Obituary

Artis Gilbert, Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma 03/28/1946, as the fifth child, to her parents Dick and Vera Gilbert. Artis G. died at her home in Phoenix, AZ on 05/10/13 of complications of cancer. She is survived by her brothers Tommy, Warren, Gary, and John, as well as many close friends who lovingly cared for her to the end. Artis G. was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers, Ronald, Wayne, and David. Each person holds a Sacred Place in the Soul of the Universe—Artis G. not only discovered how to access this Sacred Place, but she often dwelled there with the Great Spirit; or, as she would say: “hanging out with J.C. in His T-shirt.” How else but reaching for your best self could anyone withstand the grievous hardships that Artis faced during her lifetime, recognize and atone for all-too-human errors in judgment, and receive such Peace, Love, Joy and Freedom in spite and because of it all? On the day Artis was born, in March 28, 1946, the United States State Department released the Acheson-Lilienthal Report, outlining a plan for the international control of nuclear power that ushered the Cold War. A few days later, tsunamis reached Hilo, Hawaii; and, some weeks later Ethyl Merman starred in the premier of Irving Berlin’s musical, “Annie Get Your Gun.” Fitting images suitable to describe Artis likewise seem to alternate between enduring the savage dread of nuclear meltdowns of emotional pain that threatened her sanity; becoming herself an unstoppable Force of Nature once unleashed; yet, retaining the childlike innocence of a plain-spoken, honest, and tomboyish girl and the sensibility of an artist. Irrepressible humor, a keen eye in photography, daily meetings, prayer and meditation, playing the mandolin, a scientific career in diagnostic medicine, abundant service commitments, playing at Texas Hold’em tournaments, and giving generously of herself in every way likewise helped Artis overcome her obstacles in life. Hardships that ranged from growing up with rough and tumble seven male siblings, and the sudden loss of two dear brothers in an automobile accident; from her Mom’s diabetes to the scourge of rampant alcoholism in her family and herself; from military service at Dessert Storm that left deep emotional scars and many unanswered questions about her health issues, ultimately, to her struggle with cancer. Artis could only beat such long odds by trudging on the road to spiritual development, by finding the best in others and in herself, and by experiencing Divine synchronicity first hand. Her courageous quest to live an examined life inspired her to continue to learn and improve her life, and her experience with overcoming such obstacles became an endless source of faith, strength and hope, which she shared with others far and wide. Reassured by a wealth of spiritual practice and progress, she always remembered to observe humility in all her accomplishments. People like Artis G. remind us to keep practicing our best qualities and living on principles instead of personalities. Building character required of Artis not only a starting place of willingness and an open mind to believe, against all skepticism, that the Divine had a vested interest in her happiness and positive transformation, but also constant action, showing her that “Faith without works is dead.” Good qualities alone cannot compensate for her human flaws and foibles, which she invariably regretted when it affected others more than herself; but, trust in God, helping others and repeating the Serenity Prayer myriads of times helped, too. There is no doubt that for many friends and fellows, Artis G. was one in a million; and, the display of warmth and support from far away and close around her on her last days on Earth spoke highly of what Community does best: sharing loving-kindness and setting compassion and love into action. To witness the voluntary service and commitment of those who visited as well as the constant care lovingly given by Renee, Kerri and Candita was to marvel at the capacity of human beings to give freely of themselves to each other and, in giving, to feel great joy in return. Gratitude and generosity flowed from Artis. Her affectionate presence, sense of humor and her blissful Peace of mind during her final challenge may well be proof that a miracle blessed her life. She can be remembered best by how truly inspiring she was in the lives of many, and I will never forget her spiritual contribution to my life and the wonderful kinship we shared. May she abide In Peace with the Great Spirit as this Native American prayer pleads: Great Spirit Prayer “Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the wind, Whose breath gives life to all the world. Hear me; I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Help me to remain calm and strong in the face of all that comes towards me. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock. Help me seek pure thoughts and act with the intention of helping others. Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me. I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy, Myself. Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes. So when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame. In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to: Irag and Afghanistan Veterans of America The Mission Continues Susan G. Komen For the Cure The American Cancer Society All new information will be posted as soon as it’s available. Check back for new details regularly. 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