Yesterday I had an opportunity to speak at my good friends memorial service held in Philadelphia.
Bob passed away a little over a month ago and knowing how senseless for a 48 year old to die who really should not have, I figured after that amount of time I could easily speak at his service. I wanted to share the rare friendship we had for over 30 years with the others who attended, but found myself overwhelmed with emotion and had a difficult time speaking, although I finished my speech and was happy I was asked to share. Everyone in his family knew who I was through photos, and even most of Bob’s friends knew me either through a brief encounter or meeting over the years, or just from him sharing stories of our friendship. What I did learn was that I was not the only one with the emotional connection so strong. Everyone who attended had been touched in some way by Bobs kindness and generosity, and his willingness to give and not expect anything in return. I really was connected to all 50-60 people by this one remarkable man. It is sad it took all of those years and his death to discover this, but we all vowed to keep his partners life involved in all of our lives forever. Bob was my, or our special gift, but Maruice is still here to share life with and I hope we can accomplish that through phone, email, and real gatherings. My heart is broken for this loss, but I know I had a very very special friend, a rare thing.
