On July 1st, 2005, a dear friend died. His name was Jonathan Horace. He was not even 30 years old — too young to leave his family and friends, but when God calls you Home, you go.

Although the way Jon died was a blessing (in his sleep), his death wasn't a blessing for those of us left behind. Jon didn't get to say goodbye to his wife (Monie), to his young children, to his friends. He didn't have the opportunity to fulfill all his dreams. But Jon lived as good a life as anyone could desire for as long as he remained in this place of 'toil and travail'. Jon loved his children and was fully involved in their care. He would change diapers, cook dinner, wash the dishes, and Monie, his beloved wife, didn't have to ask him to do those things. He did them willingly.

Jon was a God-fearing man. The Bible states that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Jon understood that anyone's time on this planet is fleeting, that real life begins after one is freed of this corporeal reality. After God, Jon put his family first, ahead of any other day-to-day duty. I deeply admired that humble-natured, loving side of Jon. Too often American businesses don't care if their employees have familial responsibilities, but Jon wouldn't allow those misplaced Corporate demands to keep him from fulfilling his roles as Father and Husband. He knew what was important and never failed to stand up for his family against the 'Corporation'.

Jon was one of those brilliant people who are so often misunderstood by others. Sadly, I also think he didn't know his own worth. Everyone has 'demons' who whisper 'you're no good, you're no good', and for people of high intelligence and creative energy, those demons are meaner and more vocal. I wish that Jon had known how 'good' he really was and how much those who knew him loved and respected him.

What saddens me most is that his two young children will not remember how much he loved them, and what a good father he was. But I know and so does his wife, Monie. She most of all. Sometimes Jon brought his small daughter, Laina, to work. He doted on her and was very proud of her. When his wife was pregnant with their son, Ben, Jon worried about her and stayed in close touch with her while he was working. He was one of those men who isn't afraid to say "I love you" to his wife. I heard him say it to her, frequently, because for a long time we shared a cubicle at work. Frankly, if God hadn't given me an opportunity to know a guy like Jon, I'd still have a major adversion to men. But because I got to know Jon's kind and gentle ways, these days I think there is hope for MANkind, after all.

Jon, my dear friend!, you've got wings now! I can see you soaring in the Light, so happy and free of fear! You had so many memorable qualities, Jon. Your humor, intelligence and thoughtfulness, your high energy, your generous nature, your love of God and the steadfast, unconditional love you had for your beautiful bride, Monie, and for your children.

There's a lot of us down here on earth who send you love and blessings, Jon, and always will. That includes me, your friend Violet. One day I expect to see you again, Jon. That day will be a joyous one for me. Until then, you'll always be in my heart and I'll do what I can to help Monie live a fullfilled life and to ensure that your children always know the wonderful father, husband and man that was Jonathan Michael Horace.