Sometimes you hear news that knocks you sideways. Today is one of those days. If I may indulge you for a short time.
Since I started my career on the platform formerly known as Twitter I have been blessed with many and varied friends. Some I have met, some I have always longed to meet. This missive is about a friend who falls into the latter category and who, now, I deeply regret not meeting.
Hamish is the name of the friend concerned. It was on 29 January 2009 he arrived into this world unlikely to know the extent of joy and happiness he was about to shower upon those who followed him, laughed with him and read his witty and erudite comments through the last 15 years. He was the Admiral of the Brunicorn, wit, raconteur, sports brain, historian of Glasgow and beyond, traveller, his mums cuddles monkey and general all-round good egg. He was one of the first to greet me when I arrived in December 2013 and he welcomed me with typical wit and charm. Through his friendship I am an honorary member of the BT Posse. I am more educated than I was in so many subjects ranging from Aberdeen FC through to the Emirates flights arriving into Glasgow Airport. I have learned about the fancy headgear of one Duke of Wellington in Glasgow and the navigational hazards of Loch Lomond whilst piloting a Brunicorn.
However what I have learned the most is this. Friends are great, those who stand by you and watch as you get older and are always there to lend a paw are wonderful. Those who entertain, make us laugh, feel sad or cry are excellent. To be able to do all of these is a testament to the power of the Hamish. He has so many pals who today are grieving his passing. There is a feeling of sadness, despair and hollowness within our hearts. That said, there seems to be a sense of gratitude that he touched so many of our lives with his wit, charm and insight into many parts of our lives. We may feel sad and hollow today but tomorrow and the days after, we will remember what he said and the way he made us laugh or feel enriched.
We cannot go on forever, this is a given. All I say is that it is a privilege and an honour to know Hamish and to be his friend. That he has been my buddy makes me sad he is gone but content that he has been here. Run free my friend, go scamper in the everlasting meadow where the gentle sun warms your fur. Find those who have gone before and rest easy from your worldly woes.
Hamish. Arrived 29 January 2009 and departed 8 January 2024. Gone from sight but never from mind or hearts. I salute you.
Dexter 