I heard today that someone I met, a great man, is no longer on this planet with us, and being the emotional wreck I am, this knocked me for six. I didn't know him for all that long, but I'm the type to form attachments even if I don't see people again or talk to them all that much. Once I've met someone and got to know them, I consider them a friend, I don't think that's a bad thing.
This man took me in to his home, told me I was part of his Honduran family, tolerated my crappy Spanish and was a friendly face in a new country. I think you know when you have met and been in the presence of someone who is completely kind and a genuinely lovely person, they stay with you for a long time afterwards. Snr. Rafael was this man who I could listen to his stories for hours (and I did) always had a smile for you and loved his family very much, especially his beautiful grandson, anyone could see this. A good man is no longer with his family, and I feel so sad for them all left behind. They are a great family, all beautiful and kind.
Snr. Rafael, it was a pleasure and a privilege to have met you. Gracias. Que descanse en paz.
