I don't think that I've posted in this forum previously, being unable to separate my spirituality from my religion, but I'll give it a go.

I found my neighbor and friend, Tom, dead in his apartment late this afternoon. He had been dead for 3 1/2 to 4 days and was in bad shape when Linda and I found him.

Tom had been in this apartment building for three years to my four years, and while we were worlds apart in personality and temperament, he was a genuinely kind man, no matter how tough he tried to play it. He claimed to have no spiritual or religious sentiments, and that was probably true. He did say, however, that he was willing to keep an open mind should some epiphany occur and I can only hope that he had a genuine realization before his heart ceased beating.

I don't know the gamut of beliefs here, but if you believe tht human beings have souls or spirits and that these souls or spirits reach ever higher plains of existence then I would ask that you keep Tom in your thoughts for awhile.

I'm crushed that he is no longer here. He was able to bring out the best in people. I will sorely miss him as will others.

[barbella]

ciderguy, I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been for you. Thank you for telling us what happened and for asking for something for Tom. I will certainly keep him in my thoughts.
Take good care of yourself, ciderguy - and of Linda too.

[alchemy63]

You spoke well for your friend Tom, ciderguy, that he was someone special to you comes through. I don't know where Tom is now, I think that it can be said that he's found peace from this life for now. I'm sure it would mean a lot to him that he mattered so much to you and others.

[ubicaritasetamor]

Said a prayer for his soul and I hope you are handling his passing as best you can. Remember to trust in God's mercy and infinite love for each of us and think of these things when you pray for Tom. May God bless you.

[AbladeintheMeadow]

Hi Ciderguy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I read another of your posts about your friend Tom and the strength of your bond was so clear it moved me to tears.

I'm not sure what I am allowed to say here or not so please let me apologise in advance if I cause any offence, certainly none is intended.

I do believe that we have souls or energies & I do believe that those energies continue on after the vessel which is our body has served it's time. I also believe that the energies of our loved ones surround us while we continue on with this part of our journey.

A friend of mine likened it to a light bulb in that even when the light is switched off and you can no longer see the light, the electricity/the energy is still flowing to the bulb - we just can't see it. Doesn't mean it's not there.

I take comfort in this.

I will pray for Tom & I will also pray for you to receive comfort in a way that is acceptable to you and that as you move through your grief that you are able to find peace.

I send you love & comfort. Take good care of yourself.

[zeninfinity]

What a kind and beautiful thought. Love thy neighbor. Your love and kindness is inspirational.

I'm sure Tom loves you and wouldn't want you to worry. Praying for you both.