Wednesday, December 4, 2024
My uncle lived with purpose. Every day mattered, and every moment was to be made useful. I learned chess from my Uncle Ricky and that every move matters and that how we study and practice and live matters. But I also learned from Uncle Ricky that I mattered and, years later, that his purpose is motivated by love. I say 'is', and not 'was', because Uncle Ricky's love lives on in those he loved and who loved him. We love him still. There is no getting around the sadness; the flame that long ago set a light glowing inside us, has joined the greatest light. The thought of not seeing my Uncle Ricky in this world was a cold wind passing through me. But the light he nurtured in me long ago remains. I know this is true for many others, too. God bless you, Uncle Ricky. God bless everyone who loved you, and loves you still.