The Aftermath

The funeral was yesterday for my dear friend. It was a nice event. In fact, my Loverly said it was one of the best in both format and substance. There were a lot of people in attendance: friends, family, and business associates.

As part of the service, people were invited to come forward and tell amusing stories about my friend or simply reveal feelings about the life and passing of my friend. Several of us took advantage of the opportunity and told stories or expressed feelings about events that took place during his life. They were all well done and heartfelt.

Today, I stopped at the grave site and talked with my friend. I committed to return and discuss important issues with him and experience the comfort of still being able to share my thoughts and decisions with him. I also shared with him that cemeteries kind of freak me out; they are not my favorite places to visit. I will get past that though and stop and discuss things with him periodically much like I do with my family members who have passed. Sorry, but that is what I do and I believe it is good for me and honors those who have passed.

So, life goes on. It always does and always will. In this case, as in most, it will go on with a void and a sorrow that will take some time to mend. That is the grieving process. Once past it though we learn that life is a constant renewal. My friends passing is part of that renewal even though it will take time for us to really view it as such. God has called him home. His life learning was complete and he needs to prepare room for the rest of us schmucks left behind. I am confident he is doing that as we speak. Of course he is doing that between rounds of golf on the best golf courses heaven has to offer.

Play well my friend!!! I will be there some day and I want strokes!!!!!

Passing of a dear Friend and Colleague

Back in January I wrote of my friend that was fighting the good fight against lung and brain cancer. He fought bravely and won many battles but he lost the war yesterday.

Last night I began thinking about how you summarize a man’s life and the impact he had on the world he leaves behind. At different times in his life, my friend was an athlete, a husband, a father and a friend. He was devoted to his family and you always knew he had your back when the chips were down.

Speaking of chips, my friend liked to gamble a little and loved to play golf. He was passionate about his work both in the educational community and as a businessman/owner. He was a man of integrity and of good character. There was one way to do something and that way was always governed by his moral compass.

I believe my friend knew Christ in his heart and he was never ashamed of that and demonstrated it at every meal before which he prayed.

How do you summarize a man’s life and contribution? If you knew him you already know the answer to that question. If you didn’t, then know this; he was loved by many and he loved in return. He will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.

My Friend - Marty Thomas

My "Brother from another Mother"