Sitting here surrounded by strangers on this four hour flight on my return to Mississippi I find myself thinking about precious time; On Thursday I learned of the death of a former classmate and friend, Randy Brooks, affectionately know as BR to all of us rockheads from the geology department at USM. As a freshman in my first semester, I found myself at a party held at the house where BR and Pettway lived. With braces and pigtails (yes, really) I walked into the kitchen where BR was blending strawberry daquiris. Before he handed me one, he looked at me in all seriousness but with a wry little smile and asked if he could see my driver's license. From there out for the rest of my college career and still among friends from the program, I was and am known as driver's license (DL), thanks to BR. BR was an amazing soul with a heart of gold who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He was hilariously funny and always smiling with a contagiousness that no matter your mood, you couldn't help but be happy.
Although it has been years since I have seen him, the news of his death hit me hard. Harder than I would have expected. I suppose because we are all getting older and the chance of losing a friend grows every day. Now, as I confront my own mortality, I am reminded that life is short and tomorrow is not guaranteed. It is my hope that we will all strive to live a life that matters, live each day to its fullest and hope that along the way we make a difference in someone's life the way BR made a difference in all of ours. Godspeed BR, you will be missed.
To the people in my life who are making a difference in mine, know that you are loved and always in my thoughts.
Peace, T
