Lawrence, so many unsaid words and debts unpaid. So much I could learn. I never saw you hurt a soul, even when you were hurt. Causing pain just isn’t in you. You hold to your principles without flinching, just knowing and doing what is right for the people. Your dedication to family and loyalty to comrades never waivers. And the determination and strength that sent you back to college for the people in quiet defiance of your limitations…. For all of that, you are my hero.
You are my friend. Even when I’m caught up in myself (all too often), you are there for me. I owe you for that twinkle in your eye, all those hugs, the gentle advice when I wobbled, the Puerto Rican food, the concern when I was laid up or just exhausted. You’re leaving too soon for me to repay you, and that’d on me. I took far more from you than I gave because, well, your heart is that big. Now I’m left with that debt. But as you would tell me, I’ll pay it forward, as best I can.
As I write this, your family is freeing you from the body that failed you. You would wipe my tears away, hold me tight, and tell me it’s OK. I’ll try to learn from you that yes, it’s OK, but that’s the toughest lesson you’ve ever given me.
Siempre palante, and love always,
Leslie