Remembering Eric

Early yesterday morning after Donald and the boys left to start their day at school and work, the phone rang. Expecting it to be Donald reminding me to go to the bank, I answered the phone and was surprised to hear a woman’s voice. It was my dear friend Denise that I haven’t seen in almost 5 years. Excited to hear from her, I asked how she and her family were and was shocked to hear that her husband, Eric had passed away. We talked for quite some time as I searched for the correct words to say. I was impressed that Denise was handling it so well.

Denise and Eric were my neighbors at an extremely hard time in my life. We spent several evenings chatting, playing card games and watching movies together. They were the most friendly and loving people I’ve ever met and they proved this when they took my oldest son and myself into thier home for three weeks to avoid an abusive situation until I made other living arrangements.

Denise and Eric were a very close couple. It was obvious that they genuinely cared for and loved one another … truly best friends in every way. After telling me about Eric kissing her goodbye their final morning together, she reminded me to let go of the little things and petty squabbles and love my children and husband every day as if it is the last time I will ever see them. Immediately after hanging up with her, I called Donald at work to tell him how much I love him. I can’t imagine spending the rest of my life without him. It’s terrible that losing someone you know is the best way to realize your love for others.

Rest in peace, Eric. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life. Even now, you and Denise are teaching me valuable lessons. You were a special man and will be missed dearly.