In Memory of John Amos

The soul kept trying to part the clouds on its own and look down; Peter (moved by the gesture) came over and bent low to help. "May I ask what you're looking for?" he nudged the soul gently. "I'm trying to confirm a peaceful passing," the soul replied, "but not for myself. I wanted so much to leave peace behind me, and I wonder if I did that. I ran so hard and struggled so much - even played the struggle out on the big and small screens, that I fear I passed it all down to the ones that knew and loved me best." "That is never really our legacy," Peter said quietly, "although everybody fears it. The truth is: we inspire. What anybody does with that inspiration is on them." "That right?" the soul said with a smile (relieved). "Mmhmm," Peter replied. "We don't start at a deficit and get tested to climb out; anything worthy of believing in believes in you right back. It's in here where you decide if you're less or more (and Peter pointed to his chest)." "I'm tired," the soul said. "Yep," Peter whispered, helping the soul to stand, "and your first task is to rest and sleep it off." "Leaving the body?" that grin showed itself again. "No, sir," Peter explained, shaking the soul's hand. "All of the years you were in it." There came a side eye and a deep chuckle as the gates opened wide.