“Like as the waves move towards the pebbled shore so do our minutes hasten to their end”
Shakespeare Sonnet 60
Time with you was short but packed with so many great experiences and moments. My brother Patrick, I am bereft of words as I write this. It still hasn’t fully sunk in yet. What can I say? I am robbed of words as I try to process this. You were there for me anytime you could. When I needed a Dad you became one, when I needed a brother you held my ‘Sister Pearl’s’ hand, when I needed a friend you listened with no judgement. You were all of these facets rolled into one.
Where do I begin? Maybe from me being in your passenger seat as you wound your way through traffic like a nascar pro while we either argued about your moves or I sat quietly trying to keep a brave face while my heart somersaulted in fear, praying we would make it in one piece on this hair-raising ride. Or how you shared everything you owned. You extended your love to me by sharing your time and all you had with me wherever I was. I watched as your charisma drew many to you emanating from the love you showed.
We as siblings already feel the vacuum you have left. I know there will be a huge space in the chair you filled in our many dinners and meetings. Your shoes would be so difficult to fill. Instead of trying to do so, we’ll pick up the baton and finish the relay race where you left off. I will cling to memories of climbing roofs together; teaching me how to use Apple Mac when it was still a novel phenomenon worldwide, with your sharp verbal knocks at times, teaching me priceless lessons.
Thank you and may your soul rest in perfect peace. Missing you already. I can’t thank you or love you enough. Akpe kakaka my brother Patrick the Great.