I lost a friend today. More than a friend actually, someone I had resonated with for more than thirty years—a blindingly bright personality in a world of too often beige individuals. Full of smiles, even to the end of a long health battle. Setting a standard so high, who could match it? Too soon gone. Altogether missed.

     Stopping in my tracks, lifting my head to a perfect sky, I spoke aloud to the spirit most certainly zooming back to the Creative Source. “Fly swiftly,” I said, “unimpeded. Enjoy the peace you so deserve. We are all better for having known you, and we will be joining you soon.”

     No white dove flew by. No miraculous sign was forthcoming. I didn’t need any. Assured of the outcome, I wiped choking tears from my eyes, joyful for my departed friend, sad for the pain already gripping survivors.