Celebration of Life...

What a beautiful celebration we had today in memory of Norman Smythe.

Pictures, stories, memories, wishes were shared and laughter was readily exchanged (as well as tears).

It strikes me that one man, who passed away at 52, could hold such an impact on so many.

There were people there who worked with Norm back in 1977 (When I wasn't even 2 yrs old) and there were people like my friend Kim who is in her 20's whom send words of the impact Norm had on her life and what his friendship meant to her.

Those who knew him, loved him... (unless of course he didn't like you then you were screwed... LOL)

Betty and Olive who tended to this wonderful man throughout his illness, taking him to appointments so he wouldn't have to be alone, co-workers be damned... they were defiantly family to Norman.

Donna who made a point to come see him on a regular basis, along with other of the "retired" group who kept in contact.

The "Boys" his co-workers, friends, brothers. The back corner of the office who always kept him in the loop of what was going on at work. Who kept him in their coffee club, who would lunch with him, who stood by him.

All those in the office who would invite this man time and time again to join them in the holidays because the loved him and wanted him to be a part of their table.

Rhéa who loved this man for the goodness she always saw in him... whom he held love for after many many years.

My dear friend Laura... who is always there for us all. Who loved this man with all her heart, whom tries to keep strong for those around her... who needs to remember to honor herself and her own hurts.

There are so many who were there whom Norm impacted in such a strong way. For me Norm taught me loyalty, friendship, and loving ferociously.

He appointed himself my protector at my first work Christmas party in 2001, he defended me to someone he perceived had done me wrong and that endeared me to him.

Norm was well respected in the office, and to know that he though highly of me and my work ethic made me so proud.

Getting to know Norm more personally through his friendship with Kim and during his illness I saw a man who loved deeply, who had fears, who had tears and who appreciated the friends he had in his life.

Here is to you Norman. I will remember you with fondness. I will think of you often. My heart is filled with thoughts of your voice, I will not forget holding your hand in the hospital the day before you left us.

And I will remember you each Sunday morning when I watch Coronation Street, it was you after all who let me know about Tracy killing Charlie (and it hasn't even happened in Canada yet).

Tomorrow is a new day... your light will keep moving on.