Sherrie and Nicholas
At the grave site Sherrie spoke:
At times you've asked me why I love you - a question so easy to answer.
I love your hearty, contagious laugh. A laugh that made everyone who could hear it join in - simply because your laugh was so fun.
And you were so much fun to be with. Your silliness and goofy, playful manner made me certain that even a lifetime with you would not be enough for all the fun and games we would have.
I love your kindness. I was struck by your kindness early in our relationship as I watched you at Ozzie's. It would take you an hour to make your way to the back because everyone wanted to greet you. Your kindness was never selective - everyone was blessed with it.
I love your character; you were tolerant and respectful of everyone, sensitive to others' struggles, committed to making the world a better place through your volunteer efforts - and though you probably didn't realize it, your example.
I love your intelligence - you were such a bright star. We would talk for hours and I loved the way you challenged me to think in new ways and grow. Your intelligence, creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to hard work made you the incredible success you were.
I love the way you supported me and believed in the importance of my work. You always encouraged my independence and individuality and insisted that I made decisions that would help me achieve my goals, even if it meant sacrifice for you. But yet, we were always committed to each other, trusting that even though we were apart we were partners in everything. Your trust and support allowed me to be completely committed to you without ever losing myself.
I love the way you made me feel so safe. Never have I been able to share everything with someone. We could talk through anger without fear - we could be honest, knowing that there would always be respect and acceptance. I loved the person you made me. You made me stronger, kinder, more confident - complete.
I love your eyes - the warmest eyes I've every seen. I love your soft cheeks. I love your enormous smile. You are the most beautiful man I have every known. I loved the way you held me - when your arms were around me, everything was always alright.
I was truly blessed to share your life. With you I had the love that I only dreamed was possible. Before I met you, I feared I expected too much - but I didn't. You gave me that magical feeling of happiness that never diminished. Over nine years, my heart leaped every time I saw you.
You were so easy to love. We all felt that. My hope and prayer is that now you can fully hear these words - that you can finally see yourself through my eyes - through all of our eyes. We love you so.
Sherrie
Sherrie and Nicholas