We went to Long Island this weekend so that we could attend a day long benefit for Baba Olatunji, who needed a portable dialysis machine. I got this e-mail this morning:

Subject: Babatunde Olatunji
Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003 11:43:30 -0700
Greetings, It is with a heavy heart to let you know that Babatunde Olatunji has passed away just a few hours ago in his room at Esalen with his family by his side. Let us sing and drum for him in his journey to the next world. With our thoughts and prayers he will find a safe passage and he will come to a place of peace and joy. It was one year ago today that he had his 75th birthday party that so many of you were able to attend. I remember the joy in his face that morning when I went to pick him up to take him to his party. His cheeks even had a rosy glow! He was so happy and excited. He was like a little boy..........I am that I am, I am beauty, I am peace, I am joy, I am one with Mother Earth. I am one with everyone within the reach of my voice. In this togetherness, we ask the divine intelligence to irradicate all negatives from our hearts, from our minds and from our actions. And so be it....ashe. We love you Baba! Thank you for the joy and happiness that you have brought to the world through your music, your words and your actions. With peace, happiness and joy, Jennifer Nori Ahlgrim We Say Love