A handle on life

[greatbear]

I've been reading a number of heartfelt and touching memorials. tributes and simple condolences throughout the day dedicated to handlebear/Cameron. While our paths never crossed, it's amazing how many others he touched in one way or another on my friend's list. From longtime neighbors and friends to people he simply got to know on the internet through LJ, he obviously connected well with a lot of people. And it made me think once again that even though I know the majority of people here on Livejournal solely the internet, that fact does not make them any less a friend or real human being. A man's word means a lot in my book, and when those words are spoken well, it can transcend the pixels and text on a screen. Real friendships are made, bonds are created and the (hopefully) eventual meeting in person becomes the icing on a pretty awesome cake. A cake that you can have as well as eat.

So, Cameron, though I never met you or even got to know you online, the many lives you have touched in a positive way will miss you dearly. I wish I had gotten to know you as well. Here's to you, my friend of untold friends.

Comments

[robearal.livejournal.com]

A fine tribute.

There are always rants about "Don't assume you know me just because you read my journal", but we do get to know people on our friends list through what they post. I may not know you, but I know what you choose to put in your public journal. The lives you come across on a forum like LJ can have as much impact on you as your spouse, even though you may never meet in person.

[greatbearmd.livejournal.com]

I never presume to 'know' anyone solely by their writing here on LJ, but for some individuals more than others, their writings whether intentially or not speak volumes about them. In the case of Cameron's friends, there is no doubt that he was well liked and loved among all those who wrote about him. I've known many people via the 'net for many years, and the day that we would finally meet in person it was like meeting a long lost friend rather than a stranger I have never been face-to-face with.

The mournings and memorials from people all over the country and even beyond show the influence of good that people like Cameron can have, and these memories spread and carry on those good deeds. It's not unlike the spoken history of ancient people telling stories of their ancestors.