Words cannot express the sadness I feel. My mother's voice rings through my head as she called to tell me that you had been found, but that you were no more. The note you posted engraved in my memory.
When you met me for the first time, it was at Best Buy. Matt and I had come to pick up a store transfer. You thought I was kind of "bitchy" (as you told me after we became close friends), but such was my reputation at Best Buy.
It wasn't until several years later that we would get to know each other. You had begun working at Investools, it may have even been your first day. Matt, you, and me all got together to meet up with your friend Aaron for lunch. You and I began talking about all sorts of random topics almost immediately. We hit it off; it were as though we had been friends for ages. After this moment, we became great friends and you began making an impact on my life.
If it weren't for you, I don't believe I would have found such great friends as Liz & Aaron (and their absolutely amazing family), Chris & Traci, Amy, Jon, and Quinn. Had you not been in my life, I may have never gotten an invite to the get-togethers you all had.
If it weren't for you, I may have never gone out with the "British guys". Had you said "No" when I asked you if you would accompany me, I may never had gone and never met Shaun.
If it weren't for you, my "I hate everyone" attitude might probably be the same. Seeing your kindness to all changed how I saw people. You treated people with kindness and respect, no matter the circumstances or how they were treating you. You treated me with that same kindness and respect, even when I didn't deserve it...I feel terrible for the times I took your friendship for granted.
I am grateful for the times you stayed at my house while my family was away, because I was scared to be alone in my house.
For the times you gave me the coat right off your back because I left mine somewhere.
For the time you stood up for me when a drunk man was being inappropriate to me at a party.
For the times you bought me sodas at work, for no apparent reason.
For the time when you pushed me to the front of the crowd of our favorite band.
For the time you brought me a souvenir from your trip, even after I had betrayed your trust...you found it in your heart to forgive me.
For the times you were there for me through a terrible break up.
For the times you rode in the car with me just so I could have some company.
For the times you told me that everything was going to be OK, when I felt like my world was collapsing.
For the times you spent hours on the phone with me when you probably had more important things to do.
For the time you nick-named me "Sweets" and called me "Sweets" all the time.
For the time you taught me your secret language you shared with Matt and Torin, so I could understand and talk to you guys with it.
For the times you'd post Say Anything lyrics to your Facebook.
For the times you told me I was pretty.
For your awesome back rubs.
For your comforting bear hugs.
For the times you told me you loved me.
For making me feel worth something.
For being worth everything to me.
For being a friend, the best friend, and MY best friend all in one...
I could go on and on...
I am especially grateful for Matt, his younger brother, had it not been for our friendship I may have never met Paul.
This isn't speaking for everyone, just speaking for myself. Paul was a wonderful friend, son, brother, cousin, etc. and it seems he's made a huge impact on so many others' lives as well. It's unfortunate the whole world couldn't have known him.
I love you Paul. Rest in peace. You will never be forgotten.
