When I awoke this morning, picking up my phone to turn off the alarm, and read the news that Anthony Bourdain had died, I was stunned. To have lost another travel loving person to suicide struck a chord with me. If you’ve read my blogs, or know me, you’ve heard about Leanne; my bright, shining friend who took herself away from living on this earth. The correlation between the two runs deep.

I was given a paperback copy of “Kitchen Confidential” by my Father for my birthday. I hadn’t heard about it, or seen it before I opened that gift. I came to the party late in that regard. I knew of Tony though, I’d watched “No Reservations.” Ironically, I didn’t pick up the book to read it until I was on the plane to Ireland a few weeks later. My first trip out of the country, and I chose that moment to read a book by a guy who would end up being the epitome of a travel junky. Of someone who is a proponent of travel and learning about people and their culture. I didn’t finish the book on that trip in 2007, but the trip, and then the book made me want to keep traveling more. When Tony went to Ireland, I felt like I was there with him. When I travel now, I always want to learn as much as I can about the people. Who they are, where they come from, where they’re going. When you stand somewhere and think, “how many other people have been to this exact spot on this planet as I am right now?” it’s awe-inspiring.

So rest in peace, Chef. Thank you for showing the people of this world how to engage in the human endeavor. I’m sorry there was something fighting inside you that you couldn’t find any other way to heal. Your presence will be truly missed. Say hi to Leanne. Make her a meal for me please? She’ll sing you a beautiful song in return.