We are all aware of the Raymond Readfeather situation. At the Yosemite festival I became acquainted with two guitar makers who are also, of course, interested in flute making. So, on my way back home after the show I stopped in to visit with these two fine craftsmen. As it turns out they had sent two hundred dollars to RR for a flute and it has not been delivered. I could feel their disappointment. It concerned me that this situation was bringing disrepute upon the entire flute community of which we are all members. After thinking about it for a few days and talking with Bill Timothy I thought that perhaps we could organize a relief fund out of which we could compensate those who have been similarly wronged. But, I didn't feel up to the effort. So, I decided to gift these men a flute instead. I feel that those of us who are in a position to be able to rectify this loss of confidence and money by innocent fluties might act in a similar manner. Maybe, you're a flute maker or a collector with a flute you might be willing to part with. If an opportunity comes your way consider that Great Spirit might be placing you in a position to heal a breach in the integrity of the Circle. It seems to me that what affects one of us affects us all. And, let's keep our friend Raymond in out hearts and prayers and send him healing energy. John Stillwell

I think this is a beautiful idea. I have an RR flute that I bought from him at Musical Echoes several years ago. I also have two of yours. I think the gentlemen you gifted got a better flute made more special by the sentiment behind it. My $0.02 and probably overpriced.

Michele

Hi John! Welcome (even though it looks like you've been a member for awhile)!

Glad to take this opportunity to tell you once again what a nice flute you make! I have one of your A flutes made from the leftover pieces of wood. I love it.

What a nice gesture to try to heal the circle. Thank you for not just talking about what needs to be done, but for actually doing it!

Blessings!

Hello John and welcome to the forum. It is always good to watch the community grow but a special treat when a talented flute maker drops in. I really like your idea and a flute gifted from you is a treasure indeed. I am sure that these two men more than appreciated your act of kindness.

dd

Hello John,

Thanks for your input, welcome to the forum and thanks for dropping in. I for one am an admirer of your woodworking abilities .

I really appreciate the sentiment that you express and made the same gift when I had the opportunity. It felt like the right thing to do and hopefully brought some healing both parties, Raymond and the trusting person that was so unfortunately taken.

I am a firm believer that those kinds of gesture come back to you in turn.........

Ed

Positive gestures, will come back in positive ways, John. That was a good thing to do, and I feel you will find it so, in time.

Hi John,

Well said. I've read about people having issues with RR that go back years. Karma is an amazing thing. Your gifting the flutes was an incredible gesture and provided a little healing. I have no doubt you'll get rewarded for it along the way.

Your idea is terrific!! The next time I read a RR story, I'll see what I can do to HELP the healing.

~~Bryce