Dealing with Tragedy

By Ornery Author Ryan Chukuske

Photo from Taylor Hawkin’s Facebook page

As the Ornery Author, I feel that this edition of my ranting/word to all of you, comes from a personal place. I am absolutely devastated by the news of the Foo Fighters’ drummer, Taylor Hawkins, death. I cannot express enough to all of you the power of music. I can only assume that many of you feel the same way. Music has a way of motivating, a way of cultivating, a way of defining us in a way that no other platform can. No matter what type of music you prefer, I can safely assume that you all have a relationship with your preferred genre.

So, for those of you that may not know (and that’s certainly okay), the longtime, 25 years plus drummer, Taylor Hawkins, for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band, Foo Fighters, experienced an untimely death this past Friday, March 25, 2022. He was the young age of 50. There has not been an official cause of death, however, the preliminary reports are that there were 10 substances found in his urinary tests.

Regardless of the preliminary results and regardless of the official results, Taylor Hawkins was an extraordinary individual. He was, in my and other people’s opinion, the greatest drummer to hold the sticks. He inspired so many people to be the best that they could be. His infectious smile and inspiring personality meant so much to so many people.

Here’s the thing. Many of us struggle. Many of us have some pretty severe mental health issues, substance abuse issues, every day struggle issues that we have to navigate. We all live in this complicated, whirlwind kind of life that can suddenly become a reality that we never expected. I’m not trying to bring on negative emotions. I’m wanting to provide a reality of what we need to strive for to bring a more positive outlook on all of our lives.

I have to be honest. I really wish that Dave Grohl would see this message. And if by any chance that he does, here is what I would like him to read (he is my absolute hero and rock when it comes to tragedy):

Dave, you are an amazing person and musician. You have given so much to so many. I cannot even imagine the tragedies that you have endured in your life. You were the drummer for the most influential band and lost your lead man. And then you were the lead man in the most influential band and lost your drummer. Everything you have ever done has been a defining moment in my life. Your music has been what keeps me balanced. Your spirit has been what keeps me intact. Thank you for all you have done.

I am truly saddened.

I know that all of you have people that have had the same impact on your life. In the words of Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters:

“It’s times like these you learn to live again

It’s times like these you give and give again

It’s times like these you learn to love again

It’s times like these time and time again

I honestly believe that if Dave Grohl was able to see this post, he would whole heartedly agree with the message. He is one of the most kindhearted individuals in the world,

Please remember to care for each other. Provide support for each other.

Stay ornery and journey on.