By MICK STEVENS

It is always difficult to verbally express oneself after the passing of a loved one; however, if we are to remain true to ourselves, I feel it’s imperative to convey to others how we honestly feel inside and allow our innermost feelings to come out. It’s what makes us who we are. We men have a tendency to hold back our feelings at times in an attempt to show strength. But by being compassionate to others in need, it not only makes us stronger, it builds character, and the very fiber of our morality.

I was deeply touched by a photo of Bob taken shortly before his passing, head in hands, being embraced by his father. Both were obviously in a state of despair, and yet I could see how their love transcended the hopelessness. It was both sad as well as beautiful, not to mention heart-wrenching. There was also a photo of Bob with his new-born daughter. And although it was the most difficult time of his life, I could see the joy in his eyes knowing that God’s own grace had blessed him and his entire family, Darby and her entire family, and all of us that were fortunate enough to have known and loved him as well.

In closing, I would like to submit this poem I wrote a few years ago which is simply my realization that the trials and tribulations we experience in life somehow seem to melt away with the birth of a child. It’s entitled “A Look Inside.”

As I gazed through the window of my soul, the image of a stranger stood alone in the distance. She comes to me when I’m lonely. I know her but I can’t see her face anymore. I reach for her hand but it isn’t there. Fading dreams of a life that could have been. Missing pages in the chapter of a lifetime, like splinters from a tall ship, scattered on vacant beaches in a sea of despair. What once had flourished reduced to just a memory. And yet a single seed of desire will sprout a new generation of hope for the uncertain future of all.

Farewell Bob, and may God be with you, my friend.