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A TRIBUTE

FR: LAURA

March 19, 2020

I will miss you terribly.

That you had lived a full, meaningful and wonderful life is a great consolation for me. You
generously shared the blessings God gave you. In the truest sense, you shared with all of us
all that you had. A fierce warrior, you battled with much determination whatever negative
force faced you, including this abominable disease. When I told you to slow down, you said
it was only your body that was weak. You said your mind and heart were functioning and
whole. You said that you would like to continue to share your knowledge and experience
and to extend help where you could and where they would be welcome. To your detractors,
you harbored no ill feelings. My friend, you touched my life in myriad ways. As I was the
new kid in town, you proudly introduced me to your circle of friends. Because of you, I
understood the what’s, the why’s, the how’s, and who’s who in the organizations we were
both in. You made me feel privileged, confided in me, read to me statements you were to
deliver at your meetings as if seeking my approval. You shared with me with pride your
triumphs and business successes while almost tearfully your disappointments and
uncertainties.

And most importantly, because of you, every member of your family embraced me like I was
one. They have extended to me the same welcome and affection as you did. Very recently,
I told you how hurt I was when you did not come to my birthday celebration. Your response
made me admire you more. You said you had conserved your energy for an important
function the following day. You said you had rather offend me because I would understand,
than those who might speculate and might have criticized you for it. Now, you leave me
distraught for losing a great friend, but as you want me to understand, I bid you farewell, my
sweet Malen. It was your time to go. It was so difficult to see you battle-worn and weary.
My last two days with you at the hospital will forever be etched in my memory. I will not
forget your confused gaze trying to get assurance that everything was alright and still asking
your team of doctors for a conference. It was so heartbreaking, knowing in my heart of
hearts, that in a few days, you might be gone. While there were thousands of reasons why
we should ask the Almighty to let us keep you for more time, it was also selfish.

Thank you for having been a part of my life and for so many beautiful memories. You will
always be remembered and will have a special place in my heart. As you made me promise
last week on your hospital bed, yes, Malen, I will continue to love your family. Rest in
eternal peace and happiness, my friend.

Till we meet again, I love you.

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