Here in the Philippines, November 2nd of every year is traditionally observed as “All Souls’ Day”. It’s a time when we troop to the cemetery and visit our loved ones who have moved on to the next life.
Losing a loved one is never easy given the pain and the grief that goes with it. To deal with these emotions, many find music an effective form of therapy. Meanwhile, to others, music is a way of remembering someone who has passed away.
This was the very same sentiment of Jim Chapell when he composed the song “Gone”. The song has come to be known as one dedicated to the dearly departed, and yes, Jim did write it down for that very same reason.
In late 2009, Jim and his girlfriend decided to adopt a kitten for a pet. After visiting a local shelter, the two took home a white little kitten and named him Lenny.
The cute bundle of joy was initially full of energy and Jim and his girlfriend thought everything would go on smoothly. In time, however, they noticed that Lenny hardly seemed to grow.
Jim decided to bring Lenny to the local vet for a check up just to see if their kitten is growing up healthy. What he found out came as a big and unexpected surprise.
Lenny was diagnosed as suffering from a rare blood disease that had no cure. Medications were given to see if this can help.
They did not, and in the weeks that followed, Lenny began showing signs of weakness, sleeeping throughout most of the day. A second visit to the vet revealed the dreaded news – Lenny was dying.
The succeeding weeks were literally filled with anguish as Jim and his girlfriend watched helplessly while Lenny stumbled, slept, and mumurred in terrible pain. In the end, the two realized they have to do something to ease the suffering of their friend.
With a heavy heart, they took Lenny to the vet for the shot that will put him to sleep. When it was over, Lenny was brought home and buried in the yard under a cold and starry night.
Days later, Jim sat down before his piano and wrote “Gone” for Lenny.
Inspired by the story? Get inspired one more time by listening to Lenny’s song here:
AKA Music 