It is quite a challenge to write about a man. In being given that honor, it is often assumed that the writer knows the subject well and as such, has some authority to elucidate and reflect. In this effort to convey something of the nature of another person, we face a daunting and intimidating task. How does one sum up a life? This I cannot do, so like all good writers I’ve read will write what I know.

To set this stage and attempt to maintain honesty and integrity, I must say that I do not know Al well. Part of me feels that I do and I wish to know him better. I am unsure this is relevant because the time spent with him has been rich and meaningful. In my quest for honesty in what I write, one should know that while I consider Al a friend, I realized in recent months that he has also somewhat assumed the role of a father figure. Part of me searches for this just as anyone who has lost their own father searches for their father’s face or voice in those older men they meet.

But Al is nothing like my father and I do not want nor need him as a father. Whatever differences we may have, he is my friend. I admire Al and love him yet do not know him well as I wish to. What I do know, I deeply respect, like and love. He has listened and freely shared his thoughts, advice and empathy. He has willingly shared the benefit of his life experience and learning.

Many of you may know something of the physical challenges Al has faced. As an emergency room nurse I have seen great suffering, pain and death. Yet Al faces his suffering with a matter of fact attitude and little complaint – for the most part and never to me. This is an example many could and should emulate.

Some of our greatest moments or memories of others that have touched our lives are those timeless moments where we simply know the pleasure of existence with another human being. These moments of memory are not defined by what is said, but by the shared silence of being together, of sharing precious moments that seem so innocuous at that instant . . . but are remembered forever.

These words I write will not be remembered and rightfully so. However, Al is a memorable man. I have seldom heard the sheer amount and incredible variety of limericks issue out of one man’s mouth. Whether it is barbecuing steaks over gin & tonic or a late night telling jokes around the kitchen table, he is, hands down, one of the funniest people I have ever known. I treasure this man. Of course we have our differences but the key is that we do not care about the differences as much as we care about spending time and sharing common humanity with the other. For in the end . . . we have so little of that with each other.

Al, I am sorry to not be here but you know, in your heart of hearts I think . . . that I am here. I love you and Audrey; you are my friend and most of all I miss laughing with you both. You have been a good example for me and I thank you. Have a wonderful Birthday!