Just
a month after I turned 16, I was fortunate enough to cross paths with Dan. Of
course, back then I had no idea that he would become so influential to me. In
fact, after that first time, I didn’t see him again for over a year. If I
remember correctly, the first couple of times I saw him when I was 17, he didn’t
seem to want me around. Maybe that was just me and my interpretation of him,
but I thought him as difficult to be around. Looking back, I think it was just
me being pessimistic. I never had much trust in other people, until the past
few years now.
It
only took a few times of hanging out with Dan to realize this man was smart and
only wanted the best for the people around him. There were times he stood up
for me and had my back. He really showed me that he cared and valued our
friendship. When I started college at 18 and out of town, I would always came
back to visit and hang out. At that time, Dan was one of my best friends. He
earned that title by always being there when I needed him. I remember being at
his house and playing crusader with him on two separate computers in the
basement. And other times, we would listen to music, mostly Tech N9ne and have conversation.
We would talk about everything and sometimes I asked him for advice. He always
had the best advice and normally I took his advice. He gave me insight on life
with his point of view and he has years of experience on me, so I listened.
He
taught me how it was to be a real friend. Years later, I still believe he is
the best friend I have ever had. He has always been patient with me, more than
someone should expect from someone else. He showed me he believed in me when no
one else did. He stood by me through so many difficult life situations. He was
the first person to ever make me believe in myself. He gave me motivation and
helped get through college.
He
helped shape me into the person I am today. By listening to him and observing
how he interacts, I have learned how to be as a person. I was once a lost young
woman with no direction to my life. I was confused about who I was and what I
wanted in life. After many long conversations with him, I have been able to
sort through all my thoughts and line up the things that matter as well as toss
out the ideas that are dead ends.
I
have learned more about myself by knowing Dan. There is something about him
that can make anyone open up and realize things about themselves. He has this
way of making you feel comfortable and he shows you how understanding he is. He
listens with his heart and talks with his brain. He has helped me by reminding
me to be patient and not to worry about the future until it’s here. He is one
of the wisest people I have ever had the pleasure to meet.
