And ...

In an earlier post, I wrote about Roger Rosenblatt's reflections in his book Kayak Morning several years after the death of his adult daughter.  In this book, Rosenblatt quotes the Irish short story writer, Sean Ó Faoláin, as saying "that 'and' was the most hopeful word in the English language."

It is five years ago today, also on Holy Saturday, that JW's physical life here on earth came to an abrupt end.  Five years ago that our first born son, a truly loving, thoughtful and giving soul who always made the most out of what he had, died.  It was five years ago that life as we knew it ended.

And ...

Five years later your life as you lived it continues to serve as an inspiration to so many others.  Your love for your family and friends and our love of you continues to have a powerful effect on so many others.  Five years ago today my son, your earthly presence died ...

... and, on Easter Sunday 2007, your ultimate gift of life through the donation of your organs to a number of individuals brought joy to so many families;

... and, from the day of your funeral service (three years to the day before the birth of your first niece), the story of how you lived the last week of your life (even though you did not know it was so) as recounted in your eulogy, served as an impetus for reconciliation with estranged family members for several attendees;

... and, the memorial technology funds established in your memory have raised over $100,000.00 and continue to have a positive impact on so many people;

... and, a tradition that every year celebrates your love of family and friends and camaraderie at the time of your birthday has touched the lives of hundreds of people as indicated here, here, here, here, and here;

... and, you proved to be truly the BEST MAN at Mike & Gina's wedding;

... and, you continued to fulfill the role of big brother and serve as a source of inspiration to your your younger sister and brother;

... and, from your heavenly perch, you fulfill you crucial role as godfather to your niece, Ariana -- the first who gets to call you Uncle Johnny;

... and, through you mom's love and dedication, memories of you will keep members of current and future generations warm through the many quilts made from your cloths;

... and, you have inspired your dad to continue to strive to make a difference in the world if only to contribute a sliver to help fill the void left behind by your untimely demise;

... and, our love of you is as strong and powerful as ever, and cannot be diminished, even by death;

... and ...