I heard the sad news yesterday that my friend Mat Turner passed away. I don’t know much about what happened but I was told he has taken his own life. Mat was a big hearted and wonderful guy. He always had a warm smile for everyone and moved through the world with a lot of kindness and love. He was the founder of the Elysia Yoga Convention. I got to teach at two of the last 3 conventions. I’m better off because Matt lived. He brought a lot of people together and built a very special community. I’ll always be grateful for him and his special energy. I didn’t know the demons he was battling. Everyone has their own inner life. One of the things that I think yoga is helping so much to do is to help people find community and feel connected. Psychology teaches us that we need more than just food and water to survive. We need to be seen, heard, feel connected, and know that we belong. I think there’s a lot of “Mat’s” out there who don’t feel connected and don’t feel like they belong. We need to make more of an effort to make everyone feel like they are valued in our society and loved and that they belong. It’s ironic that I write this on social media which I think originally intended to be a platform to help us connect and has actually made some people feel more isolated and disconnected. Your memory lives on in my heart, Mat, and in the hearts of the many people you touched. I wish you knew how much you meant to those who loved. Maybe it wouldn’t have mattered. We will miss you. Life is short, everyone. Let people know you love them. Try not to judge others. You don’t know what burdens they are carrying. Be kind and compassionate. And for those who don’t feel connected and don’t feel like you belong. You do belong. Life is worth living and living well. The world needs you. If you have not found your purpose try to help others in need. Someone needs you right now. You are a valued part of your community and a valued part of our global community. Don’t give up. Namaste. We will miss you Mat. Big hug to you, brother.