On February 4, my best buddy and musical companion of 25 years left us here on Earth and continued his soul’s journey to another place. Tony Johansen was a mentor to dozens, if not hundreds, of beginning musicians in the Santa Barbara area. He was voted a Local Hero two years ago. He began a jam session in his home some 30 years ago and opened the door to all in the Old Time Music world.
He was a Buddhist with a skeptical twist who was exceptionally good at “keeping it real”; no nonsense went unnoticed. He took into his home those who needed a temporary place to stay, no questions asked. He had a sly smile and a generous heart.
He met his beloved Susanna Joslyn Johansen a few years ago, and I was honored to officiate at their wedding last Valentine’s Day. The above photo was taken that day, with their best friend Jack London. He also served as best man.
Tony had a very tough past few months, but right up to the end, he remained calm and ready for the next stop. A few days before he died, another good friend was holding his hand and telling him how much he meant to him, how he was going to miss him, and so on. Tony’s eye opened, and he said: “Don’t be so dramatic.” That’s Tony. Irreplaceable.
Forgive the dramatics, Tony, but we miss you so much. Okay, okay, somebody call a tune.
The best way to get a sense of Tony is through his own words. His poem follows:
What Would It Feel Like
What would it feel like
Not to live in a world gone haywire
Where everything we did
Gave to the world
More than we took from it?
What would it feel like
If we woke up in the morning and
The feelings of despair were gone
And we leapt from the bed
Eager to contribute the next thing
To the great turn around?
What would it feel like
To climb on your bike
Or walk to the bus
Instead of the car
To dig up an asphalt parking lot
Plant a vegetable garden
A duck pond, a small forest?
What would it feel like
To read to the blind, tutor a child,
Push a wheelchair
Knowing your few needs were met
And worth was measured in love
Not money
To sit quietly and listen
To those in conflict
With themselves and others?
What would it feel like
To bring the stillness of your own heart
To the turmoil of another’s heart
Gentling their waves with your calm
Letting their waves pass
Through you and away
Like wind through bamboo?