Sufjan Stevens‘ remarkable new album Javelin is out today (10/6), and in conjunction with its release, he shared a message on social media, dedicating it to his late partner, who he lost earlier this year. “This album is dedicated to the light of my life, my beloved partner and best friend Evans Richardson, who passed away in April,” Sufjan writes. “He was an absolute gem of a person, full of life, love, laughter, curiosity, integrity, and joy. He was one of those rare and beautiful ones you find only once in a lifetime—precious, impeccable, and absolutely exceptional in every way.”
“I know relationships can be very difficult sometimes, but it’s always worth it to put in the hard work and care for the ones you love, especially the beautiful ones, who are few and far between,” he continues. “If you happen to find that kind of love, hold it close, hold it tight, savor it, tend to it, and give it everything you’ve got, especially in times of trouble. Be kind, be strong, be patient, be forgiving, be vigorous, be wise, and be yourself. Live every day as if it is your last, with fullness and grace, with reverence and love, with gratitude and joy. This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Here’s his full post:
Sufjan also recently revealed that he’s been in acute rehab as he receives treatment for Guillian-Barre Syndrome, an auto-immune disorder, and re-learns to walk. Sharing a picture on Tumblr of himself wearing a “Fuck Guillian-Barre Syndrome” shirt, he wrote, “This whole experience has been a blessing in disguise. I know I’ve often been the poster child of pain, loss, and loneliness. And I can be a misanthrope at times. But the past month has renewed my hope in humanity. All the caregivers, doctors, nurses, and specialists working 24/7 to care for those in dire need around me have been constant examples of love in action. Thank you and God bless!”
More recently, he said he was leaving the hospital to “continue the work at home and in outpatient therapy.” We’re wishing him the best throughout all of this.
