful tribute. Thomas has a creative spirit and his words are moving. I'm glad that you've offered this moving memorial to his life for those not close enough to be near him. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  35. helen tilstonAugust 3, 2015 at 2:23 PM

    Hello Aidan,
    Thank you for your compliment. Yes Thomas definitely was blessed with the gift of creativity in so many forms. I am glad you met him.
    Fond wishes for a great week
    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete
  36. flowers on my tableSeptember 1, 2015 at 2:27 AM

    My dear Helen, I am so very sorry to hear about your lovely brother's passing. How fortunate that you got the little cottage in Ireland and you could visit him more often. I hope that you are alright. Love and big hugs to you, Linda xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. helen tilstonSeptember 8, 2015 at 3:55 AM

      Hello Linda,

      He is very much missed by all of us Linda. His humour, kindness and sense of being is what we miss. A very rare and beautiful man in so many regards. Thanks for your kind wishes.
      Helen xx

      Delete
  37. UnknownNovember 7, 2015 at 4:30 AM

    I am so sorry.Sending you love and prayers, Your brother wrote such beautiful poetry. Jane xx

    ReplyDelete
  38. helen tilstonJanuary 6, 2016 at 10:53 AM

    Many thanks Jane. You would have loved Thomas. Like you, he had a great love for good books. Happy New Year

    Helen xx

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)