Rest in Peace, Hazel

I would like to take a moment to honor my great-aunt, Hazel Hardin. I always respected and loved her, and tonight, as I reflect on her passing, I learn.

My hometown feels so different to me now compared to how I felt there as a kid. The people around me were different, and somehow I convinced myself things would never change. But changes began to happen rapidly. People died. People had disagreements.

I also began to change. An overwhelming desire to travel hit me. A desire to understand people. Also, an unnaturally (and sometimes unbearably) strong affection hit me. I find it extremely difficult to harbor ill will toward people. When I do, something inside me wakes up and asks what good it brings...it implores me to see the person as a person and look past whatever angered me.

I began to develop a great love and respect for immigrants. They left their families and the comfort of their home and native language to work for those they love. Truly, the conditions many of them left were highly uncomfortable. They did what they could.

I felt that, as a native, I could learn their language and learn to show them hospitality. I soon realized that things would go differently for me. I began to throw myself out there. I began to test myself. And why? I wasn't satisfied with the person I was. I always desired, and continue desiring, to be more.

What does this have to do with Aunt Hazel's passing? A great deal, in fact. I look at her legacy and am amazed. Through her love and affection she managed to make a name for herself in her community. I think about my grandparents. I think about aunts and uncles who have passed on.

What will people say about Buster when he's gone? My prayer will be that they never saw me as simple. My prayer will be that they never saw me as self-centered. All I wanted to do in life was serve. All I wanted to do was help people. I left home to pursue a dream, not a successful career. Perhaps I was a fool, but I hope that my sincerity was understood.

Aunt Hazel, tonight I honor your legacy with the prayer that one day my life will have blessed as many others as yours. I thank you for the lessons you've taught me in life and in death. May angels guide you home. May your peace be eternal.

-Buster