Just received word that one of my good friends in this program just passed away this morning. I had known him for probably 30 years. He lived in another state, where we both got sober. I probably won’t be able to attend his funeral. I wish I could, because I so appreciated his friendship.
All along I’ve been calling his wife, who has also been a really good friend. We talked about him, but also about her, who really was faithful and strong, helping their children through all of this. It took quite a while, because of the nature of his illness.
Anyway, he was faithful to this program and I know he appreciated his sobriety. Had many laughs with him. A brilliant man with a great sense of humor about life. Though we never really talked about it, I knew he was a deeply spiritual man. He had totally absorbed this program and it him.
I’m sure it’s a blessing that he’s at peace now. But, I was thinking, how difficult it is to say goodbye to one so dear to so many. I know he was deeply loved by all who knew him.
None of this is new to me. I’ve had to say to goodbye to many through the years. Never easy. Just thinking and pondering how blessed we all have been, as a result of getting sober. And I thank my Higher Power for him, his wife, and his family, all of whom I have known. Sobriety has gifted me with so much. Sad but grateful.