A Tribute

A little over a week ago I lost an old friend of mine. While I wasn't able to attend his funeral I did think of my own way to pay tribute and respect to his lost soul. I thought writing and dedicating a post to him would suit my personality and I know he'd appreciate it as well. My initial thought when I heard (or rather read) the news was "No way, someone got it wrong" but then it was confirmed. I wasn't sure what happened and at that point it didn't really matter. All that mattered was that he was gone and I wouldn't have a chance to see him ever again.

I hadn't seen Brian in years. As a matter of fact after high school we lost touch and it wasn't until the miraculous creation of Facebook that we reconnected and caught up again in 2010. His first words to me when we developed our friendship again were "Ohhh my God you look great girl!!! How is my first love? Don't tell me you got married??? I mean that's great and all but I will shed a single tear if you tell me yes....LOL" From then on we stayed in contact and developed a friendship again. Brian was the type of person that always made you smile, because he was smiling. He made you laugh because he was laughing. He was a smart ass, sarcastic and sometimes an over the top person. But it was who he was and who we all loved. He was helpful, insightful and full of love for everyone he knew.

Before I go I have to leave you all with my most cherished memory of Brian. We were seniors in high school and he actually transferred schools the year prior. He came back to my high school to visit but everyone was in class. I just so happened to be in the halls going when I saw him. I ran to him and hugged him and we caught up for a few minutes. I don't remember the conversation, I remember the moment and that hug. It captures our friendship perfectly, because even though he left our school, we picked up where we left off. He was one of the few people in my life who I knew I could count on and he could count on me. When I heard the news of his passing that was the memory that I played over and over in my head.

Brian I hope that you know you were adored by many and will be missed by everyone you ever touched. I hope to see you again one day and get one of those wonderful Brian hugs I remember so vividly. My deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. Rest in paradise my dear friend.
EMM