DAVID OLENSKY

Posted on: Dec 17, 2019 at 11:08 PM

Blessings to you Joe and your family. from David Olensky

In high school, I was intimidated by Hyman because I thought of him as a tough guy greaser. We were not friends. After high school, his hippie side revealed itself & we became casual friends.

I remember one night, under the influence, circa 1969-1970, Hyman, Mike Seamon & I plotted how we were going to bring down the US government at the height of the war in Vietnam. We wanted to do something that was easy, peaceful & free, but would have a massive, nation-wide effect. We came up with the idea that we would pick a date & time, publicize it nationally, & get tens of millions of people to flush their toilets & turn on & off their lights at the exact same time. We figured that would bring down the grid. Not to hurt anybody. Just to freeze the government, bring it down and halt the war. We obviously didn't think about the consequences of the effect on hospitals, airlines, etc. The idealism of hippie / yippie anarchy. BTW, we never acted upon the idea.

Hyman & I lost contact after that time period but I stayed best friends with Mike Seamon until 1977. Then I read this obit from CHS. Hyman obviously made a tremendous mark in this world that helped many people. His merits will stand him in good stead in Heaven.

In general, when I read about the passing of so many of our classmates, it's shocking. It reminds us of the frailty of life & the preciousness of life. One could live until 120 or, G-d forbid, "cash in our chips" & check out tomorrow. It's a sober reminder that we should try to do as much good & lovingkindness as we can in this physical world to make it a better place. Not necessaily to affect hundreds or thousands of people. Benefit one person. Do a favor for someone. Be kind to someone. Help people in need. I saw a homeless tent area in my city. I went to a McDonalds & bought 20 $1 chicken sandwiches & gave them out, along with a big smile & words of encouragement. Folks were real happy to get a hot sandwich (& the smile). I've done this a few times. Helps 20 people for only $20. Tell our loved ones that we love them while we can. A smile, a pleasant, cheery & friendly face & kindness goes a long way. Hyman, thanks for the inspiration.

Hello Howie, from David Olensky, your former partner in crime. The thought of you brings a big smile to my face! Blessings to you & your family.