The loss of a loved one is like a light going out in the world.
For me there is only the comfort that there is a light that can never be extinguished or overcome. It is the the hope from that light, that keeps things shining when times get bleak and grim.
Recently I heard the sad news of the passing away of a man for whom I had the utmost respect.
This guy was a tremendously hospitable person. So generous, so gracious, so humorous and a great example of a down-to-earth man who gave respect and never demanded it. I came across him when I was working in a new area of work as a well as a brand new geographical location. All things being new as they were, it was good to come across a smiling and friendly face. I had become accustomed to certain people wearing that as a mask before things got any more serious. This person was the real deal.
He helped me to settle into all the new, his wit and wisdom were as legendary to me as any of the greats people referred to in books and documentaries. He just kept it all on the level. He didn’t need to brag and he didn’t need to draw attention to himself. Where others felt insecure and wanted to act as if they were the authority, this man exuded authority by his wisdom – he didn’t need to get anyone to look out for a title or position, people naturally admired him, because he was a decent human being.
I knew him all too briefly, but the time that I did know him was one in which he left an indelible mark in my life. He is one of those people that once you get in touch with them you know they’ll remain ever unforgettable.
His passing away is sad. There are many who will be bereft with the heavy sense of his loss. That’s an absence that cannot be filled with sentiment or words of condolences. What can be acknowledged in the tears and hurt is remembering why it means so much. Those values encapsulated in that person, in that smile, in that wit, in that gleam in his eye.
Remember it – celebrate it by sharing it – keeping it shining.
This is dedicated to the light that was the life of ‘Don’ Kevin Murray. As long as the memory remains the light shines on.
(Photo by Esteban Lopez on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 