In Memory of David Webb

Painting by Thomas Kinkade

Life sometimes has a way, by design or pure chance; to place people in our lives that will change the way we look at it forever. 

What does it mean to be truly blessed? Either by the grace of God or the lottery of birth? I have been fortunate enough to have made great strides in my journey searching for this answer. However, the credit for this leap in self discovery doesn't belong to me, but I owe a great deal of gratitude to another person. 

I can tell you how the story ends, I could tell you how it began, or I can tell you what truly mattered. I received the news that David Webb a father, husband, colleague, and friend passed away this weekend. I can't say that I was shocked by the news, but losing a friend always hurts no matter how prepared you think you are. In my life I have seen people deal with physical hardships, but never like Dave had. I can't even begin to list the number of ailments he suffered from, but his positive unflinching outlook on life never ceased to amaze me.

I can't sit here and tell you his life story. That is something his wife and daughter have now been tasked with, to carry on his story, and the life lessons he taught them. I do know that he loved his daughter above everything else, and literally did everything he could for her. We often talked about our families, and especially our children. As a new father he helped inspire me to do even more with my son, and love him every moment as if it is our last. This is something that I am truly grateful for. I was humbled by the fact that my worst of days would be a blessing for him. I feel silly now when I start to complain, or have a moment of self pity. I just remember how truly blessed the majority of us are.

My last conversation with Dave centered around talking about the future. I can't imagine a more appropriate conversation now that he has passed away. It brings a tear to my eye, but it personified his positive thinking and outlook on the future. He lived life with his glass half full, and I can't help but contribute this approach to the amount of time he was able to live. We discussed the future of his career, his families long term plans, where he wanted to move, their next Disney adventure, and other items I'm keeping close to my heart now. It is fitting that in his final days he thought of the future. I will miss my friend, but I will always cherish the moments we had together.

Death has very few silver linings, but a life well lived is full of them.

Rest in peace my friend.

- Robby Silk