It is with a sad yet grateful heart that I write this note. Obviously we all can see and feel that, somehow, here is a father and a daughter whose time with us has ended too soon.  Who could not feel perhaps just a tinge of that...perhaps a flood of that.  Yet, as the days have gone by since ex-students now spread out in many states and even countries notified me and shared their shock, many thoughts have come and many memories, and a few new perspectives.  And, as often happens, a flicker of love and gratitude leaves its embers.     

Mike Klein was....well....Mike Klein.  His interview to gain entry into the Santa Barbara Middle School was quite unique.  His first day as a student was equally so.  He sat with a group of new students (what a bunch they were and are...I suspect many may well gather in memory of their classmate).  Each was asked to introduce themselves in some way and each did.  Michael Klein, a young boy, gave his name and then said that he hoped, some day, to be in the Olympics. There was silence.  Then, from the group heart, came a genuine round of applause.  Somehow it did not sound like an idle dream or simply an attempt to brag or draw attention to one's self.  Somehow, it seemed genuine, worthy of deep admiration, and had the ring of some deeper truth to it.

Michael Klein was an honest young man, a visionary all of his life, and never failed to express his sincere gratitude....again and again...to me and I am sure to others for his time at the Middle School.  As most know, Michael is perhaps the only student of well over 1,000 that attended during those twenty some years I can recall who simply decided that high school could never equal SBMS and, thus, went directly into higher learning.  As most perhaps know, Michael was the first alumni of the school to join the board of directors. Interestingly, a classmate of his, Zoe Blumberg, was the second.  As I have already said, what a guy.  As I have already said, what a class. (And, by the way, as I have not yet said — what a sister — Linda).     

Years after Michael’s last campfire, Mike was a young man who was being seen as a financial success.  One day, at Alice Keck Park, he explained the basis of this to me.  He said that while he was at SBMS, and especially on our Rites and trips, he saw, daily, novel and new twists of fate, weather, dynamics, and challenges.  He said he observed the attempt to see things "outside of the box" as he put it. He said this was the essence of his childhood education at Middle School and the foundation of his world view....to see things "outside of the box."  He lived, thrived, and died true to his way, his calling, his vision, and his style.   

So, now, a very old soul who was still in a young body has again gone "outside of the box."  Given that Mike Klein was ahead of his time, ahead of his years, and always seemed to find the angle for success "outside of the box" who would want to think that, even now, he is off on a new adventure, into a new dimension, with yet another project, and with a heart glowing with love and wisdom.    

Mike won the gold metal.  Don't you agree?  He entered the Olympic stadium carrying the torch, lit a fire, and passed it on.    

Journey well my young student and teacher.  Thanks for the ride together up Sheep Ranch Road.  

Thanks for the true hand and gentle heart, and twinkling eye.  See you at the next fire... 

Kent Ferguson    

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