I’ve had a heavy heart since the morning when my father emailed to say that our dear friend, our family’s brother, David Simon had “transitioned”. The news was not unexpected, and in some ways, it felt that David had finally been released and could soar amongst angels.
It is just now, however, that I let the tears flow as I watched this beautiful video that the Chopra Center posted in memory of David. I watched with my two daughters – who are just a few years younger than David’s – who held on to me as I cried.
Remembering David Simon from Chopra Center on Vimeo.
David was truly my father’s best friend. He was the only person who could have created the Chopra Center with him – he was equal in intellect, balanced my father’s intentions with actions, could challenge him when needed, and had the heart of true healer.
For me he was a brother – someone I could turn to for advice and counsel. For those in the “Chopra” circle, he was the one we actually went to when we had a health problem. He had the patience to listen, was always reassuring and told you truthfully how to deal with situations.
Its not ok that David died so young. He lived a clean, giving life. He started meditating when he was young. He was truly selfless. He was the one who helped others who struggled. He was a father with young children… From the day he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, I have grappled with the question – why? There is no karmic reason this should have happened to him. I will struggle to answer why this had to happen to him probably for the rest of my life.
But, I will to remember David with smiles, not tears.
My favorite memory will be a day – perhaps 12 years ago now – when David, my dad, my husband and I were together in Northern California. We were pitching our company – MyPotential – to the most prominent venture capitalists in America. While Sumant and I were focused on the business plan and overwhelmed by the “famous” venture capitalists we were meeting, David and my dad took every minute we were not presenting to discuss the nature of consciousness. Frankly, they could care less about the company and were enjoying the time to be together and talk philosophy.
They were like two kids in a candy shop, laughing, even crying, as they discussed quantum physics, healing, God. I realized watching as they both cried about “non-locality” that my dad and David were truly in “dharma”.
I will remember David as someone who lived his life with passion, love and purpose. A hero in every sense of the word.
Thanks Mallikanfor such a nice rememberence of David. As a student of his and your Dad's it is great to hear that he truly was as cool as I wanted him to be. The two of them are my "rock stars". They were the only two people I was in awe of, and I found myself tongue tied when I spoke to either one. David's compassion is what I remember most of his gentle soul. It doesn't make sense to me either but I have to believe his time here was done and now that he has shrugged off his mortal coil he can enter the realm of infinite possibilities and truly help people more deeply than my little brain can comprehend. Thanks again-
Mallika, thank you for sharing. When I watched the video earlier today, I really noticed the love flowing between your father and David…especially when your father said, "To be honest, I don't really know what I'll do without you." (or something along those lines). What an amazing thing, to be able to experience that kind of friendship; I'm lucky to have one myself, and I feel the same way. The video was amazing, and I was really touched by it…surely because his energy is so full of love and healing. May the angels hold you…all of you…as you heal.
Mallika, what a beautifully written tribute. It is truly a very sad, sad, day…"David may be gone from our sight … but not our hearts" Joanne Scanlon
David was dear to my heart too Mallika and you have so eloquently written of his subtle and great contributions. He was the living essence of the poetry that graced his lips.
This makes me so sad – David Simon was so helpful to me as I was exploring paths and choices – so generous. But what a lovely post.
Beautifully written Mallika. thank you for sharing this. David and your dad are indeed a good team and we are all blessed that they met and birthed the Chopra Center. We as students, teachers and friends of the Chopra Center will benefit for years to come. Love and gratitude.
What a lovely heartfelt post , Mallika . David Simon's soul must surely be nourished by your words.
I also have to ask myself 'why ? ' given that he was surrounded by healers in the sweet spot of the universe. I have come to believe that there is healing in the dying or transitioning and that he must have completed what he came here to do. In many ways his healing work continues.
I only 'met' David Simon in what he wrote and through participating in the recorded mediations that he lead at the Chopra Centre. I also joined thousands of others in sending him love and healing vibes. David Simon seemed to be a bright and beautiful , gentle soul, full of goodness. May he rest in eternal love and peace.
Thank you very much for sharing your memories , Mallika . Namasté xxx
Thank you so much for sharing. I have been trying to understand or even come to terms with why such a good man should die so young when he had so much to give. Thank you for raising this.
My sympathies to you, your Father, whose loss must be so profound, and to David's family. I also felt for Dr Simon in that he must have had concerns for his family when he was no longer there for them.
Blessings to you all.
Thank you so much for sharing this, Mallika. I didn't know David personally, but I have known so many people whose lives he has touched that I feel like his spirit touched mine as well. And perhaps that is the true measure of a human being… the degree to which their legacy is carried forth by the people they loved. David is certainly living on through his students and loved ones. I'm grateful to know the people he inspired, and wishing all his family, friends, and students strength and peace during this time.
Mallika, thank you for this. I, too, struggle with why he left us so soon given how he lived and loved. It shook me to my core beliefs about mind/body health and the work I do. As stated in previous comments here, perhaps his time 'here' is done and his work will continue 100fold from his new home. For some reason this feels right. Deepak's words on davidji's HayRadio show yesterday (Feb 1) was so very moving and brought more tears. Sending blessings and love to you, your family and David's family.
Heal yourself. Don't waste time. Be Happy. got it…. beautiful video. Prayer sent of kind thoughts to grieving family and friends. It never is the same when "family" leaves, for those of us left with the daily void. It creates a new chapter that you could never imagine until you are living through it yourself. I feel the best you can do is be of service through example of kindness and compassion with the rest of your time. I think Dr. Simon would like that maybe. rc