Look at this letter I got today *sniff*

Dearest Ariel,

I almost cried when Nick Griffin told me you resigned your position as editor… I finally cried when I read your last note from Lotus! I am one of those young followers that you helped nurture and care for as we grew up through the scene. I would grab a copy of Lotus and sit up hours at night reading your inspiring messages and words of advice. I would carry the mag to school and encourage other ravers to read your work. I would tell rave strangers to hunt for a Lotus and read it!

Duckeee, my closest rave friend, was inspired by your work, and we created “Imagine”. He was my photography mentor before I graduated high school. And the mentor issue made me realize how important he was to my life. Now I’m going to submit my photographs to Lotus, just as he has over the years. I want to give back to the scene, just as you have.

You have been the voice through out the years that has kept me on path and reminded me why I love this community. I can’t express how much it hurts to hear you leave. Could you continue to write, continue to share your wisdom with us? I would appreciate it if you could.

When I was ready to leave the scene, to walk away and never return, I read your note that pleaded me to share my experiences with others, and not let the spirit die. Now here you go, and I am left wondering, who will keep these lessons alive? I guess I will continue to spread the vibe, just as you have… but I will miss you more than you can Imagine…

I wish you health and happiness and tons of Hugs wherever you go… but we’ll always be here if you choose to return.

Thank you for everything you have taught me, Alison Riley