It's been a pleasure...

I found out recently that one of my culinary school classmates passed away suddenly. Even though I was not as close to him as some of my other classmates, I felt a great loss. I gather it was the intense time we spent together in school. We loved and argued with each other like a family. So when I heard one of us is gone, I was deeply saddened. He was only 33 years old, way too young. It was a very sudden death. He had no idea that he was sick until one day he didn't feel well and was taken to the hospital by his dad.

He was passionate about cooking. He was friendly with all the instructors and staff. He was always a comic relief though at times he was a bit disruptive. Since he had a great sense of humor, it was difficult to stay upset with him. I was proud of him when we graduated. I can see that he wore this great sense of accomplishment in his body language. He stormed through many obstacles to reach his goal. He followed his passion for cooking and completed the program. We were all very proud of him.

When someone young dies, it reminds you that life is fragile. You never know when your last day may be; therefore, it is important to enjoy each day like it is your last. Live passionately and happily, do what you love so you can leave your mark when you're gone. It's been a pleasure knowing you, Mike, you sure left your mark in all of our hearts for the brief time you have on this earth. It makes me want to strive to be a better person because of you. R.I.P. my friend!