When I moved to Florida almost 10 years ago, one of the first friends I met was my friend George. I thought he was quirky and funny, but figured we wouldn’t be friends because we didn’t have much in common. I wasn’t into theatre or acting and I definitely couldn’t sing, but George accepted me as a friend immediately. That’s just the way he was. He didn’t care who you were, what you did, or what things you liked, he just accepted you for who you were.
For the next several years, I hung out with George and a group of friends almost every day. We all were pretty much inseparable. George was the best at making people laugh and he’d get crazy ideas for stuff to do around the neighborhood when we were bored. He’d dress up in a clown costume just to be funny. He’d bust out in song in the middle of Walmart just because he felt like it. He didn’t care what anyone thought of him and always made people feel comfortable just being themselves. I never had to put on a show for him. He was okay with who I was. Because there was nothing wrong with me, or any of us, just the way we were.
Then one person went to college. And another person moved. And another one went to school in Orlando. We all tried to stay in contact, but eventually we grew apart. But there will always be things that remind me of those days and specifically, of George.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
It was the first time I saw George perform and unfortunately, the only time. He loved the stage, acting, singing, and making people laugh.
Goldschlager
The first time I drank Goldschlager was with George. It was also the last time I drank Goldschlager.
What I’ll remember most about George was how accepting he was of everyone. He taught me to never stay angry, be a better friend, and above all, be a better person. The world needs more people like him.
You died last week in your sleep. You were only 28 and taken from the world way too soon.You helped me realize just how short life is and that I should do what feels right, even if people might stare. Make people laugh. Wear a gown to a store. Sing in public. Eat a lot of bacon just because bacon is awesome.
I might not get the chance to do it tomorrow.
I am so sorry for your loss hun!
This is so true though! We lose contact with the people we care about far too easily. I need to reach out to some friends from college – thanks for reminding me the importance of the people we care about! xoxo keep your head up girlie!