I met him while indulging in one of my favorite pastimes- attending Sunday open houses. He was a young realtor, and his houses were the type I was most likely to seek out: restored Victorians near downtown. Usually, I dislike realtors (and all salespeople). They seem too busy selling to be authentic.
Yet I was at ease with Robert E. Ever aware of people's judgements and games, I felt free to be myself in his presence, even the time I was his only visitor. We spoke and speculated, marvelling at bygone building standards.
He sent me his newsletter which listed houses he'd sold, offered advice on home buying, and exposed who he was. He was an award-winning body builder and a model. He was crazy about his young niece and documented every milestone of her development. He also happened to be a lawyer, and offered free legal advice concerning real estate.
He took life more seriously than most. Each newsletter featured inspirational messages and tips for setting goals and reaching one's full potential. Robert E. was a motivational figure in the lives he touched. He set an amazing example for those of us wanting to live our best possible lives.
I just found out that Robert E. took his own life. His handsome, smiling face visits me persistently. I'll never know what happened, but whatever it was, it wasn't worthy of this.
Robert, thank you for gracing my life.
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16 comments:
Wow. I would really like to know more. Feel Free to unload anymore.
Someone Anonymous,
Thank you for the encouragement. I never know how posts like this one will be received.
Ahhh Betty...he knows how you feel. What a beautiful post.
Teri
www.herestohappywomen.blogspot.com
P.S. New article up...me-thinks you might have an opinion worth sharing.
Thank you, Teri. I do hope he knows.
What a sad end to the life of someone who spent so much time helping others. That was a very touching tribute to him.
He knows.
Ananke,
It's hard to fathom that such a person could end his life. Thanks for joining me in appreciating him.
Teri,
I like the way you think.
That is awful :( It is so sad that someone feels that alone.
eV,
You're right- chances are that whatever was going on in his life, if he hadn't felt alone he'd still be with us.
This is sad. What a waste. I wish I had met him.
Yep, you would've liked him.
Just wondering how you are holding up... :-)
Teri
Betty,
Your post was a statement to a man that let us all know what you valued in him and let us touch that part of him that you found worthwhile. What could not be worth reading about that? Thank you for sharing your Robert E with me.
Hi Teri! Thanks for dropping in. I've been distracted, which is sometimes OK, and fighting off a weird sort of bug which took my voice away. My child is taking full advantage!
Ciao~
Betty
And it's great to hear from you, Liz! Yes, I felt compelled to write about Robert E. even though the topic was uncomfortable. Thanks for coming by.
Hugs,
Betty
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