Gene, Ray and PJ
This tribute comes after attending a Memorial Service for a friend of mine that passed away last week. His name is Ray.
I met Ray face to face two years ago, but in reality, I’ve known him most of my life. We come from different backgrounds, we are not the same color, education, religion or race (other than the human race). So far, not much to base a tribute on.
What we did have in common, however, is a disease that currently has no cure. It is difficult to describe to those not afflicted but is easy to share with those that are. Ray and I did plenty of sharing over these past two years. This tribute comes as a result of that sharing because it changed my attitude towards my illness and my outlook towards the future to a positive one. For that I must personally pay tribute to my friend.
This Tribute Is To The Power Of Fellowship
No matter what our challenges may be, finding like minded people who share a common interest is incredibly empowering. The emotional lift that comes from having open, honest and supportive relationships is what makes life worth living. The “Law of Reciprocity” works for anyone who is willing to take advantage of it by not taking advantage of others.
Always try to keep in mind, that somewhere behind every Ad, Video, Email, Website and annoying Pop-Up, there is a real live human being that may have a common interest with you. Share with them what you are doing and how to do it the right way and they just may begin sharing back. Even if it seems you get taken advantage of from time to time, stay the course. Those that take advantage will be the losers, not you.
Tribute To Ray - Thanks For The Fellowship
Brutal Honesty With Grace And Humor
Ray’s willingness to be brutally honest about himself with others helped them feel comfortable in doing the same. It wasn’t just the honesty though, it was his style. He never seemed to take himself too seriously. He would relate some very serious episodes in his life with grace and humor. When he was finished you would be left taking stock of yourself, but always with a smile.
I was not the only person that Ray helped to deal with their affliction and know many who join with me in this tribute. It is too bad Ray will no longer be able to continue his sharing with others in person. However, his efforts and example will continue to spread Viraly (word of mouth) through me others he helped.
Finally, I am paying tribute to Ray because I believe that one of the purposes we are on this earth for is to leave it a better place than when we found it. To Ray I say, “Mission Accomplished”. You will be missed but not forgotten.
