The Hug.

As I wake up this morning later than I had hoped; after I make myself some tea, pour a glass of orange juice, toast up an english muffin, boot up my computer and type in my password, I'm sitting here divulging myself with breakfast and I happen to look at the date on the iCal that I've opened.  

April 1st.

This particular post may draw some criticism, or whispers or maybe even some gossip. If it does, oh well.  This blog is here to help me communicate with friends and family back home, and also to promote conversation about other parts of the world strange and unknown to the South Shore.  Today's post is a little different from what I just described, but I feel it is important to acknowledge someone.  

Even though I was not what some people would classify as "friends" with him, he and I have known each other since the days back in the '80's at Conley Elementary School.  For whatever reason, I have never forgotten his birthday: April 1st, 1981.  Maybe because it is April Fool's Day. Maybe because it is so close to my birthday. Maybe because he left such an indelible impression on me, even dating back 20 years ago.  For whatever reason it may be, I know that Adam Menchin brought a lot of people happiness in his life. And I'm sure that the people who are and were most close to him are thinking of him certainly this day.  My most sincere thoughts are with you. 

I saw Adam twice in his last year.  It was great.  Since I had left working for the Red Sox, I had been able to get out more in Whitman and Hanson and to see and visit people I would not have been able to otherwise, given my prior work schedule at Fenway.  Adam was one of those people that I would see out from time to time.  I really enjoyed seeing him and our meetings really brought a smile to me when we would catch up with each other's goings-on of life. Both times it felt very natural and honest. The first was at Jaime's, right around Thanksgiving of 2006. We sat at the bar and chatted about what was new, where we were both working and living. We hadn't seen each other in years at this point, but it didn't feel that way.  The second time was at Damien's last summer. I was there with Jeff and I saw Adam about 10 feet away. I stood up to go over to say hi, and we ended up talking for a few. Things seemed to have been a little rough for him lately, but he still had a smile on his face. After a few minutes, we said our goodbyes and exchanged a hug.  I'll never forget that hug. I remember specifically how deep, strong, sincere and intentional it was. 

Happy Birthday Adam.  There's a lot of people missing you.