Sunday, July 4, 2021
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Genuine, honest, considerate and unselfish are just a few of the words I can use to describe John to someone who never met him. To those that were fortunate enough to have had him in their lives, they already know these facets of the gem of a man. To say I miss him would be akin to a man wandering the Sahara saying he missed water.
I met John, Andre, David and Arin over thirty years ago. They all knew each other and welcomed me into their circle of friends. John was always eager to help with anything he could if he knew you were dealing with analysis paralysis. He was quiet but as soon as knew something he could share he would chime in, adding context or detail to the subject or using his wry, dry humor to catch us off guard when we least expected it.
When I was about ten years old, I found myself not fitting in with other kids in the small town where I grew up. I sat alone on the boardwalk at night, watching the ferris wheel in the distance churn slowly. I asked God to please let me have true friends to be with who would welcome me and appreciate me. It took about ten years for that prayer to get answered,but it was answered fourfold with my friends in these pictures.
There is a richness in my life that has weakened without John being being in it. Whether it was having him over for celebrations with friends and family or if it was sitting around a crowded table filled with dice, various snacks and finely painted miniature figures, he always made each gathering fuller and more enjoyable.
All of us who knew John were better because he was part of our lives. I imagine when my time comes, I will meet John again and he will give a half glance towards his watch and kiddingly say "What took you so long?".Then he will tell me in great detail how this new adventure works,.and how he has devised a clever plan for us to save the day once everyone is ready.
A truer group of friends I never did find, maybe thats why losing him hurts so much.
