I finally got a chance to write. As some of you know, and many of you do not know, my friend David passed away Friday morning. His condition had not improved since his return to the hospital from the nursing home. Thursday, his aunt wanted to discuss the doctor's options to put a trache in to ease his breathing, but this was no guarantee that it would help Dave get healthier. David said he did not want a trache, and in fact wanted the breathing tube removed. He was in such pain, and he wanted it out. I got to visit him that Thursday, not knowing any of this, but once his aunt had told me, I knew this was it. Removing the breathing tube would essentially end David's life here on Earth.

I talked to Dave for a bit- though he couldn't respond but in a few feeble written phrases- and I told him to be humble before God. This life is a temporary one, and it is nothing compared to eternity. I couldn't think of anything else to say.

They decided to take the breathing tube out Friday morning. I couldn't watch such a thing, so I went to class. I had to keep my mind on other things. I didn't get word of how it went until just before failing my chemistry exam. It was quick and quiet. I still went to work after that. I didn't know what to feel then and I still don't know what to feel now.

David W. Miller, Jr was my friend. He was never perfect and he certainly had a different view on life, but it was very appreciated and I'll miss him greatly. My fondest memories will be the video games we played, and the places we visited here in Buffalo.

A friend of mine at work said that Dave got to do something that most of us never have much choice. I hope it was the right one, and when it comes time for me to face the music, I'll see Dave once again as I remember him.