Eulogy

Avi and I talked a lot the last several months about legacy.  What would Avi be leaving behind once he was gone.  Amazing parents, wonderful siblings, the cutest nephew, life-long friends, two misbehaving dogs and a devoted and loving wife.  He also left the legacy of what he taught each of us.  Not just while he had cancer but throughout his life. 

This is what I have learned from him:

     I have learned what true kindness is.  It is not something one does for reward or recognition, but for the simple fact that it is the right thing to do.  I have learned that when two people truly love each other, something as horrible and scary, as cancer will be the adventure of a lifetime.  “Go Team Teres!”  He taught me to slow down and enjoy my life.  He showed me that it isn’t about the mushrooms but the flowers that grow around them.  And that garden gnomes aren’t so creepy.  He was the music in my life and taught me it isn’t about the tune but rather making someone smile by singing it.  Many of us will listen with our eyes, sing a rainbow and solve vampire crimes with science because of you, honey.  He gave us the Junior Forensic Science kit…for girls. 

I want to thank you Avi.

     Thank you for thinking I was special enough to share your life, your friends and your family.  They are amazing and I will cherish them always.  Thank you for sharing your strength when I felt weak and trusting in my strength when you felt weak.  Thank you for all of the conversations and all of the comfortable silence.

Mostly my love I want to thank you for fighting for every day we had together and giving me even our last day.

“Never think that I regret any part of my life.  NO!  In fact I am proud of the life I have lived.  I have helped humanity and enjoyed life.  I can go out knowing I did my part in some small way.  I can rest comfortably knowing I am a loving husband and a friend to those in need.”  The Journal of Avi Barak Teres 1977-2011