1959-2016
Written in 2016
Just last week, as I sat quietly reminiscing about my childhood, I found myself deep in thought about my beloved uncle Micheal. From the very first moments of my awareness as a little girl, I admired him profoundly. The age difference of nine years between us meant that he was not just an uncle; he was more like a big brother to me, a cherished figure who played a significant role in shaping my early years. Micheal was a remarkably talented artist, and I can vividly recall how I would proudly take his sketches to school, eager to share them with my classmates and boast about his incredible skills. His artwork was not just a reflection of his talent; it was an extension of his vibrant personality, filled with creativity and passion. How could I ever forget his love of music?
Micheal was the undisputed king of mixtapes, a title he wore with pride. His eclectic taste in music introduced me to a world of sounds and rhythms that I had never encountered before. Each mixtape was a carefully curated collection that told a story, evoking emotions and memories that would linger long after the last note faded away. He had an innate ability to connect songs to moments in life, making every listen a journey through time and feeling. In addition to his artistic and musical talents, Micheal was a lover of all things technological. He was always the first to embrace new gadgets and innovations, often sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with me. I remember how he would excitedly explain the latest advancements in technology, making even the most complex concepts seem accessible and fascinating. Of all the memories I have of my uncle, my fondest ones revolve around the countless stories and jokes he would share, each one making me double over with laughter, the kind of belly-aching laughter that echoed through the room. He had a unique gift for storytelling, weaving humor and warmth into every tale, and I cherished those moments of pure joy. I can still picture him entertaining me as a very young child, his eyes sparkling with delight as he crafted stories that transported me to magical places. He thrived on making me happy, and that was the essence of our relationship.
However, over the last decade or so, Micheal faced significant health challenges. His illnesses took a toll on him, making it increasingly difficult for him to work or travel. As a result, I didn't have the opportunity to see him as often as I would have liked, especially given the distance that separated us. Thankfully, my mother played a pivotal role in maintaining our connection with her younger brother. She was always proactive, ensuring that we stayed in touch and that the bond we shared remained strong, despite the miles between us. It was last summer when we finally had the chance to celebrate my mother's birthday together. Micheal and his wife made the journey to join us, and even though it was evident that his health was not at its best, it was a heartwarming reunion. Seeing him again, surrounded by family, filled my heart with joy, even amidst the underlying concern for his well-being. Today, however, I received the heartbreaking news that my uncle has taken his last breath and has transitioned from this world; he is no longer struggling with the multiple illnesses that plagued him. As I reflect on my musings of him just last week, I can't help but feel that the Holy Spirit was preparing me for this moment of loss. While I am undoubtedly saddened by his passing, I find that I am not overwhelmed by grief. Instead, I keep thinking about how God used Micheal in my life at such an early stage to plant seeds of joy and laughter that have grown within me over the years. I loved my uncle Micheal dearly, and I am confident that he loved me even more. His legacy of creativity, music, and laughter will forever remain a cherished part of who I am.
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