Log in Subscribe
Letter to the Editor

A Word for Brian

Michelle (Sackett) Schroeder
Posted 7/8/22

Callicoon

To the editor:

I understand how painful it is to lose a family member suddenly. There are so many memories that collide and no lack of anecdotes about a man who was indeed …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in
Letter to the Editor

A Word for Brian

Posted

Callicoon

To the editor:

I understand how painful it is to lose a family member suddenly. There are so many memories that collide and no lack of anecdotes about a man who was indeed “a man about town” as was Brian Sykes. Here is mine:

My memory sees Brian flash a smile and a quick wave as I drive down Fremont Street. Oh, woah! Slower I must go; there are two dogs loping along the road. I’d prefer not to wave back now but that would be rude. Still, I’ve spoken to Brian about the leash law. I recall he was polite, addressing me as Mrs. Schroeder (a respect not unnoticed by me). He assured me they knew I wasn’t going to hurt them. Actually, it was the other way around that concerned me. Brian’s dogs eyed me whenever I came by, and I never knew what they were really thinking. Nonetheless, it was hard to “stay mad” at someone who usually waved and smiled a friendly “Hello.” (I know, because I’d tried.) - and that was Brian.

I think of the eulogy given by Brian’s daughter at Holy Cross Church. One of the things she lovingly recalled about her dad was that he was not one to judge others. This brought to mind the words of Jesus, who said “…For the way you judge you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you.” (Matt 7:2)

How fortunate for all of us that we will ultimately stand before a judge that no amount of money can “buy.”

One more thing: I expect someday to be strolling along a street of gold, only to see ahead of me a near dozen dogs cavorting and running loose around their beloved friend. After all, since there can be nothing to cause pain there (Rev. 21:4) leash laws in heaven are unlikely. Yes, methinks, Brian will flash a winning grin again!

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here