Have you noticed that when you need to write something hard, very important, or something that will challenge you, you delay doing it? I certainly do. I would rather do the dishes, vacuum, nearly ANYTHING other than what I need to be doing. Procrastination? Perhaps… But I think sometimes we don’t know where to begin, there is no end in mind, there is nothing but a bunch of random thoughts that will need to be written down, sorted, pondered, and refined. And that is a lot of work!
Today I am on my way to Amarillo and Canyon, TX – home of my alma matter, West Texas A&M University. I am so very excited to see old friends and professors, I am excited to see all of the changes that have happened on campus, and I am excited to just get away for a few days. While there is a lot of excitement around this trip, it will be bitter sweet. We/I lost a dear friend from Brazil in an automobile accident last month. So this reunion will be a celebration of his life. We will be compiling a scrapbook of photos, memories, stories, letters, etc. that will be sent to his family. We hope it will be helpful with their healing process, and to have a better understanding of how much he was loved at WT.
Filo and I!
The letter… How do you write a letter to a family that tragically lost a son? I don’t know… and I guess that is ok. It will come from the heart, it will be honest and raw. I hope that my words and the pictures I have gathered will be a testament to the person my friend Filogomes Alves de Carvalho Neto was – daring, carefree, smart, funny, caring, courageous, plus an awesome cook, a hard worker, and a dedicated friend.
Brazilian cooking – never a bad meal!
What are the hardest words you have had to write?
Agricultural with Dr. Lindsay 
Dr. Lindsay, I came across this post today and felt the need to post, because I too mourn the lost of Filo (affectionally known as Gominho). We met in 1999 ,the first day I arrived in Brazil during my Rotary Exchange Year, and were friends since then. The photo you have posted is with Andre Luiz – my host brother – and I will ensure to share this with him on FB). Filo was the guy, the hard worker, true to self and was one of my BFFs – he’s departure has been surreal. He is truly missed.
Today (30/05/14) I awoke to realise the lost, once again, and the pain hit me stronger than most days. The tears were next and I begin to question WHY? I know our friendship is everlasting, but the pain is still there and I miss him dearly. Thank you for sharing your memories and I know his family are appreciative. I am traveling to our city in 2 weeks and will ensure to pass on your sentiments. BTW, I had the most amazing time, when I visited Filo back in 08 in Amarillo, TX. I will never forget him or the good days gone by. Take Care, Jereme Ramsay (Bermuda).
Hi Jereme, thanks for your kind words. Filo was lucky to have so many great people that cared about him, including you. Many of us created a scrapbook with photos, memories, and cards. Please make sure his family has had those translated. I am sure this has been very hard on them too. Thanks again for your words. Lindsay