Only the Good Die Young

family, lessons learned 1 Minute

My wife and I went to a viewing tonight for the son of one of my colleagues.

I didn’t know the young man but based on his obituary and the line of people at the viewing, he was loved by many and had a significant impact on many in his way too short 28 years.

The viewing was scheduled to be from 6:00-8:00 pm. We got there at 7:30 and didn’t offer our condolences to the family until 11:00.

Here is an excerpt from his obituary that gives you some sense of this amazing young man.

“… worked as a critical care nurse. Those that worked with him will remember him as a compassionate caregiver, a person dedicated to others’ health and well-being.

He served as a president of a local University’s chapter of SRPHUP (Student Run Emergency Housing Unit of Philadelphia) for three years, providing meals and shelter to those experiencing homelessness in Philadelphia, a passion that followed him to do volunteer work with PROJECT HOME after graduation.

He had eclectic interests, a wide palate, and a penchant for travel, making trips to Europe, Canada, and several national parks in recent years with his best friends, of which he had countless. He loved to run, enjoyed the breadth of Philly’s restaurant scene, and supported Philly’s sports teams through thick and thin (and it would often get very thin.) His family and friends experienced a profound empathy when in his presence through his ability to listen to others’ and show up with support and love in times of great need. He had an uncanny ability to connect, to make others feel special, safe, and understood. His love was pure, his heart gravitational, pulling those around him into his orbit and inspiring them to live lives of vulnerability, justice, and kindness. His life serves as a testament not just how much he loved, but rather how much he was loved by others.”

A beautiful tribute to the young man, and I offer my thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time.

Published by Jim Borden

A 60-something guy trying to figure out the world, and his place in it. Happily married for 40-plus years, three wonderful sons. Accounting teacher, fitness enthusiast, blogger, reader.

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35 thoughts on “Only the Good Die Young”

  4. To be that well-respected at his young age says a lot about the young man. I’m sure his family was touched by all of those who came to pay tribute.

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  6. What an amazing young man who had devoted his life to selflessly loving and caring for others. My condolences to his friends and family. May his life remain as an example of all that is good in us.

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