Last Friday marked a tragic loss of two heroes who selflessly stood up for two Muslim women facing harassment on a train in Portland, Oregon.
Their sacrifice has touched the hearts of people globally, leaving a profound impact that transcends borders. The loss of these brave souls is deeply felt, especially by their families who now bear the weight of this unbearable tragedy.
Asha Deliverance, the mother of one of the fallen heroes, 23-year-old Taliesin Myrddin Namkai Meche, shared poignant words on Facebook, expressing both her devastation and unwavering strength in the face of such loss.
On that fateful day, Taliesin and two other brave souls, Rick Best and Micah David-Cole Fletcher, stood against a man hurling racist insults at the vulnerable women on the train.
Despite the escalating tension, the three heroes confronted the aggressor, only to face a violent response as the man resorted to wielding a knife. Tragically, Taliesin and Rick Best paid the ultimate price, while Micah David-Cole Fletcher was left injured in the senseless attack, as reported by KATU2.
The perpetrator, Jeremy Joseph Christian, was swiftly apprehended, facing severe charges, including murder. The incident unfolded just hours before the commencement of Ramadan, a month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide.
Reflecting on the loss of her son, Ashe Deliverance poured her emotions into a heartfelt Facebook post, honoring Taliesin’s heroism while grappling with the pain of bidding farewell to a beloved child.
The overwhelming support extended to Ashe following her post echoes a universal sentiment – the triumph of love over hate, even in the face of abhorrent violence.
Amidst the darkness of this tragedy, a beacon of hope emerged as thousands gathered in Portland, both physically at Reed College for Taliesin’s memorial service and virtually across social media platforms worldwide to pay their respects.
Twitter and Facebook became platforms for mourning and solidarity, with over 55,000 messages of support flooding in for Ashe within a day.
Messages such as, “Thank you for raising such a remarkable individual, a selfless soul who placed others above himself. His loss is deeply felt,” resonated with the outpouring of grief and admiration for Taliesin’s courage.
Another sentiment expressed, “His legacy of bravery will endure, a reminder of humanity’s capacity for good despite the darkness. He exemplifies a standard we should all strive for.”
And yet another voice added, “Heroes transcend mortality, eternally alive in our memories and hearts. His sacrifice will not be in vain, sparking a positive change. He embodies the best of humanity.”
Taliesin Myrddin Namkai Meche, My dear baby boy passed on yesterday while protecting two young Muslim girls from a…
Posted by Asha Deliverance on Saturday, May 27, 2017
In a separate statement, Taliesin’s family described him as having “embraced life fully and beautifully.”
“In his final act of valor, he embodied his beliefs wholeheartedly. His spirit will forever resonate as the radiant, courageous, and affectionate soul that he was. In his memory, let us use this tragedy as a catalyst for change. Let love be our guiding light. Farewell, Taliesin. You are loved,” they expressed.
My thoughts are with Taliesin, his mother, Rick Best, Micah David-Cole Fletcher, and their circle of loved ones. May their gallant stand inspire us all to confront injustice, ensuring that voices of malice and hate like the one that silenced Taliesin and Rick are drowned out by a chorus of unity and compassion.
Share this story to honor these heroes. Love prevails over hate, always!
