Vito has Died

Vito died this morning.

He’s my husband’s barber – he just cut my husbands hair two weeks ago. He’s old fashion in that he used scissors and not electric clippers… I’ve always imagined him being a bit like Edward Scissor Hands as he cuts:

He was an Italian. I bet you didn’t guess that … short in stature, dark hair, and a believer in Jesus Christ. But he wasn’t a church going believer – he dropped out of church long ago. Something about it left a bad taste in his mouth.

But his faith was real. He kept original artwork in his barbershop. You could see it through the window, just past the revolving red, white and blue barber post. The artist’s name is Gaetano – he didn’t know he could paint till he was put in prison.

Gaetano Milano ©

Long ago, Gaetano was one of Vito’s clients, and Vito always spoke to him about Jesus. But Gaetano wasn’t interested; he had other things on his mind. That is until he got put in prison for being the trigger guy in a Mafia murder.

It was while he was in solitary confinement that Gaetano shouted out to Vito’s God. In his desperation, he wanted to see what Jesus had to offer. After he was released from solitary, he discovered he could paint. He’s been prolific. Most of his paintings are centered around the theme of Christ and the Cross.

One month ago, Gaetano was released from prison after more than twenty years. Vito travelled south to celebrate the day with his friend.

Today Vito died. He was released from this prison of this world …

Those who remain will miss him – his family, his clients. But to be absent from this body, is to be present with the Lord. He has entered a place of rest, a place where there are no tears or pain.