I remember the first time I met Thomas and the last time I saw him. In the course of the 36 years that connected those two days, he was the type of friend who always remembered you. There was a card or message from Thomas on every birthday, anniversary and holiday. The last one came from him this past summer solstice.
When Thomas lived in Big Sur, we saw him often. When he moved back east to follow his love, we saw him only once or twice a year. But on those visits he was all heart and ears. He was ever the generous, enthusiastic and compassionate listener.
Thomas was a master goldsmith. He designed and made my engagement ring. And he painstakingly created my wedding band from my own drawings, right down to the millimeter.
It is said that a wedding ring signifies the eternal nature of love. No beginning and no end. My own gold band represents the nature of a treasured friendship, as well. There is a steadfastness and durability to a friendship that spans the decades. And there is something eternal about that.
I'm happy that Thomas was able to spend his last two summer solstices back home in his beloved California. I will miss him. I will miss his laugh. And I'll miss his messages. But the most important message and remembrance of love and life and friendship will always be that circle of gold around my left ring finger.