My friend suddenly passed less than a year ago before his 30th. Just died without warning.

Best friend doesn't even come close to what he was to me, it was like he was my best friend/hilarious partner in crime mixed with things like mentor, voice of reason, unshakable believer in my ability to do great things, confider of embarassing or shameful tales that he would take to the grave. He made me believe I could be a better person and I felt like I was a happier and healthier person because of it. He was like a fucking living walking spirit guide or something.. without all the hokey connotation... just an amazing person that I could learn from and be amazed by like I've never met before.

The great thing is, even as young and foolish as I was when we became friends, I knew how rare a bond we had and I never took it for granted. Sure, we beefed a few times over 15-20 yrs, even had a stretch of silence lasting a year or so after one of us was too proud to admit they were in the wrong (grinning at you, buddy) but I knew you can have soul mate type friends that you will never, ever have a level of understanding and reliance on no matter how long you know them, I knew that a person like that is a treasure more valuable than their weight in gold.

I guess if I can't couldn't get him back from the box of the lost I think all the videos from highschool and college trips, travels to Europe, texts, AIM conversations.. all those memories would be great to revisit once in awhile.

Honestly, its been really weirdly coping with his loss. There's been depression here and there and a whole load of tears but I think never leaving things unsaid and never missing an opportunity to hang has helped... "Whats up ya badass! Fuckin' love you dude!" was the general greeting. He passed knowing he was cherished.

I'll end this bromance summary with sage advice from one of the greatest bromances of our formative years, "Be Excellent to each other!" It makes life worth living.