In passing

Sadly, today I learned of the passing of one of my very special clients. It was not terribly long ago we did our 3rd transaction together as the couple prepared for new beginnings in their retirement in South America. They gave me a heads up that they planned to sell their home once again and then suggested we all go out to dinner to discuss it. I still remember that day as they sprung their planned “big move” on me – I think totally enjoying the stunned look on my face. South America it was to be!

They say real estate is a people business – and it is. We are taught as professional successful agents (however that is measured) we must like helping people, place client’s needs above our own and enjoy building lasting relationships. That is actually the fun part of the business for me – helping and caring. The best relationships many times transcend generations and clients become extended family.

I have been fortunate to build some strong and everlasting friendships through real estate. This couple was one of them. They are very private people so nothing written here will identify them in any way. They were together over 3 decades – a couple so devoted to each other that they could easily be role models for married couples. As it turns out, she is the survivor and much earlier than ever planned. Timing was cut short. She made a good point today - we do not move on – we move forward. And in his memory, that we do. We all need to remember to live each day as though it is our last. We never know.

26 People Went To Church

And never returned home. Yesterday was a sad day for Texas and a sad day for good people everywhere. Yesterday was an eye opener. We have learned that little towns have bad things happen too. We have learned that small communities are not immune from terror or death. We have learned that life is fragile. We have been reminded never to part from our loved ones unless all anger has been resolved – for they may never return. And the words can never be undone.

But one of the biggest lessons of all, we are reminded that we cannot control the human factor any more than we can control the elements or other forces of nature. People short circuit. Sometimes people do bad things – really bad things. Opportunist will say take their weapons away and that will solve the problem. Of course that is not true. Humans have an indisputable trait called determination. That resolve insures that bad things will still happen when the mind becomes irrational.

We are a free America. We accept that our freedoms brings risks. We have learned from this tragedy that an armed Texan was able to respond quicker than authorities ever could. Lives were saved. We learn to live with this. We go forward with our lives, for what else can we do. Like the folks who live in hurricane prone areas, or those where earthquakes or forest fires are common, or countries where terror and bombing is the norm, we go forward. We do not hide. What else is there to do?

We remember those who died and honor their memory. We grieve with those who lost loved ones yesterday. And we offer our sincerest condolences. We thank those who give of themselves during this dark time.