Friendship and pain

Many years ago, I was fortunate enough to stumble upon a group of writers who were looking for commiseration during the tracking process of the illusive publishing contract. They had a twisted take on life that was almost as bad as my own. I was lucky to be invited into their cave and spent a lot of time hanging around and getting close to them.

I found strength from the friends I made there. When the times in my life became dark, painful, and almost too much to bear they were there to commiserate, support, and listen. When the joys in my life came along, they were there to celebrate. I love each and every one of them.

Through this interaction, I came to know their families and feel a connection to each one. When they were in pain, I tried to share their pain. When they celebrated, I tried to share in their joy. Now it's only right I share in the loss.

One of the friends I made in this group is Valerie. Her husband took ill with cancer and while he battled it we sat and worried with her. We cried with her. We cheered with her. Over the weekend, he became worse and in the wee hours of yesterday morning he passed away in her arms. My heart aches for her loss and I can't help but cry for her.

The strange thing is I've never met one of these people in the real world. We met over the Internet and have grown to love and care for each other. I wish I could stand by her side and let her lean on me but that can't be so I send her my feelings and thoughts in the electronic world and I am confident she can feel it.

Dear Croc Hunter,

There is a hole where you once stood. The loss you leave in your wake is profound and deep. Though some of us were only lucky enough to know you through the World Wide Web, we still can count ourselves blessed. I hope the memories you left for our Valkyrie are enough to comfort and strengthen her over the coming months and years.

You will be missed.

(Note on the following: It's a Bat thing...you wouldn't understand)

Valkyrie,

My fiend, I'm not fwapping as hard as I can send you support during this time. I don't hope you can feel my wings wrapped around you. My eyes aren't leaking with care and heart ache. It's merely an allergic reaction to the dust on the screen.

I don't share your pain and won't think of the Crocked Hunter whenever I see a giraffe, crocdile, koala or a bottle of rum. I don't care one bit for your pain or loss and I'm not here for you if ever you need me.

Unhugz
Cryptibat