Words to Remember You

Yellow lily. PHOTO BY SI.

I appreciate you.

I appreciate that you taught me the importance of being genuine.

I appreciate that you modeled honesty when things were not right to you.

I appreciate that you made an effort to rebuild bridges and give people a second chance.

I appreciate that you acted on your concern for others.

I appreciate that you presented your passion for creating networks of care and motivated people to act.

I appreciate that you were forgiving to others and to yourself.

I appreciate that you stood up against oppression and stuck to your principles.

I appreciate that you recognized your weaknesses but equally acknowledged your resilience.

I appreciate that you valued deep, strong, and lasting friendships.

I appreciate that you remained hopeful and had faith in your and other people’s capacity to offer care.

I appreciate that you put your trust in others and asked for support when you were hurting.

Because, my friend, you taught me that no person is an island.

Because, my friend, people may not have had the chance to see the WHOLE of you.

And so, I say these words about you and for you, because I don’t want to forget your humxnity.

I don’t want to forget your vision for a kinder, more loving, more just and forgiving world.

And if I am one among a few people who now hold your vision close, I will do my best to model its life-affirming and empowering message in my thoughts, in my actions, and in my spirit.

And one more thing I wish to say...

You made it after all, my friend, so fare thee well. 

Fare thee well. 

In memory of my brilliant friend.