David, in his own words:“Dear Kevin,
I wanted to drop you a line to say how much I enjoyed meeting you and how honoured I was to be part of your amazing portfolio of wonderful inspiring gay men from around the globe.
The day you visited me was a very emotional day in my life . I thought I should share with you the tale behind this.
I had the previous evening learnt that my ex partner with whom i shared ten years of my life has lost his fight against cancer . We sadly were estranged and this news that someone I loved had fought such a tough battle without my knowing ripped me to the core.
We collect photos that remind us of the highs in our life but for me its important to document all emotions . For there is such beauty in this image even though its beneath a shroud of pain .
This helps to remind me to never let anything come between those we love , to never let anger or pain cloud our emotions . To never again loose contact with those I care about . You may cease to love in one capacity but can still offer love and support in another.
Thank You for helping me on this journey
Much love from across the pond
David xxx”
David,
I learned that I too had lost someone once very dear to me. Because of miscommunication, and dare I say senseless pride, I wasn’t there for him in his final and loneliest hours. The guilt is sometimes palpable.
We do go on yet the slivers of self-loathing can cut deep. I think talking about these life situations will prevent people that have once meant so much to each other, to stop, think and treat one another with kindness and respect. Though the sting of mistrust may be present from the discord, nothing hurts so deeply as never having said, “goodbye.”
Peace to you David, I believe time heals all.
Daniel