Today is the anniversary of the birth of a very good friend. Bruce became part of our family and made a difference. It was just coincidence that he was also my Uncle.
He and Larry became close friends, he worried about Lauren's health, loved Josh, called Jami, "My girl", and would call me every two weeks to check up on things. (in reality it was his excuse to chat while waiting for the bank, post office or hardware store to open) Those wonderful, newsy visits were something I always looked forward to.
Bruce also loved his birthday. Just like me! Every year I would send him a box of Godiva Chocolates. He would call to say thank you, and then call every other day with the count. He kept count of the chocolates that Sue stole out of his box, his favorites and where he had to hide the box.
Since Bruce's death months ago, I have dreaded today. Purely selfish reasons. The excitement of his birthday, ordering chocolates, singing Happy Birthday on the phone.
What a joy he was in our lives. I have missed him every day since his death, but today most of all. Bruce let us in his life, accepting us for who we are.
Do you have someone special like this? Someone who comes out of the blue, into your life and makes a difference? If you do, please tell them how much they mean to you.
Bruce did not come from a family that was demonstrative, but I told him often how much he meant to me. He would blush, and always answered back.
Today I raise my glass. A toast to someone who would not be swayed by rumor or innuendo. He loved me just because. Happy Birthday!
Love you Bruce,
Me
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