In Memory of Devin Ossman

The following will appear in the April newsletter, Island Passages, of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Whidbey Island.

IN MEMORY OF DEVIN OSSMAN

Devin Ossman, a flutist who had often played for UUCWI worship services, died while hiking on Mount Rainier on Monday, March 17. Devin had played for our service the day before his fateful hike, offering listeners his beautiful music one last time.

As he ended the prelude that evening, suddenly a cascade of silvery notes poured into the room and we all wondered “how did he do that on a flute?”. Then we saw him blush a bit, clap his hand to his pocket, and draw out his cell phone. Oftentimes, a cell phone’s ring is blaring and ugly but this string of notes was right in tune with his flute and might have even added to the beauty of his music. We all laughed and applauded, even as we sympathized.

Ironically, the Rev. Rachel Taber-Hamilton was speaking that day on “Living Till We Die”. She ended the service with these words. Perhaps Devin carried them with him in some way.

May you know what it is to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun;
May you know what it is to free the breath from its restless tides,
So that you may rise and expand and seek the Divine unencumbered.
When you drink from the river of silence, may you indeed sing;
And when you have reached the mountain top, may you truly begin to climb.