Everyone has demons. All of us spend time battling their evil presence. We work to suppress the disturbing thoughts and emotions that they unearth. These tormentors are unyielding for some, and kept at bay by others. Their persistence can break us down, and put our mind in dark places. They inflict fear, uncertainty and doubt as they painfully whittle away at our soul.

This past week my friend took his life. I don’t know the reasons for his fateful decision, but it was shocking to all of us that love him. He leaves a wonderful family and loyal friends behind. He was a smart, insightful, selfless and thoughtful man. His humor, wittiness and gregarious personality commanded every room that he walked into. If you were dealing with a complex issue, he took time to provide caring analysis and direction. He helped people that were not in a position to help themselves. While he was short in stature, he played life big; never backing down from a difficult situation.

I will miss him. While we did not see one another every day, or even talk regularly, I knew he was accessible. If I showed up to an event, and he was there, everything was better. I can hear his voice in my mind and that is comforting. Three weeks ago, we played golf together. We shared a cart, and talked openly about our lives. He did not demonstrate signs that the demons were gaining an advantage. Unfortunately, the monsters were present, and they were breaking him down. I wish I could have helped him fight them off. Our friendship will continue, and we will see each other again.