Brian and his hugs

My dad and I were talking to my kids about Brian and Hong Kong.  We discussed how my dad arranged for me to travel over and surprise my mom and Brian (Brian was working in HK and my parents went over to visit him.)  My dad talked almost reverently about Brian’s reaction to seeing me when he opened the door.  “Brian did not say a word.  He just gave you a big hug.” 

 Often, my kids will stall when I am trying to put them to bed.  Patrick said just a few nights ago: “Dad, uncle Brian gave the best hugs.”  I said:  “He sure did. Now, go to bed.”

Afterwards, I was thinking about Brian and how he did give great hugs.  The one I remember the most was the one I received on my 38^th birthday – the last day I ever saw Brian. 

We had a bunch of people over to our house to watch Xavier get crushed by UCLA in the Elite 8 NCAA game.  Brian, for some reason wore a yellow sweater – the same sweater he wore to “honor” Bob Huggins in the Sweet 16 win over WVU.  (Brian probably wore it because it had good “mojo” and wanted it to help XU in the next game.)

Brian gave me my birthday present.  I told him I did not need anything.  He was almost taken aback and then he insisted I accept the money he was putting in my hands.  Then, without a word, he gave me a big hug and told me that I was his brother and he always loved me.

Thinking back about that day almost six years ago made me realize two things.  One, this was probably the best last encounter anyone could have with a departed loved one.  We did not know Brian was about to leave us.  But, we both knew we loved each other and had no issues between us.  Two, this was the best birthday present I will ever receive.  How can it be topped?

Love you Brian.  Help our family out.  We need some extra special assistance for all our loved ones.