An unopened letter

In August 2012, I took a course name "Life of Meaning", part of the Acton MBA program at UFM,  This class was a very personal, introspection exercise, and among other subjects we discussed Gratitude. As an assignment we had to write a letter to someone we were grateful.

I was supposed to deliver and read the letter out loud, which I didn't do. Big mistake!!!! The person I wrote to passed away early this year, his life silently extinguished with the change of the year.

Since I couldn't deliver the letter as supposed at least I should make a public memorial to one of the most important persons in my life. Someone I failed to thank enough.

Guatemala, August 9, 2012 

RHI 

Dear RHI: 

I’m just finishing a course in Acton MBA-UFM about finding our very personal meaning in life. The course has being a trip through my life from past to future and it has being an opportunity to recognize the goodness and blessings in my life and of my family. Recently we analyzed the subject of gratitude and the first person I thought of was you. 

I want to express my gratitude since you have being around all my life. Not being a relative you took a great deal of the burden of fatherhood after my dad was killed. You helped mom not just survive but thrive, you help us to move forward. Even during mom’s sickness you were fundamental to give her an opportunity to have a decent life during her last months. However when I look back I see that I was privileged of having many reasons to be thankful to you. Your support helped me get my education, you trust me in investing and helping in moments of great distress, even extended your kindness to my family. 

During all these years you always have being unconditionally there, celebrating my successes and easing my failures, always with good advice, an entertaining chat. 

Lately I have distance myself without reason. I blame a busy life when it should have being the reason to share more. Recently, while you were sick I tried to stay in touch but keeping a “prudent distance”. I regret not having being more active, even stubborn to take advantage of this opportunity to pay you back. I know you didn't expect this from me but be sure that I think this was the right thing to do. 

I have no doubt that you have made a difference in the lives of many people, but what matters to me is that you made a difference in my life and I hope to pay you back by using any opportunity at hand to do the same to others. 

After this inner trip from childhood to grave I realized that I have to say THANK YOU! 

Regards,

Tono