Death, teach me how to live...

What a sad day!! James Ernest Boudwin was laid to rest. He was a co-worker of 17 years, a contemporary born the same year as I, and a really great guy. A month ago, we had a Good-bye Party for him as he went off to a new work opportunity. Then he had severe pain a week ago Sunday night, and ten days and various surgeries and procedures later, he is dead.

Jim was a real open and warm person. He loved to talk and tell stories. He would come in my office and talk about his kids or some weird thing that happened to him. He would lean on the file cabinet (He was a tall guy) or he would take steps forward and back when he was making a point about something. He was really animated--big gestures and smiles. He was "clearly" the same way with his family from the remembrances shared at the funeral. He made a big impression in the world.

I guess that is why I feel this sadness and loss. He really connected people. I was touched when I introduced myself to his wife, Angie, and she said "Oh, Judith, I've heard so much about you--thank you for coming."  That was how Jim was--I felt like I knew his wife and kids even though I'd never met them.

How important to connect and appreciate at every opportunity.

Why do I constantly forget this?