Remembering Tony

Yesterday marked the 3 year anniversary of my friend Tony Morin's departure from this world. I think of Tony often and I also think of all those who are clinging to life every day, whether it's a struggle with cancer, or like little 4 year old Preston Lloyd who is in dire need of a miracle from God after suffering from a freak accident with a lawn mower. Life is a gift and often times we are oblivious to that fact until it's either too late--like in Tony's case or until one hears those dreadful words of a serious illness.

Tony had an infectious laugh and he was a friend to me from the first day that we were introduced. I cannot begin to tell of the times that he helped me at work and came to my assistance when I was in a difficult situation. He never once was aggitated or angry with my screw-ups, just glad to help and always with a smile. That is a rare quality in a person these days, especially in a society that instructs to cover you own *ss and don't worry about the other guy.

Poor Tony was accident prone himself because he was forever getting cut or stapled or some kind of thing was going on with him...some of it could be that he worked so hard and so fast! Even in the winter when it would be cold, Tony would be sweating from his rapid pace! He did quality work too, which was impressive and a testament to his character as well!

I'm not going to speak about the why's and the what if's that could have saved Tony from his early departure, it would serve no purpose now and it could only bring myself more guilt for not trying to respond to his reaching out at a time that I didn't understand his deep dispair. Tony was a good guy and a great friend and I still love him and his memory and I look forward to seeing him again one day in heaven and renewing our friendship!

I remember once when his brother asked me to borrow a couple of dollars one day right before lunchtime and I told him that he was Tony's brother and he was gold! I meant it too...you're gold Tony! And I still miss you!!

Life is a gift!