I've lost two beautiful, talented friends, both to cancer, and although I did not personally know Doug Henning, I consider him a third.
From childhood on I have thrilled to his wonderful performances, his gentle eyes, and heart-felt smile. He was like a storybook character, filled with wonderment and sweetness, the Danny Kaye of magicians.
It was his magic that made the craft an art. He inspired me to pursue this field as well, and I've never regreted the hours it took to learn the Chinese Linking Rings, or those slight-of-hand card tricks.
I am deeply pained by his loss. I am sad that I will never see those hypnotic fingers pull another miracle from thin air...but the miracle of his life, his talent, and his uniqueness as a human being will never be forgotten, and the memories of him will be forever cherished in my mind.
All my love and blessings to his friends and family. May you be comforted by Spirit, and know that now your friend is undoubtedly "amazing," the Angels!