Bill,

From that first lunch date in Chapel Hill almost 40 years ago until this lovely Saturday, spent with our amazing children and grandchildren, I haven’t ceased to wonder how one person could have so much sincere concern for others, so much desire to be and do good, such determination to find the truth and goodness in each situation, so many interests and so much energy! While life with you (so far) has had its difficult and uncomfortable moments, I can honestly say that living with and loving you has been a daily encouragement to me to be a better, more complete, more present person.

In reading these posts written by your family, coworkers and friends it is not hard to see the impact of your life, lived with an unshakable belief in the basic goodness and worth of each person and in the belief that our thoughts and actions matter and that, therefore, we should be “up and doing”!

The definition of to retire is “to withdraw, or go away or apart, to a place of privacy, shelter, or seclusion.” I’m not betting on it and I’m looking forward to what is next!

I love you so! Sandie

Looking Back and Looking Forward

Dad,

Congratulations on your transition! However, it does not seem that this moment in time is about retirement. Rather, it’s a vocational transition from the practice of medicine to community organizing, environmental activism, harmonica, hanging out with mom and the rest of our family and your poetry. We are so excited to be with you in Elkin this weekend to celebrate this transition by both looking back and looking forward.

Looking Back

In “looking back” I started the creative writing process with free association –letting my mind gravitate toward the most compelling memories. And the first several vignettes that come to mind are all stories of fun and laughter from the last 30 years. In order – rotten tomato fights, Solly and Meth on the roof under a starry night (those are characters in a children’s story, not narcotics, for all the readers out there), wild adventures in the backwoods of Minnesota, North Carolina and even New Mexico, and practical jokes around the house. So much of what defines you is your joie de vivre (see, I was listening all these years when you told me to learn some French!) and your attitude in approaching every day with humor and love.

But you have also been a teacher and guide along the way. Often, when I’m going about my business on a daily basis, I am reminded of the many gifts of knowledge and perspective that you have given me over the years. From a human compassion standpoint I hear your voice say that people are “doing about the best they can, given their circumstances and experiences.” And I remember the notion of “hustling while you wait” or I use a word or a phrase that I know could have only come from you (“hoist by your own petard”). The notion of “time on task” is a part of daily life. And beyond the specific lessons and memories, your values of intellectual curiosity, commitment to excellence, passion for justice, love of life and family, etc. are with us every day. We are beyond fortunate to be in your family.

Looking Forward

In your next 30 years we look forward to being in and around your orbit and, generally, spending time together. And Davis and Will (and hopefully 3-4 other players to be names later) have no idea how lucky they are. Knowing that they will also learn from you and laugh with you make us both so happy. Dad, we love you and cherish our time with you this weekend and for the years ahead!

With much love, admiration and excitement for the future -

Seth, Brae & Davis

"My Dad's a little crazy - but he's great!" This brief description of you provided by Molly was all I knew about you before our first meeting and due to my strong feelings for Molly, I desperately wanted to make a good impression. We pulled up to the house just as you were pulling up after work. You jumped out of the car and bounded up the drive to hug her. I stuck out my hand to greet you and you grabbed my hand without a word and immediately starting thumb wrestling. I was mortified. Many years your junior and admittedly at the prime of my thumb wrestling career, I was at a moral crossroads. Do I swiftly defeat you to prove my manhood? Do I make it a good fight then respectfully bow out and let you prevail? Before I could make up my mind you used the controversial "forefinger karate kick" move and pinned my unsuspecting thumb instantly. We both laughed and from that moment on I felt like a member of your family. This disarming quality that is one of the many things I admire about you. You are able to break down barriers and relate to other people openly, honestly, and without formality.
This skill also allows you to relate well to children, with whom formality has no place. Watching you play with Will is a great joy and both Molly and I feel so fortunate to have a grandfather like you in his life. I never had a relationship with any grandparent and always envied friends that did. With the passing of my father last year, our relationship and your relationship with Will takes on a new level of importance. I sincerely appreciate the energy and passion for life that you bring to your interactions with all of us.

Congratulations on your retirement, and as you head into this new chapter in your life, I hope your heart is filled with even a fraction of the love and joy you provide to others.

Love,
Ben

Steady.

Dad,

It is a great honor and joy to pause to celebrate you - for all your years of work as a community physician, and so much more.

Can you really be retiring? I doubt it... but I love that you are changing gears, and reflecting about where you'd like to direct all of your magnetic, electric, solar, boundless (and definitely sustainable) energy. Zow! Wow! Wherever you focus your energy will be forever changed for the better.

You have been such a constant, steady, thoughtful presence and influence in my life, and have taught me about living life fully, richly, and well. Through your passion for truth - your silliness and storytelling - your tenacity (whew!) - your love for words, music, nature - your kindness - your do-good-job attitude - your tenderness for those less fortunate - your ability to rise up through hardship - your willingness to try new things - your humility - your work ethic - and most of all, through your absolutely unwavering commitment to and love for our family.

When I was growing up, you worked long hours, deep into the night, and often came home wiped out, totally exhausted from a day of intense patient care. In spite of this, you came through the door cheering and with open arms for your kids, flopping on the floor to play and talk, reading books with us, listening to us, laughing and loving. You were and ARE the most present, energetic, loving daddy.

Seeing Will with his granddaddy is one of the greatest joys of my entire life - I know he will be a stronger, more thoughtful young man because of your love and presence. He may also learn some bad humor from you; please wait until we have gotten him off to college before exposing him to your Blackley 'family' jokes.

I am so proud to be your daughter, my daddy. Congratulations on many jobs well done... and now, onward to more!

I love you, so much, stacks and boxes...

Molly

Dearest Bill (Dr. Too Much) Blackley,

WOW! I have always felt blessed right from the beginning of knowing you. Your determination and dedication to music are with very few peers. I have also been astonished that someone with the successes that you have had in your personal, professional and family life, could be so willing to make themselves as humble as I have witness from you. Knowing you has had an effect on the way that I conduct my life! Please accept, from my bended knee, congratulations and the very best of wishes to you with all of your future endeavors and adventures.

With much love and respect,

Joe Filisko

Next to my immediate family, no one was more excited about my pregnancy than Bill. He kept tabs on my growing belly and kept calculating where his daughter Molly would be in comparison given she was only a few weeks behind me. He would tell with great enthusiasm stories of how great it was to be a parent and had me so excited by the end I truly was ready to burst!! Since my little one has been born he has listened with such enthusiasm to every coo, crawl, climb, walk and talk story I have had to tell. I have seen him beam himself as he tells as a very proud Grandfather of all the milestones his grandchild has made. He has preached to me how to embrace everday I have with my children and just love on them and live in each of the little moments they have.

Bill I hope I can heed all of your advice and at the time of my retirement look back and see a balance of family, career and living life. I love your passion and I love you.

Karen Kinley

Retirement? No, more like a “Redeployment of Assets”...

Energy, empathy, compassion, thoughtfulness, humor, playfulness, inquisitiveness, perseverance, love...so many facets of Bill’s personality!

In the “Redeployment Phase”, Bill will have more time to spend with family and friends, especially Will and Davis and ?. Hmmm, perhaps even find time to come visit us in Florida and Asheville! More time for music, poetry and the protection and betterment of community, and humanity in general. More time for the garden, more time to learn new things (Yodeling...really? Really?) More time for a dog...or, he can borrow one of ours.

Bill is such a joy and gem to our family (thanks, Sandie!) He makes the bad times better, and the good times downright hysterical. He never leaves a phone conversation without saying “I love you”. As Bill looks toward spending more time doing the things he enjoys, so do we...spending more time with him!

Beth

------------------

“What Sandie said, just before she met Bill.”

You were wonderful with Bill's mother during her struggle with cancer -
You could calm her fears and motivate her in ways we could not. I will
always remember the night in HCMH when she refused to go to Baptist for
needed treatment. You sat in the chair with her. You talked to her about
how life is not always fair or easy but God will not put more on us than
we can bear. Going to Baptist was no longer a problem. You helped your
patients and their families through difficult times.

We really got to know more about "Bill Blackley" through CACHE. Thank
you Bill for your dedication and your many hours of research and hard
work. We could not have beaten Fibrowatt without you. Your honesty, your
kindness and willingness to stand for "what is right" inspires us all.

Bill & Judy Walker

Bill,

I don't have a lore of shared stories to draw on, but I have an ever-growing appreciation for your capabilities as an harmonica player. I want to be like you when I grow up! Only people who aspire to your level of performance can appreciate the countless hours invested in developing those skills. Most people would never believe how much time and effort you put into reaching this level.

I also appreciate your model of commitment to what is right and just in the world. You are truly a good Scout. Your David vs. Goliath battle over the past year with the corporation that threatened to put an air polluting plant in the Yadkin valley has required an exhausting investment on your part and has set the pace in personal courage.

Congratulations on your successful practice of medicine and healing. I wish you well-earned hours of relaxation, playing your harp, pursuing your interests, and enjoying time with family and friends.

With best of wishes,

Andrew Puckett

I never cease to be amazed at how much Bill adds to our lives, and look forward to every day we get to spend together. When our family gathers at the Asheville house for holidays, inevitably Bill and I end up running around doing repair projects together and spending most of the time laughing like two teenagers. Bill is generous enough to often say how much he learns doing projects with me; but always I’m the one who benefits from Bill’s wisdom and humor, which is why that time together is, for me, priceless. Bill will never do for himself when he can be doing for others, except of course when he’s stealing my books or my ice cream (yeah, I’m watching...).

Thanks Bill, for the lively fireside debates and humorous resolutions, for the laughter, the music (the once-annoying and now awesome harmonica tunes), the poetry, the wisdom and generosity, and the Love. You set the bar high and haul everyone over it with you....I can’t believe I get to hang around with you and this great family.

Oh, and thanks for saving that town in your spare time....

Bill, congratulations on a career well-spent in service to others. I can’t wait to see what the next chapters bring, but I know it’s going to be impressive; however, can we have a word about that yodeling.........

With much love and admiration,

your Brother, Jim

RETIRING? WHAT ABOUT OUR WARTS AND TOENAIL FUNGI?

Bill:

Your decision to retire from a regular schedule of doctoring is perfect timing now that your family is growing and your fame as a musician, poet, and environmental whistle-blower is spreading! You have so much to look forward to: the next Blackley-Jackson generation to play with and teach and new skills to explore, perfect, and share.

It is no wonder you have been loved by your patients over these many years. You are so approachable, caring, and “human”. No starchy, impersonal, clinical divide between you and those you take care of. Along these lines, my favorite story is the “Aflac” tale -- only you could dream this strategy up for breaking down barriers!

Practicing Family Medicine is probably impossible to retire from entirely, especially when you have such a large, extended family related by blood and friendship. We hope you’ll “keep your hand in” so that we can continue to discuss, at the very least, our warts and toenail fungi! And if we are lucky, the questions we should be asking our doctors.

All my love and best wishes for the future.

Stephanie

from Evan R.

6 words: HAJI HAJI HAJI HAJI HAGI BABA!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0rkWGLvCTA

love,
Evan

from Colin R.

June 9, 2010

My conversation with Bill on the phone yesterday captures one of the roles he’s played in my life. He’s a warm, thoughtful Godfather who always makes me laugh—no matter how corny the joke. After Sandie handed Bill the phone, we went through the normal pleasantries and then Bill launched into an Op-Ed column that he’d mentally written for me about how I should act during the first few months of my new job. His first piece of advice—something Bill’s prone to give even if it’s unsolicited—was, “If you see someone that needs help, don’t ask if you can help them, just go ahead and do it.” This was probably the 50th time I’ve heard this maxim of Bill’s, but it’s one of many sage recommendations that has helped shape my personality over the years. Whether walking together on Caswell Beach, hiking alongside Seth’s Boy Scout Troop, or driving to out to his land in the mountains, Bill’s never been shy about expressing his opinion on how I should take my next steps. The truth is, he’s almost always right and I’ve been lucky to have the Bill-gnat in my ear at times when “cheerful service” was needed. Now that Bill’s retired, he’ll have time to turn his Op-Ed’s into an advice magazine. I might sound a little flippant when describing Bill’s counsel, but that’s just to get under his skin a bit. He knows that half of the time, I am the one calling him to ask how I should phrase the last line of a poem or how to prevent the common cold (salt-water nose-rinsing was his latest answer).

One thing Bill better include in his retirement magazine is a humor section, which leads me to the “funny” bit he graced me with in our last conversation. “In your new position,” he said, “you’ll have to think inside and outside of the box. Only a cat can’t go outside of the box.”

Cue the “wa-wa” on his harmonica.

-Colin

We have lived next door to Bill and Sandie for over thirty years. In that time, we have enjoyed seeing our children play and learn from each other. We have also enjoyed Bill’s enthusiasm for life and his ability to focus on projects (for example, the recent Fibrowatt issue). Over these years we have known Bill as a trusted friend, honest, straightforward and a very caring person. We have enjoyed many conversations about a wide range of subjects, always very frank discussions with often differing opinions, but at the end – no hard feelings – only a gesture of appreciation of each other’s views.

We will always remember J.L.’s retirement and Bill and Sandie’s reaction – “We must have a party at our house to celebrate!” It was a wonderful affair with a large group of friends, neighbors and family present.

Bill has always been most helpful in sharing his vast knowledge of flowers, trees, shrubs, etc with Jane, and even helping with some of the plowing!

We couldn’t ask for better neighbors and extend best wishes to Bill in his retirement. We know that he will become even more active with many local and state projects. We look forward to seeing the positive results of his efforts, and spending more time with him.

J.L. and Jane Lowe

Cherished Memories...

I’ve known Bill and his family basically my whole life. I still remember when they moved in next door to us on Knollwood Drive. I was so happy to finally have some kids to play with! My life has been so much richer knowing Bill, Sandie, Molly and Seth; full of learning, laughter, friendship and love. I look back on my childhood with such fond memories, many of them involving the Blackleys.

Halloween was one of my favorite times each year, especially trick-or-treating at the Blackleys. Bill would rent a coffin, get inside it and have the bowl of candy resting on his stomach. Sandie would invite the children in, and one by one, they had to reach into the coffin if they wanted the candy. I’m sure the first time I experienced it, Bill scared the daylights out of me, but it was so much fun watching the other kids scream and run from their house, usually without their candy.

One time, when I was 5 or so, Molly, Seth and I were all in need of a bath, so Bill and Sandie piled all three of us in their tub. Molly and I conspired ways to get Seth, and ultimately Bill captured the “before and after” on film. Before, all three kids smiling (of course my grin and Molly’s grin are mischievous knowing what was coming), after, Seth pouting due to his head being drenched with the bucket of water we poured on him, and us howling with laughter! Ah, the delights of our youth!

As I grew up, I continued to look forward to spending time with Bill and his family. I can’t begin to imagine how long his days were at his practice, but he always had a smile, a laugh and kind words to share with me. I remind myself of that now that I’m a parent, when I start to walk in my door at home still carrying the baggage of my day at work with me. I stop and tell myself how important it is to have that quality time with your family, without the burden of work. Bill showed me that, and I thank him for it.

One last memory I’d like to share is of a fourth of July ten years ago or so. Both of our families ended up going up the mountain to the overlook. There we all stood, watching the fireworks displays in Wilkesboro, Elkin, Pilot Mountain, and other neighboring towns. That alone was amazing, but then God decided to show us His light show. Lightning of all colors lit up the sky below us. Purple, white, blue, orange, pink and yellow zipped across the sky, both vertically and horizontally. It was truly breathtaking and phenomenal, and it reminded me of how blessed I am to have such wonderful friends and family. I will never forget that day, nor will I ever forget how fortunate I am to have Bill and his family as an integral part of my life. He has taught me so much, and the Blackleys have given me so many wonderful memories that I will carry with me forever.

Bill, I wish you all the best as you embark on a new chapter in your life. I look forward to many more treasured memories with you and your family, and thank you for all the joy and happiness you have brought me and my family through the years.

Renaissance man

When I think of my friend Bill, the below picture always comes to mind -(the genitals are not present in my version)



He is to me, my Renaissance man. To update those who are not familiar with the true renaissance, I included the paragraph below.

The Renaissance (French for "rebirth"; Italian: Rinascimento, from ri- "again" and nascere "be born")[1] was a cultural movement that spanned roughly the 14th to the 17th century, beginning in Florence in the Late Middle Ages and later spreading to the rest of Europe. . As a cultural movement, it encompassed a resurgence of learning based on classical sources, the development of linear perspective in painting, and gradual but widespread educational reform. Traditionally, this intellectual transformation has resulted in the Renaissance being viewed as a bridge between the Middle Ages and the Modern era.

I say this because Bill is the embodiment of the Renaissance man - he is the bridge across generations. His stories start a century ago and project into the future. He is a musician (not everyone can play a harmonica, as I have demonstrated to him more than once). He is a poet, a physician, a philosopher (sort of). He is always charming, warm, unassuming, intellectual and knowledgeable. Just like his name sake "Will" Rogers - he has never met a person who was not to be his friend. He loves life, his family and all the interests he pursues.

I am honored to know him. I use the present tense, because we are not yet done with our relationship!

Until next time,

Bob

Robert Ira Saltzman, M.D., F.A.C.S.

How Bill & I Became Famous

Grandaddy Blackley was 75 years old in 1951 when cousin Bill and I were just little squirts. Grandaddy had retired from the Seaboard Railroad some years earlier and would spend the late summer afternoons in the relative coolness of the front porch, periodically checking his pocket watch against the sound of train whistles blowing through the long-needle pines from far on the other side of Hamlet. Two minutes late, he’d say, and put his watch back in his pocket. On that very same porch Grandaddy, with his thick locomotives hands, had initiated Bill and me into the fundamentals of milking-a-mouse and getting some corn-on-the-cob. You’ll have to ask Bill to demonstrate that.

Grandaddy being up in years, and it being mighty hot and all, would take an early afternoon nap in the big bedroom and let the breeze blow on across through the tall screened windows that looked out over the side flower garden. Now right cat-corner from the bedroom stood Nannie’s garage filled with its dank aromas--ambrosia to our tiny noses--and in addition to that were all manner of marvelous army paraphernalia belonging to uncle Buddy Bill Blackley--the sobriquet used to differentiate him from cousin Little Bill.

Thus it was that Little Bill and I would adorn ourselves with various items of army stuff and climb up into the large chinaberry trees that grew in the front yard on McDonald Avenue. That at least was the usual protocol, but on this day, whether it was due to an especially fragrant breeze, or the soft crush of pine straw under our bare feet, or simply a fortuitous foreshadowing of our true genius (which we are sure will show up any day now), Bill and I saw the most wonderful opportunity. So wonderful that to not have seized it at that very instant would have been unthinkable.

For on the one hand, a few feet yonder stood the garage with all its tempting delights. Yet on the other hand, directly in front of us was the bedroom with its tall screened windows and the peacefully sleeping Grandaddy. And just opposite those very windows, in the side flower garden was the spigot. And the hose.

Michael

I need a Bill Story!

I began working at the Urgent Care just about the same time as Bill. As I first got to know him, he would often tell me a story. It could be anything...something funny, something from his diverse and colorful life, or just some pearl of wisdom. I began coming to work telling him "I need a Bill story!" He would always graciously oblige. Through those stories I came to know and love him. Over the years, he has been a mentor, a surrogate father and a friend to me. I would like to think I am a better practitioner, person, spouse and mother having known him. His openness and willingness to share his knowledge and wisdom have been invaluable in my life. When I worry about my kids, amongst all the wonderful advice he has shared with me and when all else fails, I hear Bill's voice in my head..."Just love 'em and be there for them." I have read countless books to my kids and continue to do so even though they can now read. Plus, a dictionary is always just fingertips away. I think of Bill telling me about he and Seth reading Moby Dick; no book is too long or hard if you take it a page at a time. No task is too hard when you tackle it together and break it down into small pieces.

Though sometimes challenging, I try to see my patients through Bill's eyes and treat each one w/openness, compassion and like they were family. I am still trying to perfect this skill that he seems to accomplish with ease! I can only imagine the countless lives he has saved, touched and changed for the better. Have you ever heard his quit smoking exhortation? No one does it better than Bill. I don't think I ever started a day with Bill without a warm greeting and a hug nor ever ended a day that I didn't hear "Great job today, thanks for your hard work." (Not to mention the countless high fives or fist bumps throughout our 12+ hour days!)

He has taught me that life is a journey and not a destination. Life is not always fair or good but what counts is what you make of it. Nothing is impossible. Pursue your passions. Perseverance. Ambition. Compassion. I could go on and on and my words would still be inadequate; so it is with much love and appreciation that I wish you all the best in your many new adventures.

Kelly Boone
Nurse Practitioner

It has been my pleasure to work with Bill for the past few years at Urgent Care in Statesville. It didn't take me long to realize that working with Bill usually meant a day of fun, laughter, music, finishing each other's meals, ordering tests that no one else thought of, but ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS putting the patients first. What compassion.

Working with Bill felt like a combination of working with Marcus Welby, MD, and Father Knows Best--for those of you who are our age! But then it turned in to working with Muddy Waters, Delbert McClinton, or some other Blues singer. It was difficult to get Bill to talk about himself in serious terms, but those were my favorite stories--that brief glimpse into his soul. And what stories he had to share. I don't know of any one whose life had so many paths that led into the wonderful person he is. I don't ever remember leaving at the end of the day without a hug and a thank you for a job well done from him. In our busy world when everyone is exhausted and spent, that final daily gesture was a much loved gift.
And bless his heart....when I decided to have a nasty allergic reaction at work one day, who do you think saved me?? Bill was on the ball in seconds directing the team in fixing me up. Another big gift. I like breathing!!

My family and I were fortunate enough to see Bill perform on harmonica one night at a local venue, and I was so proud of him. Although I heard him here every day, seeing him in real action was such a treat. How can one man be so darned gifted?! So to say I will miss him is putting it very lightly, but I sure am happy for him and absolutely think this is the smart thing to do. At the end of the day, even though we love our work, to be able to spend this chapter with family and doing all the other passions Bill has is a blessing. Bill, I love you bunches, and wish you and your family much time, enjoyment, and new adventures together.

Sharon Setzer

What a pleasure to know and love this amazing man. He has taught me so much, given me so much, these 21 years since I had the good fortune to find him looking for a work partner.

Puppets, singing, harmonica-- Bill uses all of these to annoy, uh, I mean entertain his patients. He tells jokes during pelvic exams. And gets away with it. He just has such positive, hopeful energy, that people naturally grant him a lot of latitude.

I found him to be a thoughtful, open-minded, and gifted clinician, as well as a man with a wide range of ambitions. He grows amazing roses, writes evocative, thought-provoking, sometimes stunning poetry. I have had the privilege to witness his maturity as a poet, augmented with a dogged determination and with genuine deep talent, he has achieved his dream of writing poetry that both matters and pleases. He has also become an awardwinning harmonica player (harmonicist?). We can only anticipate with wonder how the yodelling will evolve.

I must mention with awe the stellar and critical role Bill played in protecting current and future generations in our area from the noxious spewings and toxic arguments of Fibrowatt and its local minions. They will all think twice before they try to pull another fast one on the likes of Bill Blackley.

Mostly he has been a great friend. He has acquired a formidable armory of wisdom in his challenging and very colorful life, and in sharing much of it with me he has saved me from many a false step and much avoidable misery. And when misery has been unavoidable, he has been an unflinchingly reliable ally and supporter.

I wish I could do justice to the gratitude and admiration I feel toward Bill. Perhaps he can take my fragmented and inadequate thoughts and write a poem. Thank you, Bill, for the many great years of practice we shared, and thanks even more for your friendship, which I hope to enjoy for decades to come. And I can't wait to see what your next project is. I understand world hunger is still a problem...

Frank Spence

Retiring?

I for one must object strongly. Not to the act – I love what you’re doing - but like everyone else thinking of Bill, it’s the word “retirement”. I looked it up. The root etymologically is the same as “retreat”. It just doesn’t apply. More appropriate to say; fully and successfully completed desired task, or helped untold numbers with their health and well being. Or found the Holy Grail and installed it on the mantel. But retired?

Or maybe better to use the word “refocused”. There are not enough hours in the day, days in the week, months in the year to contain the interests of this amazing man. Time now to focus on other areas; family, garden, poetry, music, friendships, activism, and how many careers that haven’t even spoken up yet.

Congratulations my friend, well done.

Larry Sorkin

Hey Bill,

So glad you're going to have more time for saving the earth, writing & reading poems, making music for all of us and spending time with your friends that love you so much.

Now maybe you and I can jazz it up some more, give that mermaid another ride on your tunes!

Keep that energy coming, old budddy, and that big heart of yours happy.

Love ya, Diana

Bill, dear friend, when you get to be as old as I am (and especially as old as YOU are!) it doesn't get any easier to be completely honest, but it gets a whole lot more important. Over the past few years you and I have had an honest friendship. Glory be! So, to be honest, I have to say that since I met you on the medicine ward at Durham County General in 1978 I guess I'd have to describe my relationship with you as love - hate - love.

So . . . you were my Senior Resident and I was the intern. Remember how we almost wet our pants the first night on call together? (Hey, we thought that bleeder was stable! Who knew she would break loose and go into shock at 3 a.m.?) Ah, the days of the giants. You were a great teacher. Human, yes, but close to God in my eyes.

Don't you know I thought I'd died and gone to heaven when we met at the AAFP meeting in New Orleans in 1981 and you invited me to join you and Evan in practice in Jonesville?! We shared some damn fine years together with Judy and Janet and Dora and all the rest of those great ladies. I learned from you every day how to be a better physician, but more how to be a mensch. One of the five biggest regrets of my life is that I allowed our little differences over the years to cloud my appreciation of the good points and values we shared. I wish we'd never broken up. I wish we'd worked it out.

And then came those black years where I was constantly angry and constantly imagining you were angry with me as well. Black, dark times of the soul. But slowly, incrementally, almost imperceptibly, a miracle happened. We tore down those walls stone by stone and came together again. We might say it was poetry that did it, starting with that workshop by Frank Levering to which Anne Gulley with great trepidation invited me, knowing you would be there, too. Oh, it is certainly poetic that we were able to heal those rifts. Poetry did it, and the many other small common things we share. But there was something larger happening as well. I've tried to express this to you before; I'll say it again so there's no mistaking -- as a result of us restoring our friendship, I've experienced the gift of grace. Thanks to you, Bill, serving as the instrument of our Creator. It's so groovy to be past the hate and back in love.

So here's my small gift to you, a man I deeply respect and admire. You have everything, a great family, a meaningful career of service, magic lips (on the harmonica, that's what I'm talking). But here are 20 lines I wrote a while back. I hadn't intended ever to show these stanzas to you, but the god of honesty pinched my cheeks. This is one from a whole series of poems titled "little mouse" -- don't each of us often feel so small and grey, and yet aren't we each part of some grander happening? Now that you're retired, I hope it won't be too long until we can hike a mountain and sit around a campfire together reading poetry and sharing the blues. THANKS . . . friend!


little mouse
(friends)

How long does it take forget
to limp along after
forgive? Are you the same
creature to whom I wished
such grievous harm? Black claws

of guilt to rake your soul,
misfortune’s wicked plow
to cleave your nest?
Evil one, how have you grown so
bafflingly companionable?

Or have I limped along so far I’ve found
snowdamp softens even thistle’s
prick? Foolishness! I vowed
forever barbs and dissonance.
More than years, it requires

shared verses to perfect the rhyme.
Now it’s time for you to play
your blue harmonica while I sing.
When ever did we hurt each other? When
did we hate? I forget.

BILL GRIFFIN

Paul Messinger here… I first met Bill when he called me to take his first harmonica lessons. I think my friend Alan Holmes had recommended me.

I’ve told this story to many people when I’ve heard them say…oh, I have no musical talent…I tell them I once had this harmonica student that I truly appeared to have NO musical talent at all…had absolutely no sense of time or pitch…Anyway…I suggested he try to take lessons from another friend of mine who I’ve always thought was the best harmonica teacher that I’ve ever met: Joe Filisko.

I didn’t hear from that guy again for a few years, then ran into him at Joe Filisko’s class in Elkins, West Virginia. Of course, he’s the nicest guy you’d ever met so of course I asked to hear what he had been working on…then the guy played…and he played GREAT…an absolute miracle in our time!!!

I guess you all can guess that the guy’s name was Bill Blackley…and he’s become a great friend…and an even better harmonica player!!!

Bill, you have been a true inspiration in your fight against biomass incineration. Those of us in Duplin and Sampson Counties are grateful for your hard work and diligence. While I'm certain that you've touched many lives through your medical practice, you may never know all the lives you've touched by your environmental activism. Keep up the good fight. It's been a pleasure to have met you and worked with you. Best wishes to you and your family. Have a great retirment!

Deborah Kornegay
Co-Chair, Citizens for a Safe Environment

Bill and I worked on his poems for a couple of years--what a delightfully courageous no holds barred bronco rider of a poet! Driving the N Carolina freeways with Bill playing his mouth harp with both hands on the wheel was a trip--I bet he could play it with his toes and a bicycle pump. Lovely big-hearted man who has illuminated my life. I retired 2 years ago today, Bill. Climbing Hunger Mt tomorrow morning. I'll be toasting you at the summit.

Lots of love,
Roger of the North

Congratulations

I wish to give Bill my congratulations and best wishes as he retires. I hope he and Sandie will enjoy and appreciate his retirement as much as Bonnie and I have mine or as I like to say ours, because a wonderful wife and companion is so important to a physician during practice years and retirement. I think our wives certainly fit into this description.

I would also like to say that it has been my pleasure to know Bill even before he actually decided to come to Elkin- Jonesville when he moonlighted in the Hugh Chatham emergency room. It was certainly a relief when he decided to start practice in Jonesville with his partners. He has certainly been a blessing to the community in so many ways.

Recently, I feel like I have gotten to know him and appreciate him more during the battle against Fibrowatt. He really went above and beyond the call of duty and much of the success of keeping them from being allowed to come is due to Bill. Another benefit I received was finding out that he is a Master with the Harmonica. He gave Bonnie and me a concert in our den one day after we had talked about Fibrowatt. He is really talented.

Again Bonnie and I wish him the very best life can offer and we hope to see more of him.

Sincerely,
Hal M Stuart

from Gail Peck

Bill, thanks for supporting my writing, and it has been a lot of fun to travel with you to AWP in Atlanta, attend the Postgraduate Workshop in VT., and also the local N.C. Writers' Network Conference, not to mention seeing you on occasion at the North Carolina Poetry Society where you have done wonderful work. Because the world is a busy place for someone like yourself with all your interests, some of my favorite times have been when you have been a guest in my home, or me in yours where we could talk of our love for poetry, flowers, and food.

I am proud of all you have achieved in your own writing, and appreciate the joy you bring to the world by being such a great person who gives so much. I don't believe you'll ever have a dull moment. I see you poking your nose in flowers, bringing in ripe tomatoes, playing your harmonica, peering at your dictionary to learn a new word. Let's continue to learn together. I hold my glass of wine to you, and so often see your face.

Gail Peck

First cousins

Being first cousins has always been something very special over the years. I think my first memories of you were as a child when you visited the Wilmington Blackley Clan after Vietnam. I guess you can tell me about those years. I remember the convertible you had and took Scott (my brother) and I for a ride to Lonnie’s house on Masonboro Sound. Scott and I always loved the barnyard animal sounds you concocted and now carry on that tradition with our children. I guess it is not just barnyard animals, but really anything silly that we all enjoy.

I remember your wedding, I could not attend because I had chicken pox. I wish I could have been in the balcony with the other cousins when the photographer did what he did. I’m sure you know that story. When I was attending college in Greensboro, your home was always open and proved to be a good road trip to get away from school and the fire station.

You and Sandie have always opened your house to our crowd as we grew in numbers. I remember the first trip we took with Eleni away from home was to your house when she was about seven months old. That was the trip with mom and dad, Uncle Jack and Aunt Simone, and I believe Molly even came home for the weekend. I can still hear Uncle Jack (Apple Jack for Molly and Seth) calling Eleni his “little princess.” Those trips have always been a blast for the girls as they still talk about the harmonica, the fish pond, frogs in the pool, or just the pool in general. Lindsey's memory is her falling in the pool with her clothes still on and not in a bathing suit. LOL!

Recently you have been there to offer suggestions and information concerning dad’s back problems and eventual surgery. It gave mom a greater peace of mind prior to the surgery to know she could count on your help. I guess I could keep going, but I guess I will stop while I am ahead.

Thanks for all you have done and will continue to do in the years to come. Enjoy retirement!

Love,

Frank, Kathy, Eleni, and Lindsey Blackley
Wilmington, NC

From your cold niece

I am married to Bill's daughter's husband's brother, Mike. Trevor and Colin are our sons, Bill's grandson's cousins. Thanks, Ben, for bringing Molly, Bill, Sandie, Seth and Brae and of course Will into our lives!

I'll continue the Jackson theme, that Bill makes us feel like family. I think I'd put myself as special niece to Bill, with him as my treasured uncle. I love his open affection and joy at being with people. He is crazy and goofy with my sons, he's thoughtful and interested in our lives, and he lets us know we're important to him. What a gift.

I also share a trait with Bill. He's my cold-blood-brother. Today, Memorial Day weekend in Seattle (52F at noon), I am wearing an undershirt, turtleneck and wool sweater. When Bill is in Seattle, he dresses just like me! He wears his down vest everywhere, even in the house. I think he might even have special Seattle-socks just to try to stay warm. Bill, I feel your cold.

Penny loafers and a monkey

Bill Blackley is very funny. I remember how he kept taking off my penny loafers when I was three and I chased him all around the house trying to get them back. I also remember him using a monkey puppet as an airplane and he started up the monkey by pulling its tail. He would zoom it all around the deck and then he would land it back down again. Sometimes he would crash-land it. I like him because he's really funny. He often treats me like I am a cousin or something.

Trevor Jackson, 8

Bill that goes with Sandie?

Lauren to Trevor and Colin: Ok, guys. Bill Blackley, Molly's dad, is retiring and she set up a blog so we can write down what we like about him.
Colin: Who's Bill Blackley?
Lauren: Molly's dad.
Colin: I don't know him.
Lauren: Yes you do! He tickles you and has fun with you. Molly's dad. Married to Sandie.
Colin (laughing): Bill that goes with Sandie??? Oh, I know him!!!

Bill - my brother

When Bruce and I first met you and Sandie, you made us laugh, woke us up, challenged our thinking and created a new appreciation for the harmonica! After Bruce's death, you became my east coast brother, my supporter, a shoulder to lean on - and you still could make me laugh when not much else could. No wonder Molly is so amazing and Will already has a sense of humor! I'm so blessed to have you in my life and love watching you with Will. Retirement will only bring us closer and, for that, I'm grateful and glad. Much love to you,
Mary

Clean Feet

Bill, you are an amazingly passionate, intelligent and thoughtful person. Those are traits also found in your incredible children and grandchildren. It is also evident when you talk...about anything. And I find I listen carefully and believe almost anything you say. You need to be careful with this.

You very casually told me one time that you don't think showers are a good idea because people who take showers do not wash their feet. I replied to you that people who take baths swim in the very grime they are trying to distance themselves from.

While I came across confident in the superiority of my side of this argument, I must now admit that I think of you EVERY time I take a shower and I always wash my feet.

Thank you for the countless ways you have enriched our lives. I have no doubts you will continue to enrich lives well into retirement. Cheers my friend!

Much Love

Mike

from Andras Neumark

Bill and I have been good friends for many years....

Bill has a brilliant mind! I admired his energy and competency to fight against Fibrowatt during the last two years....

There are two episodes what I want to share with you.

1. Esther, my older daughter was about 4 years old when she has arrived in Elkin from Hungary. She barely spoke any English. It was time for her immunization and she needed three shots. We were situated in an exam room waiting for the Doctor to come, Dr Blackley. Of course she was afraid sitting on my lap, holding my hands when the door was slowly opened. A puppet "entered" the room and started to talk to Esther. Since there was no Doctor present only the friendly puppet, she became relaxed, she was laughing, answered questions and when eventually Bill came in, they were friends already. Later on, she got the shots but she was not frightened
anymore.

2. I am working in the same office which used to be Elkin Family Practice. When the practice broke up I have worked with Bill and Dr Spence for a short while. Eventually he realized that it is better for him to leave Elkin and start working somewhere else. That was the time when he started his Urgent Care carrier in Statesville. The last week when he was in the Elkin office he took me to his patients' room and introduced and recommended me, handing over his patients to me.

I will never forget that kindness and trust for me!

Andras Neumark MD
Elkin NC