Brent's boss unexpectedly passed away yesterday morning and it shook Brent up pretty badly. Jim was more than a boss to Brent. He was a mentor to him as well, and had taken Brent under his wing when this project started about a year and a half ago. It has been pretty upsetting because I know how much Brent respected and looked up to him. I have only seen Brent get upset twice since I've known him. The first time was when Wyatt was airlifted to the NICU in Charleston shortly after he was born. Losing Jim was the second time.
Anyway, it's really made me consider death and how abruptly we might leave this world. It also allowed us look around and be so grateful and appreciative for the people we love who are still with us. Last week, at a dinner in Atlanta, Jim spoke to Brent about how he would really like to slow down to be able to enjoy his family. It's was point I have been trying to drive home to Brent ever since he started working 60-80 hours a week. I appreciated it so much coming from Jim because I know how much Brent valued and took his words to heart.
Because Jim was such an incredible person to Brent and our family, I want to remember those words he shared with Brent as a gift; to always remember what is most important. Each of us stand for something in this world, and Jim was also a remarkable example of a man who 'spoke softly and carried a big stick'. He was more than just a boss to Brent, he was a friend. Although he's not with us anymore, I know that parts of him will live on in Brent. We were blessed to have known him.
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