See you on the dark side of the moon.
Today I paid my respects to someone special to me.
This is understandably a sad and difficult time; suitably it becomes a time for family, friends, unity. People coming together to share memories and affections for the one we have lost; to think how we knew him and how we will remember him.
Personally, I shall always remember his voice. Whenever he spoke of something about which he was passionate, he always spoke with such conviction, such enthusiasm. I would find myself enraptured, listening keenly to each syllable - and what made it special is that he was always kind. His manner was consistently calm, warm and welcoming, he spoke with passion, never needing to raise his voice to keep my attention.
He talked and I listened. That is what I shall miss the most.
In the last stages of his life, he suffered from illness. I was preparing myself to visit and say goodbye. Before I did so, I was shown a picture of him in his final days. He was so changed, so far gone. In that picture was a man I did not recognise. He was no longer who I knew him to be. It was already too late to say goodbye. That is an unfortunate circumstance I shall have to live with for the rest of my life, and I shall also have to live the rest of my life, unable to hear his voice ever again. His words that held power while being kind as well.
That is what has hurt me the most.
So on this day of family and friends, remember to cherish the ones you love. Make sure you're never too late to say goodbye. Whatever your favourite feature - their voice, their face, their smile - enjoy it whenever and while you can.
And make as many memories as possible. In memories, we are immortal.
I'll hear your stories again, someday. And remember your voice always.
- Rob
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