If you’re reading this, it means you’re alive! And it stands to reason that you were put here at this time and place to do SOMETHNG big and impactful, right?
OF course you were!
Which is why choosing you and making you a priority is crucial to expand your knowledge, access, and being!
Last weekend I lost a dear friend who was more like a brother to me. And although my heart aches for him not so much because he has passed, but because he had endured more atrocities than anyone I know personally.
His lot in life was heavy and, at times, crushing and yet for the most part he took the road of optimism and grace. He led his life with deep and purposeful gratitude, always seeing the possibilities in the moment.
He was known to many as Chan Do, or Chan Silver. To me he was Buzzy, (a story for another day) and he was a light to those whose lives he touched.
He was a big proponent of the blue ribbon ceremony. https://youtu.be/SxDCTBXZjnA
Many times while I was still in hiding, he asked to present me with a blue ribbon ceremony. I always declined because I wasn’t comfortable accepting the ribbon while I was still in hiding – a secret to even him! I had not told him who I really was. I couldn’t, it wasn’t safe!
He had always shared with me freely. Here is a snippet of what he wrote to me once. It will forever be saved and cherished.
“As the years progressed, so did our friendship. I felt so totally “safe” and “accepted” without condition or need to be someone I wasn’t. Tea and toast in a warm kitchen was always a special way we shared time together. My dear friend Jo and new friends your son and daughter shared one of the most profound moments in my life; taking Refuge in Buddha. Having them there to witness this life changing event for me, made it all that much more special. My dear and special Jo; there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t lift you in special prayer and meditations of love and gratitude. On days when that “wind seems a tad colder than it should,” I feel your hugs, and revisit that kitchen to share in those tea and toast moments. You brought two of the most amazing people and now special friends of mine, into the world (and my life). They are as loving and compassionate and as special as you are. How could they not be? I watch you reach out and touch the lives of so many! By your compassion, your example and your dedication and love, you are giving the gift of “SELF” to each of them. Just as you did all those many years back now, when on a cold, snowy, billowy November day you walked through the door and changed my life! I love you so and wanted to tell everyone that YOU are my friend and have made a difference in MY LIFE! Thank you for that!! Your Buzzy!”
Each time I read this the tears flow freely for his words and his being! For the footprints in my life, and on my heart. Let me be this impactful in my life with all I meet and get to know.
Buzzy had no idea of his impact in the world! Rest in peace dear friend, and know that you are loved!
In 2013, I finally shared what I wished I had shared years before! Shortly before Frock Off: Living Undisguised was released, I called him and shared it all. We cried and laughed about “the knowing” we shared and the passing of time and stories!
In his usual fashion he said, “I love you Jo.” and that was all that was needed!
I write this tribute as a reminder that life is fleeting, yet impact is everlasting!
Stand for you, your dreams, your life and your legacy! It matters, and YOU matter!
Do you believe…
Ouch that hurt!
