Friend from Rice University

Ben,

You have your father’s smile. His smile is a smile you never forget. It fills the room. Makes you happy, makes you forget your worries. I firmly believe the departed are always with us, and your dad is with you, smiling, as you grow, make mistakes and learn from them. He is with you always and was always a comforting and strong presence. You were long awaited and incredibly loved. Still loved. Imagine a smile that starts on one side of the earth and can travel all the way around to meet itself on the other side. That is your smile. Your dad’s smile. Carry him in your heart as he carries you…everyday.
Much love to you.
—————-

“You talk too much, homeboy I said you never shut up.” This was my perpetual greeting to Greg on campus and ten years later at our reunion. Greg had 2 ten year reunions as he was on the 5 year plan at Rice. I haven’t heard his voice since then. More than ten years have passed, 22 yrs since graduating. What I remember most is his incredible smile, humor and kindness. In 2001 he said to me, “one of the things I regret most is that I didn’t get to know you better.” Likewise my friend. Your spirit will always be remembered.