Dear Mr. Raymond,
Yes, I know, call me Dave. Sorry, I tend to forget that.
Dear Dave,
I am writing this letter from my heart to yours. Today I had to say goodbye to you but I clearly remember the first day I met you. I walked into your home with Scott and you met us at the door with a firm handshake, an easy smile, and a greeting as though we had been friends from long ago. I am timid when I first meet someone new and I use humour to break the ice. You broke the ice first and from that instant, I couldn't wait until the next time I came over.
We spent many Sunday afternoons together, in anticipation of one of Trudy's delicious home cooked meals. We filled the time with games of catch or backyard football and you entertained us with your silly jokes that we just couldn't help ourselves but laugh at. You regaled us with stories of fishing, and of umpiring. But you were humble, my friend, as I only now found out you made the Little League Hall of Fame and your name is there, among the greats, in Cooperstown, NY. How I never knew this after eighteen years of being part of your family eludes me but it is a testament to who you were; someone who put others before himself and expected nothing in return. You were kind and caring and your love of life was infectious. Your legacy is in good hands with Scott and Sarah.
Writing that previous paragraph, it is striking that it has been eighteen years, nearly half of my life. But that is how many years I got to share moments with you and I hold them all dearly. I didn't call you and Trudy my Ottawa dad and mom for no reason. My parents, as loving and caring as they are, are in a different city 600km away and at times I needed more than a phone call and at those times you were there for me. You saw me laugh, you saw me cry, you saw my high moments and my low moments. No matter the condition I came in, you were always happy to welcome me into your home and for that I am forever grateful.
When I first heard of your debilitating condition, I was saddened not just for you but for everyone in your family and for anyone who would miss the opportunity of getting to know you. I was also selfishly saddened for myself. Getting to know you was a joy in my life and I wouldn't trade it away, even for a Babe Ruth rookie card. I will miss our conversations, your advice, your bright spirit. I wish I could have introduced you to my true self, I just know we would have gotten along splendidly.
You are a role model for many, an inspiration to many others. I will miss you dear friend. And when I see you next, I want one of those handshakes, and then I want a hug.
With all my love,
:: Serena
