Billy the Brave

It's early evening and my home is quiet and peaceful. Earlier today I had the privilege of attending an event to celebrate the life of Billy the Brave.  Billy Burns Fotheringham only had the opportunity to be with his mum and dad, Michelle and Hugh for 6 1/2 months. Because of a rare genetic condition, Billy was unwell for a good portion of his short life and passed away so much more prematurely than anyone would have hoped. 

I have pondered today whether or not to write about Billy and his mum and dad in my blog. Ultimately I have been so moved by the opportunity to celebrate Billy's life and to hear from those closest to him in such a candid and touching way that I yearn not to miss the opportunity to reflect quietly, take what I might from one of life's most precious experiences and share it with each of you so that you to might pause to reflect and in turn create a more enriched life for yourself.

What was it that I saw, heard and experienced today? Of course there were the obvious things that each of us experiences at this type of event. There were moments of solemnity, sadness, grief, fragility and reflection. But there was also humour, courage and empathy. 

And what did I feel during this time with Hugh and Michelle and their closest family and friends? 

In the first instance, I felt privileged and honoured for the opportunity to hear so graphically of Billy's life and the time that he spent with his parents. I felt respected in that Hugh had gone to some trouble to ensure that I could readily participate in the celebration of Billy's today. I felt immense sadness for Michelle and Hugh and their families. I have great respect for both Michelle and Hugh drawn from my interactions with them in a shared workplace. This measure of respect has been immeasurably heightened by virtue of my interaction with them today. I felt happy and joyful to understand so personally the life and time that Billy was able to share with his parents and wider family despite the significant health impediments that confronted him and ultimately took his life.

Ultimately I describe my experience as a privilege because of what I have taken away from the events of today. After arriving home from the city, I tweeted that Billy's life and passing "puts all else in perspective". Whilst I still have a cauldron of emotions from my experiences today, at this time of quiet reflection what stays with me most is a sense of inspiration. Inspiration from Billy and the way he embraced his short life despite the severe circumstances with which he was confronted. Inspiration from Hugh through the strength and courage that he showed us all in sharing so openly and personally about Billy, his life and the time with he and Michelle. Inspiration from Michelle through her courage to show her fragility and reach out to so many others at her time of utmost grief. Inspiration from all those who embraced Hugh and Michelle at this time and provided them with the support that they needed today and into the future. 

Thank you Hugh and Michelle for your openness and willingness to share Billy the Brave's life, you're special time with him and your emotions. Through this event you have honoured your son and you have given us all a wonderful opportunity to pause, reflect and consider our own lives to identify those things that we can embrace from Billy as well as both of your examples to enhance our own lives. For as sure as I am that you will never forget Billy, I will never forget him either and the example and inspiration that he has brought to my life.