It hurts when a great guy passes. I’ve experienced my share of death in this lifetime, but why do certain ones hit harder than others? Brian felt like a brother to me. We’re the same age, same age kids, served together in similar callings on two occasions….including the last two years in the Sunday School presidency. We exchanged emails the day before, and I talked with him in my front yard two days before, his passing.
We would talk in the church halls about all kinds of things. A couple of months ago Brian and I talked about “corporate life” and how it can be a struggle. We talked about health issues and how important it is to eat right. Brian told me his dream was to do something outside of the corporate world and take a “different path”. I told him the corporate world “has a lot of security, which is a good thing”. In retrospect, I regret those words I said. I should have said Yes….Live that Dream.
I think about the words on a plaque in my office by Jack London:
“I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist” . Anyway; I’m going to be a bit bolder next time someone has a dream they share and encourage them to act upon it.
Times like this remind us all of the precariousness of life. I wish I could have some of moments I’ve had with Brian over the years. Talking in the church hallway, talking in my front yard, getting the bi-weekly email with what class Sunday School class needed coverage or whatever. Brian’s death is hard on everyone who knew him. I can see the pain in their eyes. I wish only the best for his family. I guess you could say this is my tribute to a man I considered my friend. A person who always served me and those around him.
Brian, you are missed and I hope your passing is a reinforcement to all of us to be better…better friends, neighbors, family members. For all of us to be less judgmental and love our brothers and sisters. I’m happy for the Gospel and the testimony I have of it that was reinforced by Brian through his actions and example.
Until we meet again I wish you well. You will always be one cool Brother to me.