Dear Family and Friends of Tara:

It was my plan to join you this Sunday, but broken ribs tie me to my
Northwest Territory. I am sorry. I want to join you as you honor and
remember and celebrate your sister, lover, friend, compassionate
Bodhisattva, Emily Tuckerman Allen, who we call Tara.

She burst in to my life on Friday the 13th of January, 2005. She left
in the early morning hours, January 26, 2006. Two weeks. A lifetime.
I feel so blessed to have shared that time with her. When she arrived
at The Amazonico Refugio, Vijali Hamilton, Edie Hartshorne, and myself
had been creating space at The Refugio for two weeks and had been
anticipating Tara's arrival. Neither Edie nor myself were acquainted
with Tara, but Vijali spoke highly of her. I first glimpsed her through
the window of our sleeping house. This was a large, circular house made
from wadua (bamboo-like) material with a thatched roof. She was tall.
Her face youthful. She entered the house and let her backpacks spring
open and unpack themselves in a jumble of clothing and other articles
onto her sleeping mattress. Her energy immediately charged the space
with vitality. It is from this field of energy that she radiated for
the next two weeks of her life with us. I really hope that the pictures
that I am sending convey to you how much Tara loved the place and the
people. From the moment she arrived she was engaged; investigating,
dreaming, scheming ways to help. She clearly saw that she could make a
difference in the lives of the Shuar People, and she did not hesitate to
throw herself fully into plans for the difference she could make. I
think this may be the most valuable lesson she taught me--to not
hesitate, but to fully and immediately embrace, the action we can each
make individually to create a better world. Tara committed financial
assistance to a part of the Amazonico Refugio project. I will honor
that commitment in her name. But that is a small detail compared to the
enormous spirit and energy she contributed.

Vijali, Edie and I kissed her goodnight the evening of January 25, 2006.
Although feeling a little under the weather, she resonated with a strong
life force. I had just that day taken a significant fall and had
unknowingly broken my ribs. Before settling down in the sleeping house
by the river, Tara spent her last moments with me trying to ease my
pain. I was not prepared to find her gone from us in the morning. It
is a shock--to us--as it is to you. I extend to all of you who feel the
pain and confusion of her passing, my own deep-felt sorrow. I can say
to each and everyone of you that you were--and are--very important to
Tara. She spoke of her family and her friends and her companions and
partners and community with gratitude and love. She spoke of you daily
in a way that made me realize that you were all very much a part of her
life--even while she was creating new projects and new life.

Lastly, I want to share with you something that happened in the night
when Tara died. I woke. I don't know when. I was in much pain. But
beyond the pain, I heard music, like a choir singing. My intuition
tells me that it was between 3 and 4 in the morning. At first I thought
it was electronic boom-box music--sometimes we heard this coming in on
the air from the road. I listened. There was no bass, thumping an
electronic beat. It was like a sweet choir, and there were no words, no
lyrics. It was pure sound, and it felt like it was traveling up from
the riverside through the tree tops. I tried to twist my body and find
my watch, but could not. The voices were neither male nor female, yet a
blending of both, and it was the sweetest sound I have ever heard. I
settled and listened to this choir for quite some time, and I thought of
Tara sleeping down by the river, and then I fell back to sleep. It is
my belief that at that time Tara's Spirit left her body. And although I
can not make sense for the timing of her death, I know that it happened
in a good way.

From the place, deep within myself, that Tara touched,
To you her family, friends and community,
An Open Diamond Heart that, As Tara said to me--
leaps and leaps--as life takes over.

Dear friends and lovers of Tara,
I join you in deepest sadness at our loss. Tara was a new friend to me, one whom I fast fell into love with. We shared the Diamond Heart work and, for the last six months, enjoyed long phone conversations as well as personal time together during the Atlanta weekends. I knew I was blessed to have this closeness with her.

When the breast cancer diagnosis came, she wasted no time in self-pity and fear. Rather, she directly turned it into an opportunity for awakening. With amazing courage, willingness and love, she took on the discipline of healing. Three times she said to me that she felt called to be a leader of the dying. When I suggested that "leader of the healing" was more accurate, it didn't fly. I understand now, she was even then becoming reconciled to her own death. Actually, she was facing it with the same twinkle and trust that must have been her style with many another adventure. She was radiant, while kissing us goodbye and stepping into the unknown.

Meanwhile, I was busy reassuring myself that surely her healing would be realized, and surely we would have a long time to enjoy and deepen our friendship. If only I had remembered to look more closely during our last hour together.

You, her beloveds, are my only source of knowing her now, beyond my limited experience. Your memories and stories I devour hungrily. Thank you.

My heart longs to be present for the memorial service and I have considered it wildly. Since I am resigned now that it is not reasonably possible, I shall join you in meditation at noon on Sunday, from my home in Asheville.
Tara is a very evolved Soul. Losing her like this hurts terribly, but I am coming to trust that it was an elegant and auspicious way for her to go. "It's a good day to die," I imagine her thinking on that last day.
Blessings and comfort to you dear ones who loved her.
Leah Song

Tia:
Gracias por esos hermosos recuerdos al lado tuyo, tu amor, cariño y preocupacion por todos nosotros tu familia Mexicana que en este momento se encuntra de luto por tu perdida que nada la podra remplazar, a una mujer ejemplar llena de amor por los demas sin esperar nada a cambio. Dejas un vacio enorme pero tu enseñanza mas grande el amor a los demas, gracias le doy a Dios por permitirme conocerte con cariño.

Tara was the kind of person you would always remember meeting. She was larger than life and her energy rippled out beyond her aura to touch you. She lived life with such incredible exuberance. She seemed fearless to me,but as a mutual friend said, maybe she lived her life to the fullest in spite of any fears. I admired her free spirit; giving her positive energy to all and loving us mere mortals warts and all. I only wish I could have spent more time with her and known her better. Being around her was a joy. I will miss her.

I first knew Tara as Emily, when we met in Zurich, in 1989, at the Process Work Intensive Course. She reached out to me with her generous, intense spirit, asking me to work with her even though, perhaps because I was just a therapist in training, at the very beginning of my training.
Over the years I was to see her trust in others, in life and its opportunities, taking her into all sorts of challenges, with people, travel, projects.

She was so expressive, throwing out her arms, throwing back her head, cocking her head with a wise gleam in her eye, exclaiming at the joy and suffering she witnessed and felt at the core of her being.
When I visited my sister in Florida and taught a workshop in 1995, Tara came and brought her warmth and generous spirit into the group.

I can hear her saying, "Oh, Sar!" as if she had always known me. Once, in Hawaii, when she visited my husband and me at our home there, she wanted to take a picture of us together. I said I looked awful and she said, "In ten years you'll look at this picture and think you looked great."
She had the perspective of an old soul and she enriched my life.

To Towne, Emily and Michael,
I am a teacher with the Atlanta Diamond Heart group. I just want to say that I was touched by Tara's enormous enthusiasm for life and her compassion for all living beings. May your memories and love bring you peace and comfort. My sincere condolences to each of you for your loss.
Gwen Thornton

Tara Silverfox once asked Megan and myself to come and sing at "Charlie's Corner" at Shands for the ARTS IN MEDICINE program. She would help gather family and other visitors in the visitor's lounge for a set of guitar and vocals and we had a lot of laughs. While we were singing in the "Corner", Tara would go room to room from one critical patient's bed to another, and ask, "Would you like someone to come sing to you?" She would make a list of YES room numbers and then, we would troop down the halls and go thru the list, entering each slowly with guitar in hand, and Tara would bring a tamborine or drum, and we three would sing for these lovely ones, we would call them by name and pray with them. We would tease them, if they seemed to be able to take it, and ask, "Well, what kind of music do you like?"

"Oh, anything,", they would usually answer. Then we would say, "How about Heavy Metal, huh?!"

Oh, ha ha ha, we would all smile and posh posh, this wouldn't do. Then we would ask, "Do you liek Gospel music?" Oh, yes yes yes, please, would almost always be the reply! Then, we would break into AMAZING GRACE and often, we would repeat this little act all the way down the hall, with a little rock and rock and folk music thrown in the break the obvious pattern. It was fun and funny. Sometimes, the nurses and doctors would stop in the doorways and sing along as well.

If the afternoon came when I just thought I could not make it, but still I went to Shands, I remember the feeling I had when I was ready to leave. "Oh, thank you, Tara, for asking me, for giving me this chance, to give.....and get so much more in return, the pure appreciation and joy we received from this venture....it was glorious. Tara was there, she was the facilitator. I'm learning that this was her way of life, a tough job that she performed with vision and high spirits.

We pray for you, Tara and your family and friends and extended family. You are loved and remembered by Megan and Linda, always in our hearts.

Tara,

It was wonder-full experiencing your presence--sparkle--wisdom for the time we were together at the Seraphim Center.

I remember the natural objects you so carefully arranged as your gift of beauty (stone balanced upon stone); the moments you shared from your life, like the chewing gum incident (and how angry we all were that you got busted); your love, care and concern for the land your family owned (thank you for bringing pictures).

Many thanks also for your gift of immediacy, your insight, your healing intuition. I regret that I was not present with you when you were in need of healing, and that we did not speak before your departure. Ah, but we will have that February reunion, won't we (how did you know)?

Part of you will miss each here one dearly, I'm sure, as deeply as we miss you moving among us. But I see your eyes flash and twinkle as you turn to explore the path of your newest boundless adventure.

Dearest gypsy lady, friend, old soul -- we bow to you, heart-to-heart and light-to-light. Perfect contentment and deepest peace to you and all who knew you.

Shine on, all-ways.

Tara:

I am grateful to have known you through our Diamond Heart studies. I am wishing upon a star that you are looking at all the love from here that is pouring out to you! It should be an amazing and spectacular sight!

Love,

Beth

It is incredible hard to write words which confirm the truth that my friend has left this physical plain. I want her back now! My understanding although little has always been enough to trust Gods plans in Universal affairs. In the past, some awareness of Divine order has offered comfort during such times. But this time Im given no easy comfort. Even though I trust Gods purpose in taking Tara away from us, I never imagine it could hurt so much.

My life was blessed with the friendship of a truly magnanimous being. In retrospect, experiencing her love and friendship was a gift from God and a true testament of Gods Love for me. Since Sunday, a tune from The Sound of Music keep ringing in my head, and Ive been singing the words ever since:

For here you are standing there loving me
Whether or not you should.
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
Ive must have done something good.

Nothing comes from nothing
Nothing ever could.
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
Ive must have done something good.

For here you are standing there loving me
Whether or not you should.
So somewhere in my youth or childhood
Ive must have done something good.

Now I have to find a way to shift this vast absence of her physical presence into a new way of experiencing the connection I continue to hold with Tara.

Forever love,
Sarah

To Micheal and Tara's family,
We would like to express our profound sadness for your loss. Tara was special, and one of a kind. We will miss her. We knew her only briefly, but her curiosity and love for life will always be with us.

Tara, Emily, Tuck, Aimelee, Allen Silverfox was as diverse as her many names. I first met Tara on Feb 2 1992 at an Imbolc [Candlemas] ritual at my home. I had lit a pair of red candles on my bedroom altar and asked the Goddess of love for new love in my life. When I turned around, much to my amazement,Tara,who I had never laid eyes upon, was sprawled across my bed and we were off and running almost from then on.

Tara came to Gainesville to study at the Florida School of Massage where she graduated in June of '92, a week before our wedding which was absolutely the event of the summer that year. We didn't care about Gay marriage legal/illegal we were committed to each other and wanted to stand up as lesbians to show the world our pride and love and to be witnessed by our friends. This aspect of our relationship lasted 8 years raising our 4 legged furries in Moonhaven under the welcoming arms of the 500 + yr. old lightening-struck Grandmother Tree. Many changes and 6 years later, we were family and best friends.

Stepping back in time a bit, Tara was born June 11,1943 in Boston Mass. to Emily and Henry Allen. She was the first of three children:Roz,Towne, and of course Tuck,her family name. She went to high school out west in the experimental Colorado Rocky Mountain School.

Tara was a globetrotter of the first order living and working in Mexico where she raised 10 orphan children,Afghanistan[where she faced down the Taliban],China and Mongolia, where she talked her way across the continent, into jobs at any University that would offer her water and a bed.

In the Amazon, she did eye surgery on natives in the jungle with her dad who was an esteemed eye surgeon.

She rode her Beamer in Yonkers as part of an all black and male [except for her of course] motorcycle club, and worked her way through Sarah Lawrence College as a stripper. It turned out that 5 years into our relationship, I remembered having met her in NYC at a lesbian bar in the West Village in 1973! She also got her Masters degree in Creative Arts Therapy from Leslie College.

She even taught English as a second language in the Dalai Lama's Summer Palace in Dharamsala,Tibet. Tibet was truly a place that held Tara's heart and she longed for those purple mountains in the clouds and cholesterol laden yak butter tea but no doubt did not miss the thousand prostration's that were expected before dawn.

In Tibet she inadvertently helped to ease the food shortage by introducing the grain Quinoa, to the farmers and researchers where it now thrives as their most fertile crop.

She jokingly said that after all that, moving in with me seemed like the next logical thing. Ya know, from all over the world to out of this world I guess.

Tara never met a stranger. Where I was sort of "let's just be ourselves here and hope the neighbors leave us alone," She was all about,"Come on over I'm Tara and I live at the first house after the bridge," when we had a place on the Itchetucknee River. I cringed at first but she really modeled being a good neighbor. To this day, I reach out more and always think of her shouting out her address to one and all.

If this sounds like a life almost too fantastic to be real, this is no exaggeration and I am saure that I am forgetting a thing or two as well.

Brilliant intellect, human whirlwind, interedimensional healer, philanthropist, closet engineer, crazy Gemini [which is redundant], lover of animals, protector of the underdog, sapphic poet priestess, artist, exotic dancer, sailor, human dynamo,birdwoman, Boston blue-blood, teacher,perpetual student, Amazon warrior, preserver of wild places, mother to many people and projects, and undereneath,a most gentle spirit.

Not long after her graduation from Massage School,Tara became involved with the Arts and Medicine Program at Shands Hospital where she spent several years facilitating "Charlie's Corner," a space for utilizing the performing and creative arts to heal and entertain the patients there. She was constantly going to workshops far and wide to educate herself in many of the healing arts and especially in methods that aligned body,mind,and spirit.

She was a practitioner of POP [Process oriented Psychology made famous by mentor Arnie Mindell], Orthobionomy, Diamond Heart Meditation as well as Wicca,and Bahn,a most ancient form of Tibetan Buddhism. We both shared a love of the Yoruba[Nigerian] culture and count our African Family as a major spiritual support system.

Tara's global and inclusive spirituality and my own, dovetailed into the long awaited manifestation of The Wise Woman's Tarot Deck and Book. I had worked easily 20 plus years to bring it to the birthing room and Tara poured her soul resources and countless hours into being the midwife needed to complete and perfect the project, to which the world and myself owe her a tremendous debt of gratitude.

Her seeming infinite energies were legendary and she donated and worked on projects to save the Itchetuknee, her beloved river, wetlands, rainforests, bird sanctuaries, Big Cats, Horse Rescues, Junglefriends primates, S.A.F.E.studios, Katrina Hounds, the Ecuadorian Village where she ultimately met her demise, and so much more that in short, if it needed saving and people were doing sincere earthsaving work,Tara was there. She was in part fulfilling the work of her mother, Emily Allen Senior, and her Boston Foundation.

In part, the animal rescue work was something that we shared and this year,her resources gave me a stipend to treat these animals in sanctuaries and rescue facilities with holistic means.

She also became a Reverend this past year through the Seraphim Center and was looking forward to utilizing this aegis to continue her spiritual and philanthropic work.

Tara was also a visual as well as a performance artist of sorts and probably would have provided us with many more of her own creative offerings had she slowed down her warp-speed pace, or simply lived longer.

Her form of healing truly knew no bounds. Sometimes she healed with words,touch,sound, beautiful objects from the many exotic places that she journeyed and sometimes, simply by being there, taking out the trash, holding a fevered hand, providing a healthy meal, a little money at just the right time,you name it. She helped in so many ways and easily helping/healing more people, places, and things than I can know or represent here.

Reading the comments made by her numerous mourners on this site gives you an idea of the scope of her vision and the huge hole she will leave in the lives of so many here on earth.

In the 14 years that I have known and loved Tara, I can honestly say that there is no one in my life that was a more consistant,supportive and loving friend and soul sister and I will always love and remember her for the irrepressible wild/wise woman that she is and was.

In addition to her many projects and interests,she spent this last year partnered with Michael Heaston at her lake place on Lake Santa Fe, around the corner from Moonhaven enjoying the life and water activities there.

Tara Emily Tuck Allen is survived by her brother Towne Allen, sister Roz Allen,Michael Heaston,Pintura, her cat, and me Flash Silvermoon

Her life will leave many beautiful ripples across the Universe and warm a multitude of hearts that are more full for having known her.

Blessed be Tara, daughter of Gaia and Goddess-Speed
With Love,
Flash Silvermoon

I was so saddened by the passing of Tara. I hardly knew her and yet tears are flowing. I am so happy that our paths crossed. I was so looking forward to knowing this woman who had worked so hard to develop her spirit. She was a gift to my heart to work with her. I knew that I had met a true sister. A woman that understood and that was working for humanity in every way she knew how. My love and prayers so out to Towne, to Michael, and to Flash, and to all who loved her. It is said that when a great soul leaves this world, the arts and the sciences will be affected. I wait to see the creativity that this soul will inspire us now that she has gone to the sea of light.

My heart just hurts with this news. I am so glad that we shared a few hours in December and she was as much at peace with herself as I have ever seen.
She was a loving spirit and teacher for all of us and know that she will be back in spirit and great desire for life.

Tara touched so many souls during her life, and not only the human animals benefited from her kindness. The Jungle Friends monkeys will truly miss Tara. Whenever she learned of a monkey in trouble, Tara was here with an herb to heal them, when she learned that we needed funding to build habitats for new monkey arrivals, Tara contacted me and provided the funding. We just recently finished "Mary's Marmoset Village", in honor of Tara's grandmother and the monkeys are enjoying their new digs. Tara never made it out to see their happy faces or hear their delighted squeals as they race around their new habitats. Maybe Tara is watching them now - I like to think so. We all miss her bright spirit and gentle nature.

I am saddened to hear of Tara's passing! I met and spoke with her only briefly about a year ago. If I remember correctly it was at TMP, when we had just begun to mourn for Cherie and Cathleen. Certainly not every one I meet makes an impact upon me but Tara certainly did! I remember feeling as someone has expressed similarly here. Specifically, she listened so intently to me, as if I were the only person on the planet at the time. I found that and her broad, warm smile intoxicating! Thank you for that short but meaningful introduction Tara! Needless to say, I took an instant liking to her! My heart goes out to Flash and all Tara's other friends and family who were privileged to have been a part of her life!

Earth, Peace, Love, Life

I sit in this desolate room-
The darkness creeps into my every breath,
I have lost a mother-
An echo in my mind,
For it cannot be true-

Pause-
Reflect-

The sparkle in her eyes,
The passion in her heart,
She always came like the breeze-
And left behind a wind,
A survivor of this world,
A lover of all creatures,
The purist spirit of them all-

The puddle on my paper - does you no justice-
It seeps into my veins,
But-
Isnt it a dream?

Sixty three is too young-
But the spirit of twenty is unforgettable,
Youve given so much- your heart, still full,
This world is twisted,
Yet you made it sturdy-

I will sing and dance to your beat-
And cry to your soul,
A role model for all- you are truly one of a kind,
You gave me life and hope-
Support and guidance,
I want you to fly-
Spread your wings,
Join those who have passed-

Five years two months after your mother,
You leave this world-
To start an adventure,
One we will all join you in-
In our own time,
I think about death and I am not afraid-
For you will be there to greet me.

Tara Allen...each person brings their special self to the table. Tara's spirit soared, her eyes ignited with that spark of life accompanied by that Tara laugh. None like her have I met before and none like her will I ever meet again. Acting globally to transform the planet and yet being present individually with who ever she was with in the current moment. I feel eternally grateful for our shared moments and being able to hear how Tara Allen was facing transformation. Tara helped to define "Sage" as "having wisdom with age and experience".

Verse 66 of Lao Tzu from the Tao Te Ching
"Wisdom Always Comes From Below"

Why do all the hundreds of great rivers flow naturally to the sea?
Because the sea is always lower than the rivers.

When are thousands of people attracted to a sage?
When she positions herself below them, always listening, tirelessly responding to their needs.

Never commanding.
Never coercing.
Never manipulating.

Such a sage is forever adored.
Since she treats everyone with love and respect,
Everyone loves and respects her.

Thank you, Tara.

love and light to Flash, Michael and Tara's friends. thank you Tara

Dear Tara,
You are certainly a gift to the many lives and hearts you touched, and I've no doubt about the rightness and blessedness of your passing. I'm grateful I knew you and will always remember your brilliance and kindness mixed with that playful mischievious sparkle.
The last time I saw Tara was at my 50th birthday party, in December. As a party game we answered questions, and I want to share her answers with everybody.

1. What do you like best about being the age you are right now?
Tara: I have earned the right and the strength to take my life in my hands.

2. What is your favorite flavor?
Tara: The taste of essential being here/now.

3. If you could have one supernatural power, what would it be?
Tara: The power to totally get out of the spirits (and my own way) and walk in beauty.

4. If there were one thing you could give away, what would you give and who would you give it to?
Tara: Trust in oneself - given to any human animals who come to me and any neurotic non-humans.

Thank you,
Tara

Love,
Gina Zeitlin

My Goddess I couldn't believe it I got the news today when I went to visit Shekhinah in Santa Cruz ... Tara meant a lot to me as well as Cathy and Cherie I really cannot believe she is gone I cannot accept it I'm cryin right now thinkin of her takin me to pick up bluberries and around with her car oh we shared so many things in those few days I was in Melrose I'm so sad and worried for my friend Flash this is really too much for her ... plz remember Tara for how shinin she was how full of life and how much she believe things woul always be ok whatever ... Tara stay with us with your bright spirit and watch over us together with Cathy and Cherie oh we miss u we miss u too much. Flash my friend I send you my biggest hug plz feel my love for u as strong as it has always been ... be strong ! Plz! Love u Flora

Tara was one of the kindest and most genuine ladies I ever met. She will be missed by all of us.
I will always think of her when I have blueberries, remembering the day she shared bunches with me and I got to know her a bit better. She is indeed a goddess and like her namesake, she empowered and strengthened all those that she embraced.

Although I did not know you well, you were one to be admired, with such an interesting life, who made me feel so comforted whenever we spoke together. Your spirit lives on in the hearts of wise women everywhere, we can only aspire to be as caring, sensitive and genuinely interested in every single person as you were. I wish I had been able to have more time to get to know you better. Love will always belong with every thought of you, Star-sister!

I never had the opportunity to know Tara well, but in all of our passings I was incredibly impressed with her amazingly powerful positive presence. I know she has touched and blessed the lives of many, a beautiful soul like her lives on in all those she has touched. My thoughts and prayers are with all that have been and continue to be touched by this wonderful woman

4 days later, and today, Patrick spoke about you. He shared the news with one of his best friends, a brother. Today he described my/our friendship with Flash, you, how we met you, how long we have had you in our lives, known each other... He told his friend of Grandmother Tree, and learning to climb when he was So small, with you... and the bummer of a time this is... the stress, the sadness for a momnet. Do you know? He didn't believe in Grandmother Trees until then. Flash and I spent time in the office, and you 2, went out and played. What wonderful things you both shared. Thanks for the memories.
He scoffed when I told him we were coming down in February, per the schedule, and we'd be taking the boat out to go fishing with you and Michael. He said something like " yeah, right.. It's winter and it's going to be cold. He must be as crazy as she is, you all are..." and snickered. The words of my 15 year old... And then wanted to know "WHEN in February is this happening?"
For a moment, today, we spoke of you, Tara, and the time we spent the night at the house, after a party; the 2 of you had such a time laughing together for quite a long time... and he smiled to himself, and wouldn't answer when I asked about the conversation..."just stuff...".
I guess right now, it's all just stuff...
Wish I was ready to laugh with and for the joy of you.

to all of you who knew/knew of/loved and were toyuched by tara/tuck/emily (a woman of many namezs, mny facets)--she lived well--died well--all of are shocked--and grieved--yet, i have a sense that our friend would want all of us to kjnow--she is well--she is always with us--and that she,too, in rerurn felt blessed by knowing us--all of us are the magical sum of all of us being one in spirit--giving/taking/sharing--just Being--thank you to all of you who loved her--that made her know she was loved--blessed as well as a blessing--what else can i say--except always peace and love --lstjb

Tara made me feel like the most special creation. After reading all the memorials here, I see she had a gift for making us all feel that way. My most special memory is sitting next to her nearly every day for three months while we created Flash's Wise Woman's Tarot book and deck. From the divine imagination of Flash, Tara managed to bring to life every detail of the intricate and fascinating work. Tara was tireless in pursuit of perfection for this project. With immense love and respect for Flash's vision she was able to translate that vision into a beautiful work of art.
Tara fed me. She nurtured my spirit. Loved my whole family. She even helped me to celebrate the spirit of my daughter who had recently passed. I am loving the vision I get of Tara and Sara getting to know each other. I am grateful she was in my life. I am richer for it. Forever richer. I'll be watching for your presence every day, my dear friend. Thank you for dreams of Tibet. Thank you for your loving ways.

Oh and another thought.....Tara, what an amazing healer!! My wrist has never bothered me again after that sweet session we shared together.....Yes..believe in your abiltites as healers...I am sure she would want us all to remember that...

I find it so amazing how we touch each other...and even more so how powerful life and death is...making the choise how to go out of this life into the next....I am sure she made the choise....WAY TO GO TARA... You are an amazing being and we have all been blessed by your presence here on this planet at this time....Thanks for all you gave...and you know...I have a feeling all that you continue to give....Big Strong Hearted Woman....Fly on, fly on.

and to you Flashie...all love and light...
LuLu

My mind is shocked and my heart aching at the news of Tara's passing. She is too young. This is too soon. Who will be able to do the wonderful things she did? What an incredibly powerful woman. Years ago, Tara touched me as I appealed my conviction for going topfree in a forest. Not only did Tara support my mission, but she gave time, commitment, passion, and money, writing a feature article for publication and assisting in numerous other ways. Her willingness to give herself to what she believed in was striking and just one of her many unique qualities. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Bright blessings for a smooth, joyful journey, Tara. With love, and wishes of comfort to Flash.

I met Tara a few years ago. Although I didn't see her often and I really didn't get to know her very well, I did know, right off the bat, that she was one of those beautiful people who I would have wanted to share with that parallel universe/planet of unconditional love that I dream of. More giving a person I haven't met. Somehow I am certain that she will do good things and bless others with her loving spirit...where ever she is.
I have something very special that Tara gave to me and I will always keep that object in my place for very special things.

As I walk the property of Moonhaven,the home that Tara and I shared for some 8myears of marriage and another 6 years of being best family/friends,I am blown away at the transformation that she made on this place.Touches of her vision are everywhere. Bushes and trees that we planted are in full growth,The barn for Chinamoon, the mare Goddess that we co-parented for many moons is full; of hay. The gazebo that she "had to have"is the space where I treat my animal clients who come for healing.
Hard to know that she will not be here in her body anymore , showing up at my gate when I least expect it with something for me to do. Yet, I do hear , see and feel her spirit very strong here and know that she is at peace at last and is circling and looking in on all she held dear.
Having a Soul Sister such as Tara is a gift beyond measure and a loss immeasurable

DID I MENTION IT'S NEVER GOOD BYE, JUST SO LONG TILL THE NEXT TIME.

Tara, I always find it very hard to write these. I will just say, Your wonderful smile will be missed. Your love for the animals will be missed. Tell the others hello, see ya all someday and thanks for all you have done.

We had the great pleasure of spending one evening with Tara at David and Michele Rippey's home in Miami Beach. We felt a very positive connection with her and thought her energy and expressiveness extraordinary. We have only warm thoughts of her and have kept current with her activities through David and Michele. We are saddened at news of her death, and take great pleasure and joy in thinking of how she spent her life and the kind of person she was.

a painted sandollar, treasured pants, mochi, a sharing of process and wild yet structured mind, the boat light floating on the water after a spiral spin.

Tara, as you travel before us on the path of light into parallel realities, the light of your consciousness still spins and radiates. thanks for the being that is you.

Wow, Tara has inspired my life. What a gift to me...a ray of light shining into my life...an example of BEING, joy, spirit in the flesh!! I have so much gratitude for having known this wonderful source of love energy. Thank you, Tara, for everything. Namaste

Speaking this evening with Michael, Tara's partner, significant other, couple - Tara was in high spirits the night before her passing, having done a ceremony with the shaman whom she went to Ecuador to meet and pursue a vision quest.

Tara had shared with us that she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and for her considered reasons did not intend to pursue chemo or radiation. In her style, she would pursue many routes before that with this quest being a part of that. Michael and 2 family members are flying to Ecuador tonight to return with Tara's remains on Friday. I asked if details of her medical condition were personal or already shared and he said that Tara would want everyone to know her story.

A special prayer for Michael and family.

My dear Tara,

I feel you very close now, trying to help us, always fixing everthing, making it better, healing us and blessing all, hugging and surrounding us with peace and tranquility in your comforting wise woman way. I miss you and love you so much and will carry you in my heart forever. Blessed Be

I stare at the page and wonder what I can say which be meaningful about a woman who touched me in a heart way. Tara seemed to me to always be in a hurry, she would breeze in and then breeze out of the coffee shop again, quickly. One time she sat down. I laugh as I write this because, it does seem to me just that one time that we sat together. She looked me in the eye and said the kindest thing, as though she were baffled, because she really didn't know me before that moment. She said very slowly....."You are....so very.... sweet." I have to weep as I write this because, I remember it so clearly. She touched me that day in a heart way, her heart to mine. I will never forget that moment. Never. For she saw who I really was in that moment. She saw my spirit. If I could do that to everyone I met, I could leave this planet a happy, satisfied person, fulfilled in my journey during this very strange and wonderful incarnation.

Tara ~ my deep gratitude for your earthwalk committed to love, healing, knowledge, sharing and caring...You are so bright and beautiful. I will forever treasure the Wise Women deck, it's Afgan pouch and hold respect for the part you played in manifestation. I hold our ceremony at inspiration point, California years ago strongly in my spirit and you forever in my memory and heart. You will be sorely missed by many. Blessed be your continued journey of light and more light.

We just got home from Costa Rica and were wondering about her as we saw her on the 18th on her way to Ecuador for a shamanic vision quest and planned to see her tomorrow the 30th.

We will be doing the Black Earth of Perfect Harmony for her this evening.

I am happy to say that when she came though here 11 days ago that she was typically full of life. I am sure that she died the same way.

I expect that the fact of her death was not a surprise to her, but that the blessed sudden event and means was as she had something else on her mind.

Tara is certainly a person of many lives and with and without our help is sure to journey to where she needs to be.

Gate Gate
Param Gate,
Parasam Gate,
Bhodi Svaha

I was taking care of a woman who had MS when I first met the gracious and illuminous Tara (has it been 10 years already?!) She was like a fresh breeze --full of ideas and fire and plans and love, so full of spirit. I had never met anyone like her.
How very fortunate I have been to have been touched by such a lovely creature on this crazy planet.
I send comfort and prayer to all hearts breaking in pain of separation of this beautiful soul.
I know she is off somewhere, everywhere--creating, inspiring, shapeshifting, lightbearing, shining her light always. May her light continue to shine within us all.

Tara: healer, dreamer, spirit, and so much more to so many people.
She will be missed. She always had a "plan" for whatever was happening. She shared her heart and her spirit with all who got to know her.

Tara loved Camp Sister Spirit and we love her. She is remembered for her kindness and generosity. She took lots of time with me trying to help me heal from all the madness my life has dealt me. I could feel her love and concern and caught myself wishing I was more like her. We will be putting in a memorial garden on our campus. My heart aches for the loss but also rejoices for having known her.

Such shock at hearing of Taras passing and such a blessing to leave this planet in such Light.

I am remembering Tara - friend, adventurer, healer, fabulous hardworking intelligent generous woman, beaming with her great shining Light and loving humor and sharing her hugs.

Friday evening, as a way to focus ourselves on Taras continuing journey, Shaya and I each chose a card from Flashs The Wise Woman Tarot Deck. Shayas hand chose Tara, The Star. This is the light at the end of the tunnel for the seeker, as life and hope spring eternal. My hand chose Priestess of Wands, Bast, Lion Goddess of sunset. She is the symbol of the fiery side of woman, the one who promotes growth and healing through the element of fire and the power of the sun.

And we reminded ourselves of a very great, but hidden Truth If every single fiber of our Being, and every single fiber of everything else is made of the Love Vibration, then indeed, the only thing that is Real is Love. And so, clearly, that which appears to not be Love, is an illusion for there is actually, only Love. And how do we do that? By standing forward and shining, emanating, radiating, manufacturing Love and Hope and Joy and Peace and Wisdom and Embrace and Balance and Gratitude and Praise, knowing that Love is the only Reality, and all else, illusion.

So we send forth great Love to all who mourn this beloved woman..
May each mourner hold memories that continue to be blessings in our lives.
Blessed Be.

Peace be with you on the journey today Michael.

Her spirit is with us all and we should all rejoice in the memories we all have of her. And do our best to pickup and carry on, as I am sure that she will continue her work and help all she can.
We were blessed with having her in our ministerial class. Tara lit up our class room and shared her wisdom, stories and love with us all.
Tara lives with in all of us that had the blessing of knowing her forever.
Thank you Tara for your blessing to us all !


We are one with all
Rev Frank

This year was the first time in my life I had experienced the sudden death of friends. I came to understand a lot about the needs us humans have when faced with something so final and unexpected. Deep needs to talk, philosophize,go over thoughts and details again and again, make sense of, fill in the blanks. Don Juan told Carlos to be aware of death over his left shoulder, it's always there. I feel it.

Dear Tara,

I can't seem to stay off this page. I guess because I
haven't said everything I need to say. Thank you for
all that you did for us, for working in the Arts and Medicine Program, for helping the Home Van, for being the Tooth Fairy, for taking care of animals, for being a good friend to so many people. When we talked on the phone I always said, "I never see you often enough, but I'm always glad you're out there."
It's different, you not being 'out there' in the same way. I feel like you were so full of life, so healthy and energetic, the angels had to kidnap you while you were asleep. Enjoy your new life, Tara, whatever it is I'm sure it's something good. I will always remember you.

I never met you on this plane, Tara, but I know we're spiritually connected. I will stay aware of the many kinds of ways that you continue to influence my life. Hope your journey is a beautiful one. Be at peace knowing that Flash is safe with all of us.

I have been thinking of Tara since I heard the news.
I see her contagious smile. I feel her electric energy.
Tara helped my family and I through much grief these last few years. Tara's inovative healing techniques helped us greatly. The 1st day I met Tara Emily Allen, she gave me the key to her house. I found this unusual and very trusting. I was reminded of the Tibetan Goddess *Tara*, whose name means Star, full of compassion. You will be missed dear one by many. I do think your healing will continue. My thoughts and prayers go out for Michael and Flash and Harimandir,they have lost someone dear, as have we all. I am saddened for myself. Tara's Love continues. Her spirit soars, her transition I am sure will be a good one.

Dearest Tara,

You shall be missed by all of us who were touched by your kidness and generosity. May your light continue to shine brightly!

I didn't know Tara very well, as deeply as many people in the area, but our our paths crossed so frequently and in so many different ways and times, that I did get to know her through time. Years and events have a way doing that. She will be one of the many faces that reminds me of "the old Gainesville" and already I miss her. Just knowing she won't be there, in the crowd, at an event, holding someone's hand, makes me take pause, sigh, and for a few seconds feel my heart chakra. The greatest pleasure is that, I always found it interesting that she liked.... me. Love the Love, baby, trust the Trust.

It is with a sad heart for us that I write here... words, that can't express the shock for all of us who knew and love her, the pain we feel.
Tara, how I will miss your laugh, your matter-of-factness, the crinkle of your nose, the light of your eyes... the depth of your soul, the gift of your heart, your hugs, stories, adventures and friendship, the influence of your being on all whom you touched. I miss you for Patrick, as well... Such a powerful, solid friend we had, who would always communicate and he looked forward to talking to, seeing and just being around, never knowing what may happen... Such joy. He hasn't spoken of it yet...
Flash, Michael, Patrick, my son.. each of who's soul she touched, and won't ever be touched by her again, not like that; I am so sorry.
We are blessed, all of us. To know this Incredible powerful woman, healing medicine woman; Elfin Queen, Organizer, Warrior, Goddess, a spirit so bright that I guess the Sky will be getting a new star soon... One we will all be able to see.
This morning I can write and remind myself to celebrate her. How grateful I/we am to have known her, to have shared so much, seen so much, to call her my/our friend. I am saddest for the children, I think, whose lives she touched and affected, like my own son's. She was always able to reach him, be there and talk... and she did.
Thank you Tara for being there, here... since we moved here, thank you Flash, all those years ago... almost all of Patrick's life. 1992 was a Great year for us all. I am greatful to the Universe beyond words. I wil see you and sit together in the gazebo...
Bless you Tara, I hope I can hear from you one last time... being thankful for my own gifts. All my love, and light to you, and us. Thank you for being there, here, for sharing the Tree, your talents, for being hands on, for sharing with and teaching my son; for just being you.
In the midst of my tears and shock, my phone rang and another friend called, and I told him of our news. Later last night, I was able to speak clearer of you. To him, it sounded like you were doing what you wanted, perhaps what you loved best, down in Ecuador- Reaching out, healing, being healed, and being with the people, oh woman of 'itchy feet'.
Share your energy as your spread your wings. 'Entertain' them as you did here and light up the sky as you did our lives.
"Ha Kuna Matata." Peace be with us, as it is with you. All our Love,

I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear friend. I joined this group a long time ago to give support when Cathleen and Cheri died. I'm so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of another wonderful woman.
You have my deepest condolences.

good to hear some of your stories She touched many that is for sure I am part numb part white hot pain and part knowing that i am just barely beginning to know what life with out my friend Tara will be like. Tumultuous as it could be, we shared a deep soul connection. I will honor her Spirit by continuing my own recovery and follow through with the Animal Healing Work that wwe shared especially in the sanctuaries where i can help the displaced ones, Not much was more important to Tara than the animals, Jungle friends. Big Cats Horsesisters, just a few of the places that receive her legacy. i am putting in a special request to the Goddess to leave someone on this side of the veil to be a soul sister.Somehow, i think that Cherie has met Tara and is showing her how to hustle in heaven and Cathleen is just holding her hand. Ethel and jan probably gave her a squeeze too. BB Flash

One of the great beauties in my life, I always feel Tara galloping-dancing, fearless and vulnerable, strong, sharp, brilliant and true. To bury my face in her mane is to know the calibration of hooves sparking the sun, the flanking of a heart astute and compassionate, fully awakened to finitudes adventure and infinite grace. She knows how to extend even as she remains, fierce and impeccable. Funny, too. Now that time is no longer of her essence, maybe I can ask her to be on my dissertation committee. She always knows how to get things done through a virtuoso intelligence of movement, wit and spontaneous joy. Do you hear an impatient hoof, a nicker that nuzzles and carries us on? Currycombs of love and nomad priestess pastures, golden avatara.

When I think of you, dear Tara, I think of your intensity...the wonderful way you had of listening to one's every word...your mind was always going... your spirit so encompassing...your eyes always focused...when I spoke with you, it always seemed to me that you were right there with no distractions. I am shocked that you had to go so soon...but, I feel confident that, just as I met you in this life, I will meet you again....Thanks for your kindness of spirit.

For Tara: A life too brief for a being so bright. We will miss this wise, gay, and often brilliant spirit until we meet again. I'm certain we will.

Tara's gift was to see the pain and inconsistencies in others, then to reach out and try to help make them whole. (sometimes whether they wanted help, or not) She touched many. Be free dear one!

One of the truly great ones has passed. Dearest Tara, brilliant, loving spirit, I hope you know how many lives you deeply touched, how much you have been loved and valued on this earth. I'll never forget you or your many kindnesses. You lived as an explorer and great lover of life. Wise as you were, you never stopped seeking to further your understanding. I see you in radiant light, smiling.

The harp that once through Tara's hall
the soul of music shed,
Now hangs as mute on Tara's walls,
As if that soul were fled.
So sleeps the pride of former days,
So glory's thrill is o'er,
And hearts that once beat high for praise,
Now feel that pulse no more.

No more to chiefs and ladies bright
The harp of Tara swells,
The chord alone that breaks at night,
It's tale of ruin tells.
Thus freedom now so seldom wakes,
The only throb she gives,
Is when some heart indignant breaks,
To show that still she lives."

-Thomas Moore (1779-1852)

Beloved Tara, you are now one of our angels. All love to you.

Tara,

What a GREAT friend and sister to many. She gave so much of her heart without expections or hesitations. She always some how found time for anyone she felt needed her. She had a gift for making anyone smile. There are no strangers to her . She loved meeting and interacting with everyone she meet. She'd reach out to your family members in need because of her love for you and the world. She comforted us all. Although, we will all miss her dearly, the heavens must be celebrating.
The just got one of our best friends and healers. I have great faith that she will continue to shine her love and light on all of us from above. I love yaTara. Thanks for being such a loving friend.

I only knew Tara through Flash. When I heard the news of Tara's transition, I was stunned, and still am stunned. I am so glad that her transition was in her sleep, peaceful, and painless. She will be so missed by all of her friends, and even people like me who never had the opportunity to meet her in person. I light a candle for you beloved Tara. And for my beautiful friend Flash.

Tara was a gift to our community & will be missed. Her smile remains in memory!

My heart sank when I read the email message from Flash about the memorial for Tara. I was stunned and saddened to know that such a wonderful, wise and gifted woman has left this place. To my old and dear friend Flash, I will send loving and healing energy your way.
For Tara:
I'll light a white candle in your name
I'll throw you a kiss up towards the sky
I'll give you a hug in my heart
I'll remember you each time I see a rainbow
I'll smile when I think of you
because you will always be a part of those who love you.

My spirit to your spirit dear Tara... though my meeting with you was brief, you remain indelibly in my heart and memory; an extraordinary and powerful woman. I light this virtual white candle that will burn forever, just as you will shine forever. I sense that your transitioning was joyful, and wish that for myself and all soulkin. May we live and die in beauty and exaltation. I think you, Tara, have always been very close to that understanding, and I congratulate you for your wisdom and skill. I'm sure we will meet again. Be well Shining Star Spirit Tara.
Love,
Shekhinah

To see the virtual white candle I lit for Tara, visit this website:

http://journey1.org/virtualcandle/showcurrent.php

You will be missed so much *Star woman*

Oh my G~d, this cannot be. Tara. My Tara. Incomprehensible. My card to her, sent from Hydra, Greece, never reached her... and I stopped at her old house on S.R. 26 last weekend, hoping to find her there, but seeing that apparently a new family has moved in. It's unthinkable to even consider that Tara is no longer here ~ the face and being I always looked for at any gathering. For her to have left this plane through Ecuador somehow seems a choice made on another level by Tara herself. I pray that Michael was with her. It's such a vision to imagine her as you described, very peaceful and in high spirits earlier that day. It's the way I almost always experienced Tara. When I saw your white candle request, my thought was that she needed healing. Anything else couldn't penetrate. My thoughts and questions are rambling.

My heart is with you, Flash... and with every other person who ever loved this magnificent woman, and who love her still, as I do.

I cannot believe I won't see this beautiful-beyond-belief woman again. In every encounter we ever had, she greeted me with her eyes and her heart and her laugh. She emanated her wisdom so warmly. My heart again feels broken.

I keep seeing "a white candle for Tara" ~ the image and the message ~ the only peace I find is that Tara died while sleeping, and had a peaceful, and I know fully loving, day ~ leading into her night.

I'll return another time with my own memories of her. For now, I simply can't believe she's gone.


Love,
Elizabeth

Flash introduced Tara to me in the fall of 2004 when the two of them came to Cocoa Village and took a carriage ride with Thunder, our rescued 17.2 hand 2200 pound Percheron and I. She and Thunder spoke in their own language...it was heartfelt to see them communicate. She took one of our flyers...
Low and behold, in 2005, www.HorseSisters.org was told that Taracares wanted to be one of our financial sponsors and we were bequeathed with a wonderful grant for our utilizing alternative health care methods (essential oils, homopathy, stones, massage) at our ranch. So all of us were touched at the Common Sense Ranch in Mims, Florida. We shall always honor you at our fires dear Tara...as you journey through space and time.

Tara placed her hand and her heart on my knee one day and miraculously --a torn meniscus disappeared! Joy and I would have loved to have shared more with her.....See you some day, my friend.

I don't know how to even begin to say these words to you all and yet it is with the heaviest of hearts that I wll tell you that my dear friend and ex-wife Tara transitioned from this world last night. She was on a healing quest in the jungles of Ecuador and was having the time of her life.

For some reason that may remain forever unknown she died of a heart attack in her sleep. They say that she was very peaceful and in high spirits earlier that day.

Everyone who had the joy of knowing her knew of her generosity of spirit as well as her time and energies. Whenever she saw a situation that could be made better with a little kindness she gave it and her energy was legend and seemingly infinite. For this reason and so many others, it is almost incomprehensible for me to believe my dearest friend is gone. I know that if she were sitting here[and perhaps she is], she would remind me that she is not gone but merely shapeshifting.

It was only a little more than a year ago that I had to write a letter like this for Cherie and Cathleen,two other dear friends who also died suddenly.

I will have a memorial here @ Moonhaven in Melrose for her sometime this month as it all becomes clearer.

Her loss to the community will be intense and for me immense... if you look up in the sky tonight you will see a new star... Tara!

Blessings, Flash