Celebration of Scott’s Life – Heartfelt Thanks

by Debbie Nicholson

The celebration of Scott’s life on 09/10/17 was an amazing, powerful and I cannot thank anyone enough.  I saw the most wonderful organizing at work as the event took shape to be a tribute befitting my brother’s life.  I know there were so many people who took part and contributed.  I want to mention Rita, Cliff, Jay, Paul, Erin, Mo, Burke and JC for making me feel at home and part of their lives.  I could feel my brother’s love washing over us all during the event and I know how proud he was.  As the speaking drew to a close, I watched many who participated break down in real grief and it helped me to understand that I am not the only one grieving.  I am so sorry to all of you for the loss of my bro.  As I mentioned to several,  the first two months after Scott’s passing to the other side, I was lost.  Rita and Burke reached out but did not crowd me, they just kindly let me know they were there and they wanted me to be a part of the celebration if I could.  Such amazing compassion.  Finally, I realized it was time to stop grieving and start living again.  As my god-daughter Devon quoted, “Don’t be sad because it is over.  Be happy because it happened.”  So I started thinking about how Scott lived his life and not how it ended.  All the fun we had together, all the times shared, how amazingly grateful I am that he was my bro.  I learned so much this weekend and I came home knowing I have a family in Missoula and with others that loved Scott.  I now look to the future and know that life is good and how lucky I am.  Please also know that what so many of you do can take a toll.  Be sure to show the same compassion and kindness to yourself, as you do to others.  My heart-felt love and gratitude to you all.

Debbie (aka Baby Sis)

burke