Ian died earlier this year. He was my best friend all through university. Life took us in different directions. I always thought I would meet him again someday and we would develop a new friendship. I always had this image of running into him at an airport…it was always an airport…and my heart bursting with joy at the sight of him, running up to him for a great big hug. I expected him to live a long life. Not die young.
My life is different because of him. He showed me a world that I did not know existed. He made me question my beliefs and to look at the world with new eyes. He made me a better person. He showed me kindness and love. He showed me what that truly meant.
I still have the notes he passed me in the middle of a class. He made me laugh. He was the first boy I loved. Not a romantic love, but a love that is born out of respect and kindness and belonging. An unconditional love that brings people together.
I am forever grateful for having him in my life, even if it was only for a few short years. My impact on Ian’s life was negligible, but his impact on mine was life-changing.
