Goodbye, my friend!

I told my friend goodbye for the final time on New Year's eve day. He was calm, peaceful and trying to rest in the midst of all the family and friends coming together to tell him goodbye and let him know what an important person he had been to them and to let him know how grateful they were to have known him.

He was so many different things to so many different people. Blessed with the ability to assess the needs of those around him, he was there with an encouraging word with a simple phone call or a visit to just sit and talk.

Having lived through so many trials of his own, he could relate to most any situation presented him and through his experience and knowledge he gave guidance when needed.

Yesterday and today was a true celebration of his life. So many stories, so many memories shared and retold with many many smiles from those whose life he touched.

I will miss you friend. Thank you for being there.