Recently a friend, whom I've known for years, passed away. He had lived a very good life of service and kindness. He was especially kind to my family when I was a young child, and I always looked up to him as a sort of father figure, since my own father had died when I was eleven months old. His name was Ray, and as I mentally scroll back over the years of our friendship, I can't say I ever remember anything negative about this good soul. He was ever ready to lend a listening ear, give sound counsel and encouragement, and tell a funny joke or two.
I believe it is rare to know someone who is so very good. Most of us are so filled with flaws they sneak out when we'd rather they didn't, and reveal our most embarrassing weaknesses. Most of us disappoint others, let them down, fail to live up to our end of some bargain. I suppose that Ray may have had a fault or two; perhaps he also disappointed others at times in his life. As for me, I can look back on my association with him as a clean slate, devoid of any errant markings of hurt of any kind.
I feel that in Ray I was blessed with a friend who was an example of what friendship and service is, at its best. Because of him I can believe that there are incredibly good people who walk this earth and touch others in numerous, wonderful--even blessed--ways.
What an incredible gift that is! Oh, that we would all have the blessing of a Ray in our lives. It would make us try a little harder, serve a little more often, listen a little more patiently, love a little more deeply.
Thank you Ray, for your lasting impression on my heart. It was a taste of heaven; a reason to believe in the goodness and mercy of God, and the goodness that is possible in all of us!
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