Mosaic of Love Lessons

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Over that past two weeks, the stories of love and compassion shared with our family and friends have been extraordinary.  My brother, Barry touched the lives of others in so many ways. 

During his eulogy, I said that his life was a mosaic - broken pieces held together with hope, faith and love. After hearing all the stories about Barry, I can see that Love was the glue that made a difference.

You see, Barry believed in treating everyone from prince to paupers the same. The mosaic of Love Lessons from Barry's life can help us all learn.
Here are a few that really touched my heart.
  • When a young woman and companion was stuck in a parking lot with a car that had broken down, Barry and his niece saw them, lent a hand and developed, on the spot, a life-long friendship.
  • When Barry was recovering from a liver transplant, his donor needed help on the farm. Barry went...no questions asked.
  • As Barry was battling from stage 4 lung cancer, he learned of the cancer diagnosis of two friends. He called, sent text messages, made visits to keep their spirits high.
  • As part of Team Rubicon (TR), a service organization of vets who help other when disaster strikes, Barry was working with a mate in the heat and humidity of Texas. The mate, not wanting to look weak, kept up with Barry, step to step. Finally, when exhaustion was about to overtake him, he said to Barry, "Barry, I'm sorry, I have to take a break." Barry replied, "Man!  Thank God you said something, cause I was trying to keep up with you." 

  • Others recalled how his sense of humor and his ability to lift the spirits of others helped them realize that they were exactly where they needed to be, doing what needed to be done. 

  • Even as a patient in the hospital, he was remembered for getting the staff to laugh, for making them feel special. Several of the nurses that cared for him over the years have shared how he made their long days bearable with his silly stories and big heart.
  • Barry gave out hardhats to a group of his TR mates. One woman was so grateful that when she came to the party celebrating him, she asked him to autograph it for her, so that she can bring him wherever she goes. He did and now a part of him continues to help others in need through her.
This is but a taste of the stories that have been shared with us. Honestly, I could write a book! The point is, that despite all his imperfections (which we all have), Barry learned and shared the gift of Love well. His life is an example of how even broken pieces of humanity can be glued together in Love to create the most amazing and glorious mosaic, especially when each person touched by kindness shares that kindness with others. The Love spreads. The mosaic becomes a masterpiece.

Blessings of Love to all! 






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