“Every man dies - Not every man really lives.”

   It seems like yesterday

when he became so special to me.

All others left.

I was alone.

He asked me what was wrong,

and what could he do to help.

There was nothing anyone could do, I said.

But he whispered,....

Hold your horses.

You are my family now.

~

Funny as it seems,

from that moment on,

I had family.

Real family who loved me.

***

This special man and I talked on the phone constantly,

saw each other when we could,

and each March met in Murrels Inlet, SC,

to celebrate Family, Food, Wine

and to kick off March madness.

It was not really about basketball.

It was about family.

His name was Bruce.

Bruce filled a spot in my heart

that I thought never would be whole again.

He was Father and Uncle to me.

No definition needed.

He was my friend and I shall miss him with all of my heart.

***

Photo below~

My two favorite men looking out onto the Inlet.

(Larry left-Bruce right)

Photo below~

While Bruce was struggling against disease,

he posed with the

I LOVE YOU coin. 

Larry and I were in Philadelphia

when this dear man died.

So many moments to be thankful for.

Now that Bruce is gone,

this photo means the world to me.

~~

Dear Bruce,

I shall miss you always.

Love you.

Me